Clinical neurology and neurosurgery
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Clin Neurol Neurosurg · Sep 2013
Homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folate levels in Iranian patients with Multiple Sclerosis: a case control study.
Recently, homocysteine (Hcy), folate, and vitamin B12 have been proposed to have several roles on MS pathogenesis. ⋯ We concluded that serum levels of vitamin B12 and folate decreased in RRMS patients, but Hcy levels increased significantly. It seems necessary to conduct prospective trials to determine whether the treatment with supplements and correct biomarker levels in the early stage of the disease can change the course of the disease. We recommend regular checking of the serum level of Hcy in patients who use disease-modifying drugs.
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Clin Neurol Neurosurg · Sep 2013
Complications following cranioplasty using autologous bone or polymethylmethacrylate--retrospective experience from a single center.
A decompressive hemicraniectomy is a potentially life-saving intervention following head trauma. Once performed patients are obliged to undergo a second procedure with cranioplasty. Two of the most commonly used materials are autologous bone and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). We have now evaluated complications following a cranioplasty using these materials. ⋯ In our series we had a high percentage of patients needing re-operation due to complications following a cranioplasty. Though generally considered a straightforward procedure, complications and associated morbidity in patients undergoing cranioplasty should not be underestimated.
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Clin Neurol Neurosurg · Sep 2013
Carotid pseudo-occlusion on CTA in patients with acute ischemic stroke: a concerning observation.
Differentiation between an occluded and a patent extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) is crucial in the diagnostic workup of patients with acute ischemic stroke; particularly in patients eligible for endovascular treatment. We report neurological and radiological findings of cases in which CTA in the acute phase incorrectly revealed an occlusion of the ICA. ⋯ CTA in the acute phase of ischemic stroke needs to be interpreted with severe caution, and in endovascular treatment decisions we should be aware that an extracranial ICA occlusion may be a false positive finding.