Prevalence and Impact of Thyroid Dysfunction in Patients With Chronic Pulmonary Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Thyroid gland dysfunction (TGD) has been increasingly recognized as a potential comorbidity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study was designed to determine the prevalence of TGD in COPD patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). To comprehensively identify relevant studies, a systematic search was conducted in major electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHIL). The search was limited to English-language studies published after 31 December 2000. To determine the prevalence of TGD and assess the impacts, we compared forced vital capacity (FVC) (%), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (%), partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) (mmHg), and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) (mmHg) between patients with and without TGD. A total of nine articles were included in this meta-analysis. The sample size of included studies ranged from 50 to 309. The pooled prevalence of TGD in patients with COPD was 45% (95% CI: 25% to 65%). The most common form of TGD was hypothyroidism. The study identified a lack of significant associations between TGD and COPD severity or various characteristics, highlighting the need for future prospective multi-center research, particularly with larger sample sizes to determine the clinical factors and biomarkers affecting the development of thyroid dysfunction in this population.

Comparison of the Effectiveness and Safety of Metoprolol and Diltiazem in Atrial Fibrillation With Rapid Ventricular Rate Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This study aims to assess the association between intravenous diltiazem and metoprolol in rate control for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with rapid ventricular rate, focusing on rate control efficacy and hemodynamic adverse events. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, electronic searches were conducted in Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) until February 20, 2024. The primary outcome was achieving ventricular rate control < 110/min. Secondary outcomes included new hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 90 mm Hg) and bradycardia (heart rate < 60/min). Nineteen studies (three randomized controlled trials and 16 observational studies) were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled analysis showed intravenous metoprolol resulted in a 39% lower rate control attainment compared to diltiazem (OR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.44 to 0.84; p = 0.002). There were no significant differences in bradycardia (OR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.22 to 1.22; p = 0.13) or hypotension risk (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.72 to 1.61; p = 0.72) between the two groups. Intravenous diltiazem demonstrated superior rate control efficacy compared to metoprolol in AF patients with rapid ventricular rate. However, no significant differences were observed in safety outcomes, namely, bradycardia and hypotension.

Comparison of Effectiveness of Programmed Death Protein 1 and Programmed Death Ligand 1 Inhibitors in Extensive-Stage Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials and Observational Studies.

This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of programmed death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors in patients with extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer. The present meta-analysis was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Relevant studies were identified through searches of databases including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, as well as prominent oncology conferences. The search was conducted from the inception of the databases up to January 31, 2024. A total of 10 studies were included in this meta-analysis. Among these studies, six were randomized trials, while four were observational studies. The pooled meta-analysis showed that PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors are more effective in improving overall survival and progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy alone. However, when comparing PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors, there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding overall survival and progression-free survival. It is important to note that there is no head-to-head trial comparing these two interventions in patients with extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer. Therefore, future prospective trials are needed to define optimal therapeutic approaches in this patient population.

Methylphenidate-Induced Non-ischemic Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction and Mild Pulmonary Hypertension.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is commonly diagnosed during childhood. Patients present with hyperactive-impulsive behavior and/or inappropriate inattention which may persist through adulthood. Central nervous system stimulants have been used to manage patients with ADHD. Methylphenidate which is used as a first-line therapy has been shown to have adverse cardiovascular effects in these patients. This is a case of a young male with a history of ADHD since childhood on methylphenidate who was diagnosed with acute non-ischemic heart failure with an ejection fraction of 15-20%. Methylphenidate-induced heart failure is the rare adverse effect seen in ADHD patients who are on this medication. Our patient was started on goal-directed medical therapy for heart failure and was discharged with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (LifeVest®, ZOLL, Pittsburgh, PA) because of his persistently low left ventricular ejection fraction. It is important for physicians to always consider heart failure as a possible cardiovascular adverse effect when starting patients on methylphenidate for the management of ADHD.

Severe Sepsis Associated With Multiorgan Failure and Precipitating Nonhepatic Hyperammonemia Crisis in Late-Onset Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Sepsis is characterized by a dysregulated immune response to an infection. It is a major public health problem owing to its high mortality and morbidity. Sepsis is a medical emergency and requires aggressive and timely management. It can cause multiorgan failure, unmask an existing but undiagnosed disease such as ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD), or make a known well-controlled disease worse. We present the case of a 52-year-old male who was brought to the emergency department unresponsive. He was diagnosed with severe sepsis which was associated with multiorgan failure and hyperammonemia crisis. Hyperammonemia was due to a newly diagnosed, late-onset OTCD which was unmasked by severe sepsis. This case will enable physicians to be aware and consider OTCD in a patient presenting with severe sepsis, altered mentation, and seizures, with no obvious cause of hyperammonemia.

