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Revista Da Sociedade Brasileira de... 2024Musculoskeletal inflammatory lesions in chronic Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection have not been thoroughly assessed using whole-body magnetic resonance imaging...
BACKGROUND
Musculoskeletal inflammatory lesions in chronic Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection have not been thoroughly assessed using whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of these lesions in such patients.
METHODS
From September 2018 to February 2019, patients with positive Chikungunya-specific serology (Immunoglobulin M/Immunoglobulin G anti-CHIKV), with a history of polyarthralgia for > 6 months prior to MRI with no pre-existing rheumatic disorders, underwent 3T WBMRI and localized MRI. The evaluation focused on musculoskeletal inflammatory lesions correlated with chronic CHIKV infection. Pain levels were assessed using a visual analogue scale on the same day as WBMRI.
RESULTS
The study included 86 patients of whom 26 met the inclusion criteria. All patients reported pain and most (92.3%) categorized it as moderate or severe. The most common finding across joints was effusion, particularly in the tibiotalar joint (57.7%) and bursitis, with the retrocalcaneal bursa most affected (48.0%). Tenosynovitis was prevalent in the flexor compartment of the hands (44.2%), while Kager fat pad and soleus edema were also observed. Bone marrow edema-like signals were frequently seen in the sacroiliac joints (19.2%). Most WBMRI findings were classified as mild.
CONCLUSIONS
This study represents the first utilization of 3T WBMRI to assess musculoskeletal inflammatory disorders in chronic CHIKV infection. The aim was to identify the most affected joints and prevalent lesions, providing valuable insights for future research and clinical management of this condition regarding understanding disease pathophysiology, developing targeted treatment strategies, and using advanced imaging techniques in the assessment of musculoskeletal manifestations.
Topics: Humans; Chikungunya Fever; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Female; Middle Aged; Adult; Chronic Disease; Whole Body Imaging; Aged; Musculoskeletal Diseases; Young Adult
PubMed: 38808799
DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0090-2024 -
Frontiers in Immunology 2024The CC chemokine ligand 18 (CCL18) is a chemokine highly expressed in chronic inflammation in humans. Recent observations of elevated CCL18 plasma levels in patients...
INTRODUCTION
The CC chemokine ligand 18 (CCL18) is a chemokine highly expressed in chronic inflammation in humans. Recent observations of elevated CCL18 plasma levels in patients with acute cardiovascular syndromes prompted an investigation into the role of CCL18 in the pathogenesis of human and mouse atherosclerosis.
METHODS AND RESULTS
CCL18 was profoundly upregulated in ruptured human atherosclerotic plaque, particularly within macrophages. Repeated administration of CCL18 in Western-type diet-fed mice or PCSK9-overexpressing wild type (WT) mice led to increased plaque burden, enriched in CD3 T cells. In subsequent experimental and molecular modeling studies, we identified CCR6 as a functional receptor mediating CCL18 chemotaxis, intracellular Ca flux, and downstream signaling in human Jurkat and mouse T cells. CCL18 failed to induce these effects in murine spleen T cells with CCR6 deficiency. The ability of CCR6 to act as CCL18 receptor was confirmed in an inflammation model, where subcutaneous CCL18 injection induced profound focal skin inflammation in WT but not in mice. This inflammation featured edema and marked infiltration of various leukocyte subsets, including T cells with a Th17 signature, supporting CCR6's role as a Th17 chemotactic receptor. Notably, focal overexpression of CCL18 in plaques was associated with an increased presence of CCR6 (T) cells.
DISCUSSION
Our studies are the first to identify the CCL18/CCR6 axis as a regulator of immune responses in advanced murine and human atherosclerosis.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Atherosclerosis; Mice; Receptors, CCR6; Chemokines, CC; Disease Models, Animal; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Jurkat Cells; Plaque, Atherosclerotic; Mice, Knockout; Male; T-Lymphocytes; Th17 Cells; Female; Mice, Knockout, ApoE
PubMed: 38807599
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1327051 -
International Journal of Surgery Case... Jul 2024In rare instances, pancreatitis can manifest as inguinal edema without typical abdominal symptoms, posing diagnostic challenges.
INTRODUCTION
In rare instances, pancreatitis can manifest as inguinal edema without typical abdominal symptoms, posing diagnostic challenges.
CASE PRESENTATION
We report a case of a man in his 40s, with alcohol addiction, who presented with left inguinal pain and swelling but no other abdominal complaints. Physical examination revealed inguinal tenderness and edema, with no hernia signs. Laboratory results showed leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein, inconsistent with the patient's symptoms. Abdominopelvic CT scan revealed peripancreatic fat densification and retroperitoneal fluid extending into the inguinal area. No hernia was evident. Extended analysis revealed elevated amylase and lipase levels, sustaining the diagnosis of pancreatitis. The patient responded well to supportive care and was discharged symptom-free.
