Duodecim; lääketieteellinen aikakauskirja
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Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is characterized by the triad of liver disease, intrapulmonary vascular dilatation and arterial deoxygenation. Mediating factors are tumor necrosis factor a, endothelin 1 and nitric oxide. Typical symptom is an increase in dyspnea while in standing position, orthodeoxia. ⋯ The blood flow distribution to the lungs is changed as the pulmonary vascular tone is altered. Diagnosis is based on the evidence of liver disease, hypoxemia and pulmonary vascular shunt detected by the so-called bubble test. Liver transplantation is currently the only efficient therapeutic option.
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Review
[The use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in the treatment atrial fibrillation (AF) patients].
AF is associated with the risk of stroke, and this risk is exceedingly high in elderly patients (> or = 75 years) and in patients after a stroke. DOACs are appropriate anticoagulants for AF patients without mechanical heart valves or mitral stenosis. Patients on DOACs do not require routine monitoring of coagulation, but need regular follow-up visits including an assessment of therapy adherence, thromboembolic and bleeding events and measurements of hemoglobin and platelets values as well as renal and liver function.
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Metallic osteosynthesis materials, i.e. implants used in the treatment of fractures and correction of bone position in children have traditionally been subsequently removed in a further operation. The necessity for the removal of orthopedic implants left completely under the skin is arguable and research-based evidence is scarce. ⋯ We present our literature- and experience-based recommendation on the removal of implants or leaving them in position. The removal of an implant should, however, always be decided on an individual basis.
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The incidence of severe sepsis and septic shock requiring intensive care in Finnish adult population has increased to 0.60 11000 /y. Despite improved prognosis, hospital mortality related to severe sepsis and septic shock is high 24.1%. ⋯ Norepinephrine is the first-choice vasopressor in septic shock. Hydrocortisone should be considered only if fluid and vasopressor treatment does not restore hemodynamics.
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IgG4-related disease is a newly recognized systemic condition characterized by high serum IgG4 levels and an inflammatory reaction rich in IgG4-positive plasma cells associated with fibrosis and obliterative phlebitis. It predominantly affects middle-aged or elderly males and was first described as autoimmune pancreatitis. ⋯ Histopathology and immunohistochemistry form the basis of the diagnosis. Glucocorticoids are usually effective but relapses occur commonly.