Unusual Anatomic Variant of the Biliary Tree.

Accurate identification of anatomical variations in the biliary tree is crucial in hepatobiliary surgeries, including the widely performed laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Coexisting anomalies, though rare, present challenges for surgeons. This case study follows a 43-year-old female post-sleeve gastrectomy, diagnosed with mild gallstone pancreatitis and choledocholithiasis, who underwent early cholecystectomy. Intraoperatively, a 3 mm aberrant right hepatic duct and three 1 mm subvesicular ducts were identified. Recognizing these variants is pivotal for surgical success. Utilizing preoperative imaging, intraoperative vigilance, and advanced techniques like cholangiography are essential in preventing complications. Continuous education and collaborative experiences among surgical teams are integral in enhancing patient safety in these complex procedures.

Coexistence of Acute Appendicitis and Sigmoid Diverticulitis.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in acute diverticulitis cases, attributed to modern lifestyles and improved diagnostic techniques. We present a rare case of concurrent acute appendicitis and diverticulitis in a 35-year-old male who came to the emergency department with abdominal pain. While appendicitis typically requires surgery, diverticulitis is often managed conservatively. Computed tomography is key in diagnosis and decision-making. Despite their differing treatments, cases like this challenge the perception of their rarity. This case prompts consideration of multifocal abdominal pathology. Recognizing concurrent appendicitis and diverticulitis is crucial for guiding appropriate diagnostic and treatment strategies, potentially including non-operative management in select cases.

Video-Assisted Endoscopic Inguinal Lymph Node Dissection for Acral Melanoma.

This article discusses acral melanoma, a rare subtype of melanoma often presented at the later stages of the disease and is, thus, associated with poor survival rates, especially in patients with a lower socioeconomic status. Surgical resection is the primary treatment option for localized acral melanoma, while amputation is often necessary for tumors on the digits or the midfoot. Lymphadenectomy may be necessary for patients with regional lymph node involvement; however, the therapeutic role of dissection remains controversial. Here, we present the case of a 68-year-old man with acral melanoma who underwent a Lisfranc amputation and endoscopic groin lymph node dissection for ganglionic metastasis. In Ecuador, this is the first reported case of endoscopic groin lymphadenectomy for regional lymph node metastasis secondary to acral melanoma. The discussion explores the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy and the completion of lymph node dissection in managing regional lymph nodes in melanoma patients. This case study aims to contribute to the growing knowledge on acral melanoma, assess the need for better patient care, and analyze the role of minimally invasive techniques for inguinal lymph node dissections.

Intestinal Nonrotation and Cecal Volvulus: A Unique Combination of Rare Pathologies.

Intestinal nonrotation and cecal volvulus are rare clinical entities, and their coexistence is exceptionally uncommon. We present a case of a 41-year-old male patient with symptomatic intestinal nonrotation and associated cecal volvulus. Diagnostic imaging played a crucial role in recognizing the conditions and guiding surgical intervention. The patient underwent laparotomy and right hemicolectomy with a favorable postoperative course. This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing and managing these rare conditions. Further studies are needed to optimize the management strategies for this unique combination of pathologies.

Collision Tumor of the Appendix.

This report discusses the case of a 20-year-old female patient who presented with acute abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Initial laboratory analyses suggested an inflammatory process, but imaging studies failed to reveal pathologies. The patient underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy, which showed a thickened and multicystic appendix with signs of acute inflammation. Pathology indicated a positive cytology for malignancy, with a grade 1 mixed well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (NET) and high-grade mucinous neoplasm identified in the middle and distal thirds of the appendix. Finding both tumors in the same patient is extremely rare and has been reported in a few cases. The case emphasizes the importance of considering appendiceal tumors in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain, even in young patients, and highlights the value of laparoscopy in their diagnosis. The early detection and appropriate management of appendiceal tumors are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Perforated Meckel's Diverticulum Caused by a Toothpick: A Case Report and Review of Literature.

Although Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, it is rare in the general adult population. When it does become symptomatic, it is usually due to complications such as perforation. We report the case of a 38-year-old man who presented with acute abdominal pain in the right iliac fossa, fever, and tachycardia. Complementary exams at the emergency department showed leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein. Acute appendicitis was suspected, so he was taken to the operating room for a diagnostic laparoscopy. During surgical exploration, a perforated Meckel's diverticulum caused by a toothpick was found. Surgery was converted to laparotomy with resection of the small bowel segment containing the diverticulum, followed by a primary anastomosis. The postoperative period was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on day seven. No abnormalities were reported in the histopathology study. In this report, we review and discuss similar cases found in the literature, all of them male with acute abdomen and suspicion of appendicitis. We aim to remark on the importance of keeping in the differential of such patients a perforated Meckel's diverticulum.

