Military medicine
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Susac syndrome can resemble various disorders resulting in a delayed or missed diagnosis and subsequent delays in treatment. Here, we present how successful consideration of patient history, symptoms, and ancillary testing led to prompt diagnosis and treatment of Susac syndrome by ophthalmologists. A 27-year-old active duty infantryman presented with sudden vision loss in the right eye during strenuous exercise after experiencing similar symptoms in the left eye 5 months earlier. ⋯ Identification of branch retinal artery occlusions on fluorescein angiography and low-to-mid frequency hearing loss confirmed the diagnosis of Susac syndrome. The patient was immediately treated with high-dose oral prednisone and subsequently transitioned to rituximab infusions to preserve vision. Susac syndrome should be considered when a patient presents with vision loss, hearing deficits, and or cognitive changes, even if symptoms are separated by time and seemingly attributed to more common causes.
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High occupational stress is generally associated with poorer mental health and reduced performance in military personnel, whereas access to support resources is associated with positive outcomes. However, little research has examined the unique stressors and supports experienced by sailors on ships while underway at sea. The objectives of this study were to (1) identify sailors' underway stressors and supports and (2) examine how these differ as a function of demographic and operational factors. ⋯ Sailors experience many stressors while underway. Increasing the resources available to underway sailors may be warranted, especially for female and enlisted personnel. Additional research is necessary to develop targeted interventions and resources. Possible recommendations include noise mitigation, berthing area improvements, sleep and/or scheduling interventions, improved access to mental and physical health care, and interventions to reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care.
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The dearth of research investigating the efficacy of virtual Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) training programs among female populations necessitates further exploration. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week ACFT virtual exercise program among female participants. ⋯ Following the intervention, female participants experienced a significant increase of approximately 7% in their overall ACFT scores, with upward trends observed across all 6 individual ACFT events. These findings suggest that 12-week virtual suspension training can be a valuable tool for enhancing physical fitness and performance among female participants, particularly within the context of military readiness.
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Annular atrophic lichen planus (AALP) is a chronic subtype of lichen planus that classically does not respond to treatment with topical steroids. An inflammatory reaction in the dermal infiltrate may play a role in the development of AALP, but the exact pathogenesis remains unclear. ⋯ Although vaccine-induced lichen planus is not common, it has been reported in various cases. We present a rare case of AALP following vaccination and then provide an in-depth discussion of factors associated with the condition and current treatment response.
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Concussions are a common form of mild traumatic brain injury characterized by a transient alteration of cerebral function leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Postconcussive symptoms (PCSs) usually resolve in about a week but can persist in 10% to 15% of patients. If left untreated, PCS can profoundly affect a patient's life. ⋯ The OMT techniques applied during treatment included balanced ligamentous tension, myofascial release, and osteopathy in the cranial field techniques. OMT is a nonpharmacological, noninvasive treatment that can benefit patients suffering with PCS. The authors would like to increase the awareness of clinicians and researchers for OMT's potential positive outcomes for PCS, as part of a multifactorial approach to care.