Ann Acad Med Singap
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This study aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI), especially in comparison with PET/computed tomography (CT), which has been widely used in clinical practice in multiple myeloma. ⋯ In this study, PET/MRI was more sensitive in detecting early disease and disease resolution post-treatment, compared with PET/CT. However, PET/MRI was less sensitive in detecting lesions in the ribs, clavicle and skull.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Nov 2023
Review Practice GuidelineAL amyloidosis: Singapore Myeloma Study Group consensus guidelines on diagnosis, treatment and management.
AL amyloidosis is the most common form of systemic amyloidosis. However, the non-specific nature of presenting symptoms requires the need for a heightened clinical suspicion to detect unexplained manifestations in the appropriate clinical setting. Early detection and treatment are crucial as the degree of cardiac involvement emerges as a primary prognostic predictor of survival in a patient with AL amyloidosis. ⋯ The goal of treatment is to achieve the best haematologic response possible, ideally with involved free light chain <20 mg/L, as it offers the best chance of organ function improvement. Treatment should be changed if patients do not achieve a partial response within 2 cycles of treatment or very good partial response after 4 cycles or after autologous stem cell transplant, as achievement of profound and prolonged clonal responses translates to better organ response and long-term outcomes. Early involvement of multidisciplinary subspecialists such as renal physicians, cardiologists, neurologists, and gastroenterologists for optimal maintenance and support of involved organs is recommended for optimal management of patients with AL amyloidosis.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Nov 2023
ReviewImproving visual outcomes in patients with rare paediatric eye diseases.
Rare paediatric eye diseases (RPEDs) threaten both vision and life. Recently, rare diseases were recognised as a global public health agenda, with children specified as a priority in the World Health Organization's VISION 2020 against avoidable visual loss. ⋯ Our findings provide an update on the diagnosis and management of RPEDs, which is of relevance to ophthalmologists, paediatricians, healthcare policymakers and social workers. We propose supportive policies and adequate resource allocation to these diseases, comprehensive and patient-centred care, alongside improved education and training, enhanced research capabilities and continued collaboration across institutions.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Nov 2023
Multicenter Study Observational StudyReal-world data on the use of emicizumab in patients with haemophilia A with and without inhibitors in Singapore.
Emicizumab is a bispecific monoclonal antibody that mimics the function of factor VIII by binding to factor IXa and factor X to achieve haemostasis in haemophilia A. The long half-life and subcutaneous mode of administration makes emicizumab a compelling treatment option for bleeding prophylaxis. There is still limited real-world data on its use and management considerations, especially during surgical procedures. The objective of the study is to describe the real-world experience of emicizumab in a cohort of adult and paediatric haemophilia A patients in Singapore, including its use in the periprocedural setting. ⋯ Emicizumab effectively protects against bleeding in haemophilia A patients with and without inhibitors, including in children less than 12 years old. More studies are required to address clinical nuances, such as periprocedural management and the role of immune tolerance in patients with inhibitors on emicizumab.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Nov 2023
Burden of antibiotic resistance in infections among very-low-birthweight infants in Singapore.
Recent reports have described the increasing predominance of Gram-negative organisms among invasive bacterial infections affecting preterm infants. This changing pattern of infections is concerning due to the spread of antibiotic resistance among Gram-negatives. ⋯ Gram-negative bacteria are the predominant causative organisms for EOI and LOI and are frequently MDR. Understanding the pattern of antimicrobial resistance is important in providing appropriate empiric coverage for neonatal infections.