RESUMEN
Kounis syndrome (KS) is commonly defined as acute myocardial infarction (AMI) secondary to exposure to an allergen. There are multiple identified allergens that are associated with KS, examples include medications, food, and contrast media. After exposure to an allergen, the allergic pathway is triggered leading to vasospasm in coronary vessels which later on presents as AMI. A high index of clinical suspicion is of crucial importance as there are multiple variants of KS. Each type requires a different management approach depending on the severity of the presenting symptoms. Here, we present a case of a 65-year-old female with a history of transient ischemic attack (TIA) who presented to our hospital with symptoms of urinary tract infection and received the first dose of ceftriaxone while in the ER. She then developed symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, and diaphoresis associated with overall skin itchiness with ECG evidence of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the inferior leads. She was given initial measures to treat possible allergic reactions including steroids and diphenhydramine and her ECG showed complete resolution after that; therefore, she was presumed to have KS after exposure to antibiotics. In this case report, we elaborate more about our case and further explore management options for KS.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Wearing identification badges is mandatory in many hospitals. Identification badges worn by healthcare workers may be contaminated with pathogens. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine the levels and types of contamination on identification badges of healthcare workers at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study of 200 healthcare workers at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A data collection form was handed to all the participants and swab cultures of their identification badges were taken. RESULTS: A total of 200 identification badges were sampled in this study. 37% were contaminated with pathogens. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was isolated from 70 badges (35%), and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus from four badges (2%). Contamination was highest in physicians (45% compared to 14-32% in other healthcare workers). Males and females had similar contamination rates (39 and 36%, respectively). CONCLUSION: Identification badges worn by healthcare workers may be vectors of significant infection. We suggest more compliance of infection control measures in regards to disinfecting badges or personal belongings of healthcare workers.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurologic disorders, leading to progressive disability that can be slowed but not stopped by treatment. It is characterized by tremors, slow movements, stiffness in arms and legs, and balance impairment. Despite advancement in treatment, diagnosis, and care of PD patients, lack of adequate knowledge and associated beliefs among the community might have a key role in limiting access to proper treatment and care. OBJECTIVES: To identify the level of awareness of our population regarding PD in terms of causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on Saudis, who have active Twitter accounts. Data were collected through a previously validated questionnaire, which tests recognition of PD symptoms and general knowledge regarding PD. The questionnaire was translated into Arabic. Part 1 of the questionnaire is the demographic data collection sheet, Part 2 of the questionnaire tests recognition of PD symptoms, and Part 3 of the questionnaire tests general knowledge regarding PD. RESULTS: The questionnaire was administered to 3,050 members of the public, of which 2,609 questionnaires (86.20%) were included in the analysis. The tremor was the most widely recognized symptom (86.10%), and weight loss was the most recognized non-motor symptom (24%). Most respondents (56%) were able to identify imbalance as a symptom of PD, whereas only 4.10% of them were able to identify the reduced sense of smell as a symptom of PD. Motor symptoms were significantly better recognized (range 31.30%-86.10%) than non-motor symptoms (range 4.10%-24%). CONCLUSION: Educational campaigns may be appropriate to improve public awareness of PD and individual knowledge about PD symptoms and treatment.