Clinics
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Observational Study
Incidence of mycobacteria in pulmonary granulomatous lesions.
Mycobacteria infections are caused by species of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTB) and other species called Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacteria (NTM). Identification of mycobacteria species is very important to define treatment and it can be achieved by direct culture. However, the lack of clear protocols regarding the use of culture or molecular tests on specimens diagnosed with granulomatous lesions causes delays in the diagnosis of the etiological agents and, consequently, the definition of the right treatment. ⋯ In conclusion, this study demonstrated that mycobacteria are detected in 16.72 % to 20.20 % of pulmonary granulomatous lesions. Moreover, MTB and NTM were detected in these lesions. The use of different methods for mycobacteria detection, in addition to culture, is complementary and contributes to fastening and increasing the detection of mycobacteria in these lesions.
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To investigate the clinical and swallowing profiles of patients with post-intubation tracheal or laryngotracheal stenosis requiring tracheostomy prior to surgical or corrective airway interventions. ⋯ The study underscores the need for personalized, multidisciplinary care for these patients. It finds that while treatments like reconstructive surgeries and the Montgomery T-tube can be effective, complications such as clinical instability and dysphagia can worsen outcomes and extend the need for tracheostomy.
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With the aim of reducing the risk of Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) in patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF), Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion (LAAO) devices are emerging as an alternative to oral anticoagulants. ⋯ For patients with an absolute contraindication to anticoagulation and/or failure to use oral anticoagulants, evidence for the use of LAAO devices is scarce.
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The association of blood transfusion with an increase in medium- and short-term mortality in specific populations has been confirmed. However, the correlation between blood transfusion and long-term mortality in the general population remains unclear. This cohort study evaluated the correlation between blood transfusion and overall and cause-specific mortality in the general American adult population. ⋯ In the general American population, blood transfusion significantly impacts long-term all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and may be an unacknowledged risk factor for death. Thus, the effective management of blood transfusion in the general population may be beneficial.