Ear, nose, & throat journal
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We aimed to clarify the relation between allergic rhinitis and the serum levels of 25-hydroxivitamin D in the adult population. The study group consisted of 86 patients with allergic rhinitis who were diagnosed with the help of history of allergy, positive signs for allergy, blood samples, and positive skin prick tests; while the control group included 43 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers with negative skin prick tests. The demographic data, medical history, findings in the physical examinations, serum levels of total immunoglobulin E (IgE) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and skin prick test results of the groups were noted. ⋯ There was a significant negative correlation between IgE and vitamin D levels in the allergic rhinitis group (P = .028, r = -0.246). This study showed that patients with allergic rhinitis might be more vulnerable to have lower serum levels of vitamin D. Thus, vitamin D supplementation as an adjunctive therapy may be considered in those patients.
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To report a case of ingested wire bristle embedded within the extrinsic musculature of the tongue requiring a transcervical approach for removal and to provide a revised algorithm for the management of ingested wire bristles. ⋯ This is the first case reported of a wire bristle migrating deep into the tongue musculature that was successfully removed via a transcervical approach. Our proposed algorithm provides a comprehensive approach to the management of ingested wire bristles, specifically in cases where endoscopic retrieval is not feasible.
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Investigate the effect of a targeted wellness program on burnout in Otolaryngology residents. ⋯ After 1 year, the wellness program resulted in a trend toward improving burnout. Future efforts should be focused on targeting the multidimensional drivers of burnout as defined by established wellness frameworks. Realizing new stressors brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic will also be an area of active effort and research.
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Alteration of smell and taste has been reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The incidence and clinical-symptomatic manifestation of COVID-19 is different between northern and southern Italy. This study aims to evaluate the onset of alteration of smell and taste in asymptomatic and symptomatic patients in Sicily (extreme south of Italy). ⋯ These preliminary results indicate that the majority of SARS-Cov-2 positive patients in southern Italy did not require hospitalization and presented with milder symptoms or no symptoms and the alterations in smell and taste occurred.
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Observational Study
The Role of Tracheotomy and Timing of Weaning and Decannulation in Patients Affected by Severe COVID-19.
Patients with acute respiratory failure due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have a high likelihood of needing prolonged intubation and may subsequently require tracheotomy. Indications and timing for performing tracheotomy in patients affected by severe COVID-19 pneumonia are still elusive. The aim of this study is to analyze the role of tracheotomy in the context of this pandemic. Moreover, we report the timing of the procedure and the time needed to complete weaning and decannulation in our center. ⋯ Since it is not possible to establish an optimal timing for performing tracheotomy, decision-making should be made on case-by-case basis. It should be adapted to the context of the pandemic, taking into account the availability of intensive care resources, potential risks for health care workers, and benefits for the individual patient.