Fluid Resuscitation Dilemma in End-stage Renal Disease Patients Presenting with Sepsis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: This study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of guideline-directed fluid resuscitation (GDFR) compared with conservative fluid management in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients with sepsis by evaluating 90-day mortality and intubation rate. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted across multiple databases using specific keywords and controlled vocabulary. The search strategy, implemented until October 1, 2023, aimed to identify studies examining fluid resuscitation in ESRD patients with sepsis. The review process was streamlined using Covidence software. A fourth reviewer resolved discrepancies in study inclusion. A random-effects model with the generic Mantel-Haenszel method was preferred for integrating odds ratios (ORs). Sensitivity analysis and publication bias analysis were performed. Results: Of the 1274 identified studies, 10 were selected for inclusion, examining 1184 patients, 593 of whom received GDFR. Four studies were selected to investigate the intubation rate, including 304 patients. No significant mortality or intubation rate difference was spotted between both groups [OR = 1.23; confidence interval (CI) = 0.92-1.65; I2 = 0% and OR = 1.91; CI = 0.91-4.04]. In most studies, sensitivity analysis using the leave-one-out approach revealed higher mortality and intubation rates. The Egger test results indicated no statistically significant publication bias across the included studies. Conclusion: Our research contradicts the common assumption about the effectiveness of GDFR for sepsis patients with ESRD. It suggests that this approach, while not superior to the conservative strategy, may potentially be harmful.

Hungatella hathewayi bacteremia due to acute appendicitis: A case report and a narrative review.

Hungatella species, including Hungatella hathewayi and Hungatella effluvii, previously identified as part of the Clostridium genus, are anaerobic bacteria primarily residing in the gut microbiome, with infrequent implications in human infections. This article presents the case of an 87-year-old Asian male admitted for a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state with septic shock secondary to Hungatella hathewayi bacteremia originating from acute appendicitis. Remarkably, the bacterium was detected in the blood 48 hours before the emergence of clinical and radiographic evidence of acute appendicitis. Additionally, we conducted a literature review to identify all documented human infections caused by Hungatella species. Timely microbial identification in such cases is essential for implementing targeted antibiotic therapy and optimizing clinical outcomes.

Impact of removing soft contact lenses 1 day versus 1 month before surgery on the outcomes of microkeratome laser in situ keratomileusis.

PURPOSE: To compare the outcomes, safety, efficacy, and predictability of microkeratome laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) 24 h and one month or more after removing soft contact lenses. SETTING: ULTRALASIK Eye Center, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. METHODS: The patients were divided based on the time of discontinuation of the soft contact lenses before LASIK (Group 1 at 24 h and Group 2 at one month or longer), and the two groups were well matched. Schirmer's testing, tear break-up time, corrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected distance visual acuity, manifest refraction spherical equivalent, and infection rate were evaluated preoperatively and at one week, one month, and six months after treatment. RESULTS: Group 1 (G1) comprised 1025 eyes, and group 2 (G2) had 1052 eyes. The groups were comparable preoperatively. The overall-mentioned outcomes were comparable between groups with uncorrected distance visual acuity of - 0.084 ± 0.12 logMAR in G1 and - 0.078 ± 0.17 logMAR in the G2 at 6 months (P = 0.322). Tear break-up time as well as Schirmer's testing results was also comparable with no evidence of increased risk of dry eyes or non-inflammatory complications in any of the groups on follow-up visits at 1 week (P = 0.421), 1 month (P = 0.101), and 6 months (P = 0.399) postoperatively. Finally, no infectious complications were recorded in either of the groups. CONCLUSION: With the absence of corneal warpage, no statistical or clinical difference in microkeratome LASIK outcomes and safety was spotted between the groups despite the difference in SCL discontinuation time before the procedure.

Advancing critical care recovery: The pivotal role of machine learning in early detection of intensive care unit-acquired weakness.

This editorial explores the significant challenge of intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICU-AW), a prevalent condition affecting critically ill patients, characterized by profound muscle weakness and complicating patient recovery. Highlighting the paradox of modern medical advances, it emphasizes the urgent need for early identification and intervention to mitigate ICU-AW's impact. Innovatively, the study by Wang et al is showcased for employing a multilayer perceptron neural network model, achieving high accuracy in predicting ICU-AW risk. This advancement underscores the potential of neural network models in enhancing patient care but also calls for continued research to address limitations and improve model applicability. The editorial advocates for the development and validation of sophisticated predictive tools, aiming for personalized care strategies to reduce ICU-AW incidence and severity, ultimately improving patient outcomes in critical care settings.

Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD) Implantation as Secondary Prevention of Cardiac Sarcoidosis-Associated Ventricular Tachycardia.

Background: Cardiac sarcoidosis can cause a wide range of symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, oedema, and fatal arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia (VT). Because the symptoms can be nonspecific, diagnosing cardiac sarcoidosis can be challenging. Treatment options may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, immunosuppressive drugs to prevent further damage, medications to control symptoms, ablation procedures, and defibrillators to prevent cardiac arrest. Case: A 60-year-old woman who has sarcoidosis affecting multiple organs including cardiac sarcoidosis, non-ischemic cardiomyopathy with reduced ejection fraction, and hypertension, was admitted with tachycardia, shortness of breath, and a recently fired automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (AICD). Three months prior, the patient was admitted for a syncopal episode and diagnosed with cardiac sarcoidosis through cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), which demonstrated active inflammation, and an AICD was implanted. During this admission, the patient had an episode of ventricular tachycardia and was treated with amiodarone and lidocaine. The patient received steroids, sacubitril/valsartan, and methotrexate. After 48 hours of observation, the patient was discharged without further events. Conclusion: Cardiac sarcoidosis is a rare but serious disease that can lead to life-threatening cardiac complications such as ventricular tachycardia. Early diagnosis and aggressive management are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing sudden cardiac death. AICD implantation as a secondary prevention in cardiac sarcoidosis might prevent cardiac arrest." LEARNING POINTS: Cardiac sarcoidosis can present with non-specific symptoms and lead to life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia, emphasising the importance of early diagnosis and aggressive management to prevent sudden cardiac death.A multidisciplinary approach involving imaging modalities such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, along with histological findings, is crucial for accurately diagnosing cardiac sarcoidosis, as endomyocardial biopsy alone has low sensitivity.Implantation of an automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (AICD) as a secondary prevention measure should be considered in cardiac sarcoidosis patients, even in elderly individuals with mildly to moderately reduced ejection fraction, to prevent fatal arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.

The Concomitant Occurrence of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Fournier's Gangrene.

Background: Fournier's gangrene represents a life-threatening necrotising infection affecting the perineal region, while hidradenitis suppurativa is characterised by a chronic inflammatory skin condition. The simultaneous occurrence of both conditions is exceedingly rare. Case description: A 42-year-old female with a documented history of severe untreated hidradenitis suppurativa presented for shortness of breath, fever and lethargy, along with extensive wounds and skin breakdown involving the left axilla, perineum, lower back, lumbosacral region and bilateral gluteal areas, extending to the perineum. Upon presentation, the patient was in a state of septic shock, and a diagnosis of actively manifesting Fournier's gangrene was established at the site of the pre-existing hidradenitis suppurativa lesions. Despite the implementation of an aggressive multidisciplinary approach incorporating surgical interventions, antibiotic therapy and intensive care measures, the patient's condition deteriorated, culminating in septic shock, multi-organ failure and eventual demise. In this report, we discuss both clinical entities, their similarities and differences, and the possible mechanisms by which they may have co-occurred. Conclusion: The co-existence of hidradenitis suppurativa and Fournier's gangrene poses unique challenges, given the rapid progression of Fournier's gangrene within the context of hidradenitis suppurativa, potentially suggesting the latter as a predisposing factor. This case underscores the importance of vigilant screening and management of hidradenitis suppurativa. LEARNING POINTS: Clinicians should be aware of the potential association between hidradenitis suppurativa and Fournier's gangrene, especially in patients with shared risk factors.Both conditions present diagnostic and treatment challenges, emphasising the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis and a tailored selection of antibiotics.Proactive and continuous care is crucial in managing chronic diseases such as hidradenitis suppurativa to prevent severe complications, for example Fournier's gangrene.

Ketamine Induced Acute Systolic Heart Failure.

