Objective: To study the effect of adjuvant therapy of ganglioside sodium on intracranial pressure (ICP), partial pressure of brain tissue oxygen (PbtO2), nerve injury molecules, nerve protection molecules and indexes ...Objective: To study the effect of adjuvant therapy of ganglioside sodium on intracranial pressure (ICP), partial pressure of brain tissue oxygen (PbtO2), nerve injury molecules, nerve protection molecules and indexes of oxidative stress in patients with acute severe craniocerebral injury. <br> Methods: Forty-seven patients with severe craniocerebral injury treated in the emergency department of our hospital during the period time from December 2012 to October 2015 were selected for retrospective analyses. They were divided into the ganglioside group and the normal treatment group according to the usage of ganglioside sodium in the process of the emergency treatment. At days 1, 3, 5 and 7 before and after treatment, theICP and PbtO2 in patients of the two groups were measured. After 7 days of treatment, the nerve injury molecules, nerve protection molecules and the indexes of oxidative stress in serum of the patients of the two groups were determined. <br> Results: At days 1, 3, 5 and 7 before and after treatment, theICP in patients of the ganglioside group were all significantly lower than those of the normal treatment group, while the PbtO2 were all significantly higher than those of normal treatment group. After 7 days of treatment, the contents of serum methane dicarboxylic aldehyde, advanced oxidation protein products, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine urine, S100β, glial fibrillary acidic portein, neuron specific enolase, myelin basic protein, neuroglobin and ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase L1 in patients of the ganglioside group were notably lower than those of the normal treatment group, while the contents of superoxidase dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, nerve growth factor and brain derived neurotrophic factor were significantly higher than those of the normal treatment group. <br> Conclusions: The adjuvant therapy of ganglioside sodium in patients with severe craniocerebral injury can effectively reduceICP, improve PbtO2 and alleviate the injuries of neurons and glial cells caused by oxidati展开更多
Objective: To study the effect of surgery combined with nerve growth factor preparation treatment of acute cerebral hemorrhage on nerve cytokines and nerve injury. Methods: 68 patients with acute cerebral hemorrhage w...Objective: To study the effect of surgery combined with nerve growth factor preparation treatment of acute cerebral hemorrhage on nerve cytokines and nerve injury. Methods: 68 patients with acute cerebral hemorrhage who received emergency minimally invasive evacuation of hematoma in Zigong No. 4 People's Hospital between August 2014 and September 2016 were selected and randomly divided into mNGF group and control group, mNGF group received postoperative mouse nerve growth factor preparation combined with conventional therapy, and control group accepted routine postoperative treatment. 10d, 20d and 30d after treatment, the serum was collected to determine the levels of nerve cytokines and nerve injury molecules. Results: 10d, 20d and 30d after treatment, serum BDNF (5.29±0.88 vs. 3.58±0.61, 6.94±0.93 vs. 3.78±0.55, 9.28±1.13 vs. 4.57±0.62 ng/ml), NTF-α (2.94±0.52 vs. 1.35±0.18, 3.88±0.58 vs. 1.51±0.20, 5.21±0.72 vs. 2.95±0.46 ng/ml), NGF (0.89±0.11 vs. 0.62±0.08, 1.02±0.15 vs. 0.78±0.09, 1.45±0.18 vs. 0.92±0.12 ng/ml) and VEGF (147.53±19.52 vs. 110.38±14.28, 184.95±22.51 vs. 121.29±17.85, 237.49±31.28 vs. 145.38±18.31 pg/ml) levels of mNGF group were significantly higher than those of control group while S100β (1.27±0.20 vs. 2.19±0.33, 0.94±0.14 vs. 1.76±0.25, 0.71±0.09 vs. 1.32±0.17 ng/ml), GFAP (2.08±0.36 vs. 4.42±0.55, 1.65±0.25 vs. 3.57±0.51, 1.31±0.17 vs. 2.93±0.42 pg/ml), NSE (34.21±5.82 vs. 73.19±9.35, 27.58±4.12 vs. 58.76±8.28, 22.12±3.25 vs. 39.52±5.28 ng/ml), MBP (5.28±0.93 vs. 11.28±1.86, 3.89±0.51 vs. 9.12±1.14, 3.12±0.41 vs. 6.79±0.94 ng/ml), MDA (6.97±0.93 vs. 14.21±1.87, 5.02±0.78 vs. 11.75±1.76, 3.57±0.62 vs. 8.12±0.99 μmol/L), AOPP(65.19±9.68 vs. 155.62±19.63, 48.59±7.21 vs. 118.75±16.85, 37.83±5.28 vs. 82.11±10.18 μmol/L) and 8-OHdG (4.77±0.67 vs. 10.28±1.52, 3.52±0.51 vs. 9.38±1.15, 2.33±0.41 vs. 6.52±0.92 ng/ml) levels were significantly lower than those of control group. Conclusion: Surgery combined with nerve growth factor 展开更多
Inflammation is a multifaceted cellular and molecular response triggered by injury,infection,or various pathological conditions.Serving as a protective defense mechanism,the inflammatory response involves clinical sig...Inflammation is a multifaceted cellular and molecular response triggered by injury,infection,or various pathological conditions.Serving as a protective defense mechanism,the inflammatory response involves clinical signs like redness,swelling,pain,and increased body temperature.Immune cells,notably neutrophils and macrophages,play key roles in orchestrating this response.The delicate balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators,including cytokines and chemokines,regulates the inflammatory cascade.While acute inflammation is crucial for tissue repair,chronic inflammation may indicate an imbalance,contributing to conditions like autoimmune diseases.Understanding these mechanisms is vital for developing therapeutic strategies and managing chronic diseases.展开更多
Community-acquired pneumonia(CAP)poses a significant global health threat,particularly affecting vulnerable populations.Biomarkers and scoring systems play a crucial role in diagnosing,assessing severity,and guiding t...Community-acquired pneumonia(CAP)poses a significant global health threat,particularly affecting vulnerable populations.Biomarkers and scoring systems play a crucial role in diagnosing,assessing severity,and guiding treatment decisions for CAP patients.Biomarkers like C reactive protein,procalcitonin,and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio aid in diagnosis and severity assessment,while scoring systems such as CURB-65 and Pneumonia Severity Index classify patients into risk categories.Emerging biomarkers(uremia,elevated respiratory rate,hypotension,and age≥65)like serum amyloid A and S100 proteins show promise in predicting disease severity and prognosis.However,further research is needed to determine their precise roles and clinical utility in CAP management.展开更多