Comparison of Diagnostic Accuracy and Diagnostic Adequacy Between Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided and Percutaneous Liver Biopsies: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials and Observational Studies.

A liver biopsy (LB) is a crucial diagnostic tool for evaluating liver diseases and is traditionally performed percutaneously under ultrasound guidance (PC-LB). However, endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsy (EUS-LB) has emerged as an alternative approach, offering potential advantages over conventional techniques. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of EUS-LB using modern core biopsy needles with PC-LB. A comprehensive literature search identified nine studies involving 785 patients that met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis evaluated three primary endpoints: diagnostic adequacy, diagnostic accuracy, and adverse event rates. The results indicated no significant difference in overall diagnostic adequacy (odds ratio: 0.446, 95% CI: 0.192-1.031) or diagnostic accuracy (odds ratio: 1.646, 95% CI: 0.224-12.09) between EUS-LB and PC-LB. Furthermore, the combined occurrence of adverse events did not differ significantly between the two procedures (odds ratio: 0.653, 95% CI: 0.298-1.431). However, PC-LB demonstrated superiority in obtaining a higher number of complete portal tracts (mean difference: -0.985, 95% CI: -1.753 to -0.218), indicating better specimen quality. While both EUS-LB and PC-LB exhibited similar diagnostic performance and safety profiles, PC-LB provided higher-quality specimens, which may be advantageous in cases where accurate diagnosis and staging are critical, such as the evaluation of liver fibrosis. Clinicians should consider factors like specimen quality, procedural preferences, and local expertise when selecting the appropriate biopsy approach tailored to individual patient needs and clinical circumstances.

Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Transgender Individuals Undergoing Gender Affirming Hormonal Therapy: A Systematic Review.

Gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT), which includes estrogen, testosterone, androgen agonists, is commonly used in transgender individuals to change their secondary sexual characteristics to align with their gender identity. However, this treatment could result in metabolic side effects that could increase the chances of acquiring type 2 diabetes mellitus. Thus, this study aims to compare differences in body mass index (BMI), insulin resistance, and the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus between cisgender and transgender individuals undergoing GAHT. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards, we conducted a systematic review searching through PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online), and ResearchGate for articles published between 2014 and 2024. The final search was conducted in February 2024. Out of the 3,934 articles reviewed, 11 were selected, focusing on insulin sensitivity/resistance, diabetes incidence, and BMI changes with GAHT. Although our result findings did not show clear evidence of increased diabetes incidence among GAHT patients, it was observed that GAHT does increase BMI and insulin resistance in transgender individuals. Notably, compared to transgender men, transgender women on GAHT were found to be more prone to insulin resistance. We recommend regularly monitoring insulin sensitivity parameters and HbA1c during GAHT to monitor metabolic side effects. Further research and more clinical trials are needed to confirm the GAHT's impact on insulin resistance and to evaluate its role in the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The Effectiveness of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors on Cardiovascular Outcomes and All-Cause Mortality in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the impact of early sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) initiation on long-term cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause mortality among patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). For this study, we adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guideline. Two researchers independently performed a comprehensive literature search on PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, spanning from the inception of each database to February 24, 2023, without language limitations. The outcomes examined in this meta-analysis comprised major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (as defined by individual studies), all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic), recurrent ACS, and hospitalization due to heart failure (HF). A total of nine studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled analysis of nine studies revealed a significant reduction in the risk of MACE, all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and cardiovascular-related hospitalizations among patients receiving SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) compared to those in the control group. Additionally, there was a trend toward a lower risk of recurrent ACS in the SGLT2i group, although this difference did not reach statistical significance. The findings of this study suggest a promising therapeutic effect of SGLT2 inhibitors in this population. Further research, particularly focusing on myocardial infarction (MI) patients, is warranted to validate these results and potentially revolutionize ACS management.

The Role of Etanercept in Controlling Clinical and Radiological Progression in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review.