Background: Studies have shown major cardiovascular effects associated with ketamine use disorder including dose-dependent negative inotropic effects. Preoperative ketamine use has been linked to ketamine-induced stress cardiomyopathy. Case presentation: A 28-year-old female with a history of recurrent cystitis and ketamine use disorder (twice weekly for 14 years) presented with bilateral lower extremity oedema and shortness of breath for 3 months. She was tachycardic with a troponin level of 0.07 ng/ml and a B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level of 2511 pg/ml. Electrocardiogram showed normal sinus rhythm and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) showed left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) of 15%, dilated left ventricle, and severe tricuspid and mitral regurgitation. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest and abdomen showed bilateral pleural effusions with congestive hepatopathy and ascites. The patient was started on intravenous furosemide, metoprolol, and sacubitril/valsartan. Rheumatological workup including complement levels, and antinuclear anti-double-stranded DNA was negative. A repeat TTE 2 weeks later revealed an EF of 25% and moderate tricuspid regurgitation. Four months later, the EF was 54% with normal left ventricular cavity size. Conclusion: Although ketamine use disorder is increasing, data on long-term side effects is minimal. Screening for ketamine use disorders should be considered in patients presenting with acute systolic heart failure. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the benefits of adding ketamine screening to standard urine toxicology. LEARNING POINTS: Ketamine use disorder can lead to severe cardiovascular complications, including acute systolic heart failure, likely due to its direct negative inotropic effects and dose-dependent impact on cardiac function.Clinicians should consider screening for ketamine use disorder in young adults presenting with acute systolic heart failure, especially when other common aetiologies have been ruled out.Early recognition and prompt treatment of ketamine-induced heart failure with diuretics and guideline-directed medical therapy can lead to significant improvement in cardiac function, but long-term management should also focus on ensuring cessation of ketamine use disorder.

Failure of the PD-1 Blocking Agent Pembrolizumab to Benefit a Patient with Renal Squamous Cell Cancer.

Introduction: Renal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a neoplasm with an extremely rare occurrence compared to other renal malignancies. The classic presentation includes a palpable mass and flank pain; however, the presentation is seldom non-specific. Our study describes the significance of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression in renal cancer and its association with clinical outcomes, alongside available treatment options. Case description: An 80-year-old female with a history of hypertension and cerebral aneurysm presented with right flank pain and blood in urine and was diagnosed with pyelonephritis and left renal mass/phlegmon. A biopsy revealed SCC of the kidney with metastasis to the lung and aortocaval lymph node. Positron emission tomography (PET) scan confirmed malignancy in the kidney and lung. Treatment with pemrolizumab and carboplatin plus paclitaxel was initiated but poorly tolerated as the haemoglobin dropped rapidly. Conclusion: SCC poses a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity and non-specific symptoms, often leading to advanced stage diagnosis. PD-L1 expression is pivotal in assessing tumour aggressiveness and prognosis. PD-L1 inhibitors offer promise, but their efficacy in renal SCC warrants further investigation. Radical nephrectomy and systemic chemotherapy show potential in advanced cases, necessitating vigilant management of treatment-related side effects. This case emphasises the need for ongoing research to refine therapeutic approaches and enhance outcomes in renal SCC patients. LEARNING POINTS: PD-L1 expression is pivotal in assessing tumour aggressiveness and prognosis of renal cell carcinoma.PD-L1 inhibitors hold promise as a therapeutic intervention in renal squamous cancer.Radical nephrectomy and systemic chemotherapy show potential in managing advanced renal cancer.

Metastatic Fibrosarcomatous Transformation of Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans With Lung Metastasis: A Case Report.

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a low- to intermediate-grade dermal soft tissue malignant tumor (sarcoma) with a high local recurrence rate but low metastatic potential. DFSP is characterized by uniform spindle cell fascicles arranged classically in a storiform pattern and by CD34 immunoreactivity. On gross examination, DFSP usually manifests as a white or yellow soft tissue mass with a smooth outer surface and poor circumscription. In this study, we report a case of DFSP with fibrosarcomatous transformation, a rare but well-known phenomenon encountered in DFSP that is correlated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes in patients with DFSP. A 45-year-old male presented with a progressively enlarging lump on his left shoulder, initially suspected of being a lipoma but diagnosed as a fibrosarcomatous transformation of DFSP. Surgical resection was performed, with the subsequent identification of metastatic sarcoma in pulmonary nodules. Robotic-assisted thoracoscopy excised the nodules, confirming metastatic sarcoma with aggressive behavior. Despite negative adjuvant treatment plans, the patient remains under surveillance with imaging, showing no recurrence in recent scans. Continued follow-up with medical and surgical oncology is planned. DFSP is a rare soft tissue sarcoma characterized by indolent growth and low metastatic potential, except in fibrosarcomatous transformation cases. Molecularly, DFSP is defined by a COL1A1-PDGFB fusion transcript that is targetable with imatinib therapy. Treatment involves wide surgical resection, with adjuvant radiation therapy in select cases. Radiation therapy may be employed in cases with close or positive margins, while conventional chemotherapy has limited utility. Multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for optimal management. Overall, this case underscores the challenges in diagnosing and managing aggressive sarcomas like fibrosarcomatous DFSP, emphasizing the importance of vigilant surveillance and multidisciplinary collaboration in optimizing patient outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying fibrosarcomatous transformation and to explore novel therapeutic avenues for this challenging malignancy.

