Medicine
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Observational Study
Evaluation of pediatric spinal ependymomas: A 25-year retrospective observational study.
This study aims to evaluate the clinical and radiological features, histopathological characteristics, treatment modalities, and their effectiveness, as well as long-term follow-up results of pediatric spinal ependymomas treated at a single institution. In this retrospective study, medical records of 14 pediatric patients (3 females and 11 males) who were surgically treated for spinal ependymoma in our institution between 1995 and 2020 were reviewed. Data regarding age, gender, presenting symptoms and signs, radiological findings, postoperative status, extent of resection, histopathological grading, recurrence, tumor growth, seeding, and adjuvant treatment were collected and analyzed. ⋯ One patient who had a grade III tumor and did not achieve gross total resection died during follow-up. Pediatric spinal ependymomas are uncommon tumors with relatively benign course. Gross total resection should be the primary goal of surgery since it may prevent disease progression, and in case it fails, progression occurs later than those that were treated with subtotal resection.
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Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a hereditary blood disorder with profound implications for affected individuals, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Uganda. This review explores the multifaceted aspects of SCA in Uganda, focusing on epidemiology, challenges faced by individuals, coping strategies, healthcare disparities, and community support. The study incorporates a thorough examination of the genetic landscape, prevalence, and the impact of SCA on the quality of life in Uganda. ⋯ This review critically evaluates the various coping mechanisms employed by individuals in Uganda and the resilience demonstrated in the face of chronic illness. It explores the psychological, social, and cultural dimensions of coping and resilience, shedding light on adaptive strategies that contribute to improved quality of life. This article aims to contribute valuable insights into the specific challenges faced by individuals with SCA in Uganda, offering a foundation for targeted interventions, improved healthcare policies, and increased awareness within both the medical community and the broader society.
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Observational Study
Nonstenotic carotid artery plaques on computed tomography angiography in embolic stroke of undetermined source.
This study aims to evaluate the role of <50% stenotic cervical carotid artery plaques in embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS), focusing on plaque characteristics in symptomatic versus asymptomatic carotid arteries (contralateral). In this cross-sectional observational study, 81 patients who met the diagnostic criteria for ESUS and underwent were retrospectively analyzed. Carotid plaques causing <50% stenosis were examined, noting features such as plaque thickness, degree of luminal stenosis, irregularity, ulceration, calcification, and hypodensity. ⋯ Of the plaque patients, 54.3% (44/81) were on the ipsilateral side, compared to 29.6% (24/81) on the contralateral side (P = .0024). Our findings underscore the potential significance of non-stenotic carotid plaques in ESUS. These plaques, especially those with certain high-risk characteristics, are more prevalent ipsilaterally and should be considered in clinical evaluations and treatment of ESUS.
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Review Case Reports
Leptospirosis manifested with severe pulmonary hemorrhagic syndrome successfully treated with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A case report and literature review.
The mortality rate associated with pulmonary hemorrhage induced by leptospirosis is notably high. Available treatment modalities are limited, and their efficacy has not been fully demonstrated. Here, we present the case report of a patient with leptospirosis-induced pulmonary hemorrhagic syndrome. A 49-year-old male patient was admitted to the Surgical Ward of the Department of Intensive Care Medicine of Fuyang Infectious Disease Clinical College of Anhui Medical University. The patient had initially sought medical attention at a local hospital due to symptoms of fever persisting for 4 days and chest tightness accompanied by hemoptysis for 1 day. ⋯ We successfully treated a case of leptospirosis pulmonary hemorrhagic syndrome using VV-ECMO combined with prudent anticoagulant therapy.
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This study investigates the role of S100A11 as a potential biomarker for glioma-associated macrophages (GAMs) and its correlation with GAMs infiltration in glioblastoma multiforme, aiming to better understand the immune microenvironment of glioma. ⋯ S100A11 emerges as a promising candidate for regulating glioma immunosuppression and may serve as a potential marker for GAMs. This study sheds light on the crucial role of S100A11 in the crosstalk between GAMs and glioma cells, contributing to our understanding of glioma progression within the tumor microenvironment.