Synchronous Acute Appendicitis and Acute Cholecystitis.

The occurrence of synchronous acute cholecystitis and appendicitis is rare. There are few cases reported and small series in the literature. We report the case of a 77-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with right-sided abdominal pain. He was diagnosed preoperatively with acute calculous cholecystitis. During the initial laparoscopy, a complicated appendiceal phlegmon was found and was treated with a one-step laparoscopic approach and subsequent antibiotics. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged on postoperative day (POD) 2. The pathology report confirmed both diagnoses and an incidental low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm. Although uncommon, it is important to be aware of the possibility of both simultaneous pathologies in a patient who presents to the emergency department with abdominal pain.

Jejunal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Diagnostic Challenge.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are a common type of soft tissue sarcoma that originates from the interstitial cells of Cajal in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. These tumors usually affect people above 50 years of age and can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms can be vague and nonspecific, with some patients remaining asymptomatic. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial because GISTs can be aggressive and may metastasize. We present a case of a 74-year-old man who presented to our hospital with GI bleeding and anemia. Despite initial investigations, the source of bleeding was not identified until capsule endoscopy and then balloon enteroscopy revealed an ulcerated mass in the jejunum. The tumor was successfully removed using a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach, and the histopathologic report confirmed the diagnosis of GIST. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course. This case highlights the importance of considering GISTs in the differential diagnosis of obscure GI bleeding. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to ensure the best outcomes for these patients. Additionally, the use of minimally invasive surgery should be considered whenever possible to minimize postoperative complications and promote faster recovery.

Miltefosine: A Miracle Drug for Meningoencephalitis Caused by Free-Living Amoebas.

Meningoencephalitis caused by free-living amoebas (FLA) has a high mortality rate, and most treatments are ineffective. FLA includes Naegleria, Fowleri, Acanthamoeba, and Balamuthia mandrillaris (M). We explore the use of miltefosine in the treatment of one of these infections. The concerning mortality of the infection obligates us to look for more effective treatments for meningoencephalitis caused by FLA. During this review, we will consolidate the knowledge of using miltefosine in these three infections. We will investigate the mechanism by which the drug is effective in these infections as well. After this comprehensive review, we should assess if miltefosine improves the mortality and prognosis of the infection with the information collected. We used a Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) search on PubMed. Inclusion criteria included papers written in the English language and human subjects research for the past 25 years. Until today, there are no definitive guidelines to be followed when treating such patients. However, miltefosine has demonstrated promising results. Miltefosine decreases the usual mortality rate in the three infections; however, there are few reports due to the low frequency of these infections. Almost all cases we documented have survived. More information needs to be gathered for the use of miltefosine for these infections.

Neurological Manifestations of Wilson's Disease: Pathophysiology and Localization of Each Component.

Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disease that presents mainly with hepatic, neurological, and psychiatric manifestations. Neurological manifestations have been described in the past. Nevertheless, the pathophysiology and the clinical relevance of these manifestations have not been described in great detail in the medical literature. We aim to consolidate the knowledge about the neurological manifestations of WD and present the pathophysiology of each neurological manifestation of the disease. We will give a brief definition, the provenance, and the pathophysiology of the neurological conditions. We collected data from the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) using regular keywords and medical subject headings. Studies were selected applying the following inclusion/exclusion criteria: (1) studies that used exclusively human subjects, (2) papers published in English, and (3) papers from 1990 onward. The exclusion criteria were (1) studies that used animals, (2) papers not published in English, and (3) papers published before 1990. Additional studies were included via reference lists of identified papers and related articles featured in PubMed and Google Scholar. Copper toxicity is the principal factor for brain degeneration seen in WD. Parkinsonism seen in WD has been associated with a nigrostriatal dopaminergic deficit. Resting tremor may have the same pathophysiology as parkinsonism. Action tremor is related to an accumulation of copper in the cerebellum's vermis and hemispheres. At the same time, essential tremor can be explained due to affection of the dentate nucleus. Choreoathetosis is produced due to increased activity of the direct pathway. We did not find specifically associated pathophysiology related to dysarthria. We assume that multiple parts of the brain are involved in that problem. Putamen nucleus damage is the leading cause that explains dystonia seen in WD along with the globus palidus. We did not find a specific localization for seizures in WD, but the pathology seems to be related to decreased levels of B6 and direct toxicity of copper on the brain.

