Thorax
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Craniofacial abnormalities and increased pharyngeal collapsibility due to abnormal connective tissue suggest the possibility of an increased prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in patients with Marfan's syndrome but the actual prevalence is uncertain. Aortic dilatation and dissection are life threatening manifestations of Marfan's syndrome and case reports have suggested a possible association with OSA but data from cohort studies are not available. ⋯ In patients with Marfan's syndrome, the prevalence of OSA is considerably higher than in matched control subjects. OSA may be a risk factor for aortic root dilatation in Marfan's syndrome.
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Multicenter Study
Survival and quality of life for patients with COPD or asthma admitted to intensive care in a UK multicentre cohort: the COPD and Asthma Outcome Study (CAOS).
Non-invasive ventilation is first-line treatment for patients with acutely decompensated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but endotracheal intubation, involving admission to an intensive care unit, may sometimes be required. Decisions to admit to an intensive care unit are commonly based on predicted survival and quality of life, but the information base for these decisions is limited and there is some evidence that clinicians tend to be pessimistic. This study examined the outcomes in patients with COPD admitted to the intensive care unit for decompensated type II respiratory failure. ⋯ Most patients with COPD who survive to 180 days after treatment in an intensive care unit have a heavy burden of symptoms, but almost all of them-including those who have been intubated-would want similar intensive care again under similar circumstances.
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Review
Safety and effectiveness of vascular endoprosthesis for malignant superior vena cava syndrome.
Superior vena cava syndrome management has been traditionally radiation therapy, chemotherapy or chemoradiation, depending on the underlying malignancy involved and individual clinicopathological features of the case. Recent emergence of endovascular stents offer the opportunity for immediate relief of the venous stenosis. This review examines findings from the published series which used endovascular prosthesis for this syndrome with regards to efficacy and safety. ⋯ Endovascular prosthesis is an effective modality for malignant superior vena cava syndrome with acceptable morbidity. Prospective studies should be performed to determine the optimal anticoagulation regimen.