Acute infectious conjunctivitis(AIC)is one of the most common communicable diseases encountered in acute hospital settings.Transmission exists long before COVID-19.Research showed COVID-19 infections were associated w...Acute infectious conjunctivitis(AIC)is one of the most common communicable diseases encountered in acute hospital settings.Transmission exists long before COVID-19.Research showed COVID-19 infections were associated with AIC,as the most common ocular manifestations[1].Thus,an increase in AIC during COVID-19 is expected[2].However,personal hygiene practices and public health measures throughout COVID-19 negatively impacted the incidence of influenza and other upper respiratory tract infections,as for AIC[3].Our retrospective study extracted the data between July 2016 to June 2023,from the hospital communicable ocular diseases database.We aim to reveal the incidence of AIC across the pre-and post-COVID era in a local regional acute hospital.A total of 1512 patients with AIC were identified in the last 7 years across the pre-and post-COVID era.Monthly incidences of AIC over the past 7 years were plotted as a line chart(Figure 1A).展开更多
The incidence of acute pancreatitis(AP),a condition characterized by inflammation in the pancreas,has been increasing globally and is associated with several complications.This review elaborated on the etiology,clinic...The incidence of acute pancreatitis(AP),a condition characterized by inflammation in the pancreas,has been increasing globally and is associated with several complications.This review elaborated on the etiology,clinical presentation,severity assessment,and treatment modalities of AP,mainly in the critical care setting.Patients with severe AP,as indicated by organ failure(>48 hours from onset),warrant treatment in the intensive care unit setting.The most common etiologies,biliary disease and alcohol consumption,and the advanced diagnostic tools used for the identification of the cause are highlighted.Different severity assessment tools are utilized for grading the severity of the disease,predicting patient outcomes,determining the associated risk,and guiding treatment decisions.The treatment interventions comprise various approaches,such as anti-infective therapy enteral nutrition,analgesics for pain,or minimally invasive surgical procedures,thereby demonstrating an evolving landscape of AP management.Furthermore,various complications such as necrosis,organ failure,and hemorrhage,necessitate disease monitoring and differential diagnosis and are crucial for optimal management of patients.Novel treatment modalities and advancements in multidisciplinary care emphasize the potential for reducing the burden of AP in critical care settings.展开更多
Objective:To assess the effects of L-carnitine on the outcomes of patients with moderate to severe coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)in intensive care unit(ICU).Methods:This double-blind clinical trial was carried out...Objective:To assess the effects of L-carnitine on the outcomes of patients with moderate to severe coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)in intensive care unit(ICU).Methods:This double-blind clinical trial was carried out in 2022-2023.64 Patients with COVID-19 were selected from Amiralmomenin and Khansari hospitals in Arak,Iran.They were randomly assigned to the control and the L-carnitine treatment group via block randomization.Venous blood gases,disease severity,and levels of D-dimer,lactate dehydrogenase,ferritin,and C-reactive protein were daily assessed during the seven days of the intervention,and the length of ICU stay,the need for endotracheal intubation,and mortality rate were documented.Results:There were significant differences in length of ICU stay,the need for endotracheal intubation,and levels of D-dimer,lactate dehydrogenase,ferritin,APACHE栻score,and C-reactive protein between the two groups(P<0.05).However,the groups did not significantly differ in mortality rate and venous blood gas indexes(P>0.05).Conclusions:L-carnitine can improve outcomes of patients with COVID-19.Therefore,it can be used as an adjuvant therapy for these patients.展开更多
Objective:To explore the predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)in in-hospital mortality in sepsis patients.Methods:A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients with ...Objective:To explore the predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)in in-hospital mortality in sepsis patients.Methods:A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients with septicemia.The data about the patient’s demography,medical history,general examination including pulse rate,blood pressure,etc,use of vasopressor support,need for renal replacement therapy,mechanical ventilation,outcome,and lab parameters including total lymphocyte count with neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were recorded.And parameters between survivals and non-survivals were compared.Results:Out of 100 patients,80%were from rural backgrounds.Most patients were 50 to 59 years old.26 Patients were dead.The patients in the nonsurvivor group were older and more had a history of diabetes mellitus when compared with the survivor group.The non-survivor group had a higher NLR,APACHE栻,and SOFA score.Conclusions:NLR is a readily available parameter and can be used as a good prognostic indicator for mortality in sepsis patients.展开更多
The widespread outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization and various governments worldwide.This prompted the implementation of stringent infection control measures ...The widespread outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization and various governments worldwide.This prompted the implementation of stringent infection control measures to curb the spread of the virus.Amidst this,the medical community faced the challenge of treating the virus without specific therapies or a vaccine,leading to reliance on empirical treatment approaches.In this context,hydroxychloroquine,an antimalarial and antirheumatic drug,gained attention as a potential treatment option.Despite its theoretical benefits,such as inhibiting viral entry,reducing inflammation,and modulating immune responses,empirical studies yielded inconsistent results.Some indicated a potential for symptom relief,while others showed no significant improvement in patient outcomes.The initial enthusiasm waned as the lack of substantial evidence led to revoking its Emergency Use Authorization,and several clinical trials were prematurely halted.The review in question critically examines the factors contributing to the ineffectiveness of hydroxychloroquine in treating SARS-CoV-2 infection,highlighting the complexities of drug repurposing during a rapidly evolving pandemic.展开更多
