Chest
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The expression and localization of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway proteins in different compartments of the lower airways of patients with stable COPD is unclear. We aimed to determine TGF-β pathway protein expression in patients with stable COPD. ⋯ Expression of TGF-βs and their regulatory proteins is distinct within different lower airway compartments in stable COPD. Selective reduction in TGF-β1 and enhanced BAMBI expression may be associated with the increase in autoimmunity in COPD.
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The collapsibility index of the inferior vena cava is traditionally visualized from the subcostal region in the sagittal plane, referred to here as cIVCSS. Alternatively, the collapsibility index of the inferior vena cava can be visualized from the right midaxillary line in the coronal plane, referred to here as cIVCRC. It is unclear whether values of cIVCRC are comparable with values of cIVCSS because the inferior vena cava collapses asymmetrically into an elliptical form, quantified as the flat ratio of the inferior vena cava (F-IVC). This study aimed (1) to establish if cIVCRC is concordant or discordant to cIVCSS, and (2) to describe how this concordance or discordance is related to F-IVC. ⋯ cIVCRC and cIVCSS measures are discordant, where cIVCRC underestimates cIVCSS. The degree of discordance is directly proportional to the value of F-IVC. Therefore, we recommend that cIVCRC ≥ 42% be used to rule in, but not to rule out, fluid responsivity. Wherever possible, F-IVC should be assessed to understand the clinical relevance of cIVCRC.
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Case Reports
Likely False-Positive Pneumococcal Antigen Test BinaxNOW Due to Parvimonas micra: A Four-Case Series.
We retrospectively report four cases from two hospitals of nonpneumococcal pleural empyema with a likely false-positive result on the pneumococcal antigen test BinaxNOW (PATB) (Alere) performed in pleural fluid samples in patients with aspiration pneumonia risk factors. To determine whether the positive reaction was due to cross-reactivity, we separately tested the isolates from the pleural fluid samples, along with collection and reference strains. All patients had polymicrobial aerobic and anaerobic positive cultures, including Parvimonas micra in every case. ⋯ Samples for culture and specific polymerase chain reaction were negative for Streptococcus pneumoniae. We found that the false-positive PATB finding was likely due to P micra, a previously unknown cross-reactivity. In case of aspiration pneumonia risk factors, a positive PATB result must be interpreted with caution because there can be a false positivity due to anaerobic infection or co-infection.
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The outcome of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) might be influenced by its complications. Only limited information is available regarding the pathologic consequences of ECMO, especially in the era of modern ECMO technology. ⋯ Some findings are suspected to be associated with the patient's underlying disease, whereas others might be related to ECMO. Our results provide a better understanding of ECMO-related lung disease and might help to prevent it.
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Oxygen supplementation for exercise-induced hypoxemia is a common clinical practice that improves exercise tolerance. However, we know of no standardized exercise oxygen titration protocol using a single walk test. We report our experience with a protocol developed in our laboratory. ⋯ Our protocol was easily performed as a modification of a standard 6MWT with no serious adverse events. Because it is based on a widely accepted measurement of functional capabilities, and because it determined a stable final oxygen dose for ≥ 3 min of walking in most patients, we believe this protocol can be easily adapted for clinical use.