Beyond Midostaurin: Role of Avapritinib in Managing Systemic Mastocytosis.

We present a case of an adult male who presented with pancytopenia accompanied by symptomatic anemia, necessitating chronic transfusions. He was diagnosed with systemic mastocytosis with an associated hematologic neoplasm. Following an inadequate response to midostaurin therapy, the patient was initiated on the newly approved avapritinib. The patient showed significant improvements in all three blood cell lines; however, he developed leg edema, blepharedema, and gum bleeding on this medication. This case underscores the intricacies of managing a patient with advanced systemic mastocytosis, the emerging role of highly selective KIT inhibition in its treatment, and the practical management of adverse medication effects.

Aplastic Anaemia Associated with Bendamustine Therapy - A Rare Side Effect.

Introduction: During treatment for malignant lymphoma, cytopenia can develop for several reasons. This can range from mild cytopenias leading to infection and bleeding to full-blown drug-induced aplastic anaemia. While aplastic anaemia affects individuals of all genders and ages, here, we describe aplastic anaemia after chemotherapy exposure to bendamustine in a 65-year-old female with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Case description: A 65-year-old woman with recurrent indolent marginal zone lymphoma and post-chemotherapy with bendamustine and rituximab, presented with a neutropenic fever and was admitted with a leading diagnosis of sepsis. In the previous two weeks, the patient required regular transfusions of packed red blood cells and platelets and maintained a daily ZARXIO® regimen. Laboratory results revealed pancytopenia, and broad-spectrum antibiotics (cefepime/vancomycin) were given. The patient was subsequently admitted to the hospital under the care of the haematology/oncology team and was ultimately diagnosed with aplastic anaemia, likely as a consequence of bendamustine chemoimmunotherapy. She elicited a positive response to the triple immunosuppressive therapy (IST) regimen (two immunotherapeutic agents plus one anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG), after which her cell counts returned to normal. Conclusions: This case underscores the importance of recognising haematologic complications linked to bendamustine and advocates for further research to increase the understanding among healthcare professionals of drug-induced aplastic anaemia. Bendamustine can cause severe autoimmune haemolytic anaemia and aplastic anaemia and may require multiple transfusions and a multidrug regimen for treatment. The use of ATG as a therapeutic intervention is appropriate because it has been effective in treating aplastic anaemia. LEARNING POINTS: Bendamustine can cause severe autoimmune haemolytic anaemia and aplastic anaemia, a side effect which has rarely been reported but is of significant clinical importance.Drug-induced aplastic anaemia is a complex, potentially devastating consequence of treating blood cancers and is a relatively unexplored area that requires further understanding.Anti-thymocyte globulin is effective in treating bendamustine-induced aplastic anaemia as it degrades lymphocytes that destroy the bone marrow.

Unveiling the Hidden Stroke Threat in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and Primary Hyperparathyroidism.

Recent American College of Cardiology (ACC), American Heart Association (AHA), American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP), and Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) guidelines suggest that patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) at intermediate to low annual risk of ischemic stroke can benefit from consideration of factors that might modify their risk of stroke. The role of nontraditional risk factors, such as primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), remains unexplored. In our study, we investigated the potential association between PHPT and the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with AF. Using data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database, a retrospective cohort study focused on the adult population with AF, we stratified the participants based on PHPT presence. Demographic information, co-morbidities, and hospitalization details were extracted using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth revision codes. Propensity score matching was applied, encompassing over 20 confounding variables, including the risk factors outlined in the CHA2DS2-VASc (Congestive heart failure (C), Hypertension (H), Age ≥75 years (A2), Diabetes Mellitus (D), Stroke/Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)/Thromboembolism (S2), Vascular disease (V), Age 65-74 years (A), Sex category [female] (Sc)) score. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed after matching to assess the independent impact of PHPT as an ischemic stroke risk factor. A total of 2,051 of the identified 395,249 patients with AF had PHPT. The PHPT group had an average age of 74 years and consisted of more women (66.1% vs 53.0%). After matching, it was observed that the PHPT group had longer hospital stays (5 vs 4 days) and higher hospitalization charges ($45,126 vs $36,644). This group exhibited higher rates of ischemic stroke (6.0% vs 4.4%) and mortality (6.3% vs 4.9%). The adjusted outcomes showed a 1.4-fold increased risk for ischemic stroke and a 1.32-fold increased risk for mortality in the PHPT cohort. The subgroup analysis showed a higher incidence of mortality in men with a high CHA2DS2-VASc score. In conclusion, this study highlights a marked association between PHPT and ischemic stroke in patients with AF, independent of the conventional CHA2DS2-VASc score. The potential mechanisms implicated include vascular changes, cardiac dysfunction, and coagulation cascade alterations. The presence of PHPT should be taken into consideration when deciding the assessment of thromboembolic risk.