Sepsis and septic shock are life-threatening conditions that are globally responsible for almost 20%of mortality,especially in low and middle-income countries.This review was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar dat...Sepsis and septic shock are life-threatening conditions that are globally responsible for almost 20%of mortality,especially in low and middle-income countries.This review was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar databases with keywords sepsis,septic shock,sepsis management,and sepsis complications.Articles published up to July 2023 in English were included.Diagnosis and management should be carried out without unnecessary delay.Cooperation between various medical specialties including intensive care doctors,neurologists,hepatologists,cardiologists,and pediatric doctors is needed if a child is affected.New strategies have to be implemented in low and middle-income countries to decrease the sepsis incidence and reduce mortality in the population.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the risk factors of death caused by COVID-19 in Iran.Methods:This study was a retrospective cohort study from February 20,2020,to August 22,2022,in the hospitals in Isfahan,Iran.The data were col...Objective:To evaluate the risk factors of death caused by COVID-19 in Iran.Methods:This study was a retrospective cohort study from February 20,2020,to August 22,2022,in the hospitals in Isfahan,Iran.The data were collected through a researcher-made checklist.To determine the risk factors of the death,logistic regression and Cox regression models were used.For each variable,the odds ratio and 95%confidence interval were also reported.Results:1885 Patients were included.The age of deceased persons was significantly higher than that of the surviving persons.The risk of death for the age group above 60 years was about 14 times higher than that of people aged 19-35 years[95%CI:14.41(2.02-102.99),P<0.01].Hypertension[95%CI:1.92(1.47-2.5),P<0.01],diabetes[95%CI:1.62(1.23-2.13),P<0.001],and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease[95%CI:1.92(1.47-2.50),P<0.01]were also risk factors of mortality.Conclusions:This study reveals that the mortality rate due to COVID-19 is associated with old age,longer hospitalization in the ICU,increased length of stay,and comorbidities of high blood pressure,diabetes,and chronic pulmonary disease.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the distribution pattern of animal bites in Mirjaveh,Iran from 2015 to 2020.Methods:The data on animal bites were collected from the Department of Infectious Diseases,the provincial health cen...Objective:To investigate the distribution pattern of animal bites in Mirjaveh,Iran from 2015 to 2020.Methods:The data on animal bites were collected from the Department of Infectious Diseases,the provincial health center.Monthly climatic data on precipitation and temperature during the study period were also collected.The correlation between incidence and temperature,precipitation rate,land type,and altitude was also analyzed.Results:The results showed that men were more affected by animal bites than women(76.4%,P<0.001),and the highest incidence rate occurred in the age group of 5-19 years.The incidence rate of animal bites was found to be correlated with temperature and altitude.An increase in temperature was associated with a rise in the incidence rate of animal bites.The number of animal bites increased until 2019,possibly due to an increase in the number of dogs in the area.Conclusions:Targeted interventions should be implemented to reduce the incidence of animal bites,particularly among children,housewives,and students.Improving access to appropriate treatments,increasing public awareness of the hazards of animal bites,and increasing the number of vaccinated dogs in the area are essential strategies to be considered.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the frequency of exoU and exoY genes in patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection.Methods:In this study,100 clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were collected from patients hospit...Objective:To investigate the frequency of exoU and exoY genes in patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection.Methods:In this study,100 clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were collected from patients hospitalized in educational-therapeutic hospitals and were identified using standard microbiological tests.Then,the antibiotic resistance pattern of the isolates was determined by the disk agar diffusion method.The bacterial DNAs were extracted by the alkaline lysis method.Finally,the presence of exoU and exoY genes was evaluated by the PCR test.Results:In this study,47%,72%,29%,39%,40%,and 44%of the isolates were non-susceptible to piperacillin,aztreonam,ceftazidime,imipenem,tobramycin,and ciprofloxacin,respectively.In addition,95%and 93%of the clinical isolates carried the exoU and exoY genes.Blood and fecal isolates had both virulence genes,while only one wound isolate had neither genes.Meanwhile,all urinary isolates contained the exoY gene and only one isolate lacked the exoU gene.Also,88 isolates simultaneously had both exoU and exoY genes.Conclusions:High prevalence of exoU and exoY genes in this region indicates a significant role of typeⅢsecretion system in pathogenesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.The typeⅢsecretion system may be a suitable target to reduce the pathogenicity of this bacterium.展开更多
Rationale:Acute caustic ingestion from suicidal intent is not usual in emergency departments in developed countries.One of the substances commonly ingested by suicidal patients,phosphoric acid,tends to cause multi-sys...Rationale:Acute caustic ingestion from suicidal intent is not usual in emergency departments in developed countries.One of the substances commonly ingested by suicidal patients,phosphoric acid,tends to cause multi-system derangements.Patient’s Concern:A 41-year-old male patient presented with complaints of throat discomfort,severe generalized abdominal pain,and multiple episodes of hematemesis after ingesting a restroom cleaning solution.Diagnosis:Poisoning by acute caustic ingestion(containing<30%phosphoric acid and<4%ethylene glycol).Interventions:The patient was administered 50 mL of 8.4%sodium bicarbonate solution followed by an isotonic sodium bicarbonate solution running at 500 mL/h,a hyperkalemia kit,ceftriaxone,metronidazole,omeprazole,and atropine.The patient then underwent urgent hemodialysis.Outcomes:The patient suffered gastrointestinal bleeding as a result of local caustic injury.In addition,his course of illness was complicated by severe acidemia from high anion gap metabolic acidosis and deranged electrolytes(hyperphosphatemia,hyperkalemia,and hypocalcemia).He developed multi-organ failure and eventually demised.Lessons:The clinician needs to be mindful of the multi-system complications arising from such a caustic ingestion.These patients need to be monitored closely for deterioration,and have prompt management of the various arising complications,to reduce the high morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.展开更多