DISCUSSION
Acute pancreatitis emerging as an inguinoscrotal swelling, in the absence of any abdominal symptoms or signs, is extremely rare and can mimic more common causes of inguinoscrotal swellings, such as incarcerated hernias. This case highlights the ability of leaking pancreatic juice to track widely in the retroperitoneal tissues, particularly on the left side. A high level of suspicion, in combination with a CT scan, is essential for achieving an accurate diagnosis and determining the disease's extent. Failure to diagnose correctly could lead to unnecessary surgical procedures and inappropriate/delayed medical care.
CONCLUSION
Inguinal edema as the sole presentation of acute pancreatitis is extremely rare. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a high index of suspicion, especially in patients with a history of alcohol consumption, in order to proceed with prompt treatment and avoid unnecessary surgery.
PubMed: 38805840
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109805 -
Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety Jul 2024Niclosamide (NIC) is a commonly used insecticide and molluscicide in the prevention and treatment of parasitic diseases in fish. The utilization of NIC has the potential...
Niclosamide (NIC) is a commonly used insecticide and molluscicide in the prevention and treatment of parasitic diseases in fish. The utilization of NIC has the potential to disrupt the microbial community present on the mucosal tissue of fish, leading to localized inflammatory responses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of NIC on the immune system and bacterial populations within the gill and gut of Mylopharyngodon piceus. Fish were subjected to varying concentrations of NIC, including a control group (0 μg/L), a low NIC group (15% 96 h LC50, LNG, 9.8 μg/L), and a high NIC group (80% 96 h LC50, HNG, 52.5 μg/L). Gill and gut samples were collected 28 days post-exposure for analysis. The findings revealed that the 96-h LC for NIC was determined to be 65.7 μg/L, and histopathological examination demonstrated that exposure to NIC resulted in gill filament subepithelial edema, exfoliation, degeneration, and a decrease in gill filament length. Furthermore, the gut exhibited apical enterocyte degeneration and leucocyte infiltration following NIC exposure. Additionally, NIC exposure led to a significant elevation in the levels of immunoglobulin M (IgM), complement component 3 (C3), and complement component 4 (C4) in both gill and gut tissues. Moreover, the activity of lysozyme (LYZ) was enhanced in the gill, while the activities of peroxidase (POD) and immunoglobulin T (IgT) were increased in gut tissue. The exposure to NIC resulted in enhanced mRNA expression of c3, c9, tnfα, il6, il8, and il11 in the gill tissue, while decreasing c3 and il8 expression in the gut tissue. Furthermore, the natural resistance-associated macrophage protein (nramp) mRNA increased, and liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (leap2) mRNA decreased in gill and gut tissues. And hepcidin (hepc) mRNA levels rose in gill but fell in gut tissue. NIC exposure also led to a decrease in gill bacterial richness and diversity, which significantly differed from the control group, although this separation was not significant in the gut tissue. In conclusion, the administration of NIC resulted in alterations in both the immune response and mucosal microbiota of fish. Furthermore, it was noted that gills displayed a heightened vulnerability to sublethal effects of NIC in comparison to gut tissues.
Topics: Animals; Gills; Water Pollutants, Chemical; Larva; Carps; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Insecticides; Microbiota
PubMed: 38805826
DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116512 -
Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational... 2024Hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME) is a promising photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT) and has found wide application in the treatment of port-wine stains...
BACKGROUND
Hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME) is a promising photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT) and has found wide application in the treatment of port-wine stains (PWS).
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to observe and analyze the clinical efficacy and safety of HMME-PDT in the treatment of PWS patients. It also aims to evaluate the usefulness of color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI), an ultrasound technique for detecting blood flow in skin lesions, in assessing clinical efficacy.
METHODS
Thirty-three patients with PWS underwent HMME-PDT at our dermatology outpatient clinic between January 2019 and March 2020. Data on patient demographics, lesion location, lesion type (pink, purple, nodular thickening), treatment frequency, and pre- and post-treatment images were collected and retrospectively analyzed. CDFI was performed on three patients.
RESULTS
All patients received intravenous HMME and underwent irradiation with 532 nm green LED light. Of these, 5 patients received 1 session of HMME-PDT, 14 received 2 sessions, 9 received 3 sessions and the remaining 5 patients received more than 3 sessions. Of the 33 patients, 9 were cured (27.27%), 10 showed improvement (30.30%), 11 experienced a reduction in symptoms (33.33%), and 3 showed no significant improvement (9.09%). Most patients reported local pain and oedema, and no systemic adverse effects were observed. Clinical efficacy correlated with lesion type and total number of treatment sessions. CDFI appears to be an excellent technique for assessing clinical efficacy.