Babesiosis: Appreciating the Pathophysiology and Diverse Sequela of the Infection.

Babesiosis is a blood-borne disease found mainly in the United States caused by a parasitic piroplasm. While most infections are mild to moderate in immunocompetent hosts, life-threatening complications can occur in those with significant comorbidities like congestive heart failure (CHF) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There is sparse literature discussing the complications of Babesia microti infection or the pathophysiology and management thereof. A literature review was conducted to consolidate the current knowledge about the disease, pathophysiology, and proposed management of all potential complications based on risk factors and other clinical information. A MeSH cross-references strategy was employed in PubMed using the search terms "babesia" and "babesiosis" and the established associated conditions, and the search expanded to increase capture. Only papers written in the English language and discussing human subjects in the North American patient population were included. The initial search yielded 315 papers and, after applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, a final number of 18 was reviewed. The various complications and pathophysiology thereof are then discussed according to organ system. Babesia is a subversive parasite associated with a variety of conditions. We hope a better appreciation of all potential presentations and complications will help clinicians manage this increasingly common zoonosis and reduce adverse effects. More research is recommended into the pathophysiology and prevention of complications following this and other tick-borne illnesses.

Minocycline and Magnesium As Neuroprotective Agents for Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review.

Stroke is a leading cause of death, disability, and dementia worldwide. Strokes can be divided into ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes. At the moment, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is the only FDA-approved drug for ischemic stroke. Minocycline (MC) and Magnesium (Mg) are promising therapies for ischemic stroke, especially in the pre-hospital setting. These drugs are readily available, inexpensive, and generally safe. We decided to investigate these drugs' neuroprotective effects in treating ischemic stroke in the acute and chronic setting. We conducted a systematic review of the published literature on MC and Mg's functional outcome in ischemic stroke. This paper's methodology included only clinical trials published in the last 15 years, using PubMed as a database. The systematic review demonstrated that MC infusion in the pre-hospital and hospital setting improved functional outcomes and disability scores. Furthermore, MC also decreased matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) levels. MC might have a more significant effect on men than women because different molecular pathways of cerebral ischemia seem to be involved between both genders. The systematic review showed that patients with ischemic stroke did not benefit from magnesium sulfate infusion in the pre-hospital and hospital setting. Nevertheless, patients with lacunar strokes and patients who supplemented their meals with potassium-magnesium salt in the diet had better functional outcomes. Future studies would need a more significant sample of participants and a better selection to increase the study's power and avoid selection bias, respectively. Further publications could benefit from subcategorizing strokes and investigating the gender role in stroke treatment. These directives could give a more robust conclusion regarding the neuroprotective effects of these drugs.

Stiff-Person Syndrome: A Treatment Update and New Directions.

Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is a rare and disabling central nervous system disorder with no satisfactory treatment. Muscle rigidity, sporadic muscle spasms, and chronic muscle pain characterize SPS. SPS is strongly correlated with autoimmune diseases, and it is usual to find high titers of antibodies against acid decarboxylase (GAD65). Due to its highly disabling nature and complicated treatment, we aim to create a treatment protocol through a narrative review of currently available treatments that show efficacy. We expect to facilitate management based on treatment responses ranging from first-line medication to refractory medication. We conducted a medical subject heading (MeSH) strategy. We used the term SPS with the subheading treatment: "Stiff-Person Syndrome/Therapy" [MeSH]. An initial data gathering of 270 papers came out with the initial research. After using the inclusion criteria, we had 159 articles. We excluded 31 papers for being either systematic reviews, literature reviews, or meta-analysis. From the 128 remaining articles, we excluded another 104 papers because the extraction of the data was not possible or the study outcome did not meet our demands. There are two main treatments for SPS: GABAergic (gamma-aminobutyric acid) therapy and immunotherapy. For treatment, we suggest starting with benzodiazepines as first-line treatment. We recommend adding levetiracetam or pregabalin if symptoms persist. As second-line therapy, we recommend oral baclofen over rituximab and tacrolimus. We also suggest rituximab over tacrolimus. For patients with refractory treatment, we can use intrathecal baclofen, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), or plasmapheresis. We conclude that intrathecal baclofen and IVIG are more effective than plasmapheresis in patients with refractory symptoms. Propofol may be used as a bridge - temporary therapy before initiating a permanent treatment.