Panminerva medica
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Comparative Study Observational Study
Comparative diagnostic accuracy of transcranial Doppler and contrast-enhanced transthoracic echocardiography for the diagnosis of patent foramen ovale and atrial septal defect.
Recognition of right-to-left shunt is crucial in the work-up of patients with suspected patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD). While transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) remains the gold standard diagnostic tool for the anatomic assessment of PFO/ASD, transcranial Doppler (TCD) and contrast-enhanced transthoracic echocardiogram (CE-TTE) hold the promise of providing minimally invasive yet accurate clinical details. Their comparative accuracy remains however debated. ⋯ The diagnostic accuracy of CE-TTE appears favorable, and this imaging test may identify patients who may be missed if only TCD is used to screen patients with suspected PFO/ASD. Accordingly, CE-TTE is recommended as an adjunct diagnostic modality for all patients with a high pre-test probability of PFO/ASD and right-to-left shunt.
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Letter Randomized Controlled Trial
Study of febuxoat and allopurinol placebo in patients with high uric acid excretion and calcium stones.