The American journal of the medical sciences
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The arterial to end-tidal carbon dioxide gradient (P [a-Et] CO2) reveals the ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) status of critically ill patients. V/Q mismatch has several causes and affects the clinical outcomes of critically ill patients. We investigated the relationship between P (a-Et) CO2 and the clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. ⋯ P (a-Et) CO2 is a simple, easily accessible indicator that potentially impacts patient care and outcomes as an independent marker for assessing disease severity and predicting mortality, especially in non-respiratory critical care scenarios.
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Coronary embolism (CE) is an infrequent etiology of myocardial infarction secondary to embolization of occlusive thrombi within the coronary arteries, typically arising in patients with pre-existing atrial fibrillation. Clinical presentation is similar to atherosclerotic myocardial infarction, however the condition is likely underrecognized. ⋯ We aim to lower the threshold for clinical suspicion in the appropriate setting and promote assessment of predisposing embolic conditions once a tentative diagnosis of CE is established. In addition, we intend to highlight the need for focused refinement of the existing diagnostic criteria and further optimization of management guidelines for CE.
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Carcinoma erysipeloides (CE) is a rare form of cutaneous metastasis appearing similar to erysipelas or cellulitis. Due to its rarity, little is known about CE. ⋯ CE has a poor prognosis and is most common in individuals with breast cancer and adenocarcinoma. Patients generally receive local dermatological treatments with different diagnoses. CE should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially in the presence of erysipelas/cellulitis-like lesions in patients with a history of malignancy or who do not respond to local treatments.