Hantavirus-Induced Cardiac Tamponade: A Diagnostic Dilemma.

Herein we describe a case of a 60-year-old white male from New York City who was admitted to hospital due to worsening dyspnea. He presented with an acute onset of fever, night sweats, and progressively worsening non-productive cough and orthopnea over the preceding week. Electrocardiogram findings revealed atrial fibrillation. Manifesting signs of hypoperfusion, a trans-esophageal echocardiography was performed, which demonstrated the presence of a cardiac tamponade. An emergency pericardiocentesis was performed, draining 750 cc of serosanguinous content. Laboratory investigations depicted an inflammatory milieu marked by lymphocytic leukocytosis, cardiac function impairment, and remarkably elevated d-dimer and brain natriuretic peptide levels. Notably, high-sensitivity troponin T remained within normal limits. Comprehensive viral panel assays, including COVID-19, Influenza A+B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Hepatitis C, HIV, Cytomegalovirus, Coxsackie A+B, and Herpes Simplex Virus, returned negative results. Furthermore, anti-nuclear factor and rheumatoid factor titers were negative. Blood and fungal cultures, as well as assessments for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, yielded negative findings. On further history-taking, he reported that he had occupational exposure to rat droppings and urine two weeks ago. Serological analysis demonstrated positive hantavirus IgG and IgM antibodies. Supportive management was initiated. Consequently, the patient was discharged asymptomatic, without pericardial effusion. Evaluation after two weeks revealed no recurrence of symptoms.

Acute cardiovascular complications of disseminated intravascular coagulation in acute myeloid leukemia.

BACKGROUND: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a common complication of all leukemia subtypes, but it is an especially prominent feature of Acute Myeloid Leukemias (AML). DIC complicating AML can lead to a variety of complications, however, its association with acute cardiovascular complications has not been reported before. METHODS: National Inpatient Sample Database was used to procure individuals with AML, and baseline demographics and comorbidities were collected using ICD-10-DM codes. Patients were stratified into those with and without DIC. Greedy propensity matching using R was performed to match the two cohorts in 1:1 ratio on age, gender, and fifteen other baseline comorbidities. Univariate analysis pre and post-match along with binary logistic regression analysis post-match were used to analyze outcomes. RESULTS: Out of a total of 37,344 patients with AML, 996 had DIC. DIC patients were younger, predominantly males, and had lower prevalence of baseline cardiovascular comorbidities. DIC patients had statistically significant higher mortality (30.2 % vs 7.8 %), acute myocardial infarction (5.1 % vs 1.8 %), acute pulmonary edema (2.3 % vs 0.7 %), cardiac arrest (6.4 % vs 0.9 %), and acute DVT/PE (6.6 % vs 2.7 %). Logistic regression model after matching showed similar outcomes along with significantly higher rates of acute heart failure in DIC patients. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the importance of close cardiovascular monitoring and prompt recognition of complications in AML patients with DIC. The underlying mechanisms involve a complex interplay of procoagulant factors, cytokine release, and endothelial dysfunction. Further studies are needed to develop targeted interventions for prevention and management of these complications.

Outpatient insulin use in type 2 diabetes mellitus and acute respiratory distress syndrome outcomes: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is debatable. T2DM was suspected to reduce the risk and complications of ARDS. However, during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), T2DM predisposed patients to ARDS, especially those who were on insulin at home. AIM: To evaluate the impact of outpatient insulin use in T2DM patients on non-COVID-19 ARDS outcomes. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. Adult patients diagnosed with ARDS were stratified into insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (DM) (IDDM) and non-insulin-dependent DM (NIDDM) groups. After applying exclusion criteria and matching over 20 variables, we compared cohorts for mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI), length of stay (LOS), hospitalization costs, and other clinical outcomes. RESULTS: Following 1:1 propensity score matching, the analysis included 274 patients in each group. Notably, no statistically significant differences emerged between the IDDM and NIDDM groups in terms of mortality rates (32.8% vs 31.0%, P = 0.520), median hospital LOS (10 d, P = 0.537), requirement for mechanical ventilation, incidence rates of sepsis, pneumonia or AKI, median total hospitalization costs, or patient disposition upon discharge. CONCLUSION: Compared to alternative anti-diabetic medications, outpatient insulin treatment does not appear to exert an independent influence on in-hospital morbidity or mortality in diabetic patients with non-COVID-19 ARDS.