Irish journal of medical science
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Ocular lymphomas are rare, indolent tumours that pose a diagnostic challenge. Patients may be asymptomatic or present with symptoms of increased orbital mass. An index of suspicion is required alongside an understanding of the diagnostics and staging required to facilitate expedited multi-disciplinary work-up and management. ⋯ Although not typically involved in the diagnosis or management, the otolaryngologist may encounter ocular lymphoma masquerading as sinus disease or with disseminated disease at other sites in the head and neck. Endoscopic sinus surgery is considered a safe, effective approach for achieving a histological diagnosis in these cases.
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Identify the impact of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on the vitamin D status of individuals in the west of Ireland. ⋯ Vitamin D levels were higher in the 5-month period of October-February 2020-2021, and this precipitated a decline in deficiency at both thresholds, indicating that lockdown coincided with enhanced vitamin D status. We postulate that it may be attributable to changes in diet and/or supplementation, or increased sun exposure, but further confirmatory studies are required.
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Migration due to environmental factors is an international crisis affecting many nations globally. Pregnant people are a vulnerable subgroup of migrants. ⋯ Maternity healthcare providers are likely to provide care for environmental migrants over the coming years. Environmental disasters and migration as individual factors have complex effects on perinatal health, and environmental migrants may be at risk of specific perinatal complications. Obstetricians and maternity healthcare workers should be aware of these challenges and appreciate the individualised and specialised care that these patients require.
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Observational Study
Estimation of z-scores of cardiac structures in healthy children in Southeast Nigeria.
The z-scoring system shows the mean deviation of cardiac dimensions from age-specific population. The use of the European-based z-score studies has resulted in misdiagnosis and late treatment of Nigerian children with heart diseases leading to increased mortality and morbidity. ⋯ Z-scores of cardiac structures and function are derived from children in this locale. These values were similar to that of Detroit values except for the mitral valve and left pulmonary artery.
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Acute abdominal pain in paediatric patients is a common presentation to the Emergency Department (ED). The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the health care sector leading to a decline in hospital attendance. ⋯ The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the presentation, investigations and admission rates of abdominal pain in the ED. Our study highlights the need for increased awareness of severe abdominal pain signs and symptoms in paediatric patients and importance for diagnostic accuracy. Improving patient flow through the ED and having clear guidelines for staff and parents can optimise clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.