Chest
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Appropriate risk stratification of indeterminate pulmonary nodules (IPNs) is necessary to direct diagnostic evaluation. Currently available models were developed in populations with lower cancer prevalence than that seen in thoracic surgery and pulmonology clinics and usually do not allow for missing data. We updated and expanded the Thoracic Research Evaluation and Treatment (TREAT) model into a more generalized, robust approach for lung cancer prediction in patients referred for specialty evaluation. ⋯ The TREAT 2.0 model is more accurate and better calibrated for predicting lung cancer in high-risk IPNs than the Mayo, Herder, or Brock models. Nodule calculators such as TREAT 2.0 that account for varied lung cancer prevalence and that consider missing data may provide more accurate risk stratification for patients seeking evaluation at specialty nodule evaluation clinics.
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Swimming-induced pulmonary edema (SIPE) has been reported to subside within 24 to 48 h, but comprehensive follow-up studies on symptom duration and long-term effects are missing. ⋯ The present large cohort study challenges the established hallmark of SIPE symptom duration < 48 h, whereas SIPE recurrence was in the previously reported range. At 30 months, most patients reported unchanged self-assessed general health and physical activity level. These findings add to our understanding of the course of SIPE and can provide evidence-based information to swimmers and health care professionals.
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Pulmonary mucormycosis (PM) is a life-threatening invasive mold infection. Diagnosis of mucormycosis is challenging and often delayed, resulting in higher mortality. ⋯ Neutropenia and radiologic findings influence disease presentation and contribution of diagnostic tools during PM. Serum qPCR is more contributive in patients with neutropenia and BAL examination in patients without neutropenia. Results of lung biopsies are highly contributive in cases of noncontributive BAL.
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Morbidity and mortality from nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) are increasing. Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is the most common cause of NTM-PD. Microbiological outcomes are widely used as the primary end point of antimicrobial treatment, but their long-term impact on prognosis is uncertain. ⋯ Microbiological cure at completion of treatment is associated with longer survival in patients with MAC-PD.