Medicine
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Cutaneous presentation preceding acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is rare, and the prognosis is poor. ⋯ These findings suggest that skin infiltration of AML may precede any systemic evidence, and typical cutaneous lesions in elderly individuals may be indicative for AML.
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Case Reports
A new method for selective reduction in TRAP sequence with a contraindication to fetoscopic surgery: A case report.
The preferred method for multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR) is a transabdominal intrathoracic or intracranial injection of potassium chloride (KCl). However, in monochorionic multiple pregnancies (MMPs), especially in monoamnionic multifetal pregnancies, selective feticide by this method is often associated with miscarriage of the remaining fetuses. Selective fetal reduction in MMPs by blood flow ablation using radiofrequency ablation or fetoscopic laser surgery may improve survival of the remaining fetus. Although often successful, MFPR by these methods is contraindicated in cases of twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence in triplet pregnancies complicated by polyhydramnios or anterior placenta, as it is difficult to locate the ablation target. ⋯ The new approach provided a safer, more accessible, and more cost-effective method for MFPR in MMPs with a contraindication to fetoscopic surgery compared to radiofrequency ablation and fetoscopic laser surgery.
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Observational Study
Racial/ethnic differences in obesity and comorbidities between safety-net- and non safety-net integrated health systems.
Previous research shows that patients in integrated health systems experience fewer racial disparities compared with more traditional healthcare systems. Little is known about patterns of racial/ethnic disparities between safety-net and non safety-net integrated health systems. We evaluated racial/ethnic differences in body mass index (BMI) and the Charlson comorbidity index from 3 non safety-net- and 1 safety-net integrated health systems in a cross-sectional study. ⋯ The odds of comorbidity score 3+ and BMI 35+ in blacks relative to whites were significantly lower in safety-net than in non safety-net settings. Racial/ethnic differences were present within both safety-net and non safety-net integrated health systems, but patterns differed. Understanding patterns of racial/ethnic differences in health outcomes in safety-net and non safety-net integrated health systems is important to tailor interventions to eliminate racial/ethnic disparities in health and health care.
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Case Reports
Successful percutaneous stent implantation for isolated dismal transverse aortic arch kinking.
Isolated dismal transverse aortic arch kinking in adults is rare, and there is no recommended therapy at present. Percutaneous stent implantation may be an effective method to correct it and could be considered. ⋯ This case indicates that transverse aortic arch kinking in isolation can be well treated by percutaneous stent implantation in adult patients. Unlike pure aortic coarctation, elongation and bucking give the rise to the occurrence rate of stent sliding and migration and sometimes a second stent is needed.
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Observational Study
Prediction of the mid-tracheal level using surface anatomical landmarks in adults: Clinical implication of endotracheal tube insertion depth.
Endotracheal tube (ETT) should be placed at the optimal level to avoid single lung ventilation or accidental extubation. This study was performed to estimate the mid-tracheal level by using surface anatomical landmarks in adult patients. Neck computed tomography images of 329 adult patients between the ages of 16 and 79 years were reviewed. ⋯ The difference between the extCC-SSN and the mid-tracheal level was -6.6 (12.5) mm, and the difference between the extSSN-MSJ and the mid-tracheal level was -19.2 (6.1) mm. The difference between the extCC-SSN and the mid-tracheal level was smaller in females compared with males [-1.7 (11.7) mm vs -12.8 (10.7) mm; P < 0.001]. The mid-tracheal level, which is helpful in planning the insertion depth of an ETT, can be predicted by the surface distance between the cricoid cartilage and suprasternal notch in adults, especially in females.