Etanercept (ETN) is a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that works as a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNF inhibitor) by blocking the effects of naturally occurring TNF. This review will evaluate the effect of ETN as a monotherapy or combination therapy with methotrexate (MTX) in the treatment of RA. This systematic review was carried out in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. A systematic search was done on PubMed and Google Scholar from 1999 to 2023. Predefined eligibility criteria were set for selected studies, which include: free full-text articles published; randomized control trials (RCTs); systematic reviews and meta-analyses; and observational studies in a patient with RA treated with ETN as initial therapy or as an add-on to conventional disease-modified therapy. Hence, the data had been extracted, and a quality assessment of each study was done by two individual authors. When comparing patients who received 15-25 mg of MTX with those who also received 25 mg of ETN in combination, 71% achieved American College of Rheumatology 20 (ACR20) by 24 weeks, compared to 27% in the MTX and placebo groups (p<0.001), and 39% achieved American College of Rheumatology 50 (ACR50), compared to 3% in the placebo + MTX group (p<0.001). Low disease activity (DAS 28) was more common in patients who had both MTX and ETN (64.5% with DAS <2.4 and 56.3% with DAS 28 <3.2) compared to patients who received only one medication (44.4% with DAS <2.4 and 33.2% with DAS 28 <3.2 for ETN and 38.6% with DAS <2.4 and 28.5% with DAS 28 <3.2 for MTX, with P<0.01). ETN demonstrated smaller changes from baseline in the modified Sharp score (TSS) and erosion scores (ES) at 12 months and two years, as well as a decreased change in the ES score at one year (with a trend of P value = 0.06 for the TSS score), in comparison to those receiving DMARD. Reactions at the injection site (42% vs. 7%, P<0.001) were the only events that occurred significantly more frequently in the ETN plus-MTX group. Combining ETN and MTX appears to help control RA symptoms by decreasing the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) response and DAS score, as well as halting the disease's progression on X-rays. The most common adverse effects were reactions to ETN administered alone at the injection site, likely because of patient awareness of the treatment received. There was also concern about tuberculosis and malignancy, but no recent data is available. Therefore, a larger clinical trial with longer follow-up is required to ascertain long-term safety and benefits.

Folic Acid in the Treatment of Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited genetic disorders that is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for hemoglobin subunit ß. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of folic acid in the treatment of SCD patients. We retrieved 3730 articles from PubMed, PubMed Central, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases. We employed a search technique that involved framing keywords, such as folic acid, folate, and sickle cell illness, and the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) strategy in PubMed. We chose research articles that had been published during the last 10 years, as well as case reports, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, literature reviews, randomized controlled trials, and observational studies. Exclusion criteria included paid full-text articles, abstracts, non-English studies, and patients who do not have SCD. The 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria were used in the design of our systematic review. It was found that the majority of SCD patients were receiving regular folic acid supplements and that their plasma folate levels were either increased or within normal range, with no discernible impact on other clinical outcomes such as hemoglobin levels, infections, or pain crises. SCD patients produce more red blood cells than healthy individuals, and nearly all SCD patients receive daily folic acid supplements. On the other hand, not enough information is available on folic acid's potential benefits in the management of SCD; thus, there is a need for more large clinical trials.

An Atypical Presentation of Burkitt Lymphoma Presenting As Large Intra-abdominal Masses Compressing Multiple Organs With Peri-Pericardial Involvement in an HIV Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Many types of malignancies have been associated with immunodeficiency states, especially patients who are HIV positive. Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is one of those malignancies associated with HIV and it presents in three varieties. The endemic form is primarily seen in children, and it is associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). In this form, patients with Burkitt's present with a large jaw mass. The second variety is seen in older adults. These patients usually present with abdominal and pelvic masses. This subtype is more prominent in the United States. The third variety of BL is seen in patients who are HIV positive. In this case report, we present an atypical presentation of BL secondary to undiagnosed HIV/AIDS with a very large tumor burden causing compressive symptoms. This case will further guide healthcare professionals in diagnosing BL, which presents uniquely in high-risk populations. This report will also serve as a review of the diagnosis and treatment options of BL.

Compare the Efficacy and Safety of Deferoxamine, Deferasirox, and Deferiprone in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease or Transfusion-Dependent Anemia: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials.

