Medicine
-
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most prevalent malignant tumors, but the current staging system has limited efficacy in predicting HCC prognosis. The authors sought to develop and validate a nomogram model for predicting overall survival (OS) in HCC patients primarily undergoing surgery or loco-regional therapy. Patients diagnosed with HCC from January 2017 to June 2023 were enrolled in the study. ⋯ ROC curves, calibration plots, and DCA curves all indicated satisfactory performance of the nomogram. Kaplan-Meier curve analysis showed a significant difference in prognosis between patients in the low- and high- risk groups. This nomogram provides precise survival predictions for HCC patients and helps identify individuals with varying prognostic risks, emphasizing the need for individualized follow-up and treatment plans.
-
Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) is a clinically rare tumor that predominantly occurs in females and presents with nonspecific symptoms, often resulting in misdiagnosis. While postoperative pathology remains the gold standard for diagnosis, accurate preoperative identification through various diagnostic methods is essential for effective treatment planning. To raise awareness of this condition, we present a case of a middle-aged male diagnosed with LAMN. ⋯ As a rare clinical gastrointestinal tumor, LAMN lacks specific clinical manifestations, and its diagnosis depends on postoperative examination; however, the indications for surgery are clear and the clinical prognosis is good. The key to surgery is to protect the tumor body to avoid rupture and cause the development of peritoneal pseudomyxoma (PMP).
-
Observational Study
Short and long-term mortality of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) remains a significant concern for patients with cirrhosis. This study aims to reevaluate the trends in both short-term and long-term mortality rates associated with SBP. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using population data obtained from Taiwan's Health and Welfare Data Science Center, Ministry of Health and Welfare. ⋯ Following Cox regression analysis with adjustments for patient age, gender, and underlying medical conditions, the short-term prognostic factors of significance were age (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01-1.05, P = .001), concurrent sepsis (HR = 2.73, 95% CI = 1.82-4.08, P < .001), and renal function impairment (HR = 3.28, 95% CI = 2.07-5.18, P < .001). Although the 30-day mortality rate for SBP in cirrhotic patients is around 10%, the long-term mortality remains significantly high. Renal function impairment and the presence of concurrent sepsis serve as indicators of poor short-term prognosis in cirrhotic patients with SBP.
-
Observational Study
Blood routine test-based biomarkers is related to bone mineral density in elderly patients with chronic heart failure: A retrospective study.
Our previous studies suggested that bone mineral density (BMD) correlated with the severity of chronic heart failure (HF) as classified by the New York Heart Association (NYHA) and that blood routine test (BRT)-based biomarkers, including hemoglobin, red blood cells (RBCs), lymphocytes, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio, and systemic immune-inflammation index, were significantly related with BMD in general population. ⋯ BRT-based biomarkers were significantly different among different NYHA groups, which deserves further investigation and application in the future.
-
Case Reports
Long-term follow-up after acute mercury poisoning-induced pneumonitis following cinnabar heating: A rare case report.
Among 3 forms of mercury, elemental mercury vapor presents the highest threat due to its potential to cause acute pneumonitis. The management of acute mercury vapor poisoning remains unclear, particularly in acute lung injury. We present a case of mercury vapor poisoning resulting from the heating of cinnabar, successfully treated with high-dose corticosteroids and chelation therapy, and follow-up over 6 months. ⋯ Heating elemental mercury can cause pneumonitis, leading to acute respiratory failure. A detailed history is crucial for diagnosis. High-dose methylprednisolone should be considered in patients who do not respond to lower doses. Patients should be monitored afterward to detect residual pulmonary fibrotic changes.