Outcomes, Symptomatology, and Mortality of Children Presenting With Bacterial Meningitis at Allied Hospitals of Rawalpindi Medical University, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Bacterial meningitis (BM) is a neurologic emergency mainly affecting children under the age of two. Clinical symptoms are rarely evident in children, thus making a diagnosis is a challenge. Antibiotic therapy should be started timely to ensure the avoidance of significant morbidity and mortality. This study aims to assess the outcomes, mortality, and symptomatology of children presenting with BM in allied hospitals of Rawalpindi Medical University, Pakistan. Methods It is a cross-sectional study employing a sample size of 201, conducted at the Allied Hospitals of Rawalpindi Medical University, Pakistan from a period of January 2023 to August 2023. Non-probability convenience sampling was used. Children aged between newborns and 14 years of age with a confirmed diagnosis of bacterial meningitis were included in this study. The study population was divided into five different age groups. Three different outcomes were studied including complete recovery, development of complications, and death. Data was entered into and analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Descriptive statistics were applied to the demographic data. The chi-square analytical test was applied to study the association between the categorical variables. Results One hundred nineteen (59.2%) of the study's population were males. One hundred twenty-six (62.7%) of the patients were born through a spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD). The majority (54%) of the study population were infants. Twenty-three percent were newborns, 13% were toddlers, 6% were preschool children, and 4% were school-age children. The majority (85%) of the study participants belonged to lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Ninety percent of the cases had symptoms of fever, seizures, and poor feeding. Neck stiffness was significantly associated with death as an outcome (p-value=0.01). The overall mortality amongst the study population was 20%. Forty-nine percent of the study population recovered completely, whereas 31% had complications following the diagnosis. Neonates had a higher mortality rate than infants (45% vs 9% respectively). Conclusion The most common presenting symptoms were fever, vomiting, seizures, and neck stiffness. Poor feeding was also seen in most cases. The rate of complications and death is observed to be relatively higher following the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis as compared to rates in the surrounding and developed countries. Out of all signs and symptoms, the presence of neck stiffness was significantly associated with death as an outcome among children with bacterial meningitis.

Improving the Quality and Completeness of Discharge Summaries at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan: A Quality Improvement Project.

Introduction Discharge summaries (DS) allow continued patient care after being discharged from the hospital. Only a few quality improvement projects (QIPs) focused on assessing and improving the quality and completeness of DS at tertiary care hospitals have been undertaken in Pakistan. This QIP aimed to evaluate and enhance the quality and completeness of DS at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan to facilitate seamless healthcare transitions. Methods A QIP was conducted in the medical unit of a tertiary care hospital in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The DS were assessed using the e-discharge summary self-assessment checklist devised by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP). This QIP was done by the plan, do, study, act (PDSA) cycle. The PDSA cycle comprised two audit cycles and an intervention in between them. The first audit cycle (AC) was conducted on 150 DS. Its duration was from March 2023 to June 2023. An educational workshop was conducted before the re-audit cycle (RAC) to address deficiencies and reinforce the implementation of the guidelines provided by the RCP. The RAC was conducted from June 2023 to August 2023. 100 DS were studied and analyzed to assess for improvement in the completeness of DS. Frequencies and percentages were calculated in each audit cycle. The Chi-squared test was applied to compare the statistical difference between the results of both audit cycles. Results A total of 150 DS were analyzed in the first AC and 100 DS in the RAC. The results of the first AC show that the details of any allergies were recorded only in 3% of the DS; this percentage significantly improved to 51% after the RAC (p-value <0.05). Relevant past medical history was included in 52% and 88% of the DS during the first AC and RAC, respectively (p-value <0.05). Secondary diagnoses were written in 54% and 71% of the DS during the first AC and RAC, respectively (p-value <0.05). Details of relevant investigations were included in 60% and 88% of the DS during the first AC and RAC, respectively (p-value <0.05). The post-discharge management plan was written in 90% and 98% of the DS during the first AC and RAC, respectively (p-value <0.05). The follow-up plan was written clearly in 65% and 93% of the DS during the first AC and RAC, respectively (p-value <0.05).  Conclusion The DS was found to be incomplete after analyzing the results of the first AC. The details related to allergies, medications, operations, and procedures were found to be missing in the majority of the cases. No mention of the patient's concerns or expectations was made in the DS. The results of the RAC showed improvement in the level of completeness of DS. The majority of the weak points observed after the first AC seemed to have improved after the RAC, which shows that intervention proved to be quite effective in improving the completeness and quality of DS. The RAC showed significant improvement in the completeness of the details relating to investigations, allergies, past medical history, secondary diagnoses, and the post-discharge follow-up plan. QIP must be routinely carried out to assess and improve the completeness and quality of DS at hospitals.

