-
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Jun 2024The prolonged infusion of meropenem is recommended by guidelines for the treatment of sepsis. However, studies provide controversial data on the advantages of prolonged...
The prolonged infusion of meropenem is recommended by guidelines for the treatment of sepsis. However, studies provide controversial data on the advantages of prolonged infusions over intermittent ones. In our opinion, this can be related to age, which possibly distorts the final data, as older people have age-related characteristics. In our study, we analyzed the ventilatory status, laboratory tests and vital signs of the patient and carried out microbiological cultures. This was a prospective single-center case series investigation conducted from June 2022 to June 2023. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of continuous infusion in elderly patients with severe infectious complications after orthopedic interventions. The primary endpoints were 28-day survival and the emergence of new multidrug-resistant strains. Secondary endpoints were long-term mortality and length of stay in the ICU. : Three patients (median age 65, 100% female) received a continuous infusion of meropenem. Two patients were alive at hospital discharge, and one patient died on the 105th day of hospitalization. Multi-resistant bacteria were observed in one patient. The use of a continuous meropenem infusion in the complex treatment of purulent-septic complications in elderly patients with periprosthetic infection and anemia probably led to clinical improvement in these case reports. However, the emergence of new pan-resistant strains and overall mortality using this infusion technique remains unclear. Further, high-quality RCTs for the elderly are needed.
Topics: Humans; Meropenem; Aged; Female; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Prospective Studies; Male; Anemia; Infusions, Intravenous; Middle Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Sepsis
PubMed: 38929546
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060929 -
Animals : An Open Access Journal From... Apr 2024To support farmers in their decisions related to Q fever, a dedicated economic assessment tool is developed. The present work describes the calculator, its economic...
To support farmers in their decisions related to Q fever, a dedicated economic assessment tool is developed. The present work describes the calculator, its economic rationale, and the supporting assumptions. The calculator integrates a yearly compartmental model to represent population dynamism and the main interactions between disorders linked to Q fever, especially reproductive disorders (abortion, retained foetal membranes, purulent vaginal discharge and endometritis, extra services, and calving-conception delays). The effects of the nontangible cost of the disease on human health, the welfare of the animals, and the workload of farmers were not integrated into the model. The model shows high-level sensitivity to the prevalence of Q fever in the herd prevaccination and to the costs of abortion and extra days of calving-conception intervals. Breakeven points, i.e., cost values that allow us to achieve positive vaccination benefits, are also reported. For herds with moderate or high prevalence rates of Q fever prevaccination (>30%), a vaccination benefit is observed. The vaccine should be considered a type of insurance in herds with low prevalence rates of Q fever prevaccination (≤20%). The calculator was developed to aid decision-making at the farm level, and no conclusion can be extrapolated as a generic trend based on the present work.
PubMed: 38672314
DOI: 10.3390/ani14081166 -
Cureus Apr 2024Primary immunodeficiency (PID) Disorders include a variable group of diseases that are classified according to the functional defects encountered. Chronic granulomatous...
Primary immunodeficiency (PID) Disorders include a variable group of diseases that are classified according to the functional defects encountered. Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is inherited as an X-linked recessive disorder in many cases, and it is the clinical model of disorders of phagocytosis. Skin and solid organs abscesses are the most common presenting symptoms; we will report the case of a four-day-old boy admitted to our hospital for a neck mass with purulent discharges associated with umbilical stump and circumcision site infection; the diagnosis of CGD was later confirmed by the Dihydrorhodamine (DHR) test that turned out to be positive.
PubMed: 38817488
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59374 -
Journal of Surgical Case Reports Aug 2023Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects apocrine gland-bearing skin in intertriginous areas; it is characterized by...
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects apocrine gland-bearing skin in intertriginous areas; it is characterized by persistent or recurrent abscesses that culminate in a purulent discharge, sinuses and scarring. Although it is a common condition, it is rarely associated with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Whereas the female-to-male ratio of HS is 3:1, SCC in HS has a female-to-male ratio of 1:5. In this study, we present a 50-year-old male patient with a late presentation of inguinoscrotal cSCC with extensive ulceration and erythema that was hidden by neglected HS and the presence of underlying human papillomavirus in the affected area. The histomorphologic and immunohistochemical findings support the diagnosis of cSCC. Timely detection is the key to improve prognosis, regular clinical examination and biopsy of any suspicious lesions in high-risk patients is highly recommended.