Rationale:Acute otitis media is a common disease in early childhood,and is usually caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae(S.pneumoniae).Acute mastoiditis is a complication of acute otitis media and can involve not only th...Rationale:Acute otitis media is a common disease in early childhood,and is usually caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae(S.pneumoniae).Acute mastoiditis is a complication of acute otitis media and can involve not only the mucoperiosteum of the middle ear but can also spread to the periosteum by destroying the mastoid bone(acute coalescent mastoiditis).In addition,the infection can extend through the surrounding bones or the emissary veins beyond the mastoid’s air cells,leading to subperiosteal abscesses.Patient’s Concern:A 16-month-old female patient was hospitalized due to the purulent discharge of the left ear and the symptoms of right mastoiditis(swelling and redness of the skin).Diagnosis:Bilateral acute coalescent mastoiditis caused by S.pneumoniae infection.The computer tomography revealed bilateral bone destruction of the mastoid and abscesses found behind the auricle on both sides.Interventions:The patient underwent intravenous antibiotic therapy and surgical treatment.Outcomes:The patient was discharged 14 days after hospitalization with an improved condition.Lessons:Improperly treated acute coalescent mastoiditis can lead to extracranial and intracranial complications,sometimes serious and even life-threatening.Complications are prevalent in children under 2 years,in whom the disease progresses more rapidly and severely.The vaccination with a 13-valent vaccine may not result in sufficient immunity against S.pneumoniae,a predominant pathogen in children affected by acute coalescent mastoiditis.展开更多
Rationale:Multi-organ failure is a symptom of paraquat poisoning,resulting in high mortality and morbidity rates.Though paraquat is widely available,poisoning through inhalation is rare.Patient’s Concern:A 37-year-ol...Rationale:Multi-organ failure is a symptom of paraquat poisoning,resulting in high mortality and morbidity rates.Though paraquat is widely available,poisoning through inhalation is rare.Patient’s Concern:A 37-year-old male reported to the emergency department with complaints of vomiting after an alleged history of inhalation of paraquat while at work.Diagnosis:Paraquat poisoning.Interventions:Supportive management along with multiple sessions of hemodialysis.Outcomes:Renal complications caused by paraquat were improved after multiple sessions of hemodialysis.However,the patient developed respiratory complications and later due to persistent hypoxemia and non-responsive to supportive therapy,he succumbed to his illness.Lessons:Acute kidney injury is a complication of paraquat poisoning.However,kidney involvement with the inhalational mode is rare.It is caused by reduction and oxidation cycles,as well as the formation of reactive oxygen species,necessitating hemodialysis as the treatment.Without a clear history,a specific clinical trait,or a diagnostic test,diagnosis can be difficult.Our case thus highlights the inhaled paraquat poisoning,presenting with acute kidney injury with late respiratory impairment as a consequence.展开更多
Meigs syndrome(MS)is characterized by a benign ovarian tumor(fibroma),hydrothorax on the right side,and ascites;which can be resolved permanently after surgery.Available literature reveals that most MS surgeries were ...Meigs syndrome(MS)is characterized by a benign ovarian tumor(fibroma),hydrothorax on the right side,and ascites;which can be resolved permanently after surgery.Available literature reveals that most MS surgeries were performed under general anesthesia(GA)[1].However,GA poses major risks to the patient.Considering the high risk of gastric content regurgitation,poor general condition or dyselectrolytemia may lead to delayed arousal,and associated multi-organ dysfunction.Intraoperative mechanical ventilation is also difficult due to ascites and hydrothorax(reduced cardiac output,impaired ventilation-perfusion in lungs causing hypoxia and hypercapnia)[1,2].In this letter,we report a case of MS tumor resection under the subarachnoid block(SAB)to mitigate these issues and also review the complications associated with both techniques.展开更多
Objective:To explore expression level of interferon-stimulated genes PKR,OAS1,MX1,and ISG15 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of COVID-19 patients.Methods:In this study,changes in the expression of four interferon...Objective:To explore expression level of interferon-stimulated genes PKR,OAS1,MX1,and ISG15 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of COVID-19 patients.Methods:In this study,changes in the expression of four interferon-stimulated genes(ISGs),including PKR,OAS1,MX1,and ISG15,in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 45 COVID-19 patients with different severities were evaluated by real-time PCR method.Results:OAS1,MX1,PKR,and ISG15 were differently expressed in COVID-19 patients with different severity.The results showed that the expression of OAS1,MX1,PKR,and ISG15 genes was significantly(P=0.001)lower in severe patients.Conclusions:Weak and defective IFN response and subsequent disruption of ISGs may be associated with COVID-19 severity.展开更多
Rationale:Synthetic cannabinoids are increasingly used as recreational drugs and have been associated with adverse cardiovascular effects.However,reports of synthetic cannabinoids accompanied by constrictive pericardi...Rationale:Synthetic cannabinoids are increasingly used as recreational drugs and have been associated with adverse cardiovascular effects.However,reports of synthetic cannabinoids accompanied by constrictive pericarditis are limited.Patient’s concern:A 28-year-old male with a history of synthetic cannabinoid(Bonzai)abuse presented with chest discomfort,dyspnea,and lower extremity edema.Investigations revealed reduced left ventricular ejection fraction,elevated inflammatory markers,low electrocardiogram voltages,and atrial fibrillation.Diagnosis:Chest spiral computerized tomography scan and chest X-ray demonstrated pericardial calcification.Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and right heart catheterization were done to confirm the possibility of constrictive pericarditis.Based on the patient’s addiction history and exclusion of rheumatologic and infectious causes,it was supposed that constrictive pericarditis and cardiomyopathy may be accompanied by synthetic cannabinoid use.Interventions:The patient received standard medical therapy,including loop diuretics for cardiomyopathy and constrictive pericarditis.Catheter ablation was recommended for his rhythm control,and he was planned for close monitoring of clinical and echocardiographic response and evaluation of the need for surgical pericardiectomy in the future.Outcomes:After 6 months follow-up,echocardiographic exam revealed no significant improvement in ventricular function.However,due to the high surgical risk,the patient’s poor compliance,and the continuation of drug abuse,he was not a good candidate for surgery according to our heart team’s decision.Lessons:Synthetic cannabinoids can trigger constrictive pericarditis,and clinicians should consider them when evaluating patients with compatible symptoms and exposure history.Further research on the cardiovascular effects of synthetic cannabinoids is needed and public education on potential harms is warranted.展开更多
