Medicina
-
Septic arthritis (SA) represents an orthopedics urgency and mainly affects the knee joint. Due to its devastating effects on cartilage, immediate management is crucial. SA is characterized by an annual incidence of 2 to 10 cases per 100,000 individuals, with mortality rates fluctuating between 0.5% and 15%, with a substantially higher mortality rate observed in older people (15%) in contrast to younger cohorts (4%). ⋯ She was treated with an arthroscopic debridement enhanced by intra-articular antibiotic-loaded calcium sulphate beads, together with antibiotic therapy. At 2-year follow up, the infection had been eradicated and the patient fully recovered. This is the first description, to our knowledge, in the English literature, of the use of antibiotic-loaded calcium sulphate beads as an adjuvant in the surgical treatment of SA of a native knee joint.
-
Case Reports
Gerstmann Syndrome in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report Presented with a Complete Tetrad of Symptoms.
Gerstmann syndrome, alternatively recognized as angular gyrus syndrome, epitomizes a complex cognitive impairment that has ignited substantial scholarly discourse within the realms of neurology and neuropsychology. The syndrome's original portrayal was, however, changed. ⋯ Furthermore, the precise cerebral localization of Gerstmann syndrome was traditionally posited to be the left angular gyrus; however, studies mention the possible involvement of other eloquent cerebral areas being pathognomonic. This case report delves into the case of an 86-year-old subject who exhibited the quintessential quartet of symptoms initially delineated by Josef Gerstmann, proposing that elderly patients may manifest a predisposition towards presenting the fully characterized symptomatology initially outlined by Gerstmann.
-
Background and Objectives: Children with disabilities face unique challenges that can affect their well-being and quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to assess the QOL and coping strategies adopted by children with disabilities and explore how socio-demographic factors influence QOL and coping strategies. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study, which was conducted in Saudi Arabia with children aged 6 to 18 years, used a stratified random sample to ensure representation from a variety of demographic groups. ⋯ Conclusions: This study highlights the significance of demographic factors in understanding and improving the well-being of a diverse population of disabled juveniles. It offers valuable insights into the subtle factors affecting quality of life. Future interventions and policies can leverage these findings to enhance the quality of life of individuals with disabilities and to foster a more supportive and inclusive approach.
-
Background and Objectives: The Connexin43 (Cx43) gene is a suspected tumor suppressor gene, as re-expressed wild-type Cx43 genes reduce the malignancy potential of tumor cells. However, the role of Cx43 gene expression in human lung tumorigenesis remains unclear. Materials and Methods: Tumor tissues from 165 primary lung cancer patients were collected to study Cx43 protein expression and gene mutations using immunohistochemistry and direct DNA sequencing. ⋯ Mutations in the Cx43 gene were also found in patients with aberrant Cx43 localization, and transfection of these mutant genes into lung cancer cells enhanced their proliferation. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate Cx43 gene mutations in human lung neoplasm, supporting the hypothesis that Cx43 may function as a tumor suppressor in some lung cancer patients. Additionally, the findings suggest an association between aberrant localization of Cx43 protein expression and tumor progression.
-
Review Case Reports
A Potential Pneumothorax Induced by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Case Report and Literature Review.
Background and Objectives: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which target immune checkpoints in cancer cells, are increasingly used as a mainstay in anticancer treatment. The combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab is also a first-line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, ICIs can cause immune-related adverse events (IrAEs) which range from mild to severe, potentially leading to the need for discontinuing immunotherapy. ⋯ Special attention should be given to the possibility that immunotherapy may exacerbate underlying lung conditions. Patients should be advised on the importance of smoking cessation. As there are currently no guidelines for resuming immunotherapy after a pneumothorax, it is crucial to weigh the risks and benefits and consider dose reduction or discontinuation of the medication.