Irish journal of medical science
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Ireland has a mixed model of healthcare delivery with a public healthcare system funded by general taxation and a large private healthcare insurance system, covering 43% of the population in 2012 and 2016. We set out to examine disparities in outcomes among patients with breast cancer treated in a private hospital compared to national outcomes over a comparable period. ⋯ We found evidence of superior outcomes in patients with early breast cancer treated at a private hospital compared with national outcome figures. This was demonstrated in 'all comers' (stages 1-3 combined), and particularly in patients with stage 3 breast cancer. Potential reasons for this disparity include differences in socioeconomic status, health-seeking behaviours and/or underlying health status between the two populations included. Differences in extent or timeliness of access to therapies may also contribute.
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With blood products being a limited and expensive resource within the healthcare system, there is an ever-increasing emphasis on judicial and appropriate use. ⋯ The implementation of guidelines has resulted in substantial reduction in RCC transfusions between 2015 and 2018. Fewer women received a blood transfusion, and those who did received fewer units. There is a higher proportion of patients being reassessed between units and receiving single unit transfusions. Recording of consent has improved.
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The anti-tumor effect of polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4) inhibitor has been explored in several neoplasms, while its synergy with bortezomib in multiple myeloma (MM) remains elusive. Hence, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of PLK4 inhibitor on the sensitivity of MM to bortezomib treatment and its underlying mechanism. ⋯ PLK4 inhibitor plus bortezomib shows synergy in decreasing cell viability and enhancing cell apoptosis via repressing PI3K/AKT signaling in MM.
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Severe acute kidney injury (AKI) requiring urgent hemodialysis (uHD) is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). ⋯ The need for uHD was associated with poor survival. Recovery of renal function was not associated with improved survival.
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Transcatheter aortic valve implantation-related infective endocarditis (TAVI-IE) is a well-recognised and serious complication following TAVI. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics, microorganism spectrum, and outcomes of TAVI-IE in an Irish context. ⋯ This Irish cohort of TAVI-IE exhibited a similar incidence and time to presentation compared to prior international registries; however, the 1-year mortality rate was comparatively lower. The need for rigorous dental clearance pre-TAVI and maintenance of dental health post-TAVI is underscored by the high prevalence of oral streptococcus species in this cohort.