Rationale:Dengue fever is capable of inciting the formation of transient polyclonal antibodies directed at red blood cell antigens,resulting in complement-mediated hemolysis,leading to intravascular hemolysis and hemo...Rationale:Dengue fever is capable of inciting the formation of transient polyclonal antibodies directed at red blood cell antigens,resulting in complement-mediated hemolysis,leading to intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria.Patient’s concern:A 12-year-old male patient who recovered from dengue fever a week ago had red blood cell agglutination,spherocytes,and engulfment of red blood cells(erythrophagocytosis)by monocytes and neutrophils on routine hematological peripheral blood smear.The unexpected blood smear results prompted the lab physicians to investigate autoimmune hemolytic anemia,which revealed a monospecific positive direct antiglobulin test for complement(C3d,C3b)and the presence of Donath-Landsteiner antibody.Diagnosis:Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria(PCH),secondary to dengue fever.Interventions:Oxygen supplements,antibiotics,intravenous immunoglobulins,steroid therapy,and packed cell transfusions were administered.Outcomes:The patient’s condition was improved following the therapy.Lessons:Post-dengue PCH is a rare complication that requires a thorough peripheral smear examination for erythrophagocytosis,as advanced hematology analyzers fail to detect such findings.展开更多
文摘Objective: To study the effect of adjuvant therapy of ganglioside sodium on intracranial pressure (ICP), partial pressure of brain tissue oxygen (PbtO2), nerve injury molecules, nerve protection molecules and indexes of oxidative stress in patients with acute severe craniocerebral injury. <br> Methods: Forty-seven patients with severe craniocerebral injury treated in the emergency department of our hospital during the period time from December 2012 to October 2015 were selected for retrospective analyses. They were divided into the ganglioside group and the normal treatment group according to the usage of ganglioside sodium in the process of the emergency treatment. At days 1, 3, 5 and 7 before and after treatment, theICP and PbtO2 in patients of the two groups were measured. After 7 days of treatment, the nerve injury molecules, nerve protection molecules and the indexes of oxidative stress in serum of the patients of the two groups were determined. <br> Results: At days 1, 3, 5 and 7 before and after treatment, theICP in patients of the ganglioside group were all significantly lower than those of the normal treatment group, while the PbtO2 were all significantly higher than those of normal treatment group. After 7 days of treatment, the contents of serum methane dicarboxylic aldehyde, advanced oxidation protein products, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine urine, S100β, glial fibrillary acidic portein, neuron specific enolase, myelin basic protein, neuroglobin and ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase L1 in patients of the ganglioside group were notably lower than those of the normal treatment group, while the contents of superoxidase dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, nerve growth factor and brain derived neurotrophic factor were significantly higher than those of the normal treatment group. <br> Conclusions: The adjuvant therapy of ganglioside sodium in patients with severe craniocerebral injury can effectively reduceICP, improve PbtO2 and alleviate the injuries of neurons and glial cells caused by oxidati
文摘Objective: To study the effect of surgery combined with nerve growth factor preparation treatment of acute cerebral hemorrhage on nerve cytokines and nerve injury. Methods: 68 patients with acute cerebral hemorrhage who received emergency minimally invasive evacuation of hematoma in Zigong No. 4 People's Hospital between August 2014 and September 2016 were selected and randomly divided into mNGF group and control group, mNGF group received postoperative mouse nerve growth factor preparation combined with conventional therapy, and control group accepted routine postoperative treatment. 10d, 20d and 30d after treatment, the serum was collected to determine the levels of nerve cytokines and nerve injury molecules. Results: 10d, 20d and 30d after treatment, serum BDNF (5.29±0.88 vs. 3.58±0.61, 6.94±0.93 vs. 3.78±0.55, 9.28±1.13 vs. 4.57±0.62 ng/ml), NTF-α (2.94±0.52 vs. 1.35±0.18, 3.88±0.58 vs. 1.51±0.20, 5.21±0.72 vs. 2.95±0.46 ng/ml), NGF (0.89±0.11 vs. 0.62±0.08, 1.02±0.15 vs. 0.78±0.09, 1.45±0.18 vs. 0.92±0.12 ng/ml) and VEGF (147.53±19.52 vs. 110.38±14.28, 184.95±22.51 vs. 121.29±17.85, 237.49±31.28 vs. 145.38±18.31 pg/ml) levels of mNGF group were significantly higher than those of control group while S100β (1.27±0.20 vs. 2.19±0.33, 0.94±0.14 vs. 1.76±0.25, 0.71±0.09 vs. 1.32±0.17 ng/ml), GFAP (2.08±0.36 vs. 4.42±0.55, 1.65±0.25 vs. 3.57±0.51, 1.31±0.17 vs. 2.93±0.42 pg/ml), NSE (34.21±5.82 vs. 73.19±9.35, 27.58±4.12 vs. 58.76±8.28, 22.12±3.25 vs. 39.52±5.28 ng/ml), MBP (5.28±0.93 vs. 11.28±1.86, 3.89±0.51 vs. 9.12±1.14, 3.12±0.41 vs. 6.79±0.94 ng/ml), MDA (6.97±0.93 vs. 14.21±1.87, 5.02±0.78 vs. 11.75±1.76, 3.57±0.62 vs. 8.12±0.99 μmol/L), AOPP(65.19±9.68 vs. 155.62±19.63, 48.59±7.21 vs. 118.75±16.85, 37.83±5.28 vs. 82.11±10.18 μmol/L) and 8-OHdG (4.77±0.67 vs. 10.28±1.52, 3.52±0.51 vs. 9.38±1.15, 2.33±0.41 vs. 6.52±0.92 ng/ml) levels were significantly lower than those of control group. Conclusion: Surgery combined with nerve growth factor
文摘Inflammation is a multifaceted cellular and molecular response triggered by injury,infection,or various pathological conditions.Serving as a protective defense mechanism,the inflammatory response involves clinical signs like redness,swelling,pain,and increased body temperature.Immune cells,notably neutrophils and macrophages,play key roles in orchestrating this response.The delicate balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators,including cytokines and chemokines,regulates the inflammatory cascade.While acute inflammation is crucial for tissue repair,chronic inflammation may indicate an imbalance,contributing to conditions like autoimmune diseases.Understanding these mechanisms is vital for developing therapeutic strategies and managing chronic diseases.
