The American journal of the medical sciences
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There is a growing interest in using programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) as a prognostic marker for melanoma. We conducted this meta-analysis to explore the prognostic and clinicopathological value of PD-L1 in melanoma. ⋯ Positive PD-L1 expression may be an important prognostic factor for longer OS in patients with metastatic melanoma.
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Emphysematous pancreatitis (EP) is an unusual medical emergency that presents with intraparenchymal pancreatic air in the setting of necrotizing infection. We aimed to determine the differences in the epidemiology, etiology, clinical presentation, symptoms and outcome of EP between elderly and nonelderly patients. ⋯ Biliary pancreatitis is the most common type of EP in the elderly and has an atypical presentation with less fever, more severe shock, and more surgical interventions. In treating elderly patients with pancreatitis, immediate administration of adequate antibiotics, assisted drainage and early surgical intervention are needed to prevent shock.
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Numerous studies have reported associations between particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters of ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) hospitalizations and mortality in cities worldwide. Nonetheless, the evidence of an association remains varied and limited. ⋯ PM2.5 is associated with COPD hospitalizations and mortality. Controlling ambient air pollution would provide benefits to COPD patients.
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Review Case Reports
Diagnostic Challenges and Dilemmas in Tuberculous Meningitis.
Tuberculosis is a global burden with an unacceptably high mortality rate, especially in low- and middle-income countries. We reported the case of 34-year-old Somali female with no significant risk factors who initially presented with headache and blurred vision. The patient subsequently developed altered mental status and significant vision changes. ⋯ Repeated polymerase chain reactions for Mycobacterium tuberculosis from the lumbar drain samples was positive, and the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis was confirmed. The patient improved after lumbar drain placement and treatment with isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, ethambutol and steroid tapering. This case illustrated the challenge of diagnosing tuberculous meningitis.
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It has been reported that miR-294 is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and cells. However, the potential role of miR-294 in the pathogenesis of HCC remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the role of miR-294 in HCC and the potential mechanism involved in this process. ⋯ miR-294 is important for the development of HCC in terms of the biological activities of cells, and may be a novel therapeutic target for HCC.