Irish journal of medical science
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The vast majority of breast cancers are diagnosed via image-guided procedures yet despite significant advances, imaging does not identify all breast malignancies. Clinically suspicious breast lesions with normal breast imaging remain a cause for concern. The aim of this study is to determine the diagnostic value of clinical core and cutaneous punch biopsies in the diagnosis of breast malignancy in clinically suspicious lesions with normal breast imaging. ⋯ Clinical core and cutaneous punch biopsies remain a valuable tool in the diagnosis of breast cancer particularly in the management of clinically suspicious radiographically occult malignancies.
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To evaluate the frequency, characteristics, and persistence of headache in coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients who are hospitalised and to determine if there is a link between headache and smell and/or taste dysfunction. ⋯ In this prospective study in COVID-19 patients presenting with headache upon admission, a correlation between persistent headache 3 months after discharge and persistent smell/taste dysfunction was found that could point to common underlying pathophysiology.
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Secondary involvement of skin by tumour comprises 2% of cutaneous neoplasia, in a small proportion of cases serving as the primary manifestation of occult disease. ⋯ CMs are a frequent development in the natural history of melanoma and breast tumours. In practice, a wide spectrum of tumours may give rise to CM and a small proportion more importantly, signal the existence of previously unknown neoplasia.
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We audited use of acute hospital beds in Connolly Hospital over a 3-month period (January-March 2020) which coincided with increased provision of step-down (nursing home) beds. Our results show both ineffective and inefficient baseline uses of these acute beds. Increased step-down beds improve patient care by reducing the trolley count, shortening average length of stay and reducing waiting lists. These data confirm that more step-down beds are a high priority for our Health Service to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of our hospitals i.e. better care at less cost.