International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases
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Int. J. Infect. Dis. · Sep 2004
ReviewBrain natriuretic peptide: a potential marker for mortality in septic shock.
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a diagnostic marker for left ventricular dysfunction. Sepsis and septic shock are increasing in incidence and mortality. Myocardial dysfunction frequently accompanies severe sepsis and septic shock. ⋯ At present, a relationship between BNP with myocardial dysfunction in septic shock has not been evaluated. However, growing evidence supports the hypothesis that BNP could be an early predictor of mortality in septic shock. If proven, the hypothesis would have important clinical and public health implications.
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Int. J. Infect. Dis. · Sep 2004
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in Sistan and Baluchestan Province of Iran, a case-control study on epidemiological characteristics.
Several cases of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), an arboviral disease, have been reported since summer 1999 in different areas of Iran. The main objectives of this research were to determine the most important means and patterns of transmission and the epidemiologic characteristics of this disease. ⋯ The results of this study confirm that the scheme of risk factors and risk groups for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in Iran do not differ substantially from the other parts of the world. Even though tick bite is one of the most important risk factors for CCHF, it cannot explain all cases and there are other important risk factors such as high-risk occupations and having contact with livestock. Even taking care of livestock for a short period at home can increase the chance of contracting CCHF.