PubMed: 37564053
DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjad459 -
Journal of Dairy Science May 2024Our objective was to investigate associations of postpartum health with serum progesterone (P4) concentrations after first artificial insemination (AI), expression of...
Our objective was to investigate associations of postpartum health with serum progesterone (P4) concentrations after first artificial insemination (AI), expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISG) in blood leukocytes, and serum pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) during early pregnancy in dairy cows. In this observational study, Holstein cows (n = 475) from 2 commercial herds were enrolled 3 wk before expected parturition. Body condition score (BCS) and lameness were assessed at enrollment, and total Ca, haptoglobin, and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured in serum at 2 and 6 ± 2 d in milk (DIM). Blood β-hydroxybutyrate and metritis were evaluated at 4, 8, 11, and 15 ± 2 DIM, and purulent vaginal discharge (PVD) and endometritis based on endometrial cytology were diagnosed at 35 DIM. Onset of cyclicity was assessed by biweekly P4 measurements. The BCS was assessed at enrollment and at 63 DIM, and lameness at enrollment and at 21 and 49 DIM. First AI was based on estrus detection until ∼75 DIM, or synchronization for timed AI thereafter. Serum P4 was measured at d 8 and 12 after first AI; expression of ISG (ISG15 and RTP4) in blood leukocytes was assessed at d 19; and PAG in serum of pregnant cows was measured at d 29, 33, and 40. Multivariable linear regression models were built including health variables (with metabolites categorized via receiver operating characteristic curve analysis) and covariates (season, milk yield, AI method, DIM), accounting for pregnancy status (for ISG and PAG models), repeated measures (for P4 and PAG models), and herd as random. Results are reported comparing cows affected versus unaffected by each predictor. Serum P4 concentrations were lesser at d 8 after AI in cows that had total Ca ≤2.09 mM (3.6 vs. 4.0 ± 0.2 ng/mL) at 2 DIM or a clinical disease (3.7 vs. 4.0 ± 0.2 mg/mL), and P4 tended to be lesser at d 8 in cows that had PVD (3.6 vs. 4.0 ± 0.2 ng/mL) or any uterine disease (3.7 vs. 4.1 ± 0.2 ng/mL). Among cows pregnant at d 29, relative ISG15 expression (fold change) at d 19 was greater in cows that had lameness (5.10 [4.18-6.18] vs. 3.14 [3.10-3.19]) but tended to be lesser in cows that had endometritis (3.20 [2.89-3.54] vs. 4.29 [4.20-4.35]), and relative expression of RTP4 tended to be lesser in cows that had displaced abomasum (1.02 [0.62-1.67] vs. 1.75 [1.73-1.78]). Serum PAG was lesser at d 29 (3.8 vs. 4.2 ± 0.2 sample-to-positive ratio [S:P]) in cows that had NEFA ≥0.73 mM at 6 DIM, and lesser at d 33 (3.9 vs. 4.5 ± 0.2 S:P) and 40 (3.1 vs. 3.7 ± 0.2 S:P) in cows that had prepartum BCS ≥3.75. These findings suggest long-term effects of metabolic or reproductive tract disorders on luteal function after first AI, pregnancy recognition signaling, and placental function during early pregnancy. These associations may partially explain some of the pathways linking postpartum health and fertility in dairy cows.
Topics: Animals; Cattle; Female; Pregnancy; Cattle Diseases; Endometritis; Fatty Acids, Nonesterified; Insemination, Artificial; Lactation; Lameness, Animal; Placenta; Postpartum Period; Progesterone
PubMed: 37977442
DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24068 -
World Journal of Clinical Cases Oct 2023() is a Gram-negative diplococcus that is common in the digestive tract. Infected patients generally experience symptoms such as fever and diarrhea. Mild cases are...
BACKGROUND
() is a Gram-negative diplococcus that is common in the digestive tract. Infected patients generally experience symptoms such as fever and diarrhea. Mild cases are mostly self-healing gastroenteritis, and severe cases can cause fatal typhoid fever. Clinical cases are more common in children. The most common form of infection is self-healing gastroenteritis, in which, fever lasts for about 2 d and diarrhea for < 7 d. can often cause bacterial conjunctivitis, pneumonia, endocarditis, peritonitis and urethritis. However, intracranial infections in infants caused by are rare in clinical practice and have not been reported before in China.