文摘Community-acquired pneumonia(CAP)poses a significant global health threat,particularly affecting vulnerable populations.Biomarkers and scoring systems play a crucial role in diagnosing,assessing severity,and guiding treatment decisions for CAP patients.Biomarkers like C reactive protein,procalcitonin,and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio aid in diagnosis and severity assessment,while scoring systems such as CURB-65 and Pneumonia Severity Index classify patients into risk categories.Emerging biomarkers(uremia,elevated respiratory rate,hypotension,and age≥65)like serum amyloid A and S100 proteins show promise in predicting disease severity and prognosis.However,further research is needed to determine their precise roles and clinical utility in CAP management.
文摘Acute infectious conjunctivitis(AIC)is one of the most common communicable diseases encountered in acute hospital settings.Transmission exists long before COVID-19.Research showed COVID-19 infections were associated with AIC,as the most common ocular manifestations[1].Thus,an increase in AIC during COVID-19 is expected[2].However,personal hygiene practices and public health measures throughout COVID-19 negatively impacted the incidence of influenza and other upper respiratory tract infections,as for AIC[3].Our retrospective study extracted the data between July 2016 to June 2023,from the hospital communicable ocular diseases database.We aim to reveal the incidence of AIC across the pre-and post-COVID era in a local regional acute hospital.A total of 1512 patients with AIC were identified in the last 7 years across the pre-and post-COVID era.Monthly incidences of AIC over the past 7 years were plotted as a line chart(Figure 1A).
文摘The incidence of acute pancreatitis(AP),a condition characterized by inflammation in the pancreas,has been increasing globally and is associated with several complications.This review elaborated on the etiology,clinical presentation,severity assessment,and treatment modalities of AP,mainly in the critical care setting.Patients with severe AP,as indicated by organ failure(>48 hours from onset),warrant treatment in the intensive care unit setting.The most common etiologies,biliary disease and alcohol consumption,and the advanced diagnostic tools used for the identification of the cause are highlighted.Different severity assessment tools are utilized for grading the severity of the disease,predicting patient outcomes,determining the associated risk,and guiding treatment decisions.The treatment interventions comprise various approaches,such as anti-infective therapy enteral nutrition,analgesics for pain,or minimally invasive surgical procedures,thereby demonstrating an evolving landscape of AP management.Furthermore,various complications such as necrosis,organ failure,and hemorrhage,necessitate disease monitoring and differential diagnosis and are crucial for optimal management of patients.Novel treatment modalities and advancements in multidisciplinary care emphasize the potential for reducing the burden of AP in critical care settings.
文摘Objective:To assess the effects of L-carnitine on the outcomes of patients with moderate to severe coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)in intensive care unit(ICU).Methods:This double-blind clinical trial was carried out in 2022-2023.64 Patients with COVID-19 were selected from Amiralmomenin and Khansari hospitals in Arak,Iran.They were randomly assigned to the control and the L-carnitine treatment group via block randomization.Venous blood gases,disease severity,and levels of D-dimer,lactate dehydrogenase,ferritin,and C-reactive protein were daily assessed during the seven days of the intervention,and the length of ICU stay,the need for endotracheal intubation,and mortality rate were documented.Results:There were significant differences in length of ICU stay,the need for endotracheal intubation,and levels of D-dimer,lactate dehydrogenase,ferritin,APACHE栻score,and C-reactive protein between the two groups(P<0.05).However,the groups did not significantly differ in mortality rate and venous blood gas indexes(P>0.05).Conclusions:L-carnitine can improve outcomes of patients with COVID-19.Therefore,it can be used as an adjuvant therapy for these patients.
文摘Objective:To explore the predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)in in-hospital mortality in sepsis patients.Methods:A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients with septicemia.The data about the patient’s demography,medical history,general examination including pulse rate,blood pressure,etc,use of vasopressor support,need for renal replacement therapy,mechanical ventilation,outcome,and lab parameters including total lymphocyte count with neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were recorded.And parameters between survivals and non-survivals were compared.Results:Out of 100 patients,80%were from rural backgrounds.Most patients were 50 to 59 years old.26 Patients were dead.The patients in the nonsurvivor group were older and more had a history of diabetes mellitus when compared with the survivor group.The non-survivor group had a higher NLR,APACHE栻,and SOFA score.Conclusions:NLR is a readily available parameter and can be used as a good prognostic indicator for mortality in sepsis patients.
文摘The widespread outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization and various governments worldwide.This prompted the implementation of stringent infection control measures to curb the spread of the virus.Amidst this,the medical community faced the challenge of treating the virus without specific therapies or a vaccine,leading to reliance on empirical treatment approaches.In this context,hydroxychloroquine,an antimalarial and antirheumatic drug,gained attention as a potential treatment option.Despite its theoretical benefits,such as inhibiting viral entry,reducing inflammation,and modulating immune responses,empirical studies yielded inconsistent results.Some indicated a potential for symptom relief,while others showed no significant improvement in patient outcomes.The initial enthusiasm waned as the lack of substantial evidence led to revoking its Emergency Use Authorization,and several clinical trials were prematurely halted.The review in question critically examines the factors contributing to the ineffectiveness of hydroxychloroquine in treating SARS-CoV-2 infection,highlighting the complexities of drug repurposing during a rapidly evolving pandemic.
