Irish journal of medical science
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The overall seroprevalence of toxoplasma antibodies in women of childbearing age in Ireland is 25% [1]. Hence, 75% of women remain susceptible to primary toxoplasma infection during pregnancy, which if transmitted to the foetus can cause ocular, neurological and other sequelae. Toxoplasma exposure during pregnancy can be avoided if there is an awareness of the potential sources of infection, mainly contaminated food, water, soil and cat faeces. ⋯ Most women were uneducated about the risks posed by Toxoplasma gondii exposure during pregnancy. There is a clear need for better educational programmes regarding primary prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis if neonatal infection is to be avoided.
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Epidemiologic and genetic studies have suggested a bidirectional association between breast carcinoma (BC) and malignant melanoma (MM). ⋯ The national figures provide evidence of a link between BC and MM. We recommend increased awareness among clinicians leading to more detailed surveillance of both second primary tumours. All MM patients with a family history of BC should be referred to a breast clinic. Women above the age of 40 with MM should undergo annual mammography and those less than 40 may be better evaluated with a breast MRI. All breast cancer patients should be made aware of the significance of changing moles and those with suspicious lesions referred to a dermatologist for evaluation.
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Critical limb ischaemia due to distal arterial disease represents a significant challenge. Randomised controlled evidence suggests that open surgery may be superior to endovascular intervention but there is limited data on the specific clinical cohort with exclusively infra-popliteal disease. ⋯ Our data supports popliteo-pedal bypass as an effective treatment for distal vascular disease. Comparison with endovascular treatment in a randomised trial needs to be performed.
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Both central and peripheral opioid receptors activation produce cardioprotection. This study investigates the role of central and peripheral opioid receptors in intravenous morphine preconditioning (MPC) and ischemic preconditioning (IPC). ⋯ MPC could mimic IPC, produce a similar cardioprotective effect. Both central and peripheral opioid receptors mediate in the cardioprotection of MPC, however, only peripheral opioid receptors in IPC.
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Case Reports
Generalized convulsion resulted in hyperammonemia during treatment with tranexamic acid for hemoptysis.
Tranexamic acid is commonly used to treat various kinds of bleeding disorders. It has been shown to cause severe convulsions in animal experiments. ⋯ This case highlights that generalized convulsion is a very rare, but serious adverse effect of tranexamic acid. Generalized convulsion should be considered as a potential cause of transient hyperammonemia.