J Natl Med Assoc
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The SARS-CoV-2 Virus (COVID-19) is responsible for over 239 million cases and 4.8 million deaths globally (Data source WHO COVID-19 Dashboard accessed on October 14, 2021). It continues to surge and ravage countries, leaving healthcare systems in constant struggle and uncertainty. ⋯ Reports of possible allergic reactions with COVID-19 vaccines are a significant cause of public concern, especially among those with a known history of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis). Here we review articles relevant to COVID-19 vaccines and their excipients (especially PEG (Polyethylene glycol) and hypersensitivity reactions associated with COVID-19 vaccines (including clinical features, pathophysiology, special populations receiving COVID-19 vaccinations, potential diagnostic tests, and preventive measures that can be taken to minimize the risks of hypersensitivity reactions with COVID-19 vaccines).
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There are disparate findings in the literature on the impact of race and insurance status on gonadal loss in testicular torsion. We sought to determine if race or levels of social vulnerability influence the rate of torsion or gonadal loss. ⋯ Black/African American children have an increased risk of testicular torsion. Despite these patients having higher levels of social vulnerability, it was not associated.
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Contemporary information on health equity related efforts by scientific neurological journals, as measured by publications related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and health disparities related to social determinants of health (SDH) are lacking. ⋯ Neurological journals had a significantly lower yearly proportion of DEI and SDH related publications compared to top-cited medical journals. Despite heightened awareness of racial/ethnic health disparities and inequities driven by SDH there was no change in related publications in neurological journals between 2015-2020.
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Case Reports
Cataract surgery and Hydrus stent implantation in juvenile open-angle glaucoma: A case report.
To report a case of a patient with juvenile-onset open-angle glaucoma (JOAG) who was successfully treated with combination cataract extraction and Hydrus stent implantation. ⋯ Cataract surgery in combination with the Hydrus stent implant effectively lowers intraocular pressures and can be used to surgically manage patients with JOAG. This intervention is a probable adjunct or substitute to first line treatments such as trabeculotomy.
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Case Reports
Mirtazapine-associated acute pancreatitis in a patient with insomnia and co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
We report the case of an African American patient who developed drug-associated acute pancreatitis without hypertriglyceridemia, after being treated with mirtazapine for major depressive disorder (MDD). Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation and autodigestion of the pancreas, which may become life-threatening. Although heavy alcohol use and gallstones are the most common causes of acute pancreatitis, some medications are also known to cause drug-induced acute pancreatitis. ⋯ Some reports have suggested that mirtazapine-associated acute pancreatitis may be due to hypertriglyceridemia. This case report instead presents with a normal lipid panel, which is consistent with the majority of prior reports, and it is noteworthy for introducing an alternative mechanism. The Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Probability Scale calculated an ADR of 5, indicating mirtazapine as the probable cause of the patient's drug-associated acute pancreatitis.