文摘Sepsis and septic shock are life-threatening conditions that are globally responsible for almost 20%of mortality,especially in low and middle-income countries.This review was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar databases with keywords sepsis,septic shock,sepsis management,and sepsis complications.Articles published up to July 2023 in English were included.Diagnosis and management should be carried out without unnecessary delay.Cooperation between various medical specialties including intensive care doctors,neurologists,hepatologists,cardiologists,and pediatric doctors is needed if a child is affected.New strategies have to be implemented in low and middle-income countries to decrease the sepsis incidence and reduce mortality in the population.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the risk factors of death caused by COVID-19 in Iran.Methods:This study was a retrospective cohort study from February 20,2020,to August 22,2022,in the hospitals in Isfahan,Iran.The data were collected through a researcher-made checklist.To determine the risk factors of the death,logistic regression and Cox regression models were used.For each variable,the odds ratio and 95%confidence interval were also reported.Results:1885 Patients were included.The age of deceased persons was significantly higher than that of the surviving persons.The risk of death for the age group above 60 years was about 14 times higher than that of people aged 19-35 years[95%CI:14.41(2.02-102.99),P<0.01].Hypertension[95%CI:1.92(1.47-2.5),P<0.01],diabetes[95%CI:1.62(1.23-2.13),P<0.001],and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease[95%CI:1.92(1.47-2.50),P<0.01]were also risk factors of mortality.Conclusions:This study reveals that the mortality rate due to COVID-19 is associated with old age,longer hospitalization in the ICU,increased length of stay,and comorbidities of high blood pressure,diabetes,and chronic pulmonary disease.
文摘Objective:To investigate the distribution pattern of animal bites in Mirjaveh,Iran from 2015 to 2020.Methods:The data on animal bites were collected from the Department of Infectious Diseases,the provincial health center.Monthly climatic data on precipitation and temperature during the study period were also collected.The correlation between incidence and temperature,precipitation rate,land type,and altitude was also analyzed.Results:The results showed that men were more affected by animal bites than women(76.4%,P<0.001),and the highest incidence rate occurred in the age group of 5-19 years.The incidence rate of animal bites was found to be correlated with temperature and altitude.An increase in temperature was associated with a rise in the incidence rate of animal bites.The number of animal bites increased until 2019,possibly due to an increase in the number of dogs in the area.Conclusions:Targeted interventions should be implemented to reduce the incidence of animal bites,particularly among children,housewives,and students.Improving access to appropriate treatments,increasing public awareness of the hazards of animal bites,and increasing the number of vaccinated dogs in the area are essential strategies to be considered.
文摘Objective:To investigate the frequency of exoU and exoY genes in patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection.Methods:In this study,100 clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were collected from patients hospitalized in educational-therapeutic hospitals and were identified using standard microbiological tests.Then,the antibiotic resistance pattern of the isolates was determined by the disk agar diffusion method.The bacterial DNAs were extracted by the alkaline lysis method.Finally,the presence of exoU and exoY genes was evaluated by the PCR test.Results:In this study,47%,72%,29%,39%,40%,and 44%of the isolates were non-susceptible to piperacillin,aztreonam,ceftazidime,imipenem,tobramycin,and ciprofloxacin,respectively.In addition,95%and 93%of the clinical isolates carried the exoU and exoY genes.Blood and fecal isolates had both virulence genes,while only one wound isolate had neither genes.Meanwhile,all urinary isolates contained the exoY gene and only one isolate lacked the exoU gene.Also,88 isolates simultaneously had both exoU and exoY genes.Conclusions:High prevalence of exoU and exoY genes in this region indicates a significant role of typeⅢsecretion system in pathogenesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.The typeⅢsecretion system may be a suitable target to reduce the pathogenicity of this bacterium.
文摘Rationale:Acute caustic ingestion from suicidal intent is not usual in emergency departments in developed countries.One of the substances commonly ingested by suicidal patients,phosphoric acid,tends to cause multi-system derangements.Patient’s Concern:A 41-year-old male patient presented with complaints of throat discomfort,severe generalized abdominal pain,and multiple episodes of hematemesis after ingesting a restroom cleaning solution.Diagnosis:Poisoning by acute caustic ingestion(containing<30%phosphoric acid and<4%ethylene glycol).Interventions:The patient was administered 50 mL of 8.4%sodium bicarbonate solution followed by an isotonic sodium bicarbonate solution running at 500 mL/h,a hyperkalemia kit,ceftriaxone,metronidazole,omeprazole,and atropine.The patient then underwent urgent hemodialysis.Outcomes:The patient suffered gastrointestinal bleeding as a result of local caustic injury.In addition,his course of illness was complicated by severe acidemia from high anion gap metabolic acidosis and deranged electrolytes(hyperphosphatemia,hyperkalemia,and hypocalcemia).He developed multi-organ failure and eventually demised.Lessons:The clinician needs to be mindful of the multi-system complications arising from such a caustic ingestion.These patients need to be monitored closely for deterioration,and have prompt management of the various arising complications,to reduce the high morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
文摘Rationale:Acute otitis media is a common disease in early childhood,and is usually caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae(S.pneumoniae).Acute mastoiditis is a complication of acute otitis media and can involve not only the mucoperiosteum of the middle ear but can also spread to the periosteum by destroying the mastoid bone(acute coalescent mastoiditis).In addition,the infection can extend through the surrounding bones or the emissary veins beyond the mastoid’s air cells,leading to subperiosteal abscesses.Patient’s Concern:A 16-month-old female patient was hospitalized due to the purulent discharge of the left ear and the symptoms of right mastoiditis(swelling and redness of the skin).Diagnosis:Bilateral acute coalescent mastoiditis caused by S.pneumoniae infection.The computer tomography revealed bilateral bone destruction of the mastoid and abscesses found behind the auricle on both sides.Interventions:The patient underwent intravenous antibiotic therapy and surgical treatment.Outcomes:The patient was discharged 14 days after hospitalization with an improved condition.Lessons:Improperly treated acute coalescent mastoiditis can lead to extracranial and intracranial complications,sometimes serious and even life-threatening.Complications are prevalent in children under 2 years,in whom the disease progresses more rapidly and severely.The vaccination with a 13-valent vaccine may not result in sufficient immunity against S.pneumoniae,a predominant pathogen in children affected by acute coalescent mastoiditis.