This network meta-analysis was conducted with the aim of comparing the efficacy and safety of deferiprone (DFP), deferasirox (DFX), and deferoxamine (DFO) in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) or transfusion-dependent anemia. This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)" guidelines. The search was conducted on electronic databases, including PubMed, CINAHIL, and EMBASE, from the inception of databases to January 10, 2024. Outcomes assessed in this study included a change in liver iron concentration (LIC) and a change in ferritin from baseline. For safety analysis, adverse events were compared among three treatment groups. A total of five studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled analysis showed that the change in LIC and serum ferritin from baseline was not significantly different in patients with SCD or other anemias. In terms of adverse events, deferiprone was the safest among all. In conclusion, deferiprone demonstrated noninferiority to deferoxamine and deferasirox in measures of iron load, presenting a viable treatment option. Safety outcomes revealed deferasirox carried a higher risk of adverse events compared to deferiprone, supporting its favorable safety profile.

Risk Factors for the Development of Pneumonia in Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Pneumonia is one of the most prevalent medical complications post-stroke. It can have negative impacts on the prognosis of stroke patients. This study aimed to determine the predictors of pneumonia in stroke patients. The authors devised, reviewed, and enhanced the search strategy in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were gathered from various electronic databases, including Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science, from January 1st, 2011, to February 25th, 2024. The review encompassed studies involving patients aged 18 years and older who were hospitalized for acute stroke care. Inclusion criteria required patients to have received a clinical diagnosis of stroke, confirmed via medical imaging (CT or MRI), hospital primary diagnosis International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision discharge codes, or pathology reporting. A total of 35 studies met the criteria and were included in our pooled analysis. Among them, 23 adopted a retrospective design, while the remaining 12 were prospective. The pooled incidence of pneumonia among patients with stroke was found to be 14% (95% confidence interval = 13%-15%). The pooled analysis reported that advancing age, male gender, a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the presence of a nasogastric tube, atrial fibrillation, mechanical ventilation, stroke severity, dysphagia, and a history of diabetes were identified as significant risk factors for pneumonia development among stroke patients. Our results underscore the importance of proactive identification and management of these factors to mitigate the risk of pneumonia in stroke patients.

An Atypical Case of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Possible Newly Diagnosed Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complicated With a Cerebrovascular Accident in a Young Female: A Case Report.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause of endocrine disorders among females of reproductive age and is linked with autoimmune disorders. PCOS has been associated with autoantibodies such as antinuclear antibody (ANA), anti-thyroid, and anti-Smith (anti-SM). Young patients with PCOS and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have up to a 10-fold increase in stroke. We present a case of a patient with a history of PCOS (on metformin), hypothyroidism, and pulmonary embolism who presented to the emergency room with acute left-sided weakness. She was extensively investigated for risk factors and was eventually diagnosed with a cerebrovascular accident secondary to possible SLE with positive ANA (1:160, nuclear homogenous pattern). The diagnosis of PCOS, coupled with autoantibodies and recurring episodes of thromboembolic events, rendered her case management complex. She received tenecteplase and had thrombectomy done twice because of recurrent thrombotic events during her hospital stay. She passed away on the fifth day post-thrombectomy from a possible massive pulmonary embolism with hemodynamic compromise. There is a need for more research to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of SLE and PCOS to guide the proper management of patients in this situation.

Syncope Secondary to Concomitant Ingestion of Tizanidine and Alcohol in a Patient With Alcohol Use Disorder.

Syncope is the transient loss of consciousness due to cerebral hypoperfusion. A significant number of individuals experience a syncopal attack at one stage of their lives. The common causes of syncope include vasovagal syncope, orthostatic hypotension, and cardiac causes. Drugs are also associated with causing syncope. The drugs involved are mostly those that depress the central nervous system, and concomitant use of more than one of such drugs increases the risk of syncope even further. Tizanidine and alcohol individually can cause hypotension and combining both drugs is not advised due to heightened central nervous system depression and profound hypotension. We present a case of a 53-year-old female with alcohol use disorder who presented with a first-time syncopal attack due to postural hypotension after ingesting both tizanidine and alcohol concurrently. Co-administration of tizanidine and alcohol is not advised, however, cases of syncope have been rarely reported with concomitant use. This case will enlighten physicians to counsel patients about the need to abstain from alcohol consumption when taking tizanidine.

Bilateral Empyema With Beta Hemolytic Group C Streptococcus and Streptococcus constellatus Co-infection Resulting From an Esophageal Perforation and Associated With Septic Shock, Diffuse ST Elevation, and New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation.

