RESUMEN
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), also known as Devic syndrome, is an autoimmune inflammatory and demyelinating disorder that affects the optic nerves and spinal cord. It is believed to be attributed to aquaporin-4 antibodies, a water channel expressed on astrocytes. It commonly presents with isolated or recurrent attacks of myelitis and optic neuritis. Intractable vomiting and hiccups may also be seen as symptoms. Acute treatment is often achieved with high-dose steroids and is imperative to prevent permanent central nervous system damage. Relapse prevention is achieved using long-term immunosuppression. This paper examines the case of an African-American female who presented with ascending lower extremity weakness.
RESUMEN
Infective endocarditis is an uncommon but consequential disease process that occurs after damage to the cardiac endothelium. Management depends on location and infection severity, but it can typically be treated with intravenous antibiotics. Still, in more complex presentations, surgical intervention may be warranted. Here, we examine a case of right-sided infective endocarditis affecting the tricuspid valve in a patient with a history of intravenous drug use. The purpose of this paper is to examine a case of right-sided endocarditis refractory to intravenous antibiotics, resulting in the need for an alternative treatment modality using AngioVAC debulking.
