Niger J Clin Pract
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In previous studies, it was shown that ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) is an early marker of ischemia and different pathologies. However, IMA level change is unknown in patients with peripheral vertigo. It is also known that serum albumin levels can change in some patients with peripheral vertigo and that changes in serum albumin levels affect IMA levels. ⋯ It was observed that IMA level was slightly higher in patients with peripheral vertigo, although not significantly, compared to the control group. However, the albumin-adjusted IMA level, which indicates the real IMA level, was observed to be higher in this group than in the control group. It was determined that the sensitivity of this test was 34%, and the specificity was 87%. Patients with peripheral vertigo had lower albumin levels compared to controls.
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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized trauma patients. Ultrasonography (US) has replaced venography as the initial diagnostic tool for DVT. ⋯ Most cases of DVT developed in the first week of hospitalization. Combined thrombo-prophylaxis was more effective than single regimen at reducing rate of DVT in neurosurgical trauma patients. Routine Doppler ultrasound DVT surveillance should be part of the management protocol for neurosurgical trauma patients on admission to increase DVT detection and prevent possible fatal pulmonary embolism.
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Community mental health centers (CMHCs) are important institutions for individuals with chronic mental illness. During the COVID-19 period, patients with mental health could not optimally access care in CMHCs. ⋯ The patients reported their negative experiences and need for support during the pandemic. The study highlights the need to adequately accommodate mental health services delivery during future pandemics that may impose movement restrictions.
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Percutaneous radiofrequency nucleoplasty is a true minimally invasive technique for treatment for radiculopathy caused by contained disc protrusions. This minimally invasive procedure uses controlled thermoablation for reducing the intervertebral disc and decompressing the lumbar nerve root. Material and Methods: Our study is a prospective analysis of 27 patients aged from 30 to 64 years with lumbar disc protrusion who were treated with percutaneous radiofrequency disc decompression (PRFD) between May 2018 and May 2019. Clinical follow-up was reported at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. The outcomes were assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) and MacNab score. ⋯ PRFD is a safe and effective treatment of contained disc protrusion. PRFD is a good alternative to surgery. These procedures significantly increase quality of life in patients with lumbar radiculopathy.
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Neonatal sepsis is an invasive infection of the bloodstream in neonates and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among them. ⋯ This study showed that CRP was more reliable in monitoring antibiotic therapy, unlike other studies which suggested PCT. In cases where the management of neonatal sepsis may be limited by a low blood culture yield, therapeutic monitoring may be aided by CRP and/or PCT.