CONCLUSION
HMME-PDT is a safe and effective method for the treatment of PWS. CDFI examination appears to be a promising assessment tool. However, further validation with larger sample sizes is warranted.
PubMed: 38800356
DOI: 10.2147/CCID.S459613 -
Toxins May 2024Snakebite envenoming and its resulting complications are serious threats to the health of vulnerable people living in rural areas of developing countries. The knowledge...
Snakebite envenoming and its resulting complications are serious threats to the health of vulnerable people living in rural areas of developing countries. The knowledge of the heterogeneity of symptoms associated with snakebite envenoming and their management strategies is vital to treat such life-threatening complications to save lives. Russell's viper envenomation induces a diverse range of clinical manifestations from commonly recognised haemotoxic and local effects to several rare conditions that are often not reported. The lack of awareness about these unusual manifestations can affect prompt diagnosis, appropriate therapeutic approaches, and positive outcomes for patients. Here, we report pulmonary thromboembolism that developed in three patients following Russell's viper envenomation and demonstrate their common clinical features and diagnostic and therapeutic approaches used. All patients showed clinical signs of local (oedema) and systemic (blood coagulation disturbances) envenomation, which were treated using polyvalent antivenom. They exhibited elevated heart rates, breathlessness, and reduced oxygen saturation, which are non-specific but core parameters in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. The recognition of pulmonary embolism was also achieved by an electrocardiogram, which showed sinus tachycardia and computed tomography and echocardiogram scans further confirmed this condition. Anti-coagulant treatment using low-molecular-weight heparin offered clinical benefits in these patients. In summary, this report reinforces the broad spectrum of previously unreported consequences of Russell's viper envenomation. The constant updating of healthcare professionals and the dissemination of major lessons learned in the clinical management of snakebite envenoming through scientific documentation and educational programs are necessary to mitigate the adverse impacts of venomous snakebites in vulnerable communities.
Topics: Snake Bites; Pulmonary Embolism; Humans; Animals; Male; Antivenins; Daboia; Viper Venoms; Adult; Female; Middle Aged; Anticoagulants
PubMed: 38787074
DOI: 10.3390/toxins16050222 -
Current Oncology (Toronto, Ont.) May 2024The aim of this study is to examine the outcomes of an accelerated fractionated irradiation for N0 glottic carcinoma.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study is to examine the outcomes of an accelerated fractionated irradiation for N0 glottic carcinoma.
METHODS
In this retrospective analysis, 29 patients with N0 glottic carcinoma treated by radiation therapy were enrolled. Thirteen patients had T1a disease, six had T1b disease, and ten had T2 disease. A fractional dose of 2.1 Gy was administered to seven patients. The total doses were 65.1 and 67.2 Gy in four and three patients, respectively. A fractional dose of 2.25 Gy was administered to 22 patients. The total doses were 63 and 67.5 Gy in 21 patients and 1 patient with T2 disease, respectively. Additionally, 13 patients underwent the use of TS-1 (80-100 mg per day).
RESULTS
The median follow-up period was 33 months, and the 3-year local control rate was 95.6%. No patient had a lymph node or distant recurrence. As acute adverse events, grades 2 and 3 dermatitis were observed in 18 patients and 1 patient, and grades 2 and 3 mucositis were observed in 15 patients and 1 patient. As a late adverse event, one patient required tracheotomy because of laryngeal edema occurring.
CONCLUSIONS
Accelerated fractionated irradiation may be an option in the radiation therapy of N0 glottic carcinoma because of its ability to shorten the treatment time.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Laryngeal Neoplasms; Middle Aged; Aged; Dose Fractionation, Radiation; Glottis; Retrospective Studies; Adult; Aged, 80 and over; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38785479
DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31050198 -
Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports May 2024Coalition is an abnormal, usually congenital, or developmental connection in between or the complete fusion of two bones that are otherwise separate. It is of three...
INTRODUCTION
Coalition is an abnormal, usually congenital, or developmental connection in between or the complete fusion of two bones that are otherwise separate. It is of three types, i.e., synostosis (bony connection), synchondrosis (cartilaginous connection), or syndesmosis (fibrous tissue). Its typical cause is the failure of mesenchymal segmentation and differentiation. Usually, it is seen in tarsal or carpal bones and very rarely in between other bones. Only a single case of a tibiotalar coalition has been reported previously in literature. Herein, we are reporting a case of the talocrural coalition, which is the first one from the Indian sub-continent.
