Articles: disease.
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Background Dengue, caused by mosquito bite, is an emerging disease of international concern. Evidence regarding the prevalent dengue serotypes is scarce, but essential for its management during the outbreaks. Hence, we mapped the distribution and trends of currently prevalent dengue virus (DENV) serotypes in Odisha. ⋯ Only few districts such as Balangir, Kalahandi and Rayagada had mixed serotypes. Conclusion Although DENV2 is predominantly prevalent, mixed serotypes too exist in Odisha. Evidence based on variations of dengue serotypes across topographies, seasons, gender and age groups may support public health efforts in preventing the disease.
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Lipoprotein(a) - Lp(a) - is an hepatically synthesized lipoprotein, structurally similar to low-density-lipoprotein, and an important marker for cardiovascular risk. Lp(a) plasma concentrations are genetically determined and can hardly be modified by diet, exercise or oral drugs. ⋯ The current treatment for high Lp(a) is early intensive risk factor management with optimal lowering of LDL-cholesterol. Potent new RNA-targeting therapies are currently assessed in clinical trials and may be available in a couple of years.
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Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but potentially life-threatening heart disease, with onset in the last month of pregnancy or in the first months after delivery in previously heart-healthy women. PPCM patients typically present with heart failure due to left ventricular (LV) dysfunction with an LV ejection fraction (EF) < 45 %. In the last years clinical and experimental studies contributed to a better understanding of the pathophysiology and the clinical course of PPCM. ⋯ Some patients present with mild forms, whereas some PPCM patients display severely reduced LV function and cardiogenic shock. Especially the latter cases are still challenging, as treatment with β1-adrenergic receptor agonists is associated with progression of heart failure and a worse cardiac outcome. Therefore, patients with cardiogenic shock complicating PPCM should be treated in centers experienced in mechanical circulatory support in combination with bromocriptine treatment.