J Res Med Sci
-
Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) has been recognized as an effective way in the treatment of anemia due to chronic kidney disease, but we sometimes see intractable hemodialysis (HD) patients. The causes of ESA-resistant anemia in HD patients include deficiency of trace elements. We report the case of an 89-year-old male who developed pancytopenia after taking an excessive amount of zinc formulation for ESA-resistant anemia during maintenance dialysis. ⋯ He was found to have pancytopenia 1 month before his presentation, at which point he was introduced to our hospital. We suspected a copper deficiency at the first visit and stopped zinc and added copper, and his condition subsequently improved without being handicapped. Zinc antagonizes copper, so we must take care to diagnose patients ingesting zinc supplements.
-
The current study was performed to compare susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods of T2-weighted (T2W) and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging in multiple sclerosis (MS) plaque assessment. ⋯ The results of the present study indicated that SWI and conventional MRI sequences have similar efficiency for plaque assessment in MS patients.
-
Enteral tube feeding intolerance (ETFI) is one of the most common complications of enteral nutrition (EN), which may lead to increased mortality and length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ETFI and effects on feeding intolerance on nutrition and clinical outcomes in Iran. ⋯ ETFI was prevalent in almost two-third (66%) of the critically ill patients receiving EN based on the GRV. ETFI was associated with deteriorated nutritional status and clinical outcomes.
-
Inflammation plays a major role in coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Factors that convey information about the status of inflammation could predict disease severity and help identify patients prone to clinical deterioration. Here, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of inflammatory markers on the extent of lung involvement and survival of patients with COVID-19. ⋯ Daily-performed laboratory tests that represent inflammation have great value for predicting the amount of disease burden and risk of mortality. Moreover, their cost-effectiveness and feasibility turn them into ideal prognostic markers.
-
It is hypothesized that increased inflammatory markers in keratoconus (KC) may be one of the causes of corneal damage. The aim of our study was to the measurement of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL)-6 in tear of patients with KC and investigate their relationship with the severity of KC. ⋯ Our results indicated that the mean levels of IL-6 and TNF-α are significantly higher in KC than the healthy group, and the disease severity was significantly associated with TNF-α and IL-6.