Pak J Med Sci
-
Staphylococcal biofilms cause a wide range of acute and chronic infections, both in hospital and community settings across the world. This study explores biofilm forming propensity among Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates from Faisalabad, Pakistan and their association with antimicrobial drug resistance. ⋯ Our findings indicate that the ability to produce large amount of biofilm is an important factor, and S. aureus isolates with this ability, do not require acquisition of drug resistance genes from other bacteria. Our study also provides a guideline for selection of antimicrobials which are not adversely affected by level of biofilm production by various strains of S. aureus.
-
Human monkeypox is an emerging zoonotic disease caused by a monkeypox virus. The monkeypox virus history originated in 1958 after the occurrence of a pox-like illness in monkeys. In September 1970, the first case of human monkeypox was identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa. ⋯ It can spread through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and sexual contact. The disease can transmit during travelling, contact with soiled materials, infected cloths, bed linen, objects, air pollutants, and in various workplace environments. The monkeypox virus has adopted multiple transmission routes, and swiftly spreading and developing challenging and threatening situations worldwide.
-
Fabry disease (FD) is a relatively rare X-linked hereditary disease caused by mutations in the GLA gene that results in deficient α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A) enzyme activity. The disturbed catabolism of the neutral sphingolipids globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) leads to its progressive lysosomal accumulation throughout the body. Multiple organs can be affected. ⋯ The true burden of FD in Central and some South Asian countries is unknown. Lack of research studies and awareness, and misdiagnosis/underdiagnosis may be the reasons. Some possible explanations as well suggestions for a structured Fabry care and research possibilities in these WHO regions are offered.
-
To investigate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with tranexamic acid (TXA) in the treatment of melasma and its effect on the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and melanin stimulating hormone (MSH). ⋯ PRP combined with oral TXA can improve the treatment effect of TXA alone in the treatment of melasma, maintaining normal levels of VEGF, ET-1 and MSH, reducing disease recurrences.