文摘Rationale:Multi-organ failure is a symptom of paraquat poisoning,resulting in high mortality and morbidity rates.Though paraquat is widely available,poisoning through inhalation is rare.Patient’s Concern:A 37-year-old male reported to the emergency department with complaints of vomiting after an alleged history of inhalation of paraquat while at work.Diagnosis:Paraquat poisoning.Interventions:Supportive management along with multiple sessions of hemodialysis.Outcomes:Renal complications caused by paraquat were improved after multiple sessions of hemodialysis.However,the patient developed respiratory complications and later due to persistent hypoxemia and non-responsive to supportive therapy,he succumbed to his illness.Lessons:Acute kidney injury is a complication of paraquat poisoning.However,kidney involvement with the inhalational mode is rare.It is caused by reduction and oxidation cycles,as well as the formation of reactive oxygen species,necessitating hemodialysis as the treatment.Without a clear history,a specific clinical trait,or a diagnostic test,diagnosis can be difficult.Our case thus highlights the inhaled paraquat poisoning,presenting with acute kidney injury with late respiratory impairment as a consequence.
文摘Meigs syndrome(MS)is characterized by a benign ovarian tumor(fibroma),hydrothorax on the right side,and ascites;which can be resolved permanently after surgery.Available literature reveals that most MS surgeries were performed under general anesthesia(GA)[1].However,GA poses major risks to the patient.Considering the high risk of gastric content regurgitation,poor general condition or dyselectrolytemia may lead to delayed arousal,and associated multi-organ dysfunction.Intraoperative mechanical ventilation is also difficult due to ascites and hydrothorax(reduced cardiac output,impaired ventilation-perfusion in lungs causing hypoxia and hypercapnia)[1,2].In this letter,we report a case of MS tumor resection under the subarachnoid block(SAB)to mitigate these issues and also review the complications associated with both techniques.
基金the research council of Kerman University of Medical Sciences,Kerman,Iran(Grant Number:400000232).
文摘Objective:To explore expression level of interferon-stimulated genes PKR,OAS1,MX1,and ISG15 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of COVID-19 patients.Methods:In this study,changes in the expression of four interferon-stimulated genes(ISGs),including PKR,OAS1,MX1,and ISG15,in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 45 COVID-19 patients with different severities were evaluated by real-time PCR method.Results:OAS1,MX1,PKR,and ISG15 were differently expressed in COVID-19 patients with different severity.The results showed that the expression of OAS1,MX1,PKR,and ISG15 genes was significantly(P=0.001)lower in severe patients.Conclusions:Weak and defective IFN response and subsequent disruption of ISGs may be associated with COVID-19 severity.
文摘Rationale:Synthetic cannabinoids are increasingly used as recreational drugs and have been associated with adverse cardiovascular effects.However,reports of synthetic cannabinoids accompanied by constrictive pericarditis are limited.Patient’s concern:A 28-year-old male with a history of synthetic cannabinoid(Bonzai)abuse presented with chest discomfort,dyspnea,and lower extremity edema.Investigations revealed reduced left ventricular ejection fraction,elevated inflammatory markers,low electrocardiogram voltages,and atrial fibrillation.Diagnosis:Chest spiral computerized tomography scan and chest X-ray demonstrated pericardial calcification.Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and right heart catheterization were done to confirm the possibility of constrictive pericarditis.Based on the patient’s addiction history and exclusion of rheumatologic and infectious causes,it was supposed that constrictive pericarditis and cardiomyopathy may be accompanied by synthetic cannabinoid use.Interventions:The patient received standard medical therapy,including loop diuretics for cardiomyopathy and constrictive pericarditis.Catheter ablation was recommended for his rhythm control,and he was planned for close monitoring of clinical and echocardiographic response and evaluation of the need for surgical pericardiectomy in the future.Outcomes:After 6 months follow-up,echocardiographic exam revealed no significant improvement in ventricular function.However,due to the high surgical risk,the patient’s poor compliance,and the continuation of drug abuse,he was not a good candidate for surgery according to our heart team’s decision.Lessons:Synthetic cannabinoids can trigger constrictive pericarditis,and clinicians should consider them when evaluating patients with compatible symptoms and exposure history.Further research on the cardiovascular effects of synthetic cannabinoids is needed and public education on potential harms is warranted.
文摘Rationale:Dengue fever is capable of inciting the formation of transient polyclonal antibodies directed at red blood cell antigens,resulting in complement-mediated hemolysis,leading to intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria.Patient’s concern:A 12-year-old male patient who recovered from dengue fever a week ago had red blood cell agglutination,spherocytes,and engulfment of red blood cells(erythrophagocytosis)by monocytes and neutrophils on routine hematological peripheral blood smear.The unexpected blood smear results prompted the lab physicians to investigate autoimmune hemolytic anemia,which revealed a monospecific positive direct antiglobulin test for complement(C3d,C3b)and the presence of Donath-Landsteiner antibody.Diagnosis:Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria(PCH),secondary to dengue fever.Interventions:Oxygen supplements,antibiotics,intravenous immunoglobulins,steroid therapy,and packed cell transfusions were administered.Outcomes:The patient’s condition was improved following the therapy.Lessons:Post-dengue PCH is a rare complication that requires a thorough peripheral smear examination for erythrophagocytosis,as advanced hematology analyzers fail to detect such findings.
