The American journal of the medical sciences
-
COVID-19 is an evolving systemic inflammatory pandemic disease, predominantly affecting the respiratory system. Associated cardiovascular comorbid conditions result in severe to critical illness with mortality up to 14.8 % in octogenarians. ⋯ This review may provide further light on proper laboratory tests and therapeutic implications needed for better management of patients. The main objective of the study is to understand the pathophysiology of COVID-19 with respect to the role of endothelium so that more additional relevant treatment may be incorporated in the management protocol.
-
Broncholithiasis is a rare disease defined as the presence of calcified material (broncholith) within the tracheobronchial tree. We described our experience in broncholithiasis to provide a more effective clinical basis for the management of this condition. ⋯ Broncholithiasis is a benign bronchial disease that can cause complications. Endoscopic removal of broncholiths is considered as initial therapy and surgical removal is suggested as a second-line treatment. Treatment with anti-infectives is required for patients who fail to receive removal of broncholiths.
-
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) associated with high mortality is the common complication in acute pancreatitis (AP). The aim of this study was to formulate and validate an individualized predictive nomogram for in-hospital incidence of ARDS in Patients with AP. ⋯ The study developed an intuitive nomogram with easily available laboratory parameters for the prediction of in-hospital incidence of ARDS in patients with AP. The incidence of ARDS for an individual patient can be fast and conveniently evaluated by our nomogram.
-
Sepsis and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) may both present in a single patient in the intensive care unit. The impact of PAH on the sepsis process is not well understood. Here we assess the effect of PAH in patients with sepsis from multiple perspectives. ⋯ PAH had little effect on the inflammation profile in sepsis, but it may worsen the sepsis outcome by impairing cardiac function and subsequent hemodynamic stability.