CASE REPORT
A 16-year-old moderately built female patient of Indian origin presented with chronic pain of 1-year duration in the right foot and ankle region on weight bearing. The pain was dull aching type, mild-to-moderate in severity and worsened with activity or prolonged walking, and relieved on taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. No relevant history was present. On local examination, diffuse tenderness was present in the ankle and the tarsal bones. Almost negligible dorsiflexion and about 15° plantar flexion of the foot were possible. An initial radiograph of the right ankle revealed osseous fusion between the distal tibia and fibula, as well as between the tibia, fibula, and the dome of the talus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed osseous fusion involving the distal tibia, fibula, and the dome of the talus (both medially and laterally), indicative of talocrural fusion. No edema or inflammation was appreciable in the adjacent tendons or synovium. The patient was explained regarding the pathology and the prognosis. She was managed conservatively and was satisfied.
CONCLUSION
Radiographs play a crucial role in evaluating patients suspected of having a coalition or ankylosis. Complementary tools such as computed tomography and MRI are valuable for a more in-depth assessment of the fusion and aid in surgical planning.
PubMed: 38784884
DOI: 10.13107/jocr.2024.v14.i05.4424 -
Cureus Apr 2024Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinicoradiological entity characterized by reversible vasogenic edema predominantly affecting the posterior...
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinicoradiological entity characterized by reversible vasogenic edema predominantly affecting the posterior regions of the cerebral hemispheres. However, unilateral presentation of PRES is an exceptionally rare manifestation. We describe the case of a 34-year-old woman who presented with left-sided hemiparesis, hemisensory loss, headache, and focal motor seizures. Brain CT revealed right anterior and posterior hypodensities in the right frontal and parietal subcortical locations, brain MRI showed vasogenic edema in the subcortical right cerebral hemisphere, and cerebral angiogram revealed diffuse narrowing of the left internal carotid artery just distal to the carotid bifurcation with no flow of contrast beyond the ophthalmic segment. The patient's symptoms resolved during her admission, MRI findings improved on repeated imaging, and she was ultimately diagnosed with unilateral PRES. Unilateral PRES is a complex and challenging diagnosis, and this case sheds light on the atypical radiological features of unilateral PRES possibly intricately linked with contralateral steno-occlusive disease of the carotid artery. It is essential to maintain the atypical variants of PRES as part of the differential diagnosis when encountering acute neurological symptoms and vasogenic edema on imaging in the context of contralateral steno-occlusive disease of the carotid artery.
PubMed: 38784364
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58774 -
BMC Cardiovascular Disorders May 2024Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) results in brain injury, which is primarily caused by inflammation. Ac2-26 protects against ischemic or hemorrhage brain injury. The present...
BACKGROUND
Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) results in brain injury, which is primarily caused by inflammation. Ac2-26 protects against ischemic or hemorrhage brain injury. The present study was to explore the effect and mechanism of Ac2-26 on brain injury in CPB rats.
METHODS
Forty-eight rats were randomized into sham, CPB, Ac, Ac/AKT1, Ac/GSK3βi and Ac/AKT1/GSK3βa groups. Rats in sham group only received anesthesia and in the other groups received standard CPB surgery. Rats in the sham and CPB groups received saline, and rats in the Ac, Ac/AKT1, Ac/GSK3βi and Ac/AKT1/GSK3βa groups received Ac2-26 immediately after CPB. Rats in the Ac/AKT1, Ac/GSK3βi and Ac/AKT1/GSK3βa groups were injected with shRNA, inhibitor and agonist of GSK3β respectively. The neurological function score, brain edema and histological score were evaluated. The neuronal survival and hippocampal pyroptosis were assessed. The cytokines, activity of NF-κB, S100 calcium-binding protein β(S100β) and neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and oxidative were tested. The NLRP3, cleaved-caspase-1 and cleaved-gadermin D (GSDMD) in the brain were also detected.
RESULTS
Compared to the sham group, all indicators were aggravated in rats that underwent CPB. Compared to the CPB group, Ac2-26 significantly improved neurological scores and brain edema and ameliorated pathological injury. Ac2-26 reduced the local and systemic inflammation, oxidative stress response and promoted neuronal survival. Ac2-26 reduced hippocampal pyroptosis and decreased pyroptotic proteins in brain tissue. The protection of Ac2-26 was notably lessened by shRNA and inhibitor of GSK3β. The agonist of GSK3β recovered the protection of Ac2-26 in presence of shRNA.
CONCLUSIONS
Ac2-26 significantly improved neurological function, reduced brain injury via regulating inflammation, oxidative stress response and pyroptosis after CPB. The protective effect of Ac2-26 primarily depended on AKT1/ GSK3β pathway.
Topics: Animals; Cardiopulmonary Bypass; Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 beta; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt; Pyroptosis; Signal Transduction; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Male; Disease Models, Animal; Neurons; Neuroprotective Agents; NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein; Brain Edema; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Rats; S100 Calcium Binding Protein beta Subunit; Inflammation Mediators
PubMed: 38773462
DOI: 10.1186/s12872-024-03909-9