Irish journal of medical science
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The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) in the geriatric patients with acute cholecystitis. ⋯ Abdominal ultrasonography-guided PC is a safe and effective method in the management of acute cholecystitis in high-risk patients in the geriatric age group.
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Despite the undeniable effect of vaccination against COVID-19 in reducing disease severity, there is still a need to monitor and limit SARS-CoV-2 circulation and transmission. Thus, this study evaluated the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 genome on the surfaces of highly touched objects manipulated in the biological sample collection point and at the reception unit of the diagnostic laboratory. Surfaces were sampled once a week, for 6 weeks, between September 18th and October 23rd, 2020. ⋯ It can also reflect the low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 during the study's development period. Despite the low frequency of SARS-CoV-2 genome detection, our findings show that the virus was present in the environment at some point. This highlights the importance of adopting personal preventive measures to reduce respiratory virus spread, especially during epidemics and outbreaks.
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Retinal tears occur as a result of traction at sites of retinal and vitreous adhesion-this allows retrohyaloid fluid into the subretinal space. Prompt management is required to prevent progression to rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). ⋯ A notable proportion of patients (21%) undergoing emergency laser retinopexy required further intervention. Patients with anteriorly located retinal tears would benefit from an early discussion with a vitreo-retinal surgeon. Departmental training in laser retinopexy and retinal tear management is recommended as part of ongoing quality improvement.
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Neurogenic inflammation has been recognized as an important contributing factor in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical values of substance P, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and neuropeptide Y as biomarkers of disease severity and treatment outcomes of chronic urticaria complicated with allergic rhinitis. ⋯ Our data indicates that substance P, VIP, and neuropeptide Y levels before treatment correlate strongly with the treatment outcomes of the patients, which could potentially serve as a decision support tool in clinical management of chronic urticaria complicated with allergic rhinitis.
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The biological function of YKL-40 is not well determined in different inflammatory and autoimmune diseases; however, some data highlighted its possible connection with disease activity. ⋯ YKL-40 in serum could be a promising biomarker in patients with SLE, especially in adolescent-onset cases. It is independently influenced by disease duration, anemia, thrombocytopenia, positive anti-dsDNA, and APL ab features.