Neurologist
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vertigo is a common complaint in medicine. The most common causes of vertigo are benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, vestibular neuritis, Meniere's syndrome, and vascular disorders. Vertigo of vascular origin is usually limited to migraine, transient ischemic attacks, and ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Vascular causes lead to various central or peripheral vestibular syndromes with vertigo. This study provides an overview of epidemiology and clinical syndromes of vascular vertigo. ⋯ migraine, cerebrovascular disorders especially involving the vertebrobasilar territory, cardiocirculatory diseases, neurovascular compression of the eighth nerve, and vasculitis are vascular causes of vertigo syndromes.
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the purpose of this study is to suggest the landmarks for decompressive craniectomy so that surgery can be standardized to achieve adequate decompression in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction. We also analyzed the efficacy and safety of this newly suggested surgical method. ⋯ decompressive craniectomy using the newly suggested method is feasible and safe, and it may be more beneficial, compared with conventional craniectomy, for patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction. Furthermore, it may be easier to perform by training neurosurgeons.
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Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is gaining recognition as a cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risk factor. Sleep apnea is now implicated in the etiopathogenesis of stroke, coronary artery disease, hypertension, and congestive heart failure. ⋯ Neurologists should familiarize themselves with the symptoms and signs of OSA and the pathophysiology of the association between untreated OSA and cardiovascular disease, including stroke. OSA should be ruled out in patients with cardiovascular disease and be regarded as an important modifiable risk factor. Knowledge of this association is of prime public health importance and can result in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. This study will also help neurologists in providing patient education and treatment.
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Myasthenia gravis presenting as a neurologic emergency warrants management in a critical care unit. In resource poor settings which typify much of Africa, this can be very challenging even in tertiary centers with consequently unfavorable outcomes. ⋯ Sepsis is a major factor contributing to poor outcomes among patients with myasthenia gravis managed in critical care units in Nigeria. Vigorous and concerted efforts should be made to make intensive care units more effective in Africa.
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Seizures are a complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). ⋯ There are insufficient data to support or refute the prophylactic use of AED therapy after aSAH. Randomized, controlled trials are needed to address the efficacy and risks of AEDs in this setting and should take into account factors such as aneurysmal factors (location, hemorrhage grade, degree of parenchymal injury), type of aneurysm surgery (clip vs. coil), and evaluate the timing and duration of AED use.