CASE SUMMARY
A 4-mo-old female infant had recurrent fever for 2 wk, with a maximum body temperature of around 39.4°C. Treatment for infectious fever in a local hospital was ineffective, and she was admitted to our hospital. Before admission, there was one sudden convulsion, characterized by unclear consciousness, limb twitching, gaze in both eyes, and slight cyanosis on the face. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture was positive for Gram-negative bacilli, which conformed to . After treatment with meropenem and ceftriaxone antibiotics, the patient was discharged home in a clinically stable state after 4 wk of treatment.
CONCLUSION
We reported a rare case of cultured in CSF. enters the CSF through the blood-brain barrier, causing purulent meningitis. If not treated timeously, it can lead to serious, life-threatening infection.
PubMed: 37901018
DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i28.6961 -
International Journal of Surgery Case... Jun 2024Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, particularly in low-income countries like Tunisia, despite advancements in healthcare and antibiotic...
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, particularly in low-income countries like Tunisia, despite advancements in healthcare and antibiotic accessibility. Gastrointestinal tuberculosis, although rare, can affect various parts of the gastrointestinal tract, with perianal involvement being exceptionally uncommon. We present a case of isolated perianal tuberculosis, emphasizing the complexities in diagnosis and management. In this context, we present a case of isolated perianal tuberculosis in a 51-year-old male, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and emphasizing the need for early recognition and comprehensive management strategies.
CASE PRESENTATION
A 51-year-old male presented with recurrent anal pain and purulent perianal discharge, without respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms. Physical examination revealed indurated ulceration and fistulas, suggestive of recurrent anal fistulas. Biopsy and culture confirmed the diagnosis of isolated perianal tuberculosis, with no pulmonary or gastrointestinal involvement.
CLINICAL DISCUSSION
Perianal tuberculosis presents unique challenges in diagnosis and management, often mimicking other conditions like Crohn's disease. Differential diagnosis requires a multidisciplinary approach, including biopsy, acid-fast staining, polymerase chain reaction, and cultures. Successful management involves a combination of surgical intervention and antituberculous therapy, yielding favorable outcomes with minimal recurrence.
CONCLUSION
Early recognition and comprehensive management are crucial in isolated perianal tuberculosis to prevent recurrence and unnecessary surgical interventions. This case underscores the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of perianal pathologies, particularly in TB-endemic regions like Tunisia. Prompt initiation of appropriate therapy is essential for favorable patient outcomes.
PubMed: 38761692
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109770 -
Case Reports in Pediatrics 2024Bartholin's gland abscesses are rare in pediatric patients, with limited documented cases. This case report aims to contribute valuable insights into managing this...
INTRODUCTION
Bartholin's gland abscesses are rare in pediatric patients, with limited documented cases. This case report aims to contribute valuable insights into managing this uncommon condition in children.
METHODS
A thorough examination and diagnostic workup were conducted on a 4-month-old female infant presenting with labial swelling. Clinical assessment strongly suggested the presence of a Bartholin's gland abscess. A culture of purulent discharge revealed the presence of and Gram-negative . Antibiotic susceptibility testing guided the choice of treatment. . Despite initial treatment with oral antibiotics and sitz baths, there was limited therapeutic response. Close surveillance under the guidance of a pediatric surgeon continued for two months. Subsequently, surgical excision of the Bartholin gland was performed, and the specimen was sent for pathological examination.
RESULTS
Pathological analysis revealed signs of ulceration and granulation tissue, indicative of a mixed inflammatory response. An eight-month follow-up demonstrated marked improvement and overall well-being in the patient.
CONCLUSION
This case report underscores the importance of considering Bartholin's gland abscess in diagnosing labial swelling in pediatric patients. The successful outcome achieved through surgical excision and appropriate antibiotic therapy provides valuable insights for potential treatment approaches in similar cases. Continued research and comprehensive studies are essential for establishing optimal treatment protocols for this patient demographic.