Empyema is the collection of pus in the pleural cavity and most times, it occurs unilaterally. It is often associated with underlying pneumonia, but other causes have been identified as well. When it occurs after an esophageal perforation, which in itself is also rare, morbidity and mortality are even higher. Esophageal perforation can cause life-threatening complications due to its close proximity to the vital organs of the mediastinum, necessitating its timely diagnosis and aggressive management. Bacteria forming part of the normal esophageal and oral flora are the most common causative pathogens for empyema from an esophageal perforation. Streptococcus constellatus and group C Streptococci, though both rare and often not taken seriously, have been identified as individual causes of empyema. We present a case of a 58-year-old male who presented with a worsening cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath after choking on a fish bone. He was diagnosed with bilateral loculated empyema resulting from esophageal perforation with the pleural fluid culture isolating both group C streptococcus and Streptococcus constellatus. He also developed respiratory failure, mediastinitis, and septic shock. This case will enable physicians to take empyema caused by these bacteria seriously and also to include esophageal perforation as a differential diagnosis when a patient presents with bilateral empyema associated with chest pain and electrocardiographic changes.

The Role of the Insula in Chronic Pain and Associated Structural Changes: An Integrative Review.

Chronic pain affects a substantial portion of the global population, significantly impacting quality of life and well-being. This condition involves complex mechanisms, including dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which plays a crucial role in pain perception. The insula, a key brain region involved in pain processing, plays a critical role in pain perception and modulation. Lesions in the insula can result in pain asymbolia, where pain perception remains intact but emotional responses are inappropriate. The insula is anatomically and functionally divided into anterior and posterior regions, with the posterior insula processing nociceptive input based on intensity and location before relaying it to the anterior insula for emotional mediation. Understanding the insula's intricate role in pain processing is crucial, as it is involved in encoding prediction errors and mediating emotional dimensions of pain perception. The focus of this review was on synthesizing existing literature on the role of the insula in chronic pain and associated structural changes. The goal was to integrate findings from various sources to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic. The search strategy included a combination of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and relevant keywords related to insula and chronic pain. The following databases were surveyed: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. We identified a total of 2515 articles, and after following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline based on eligibility criteria, 46 articles were used to synthesize this review. Our study highlights the pivotal role of the insula in chronic pain processing and associated structural changes, integrating findings from diverse studies and neuroimaging investigations. Beyond mere pain sensation, the insula contributes to emotional awareness, attention, and salience detection within the pain network. Various chronic pain conditions reveal alterations in insular activity and connectivity, accompanied by changes in gray matter volume and neurochemical profiles. Interventions targeting the insula show promise in alleviating chronic pain symptoms. However, further research is needed to understand underlying mechanisms, which can aid in developing more effective therapeutic interventions for pain.

Propofol in ICU Settings: Understanding and Managing Anti-Arrhythmic, Pro-Arrhythmic Effects, and Propofol Infusion Syndrome.

Propofol has revolutionized anesthesia and intensive care medicine owing to its favorable pharmacokinetic characteristics, fast onset, and short duration of action. This drug has been shown to be remarkably effective in numerous clinical scenarios. In addition, propofol has maintained an overwhelmingly favorable safety profile; however, it has been associated with both antiarrhythmic and proarrhythmic effects. This review concisely summarizes the dual arrhythmic cardiovascular effects of propofol and a rare but serious complication, propofol infusion syndrome (PRIS). We also discuss the need for careful patient evaluation, compliance with recommended infusion rates, and vigilant monitoring.

The Associations of Auto-Brewery Syndrome and Diabetes Mellitus: A Literature Review and Clinical Perspective.

Endogenous production of alcohol without the external intake of alcohol is called auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), and to get its levels to rise to a level that it has physical symptoms of alcohol intake is rare. The most common cause of ABS is the metabolism of ingested carbohydrates by intestinal microflora. This occurrence does not happen in all normal individuals but only in some high-risk individuals. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have been hypothesized to be at high risk for ABS. We searched databases, such as PubMed, Medline, and PubMed Central, to search for existing literature with relevant keywords. In the finalized review, we have included 30 relevant articles. Alcohol formed in the gut gets absorbed in the bloodstream and immediately gets metabolized, so usually it does not achieve a level in blood high enough to cause symptoms. In high-risk patients, there is an increase in the level of bloodstream alcohol above a certain level, so it shows symptoms. Because there is higher blood glucose in DM, the patients have been shown to be at increased risk for developing ABS. Similarly, obesity is also a risk factor for DM, making it a high-risk condition for ABS. The most involved pathogens are Candida and Saccharomyces.