Acta Medica Port
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Malaria is a major cause of suffering, disease, and death worldwide and is considered the most important of all human parasitic diseases. Malaria is still endemic in most tropical and sub-tropical areas and globalization has contributed to an increase of imported cases around the world. We report a Plasmodium ovale infection in a traveler with recent return from a long land trip across West Africa. ⋯ Microscopy of stained blood films remains the gold standard for malaria diagnosis, which is critically dependent on trained eyes. In non-endemic regions with few cases during the year, training programs in malaria microscopy are crucial. The aim is to prevent the reintroduction of malaria in Europe, reduce individual morbidity and suffering, and thus contribute towards reduction in deaths caused by this disease.
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A 71-year-old male presented with Merkel cell carcinoma along with inguinal lymph node involvement (stage III). The patient was proposed for systemic treatment followed by inguinal lymphadenectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy. During the follow-up period, recurrences were documented (lymphatic and visceral) and were treated with salvage surgery and radiotherapy. ⋯ A multidisciplinary approach was crucial in achieving successful outcomes. The patient is still recurrence free twenty-four months after surgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first publication reporting a seminal vesical Merkel cell metastasis.
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Observational Study
SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Prevalence in the Portuguese Municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia after the First Wave of the Pandemic.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence may detect the real spread of the virus because antibody data can provide a long-lasting measure of infection. Existing serological studies in Portugal have tested new serology methods, albeit with small sample sizes and a lack the focus on geographical regions with a high rate of infection cases. The aim of this study was to estimate the serological prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Vila Nova de Gaia, the most populous municipality in the north of Portugal and one of those most affected during the first pandemic wave. ⋯ This was the first study to estimate the serological prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in one of the most populous municipalities in Portugal, representing the first step in the development of an epidemiological surveillance system in Portugal, which can help to improve the diagnosis of COVID-19.
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The COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of healthcare appointments and to lower demand, which generated unmet healthcare needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate their prevalence and distribution in Portugal. ⋯ Our study showed a high prevalence of unmet needs and their concentration in individuals with worse health status. Given the association between unmet needs and the subsequent deterioration of health, these results should raise concerns about the near future.
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In 2020, critical care departments underwent profound changes imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the intensive care residency program in Portugal. ⋯ The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the Critical Care Residency program in Portugal. Most residents surveyed provided care to COVID-19 patients and not only saw their rotations suspended but also experienced difficulties in rescheduling them.