PubMed: 38601474
DOI: 10.1155/2024/8812350 -
Frontiers in Medicine 2024The administration of anesthesia for elderly individuals who are critically ill, suffering from severe craniocerebral injuries, and living in plateau regions presents a...
BACKGROUND
The administration of anesthesia for elderly individuals who are critically ill, suffering from severe craniocerebral injuries, and living in plateau regions presents a rare, intricate, and high-risk challenge. This case study outlines the specific anesthesia management protocols necessary for plateau-dwelling patients with significant craniocerebral damage undergoing prolonged invasive procedures.
CASE REPORT
A 76-year-old male patient had a 26-year history of foreign-body penetration of the skull and had experienced local purulent discharge and pain for the previous 20 days. The diagnoses included right hypoplasia, a foreign body in the skull with an infection, hypokalemia, hypoproteinemia, pulmonary fibrous foci, and bilateral pleural effusion. For almost 6 months, the patient suffered from recurring headaches, blurred vision, and sluggish bodily movement. The patient had a poor diet, poor sleep quality, normal urination, and no noticeable weight loss since the onset of the illness. The right anterior ear had a 2 cm skin abscess with yellow pus and a black metal foreign body tip. The left eyelid was red and swollen, and the left conjunctiva was hyperemic; the right eyelid showed no abnormalities, and both pupils were wide and round, with light and adjustment reflexes and no cyanosis on the lips. Skull development was normal. No dry or moist rales were audible in either lung. The heart rhythm was regular, and the heart rate was 50 bpm. Chest CT revealed left lung calcification foci, bilateral pleural effusion, and fiber foci in the lower lobes of both lungs.
CONCLUSION
Furthermore, the patient in question was of advanced age and had a complex medical history, including prolonged exposure to high altitudes and previous instances of severe craniocerebral trauma, among other uncommon pathophysiological characteristics. In particular, the patient also underwent surgical interventions at both high and low altitudes, adding to the complexity of their case. To ensure patient safety, close multidisciplinary collaboration, the development of a precise surgical plan, and the implementation of a suitable perioperative anesthetic management strategy are imperative.
PubMed: 38803347
DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1385603 -
JDS Communications May 2024The objectives of this herd-level prospective observational cohort study were to describe the proportion of cows with elevated prepartum nonesterified fatty acid...
Herd-level associations between the proportion of elevated prepartum nonesterified fatty acid concentrations and postpartum diseases, reproduction, or culling on dairy farms.
The objectives of this herd-level prospective observational cohort study were to describe the proportion of cows with elevated prepartum nonesterified fatty acid concentrations (PropElevNEFA) in dairy herds and to assess the herd-level associations between PropElevNEFA and postpartum diseases, reproductive performance, and culling. From November 2018 to December 2020, a convenience sample of 49 herds was enrolled in this study. Blood sampling (16 to 29 cows per herd) was performed during the week before and during the 2 wk following calving to quantify the concentration of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate acids (BHBA), respectively. Elevated NEFA was defined as ≥280 µmol/L and hyperketonemia as BHBA ≥1.4 mmol/L. Retained placenta, metritis, purulent vaginal discharge, endometritis, and mastitis were diagnosed on-farm following standardized definitions, and success at first artificial insemination (AI) and culling events were recorded. The associations between PropElevNEFA and each individual disease, success at first AI, and culling were evaluated using Bayesian aggregated binomial regression models with weakly informative priors, from the which odds ratio (OR) and the 95% credible intervals (BCI) were obtained. A total of 981 cows were included in the statistical analyses representing 16 to 29 (median = 19) cows per herd. Cows were enrolled in the prepartum period of their first to tenth (median = third) lactation, and 41% of them had an elevated prepartum NEFA concentration. At the herd level, PropElevNEFA varied between 11% and 78% (median = 39%). The odds of metritis (OR = 1.37, 95% BCI = 1.13-1.67) increased for every 10-point increase in PropElevNEFA, whereas the odds of success at first AI decreased (OR = 0.69, 95% BCI = 0.59-0.80). The PropElevNEFA was not associated with the other tested diseases or culling. Our results suggest that the herd-level proportion of cows having elevated prepartum NEFA concentrations is associated with metritis and poor success at first AI in dairy herds.
PubMed: 38646579
DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2023-0510