Efficacy and Safety Profile of Ticagrelor Versus Clopidogrel in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) for Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The utilization of individualized anti-platelet therapy is of paramount significance in this era of cardiovascular advancement. This meta-analysis is also aiming to get more information relating to the effectiveness of ticagrelor versus clopidogrel among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). A comprehensive literature search was done through various databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Database Library from January 15, 2023, to February 23, 2023. After careful screening, eight articles with highly significant variables were involved in the synthesis of this meta-analysis. Data analysis was done through Review Manager (RevMan, Version 5.4; The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark). In our study, ticagrelor and clopidogrel were evaluated in 10614 and 14662 patients, respectively. Ticagrelor was significantly superior to Clopidogrel in terms of all-cause mortality (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.69-0.91, p = 0.001), risk of MI (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.61-0.89, p = 0.001), and stroke (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.42-0.98, p = 0.04), but a higher risk of bleeding events was observed with Ticagrelor (RR 1.36, 95% CI 1.04-1.79, p = 0.03). The two regimens were comparable in terms of stent thrombosis. Ticagrelor was found to be best in terms of reducing post-PCI myocardial infarction, stroke, stent thrombosis, and all other mortality events in comparison to Clopidogrel. However, the bleeding events were of significant concern for the utilization of ticagrelor and required further investigations.

Comparison of Pedicle Coagulation Hemorrhoidectomy With LigaSure Versus Conventional Milligan Morgan Hemorrhoidectomy in Reducing Post-operative Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background Hemorrhoids refer to the abnormal enlargement of the anal cushions. They are a common anorectal problem with a prevalence of 5% in the general population aged greater than 40 years. The objective of this study was to compare Milligan-Morgan open hemorrhoidectomy with pedicle ligation with LigaSure (Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) in terms of postoperative pain on day 1 and day 7. It is important to assess the technique that is associated with lower postoperative pain because both of these techniques are still practiced in the developing world. Methods It was a randomized controlled trial conducted in the Department of Surgery, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. A total of 100 patients were selected and were allotted into the two groups by lottery method. Patients aged from 15 to 60 years who presented with symptomatic third and fourth-degree hemorrhoids were included after taking informed consent. Patients who had a previous or concomitant anorectal disease, patients who had undergone previous surgery for hemorrhoids, and those who were anesthetically unfit for surgery (American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class 3 or above) were excluded from the study. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue scale (VAS). Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS v. 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, USA). Chi-square tests were applied. P-value <0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results Out of 100 patients, 68 (68%) were males while 32 (32%) were females. The mean age was 40.56±9.24 years. Postoperative pain at day 1 was 9.24±0.51 in the Milligan-Morgan group while that in the LigaSure group was 8.44±0.64 (p<0.0001). Postoperative pain at day 7 was 5.00±0.85 in the Milligan-Morgan group while it was 3.04±1.08 in the LigaSure group (p<0.0001). Conclusion LigaSure is a newer technique that helps to reduce complications as compared to other traditional hemorrhoidectomy procedures. Many patients avoid hemorrhoidectomy as it is associated with painful postoperative recovery. Pedicle coagulation with LigaSure was better than conventional Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy in terms of reducing the mean postoperative pain on 1st day and 7th day. Reducing the postoperative pain helps in greater patient satisfaction and lesser requirement of analgesia among patients of 3rd and 4th-degree hemorrhoids undergoing hemorrhoidectomy.

National hepatitis registry in Pakistan: a dire need for hepatitis surveillance and control.

Hepatitis is a major public health issue in Pakistan, with an estimated 11.55% prevalence of HCV infection in the adult population. The country ranks second globally in terms of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, with approximately one in every 20 Pakistanis already infected. The mortality rates due to HBV and HCV stand at 563,000 and 366,000 annually, respectively. However, the absence of a national registry or database system and the lack of coordination among provinces pose significant obstacles in combating this disease effectively. To address this issue, the establishment of a centralized national database registry is crucial, allowing comprehensive analysis, tracking of hepatitis prevalence, and identification of high-risk areas for targeted interventions. By fostering collaboration among provinces, the government, and non-governmental organizations, the registry would facilitate joint decision-making, minimize duplication of efforts, and address inconsistencies in diagnosis and treatment. Collaborating with student-run organizations and leveraging enhanced laboratory capacities post-COVID era can strengthen the hepatitis control program. The centralized approach and unified efforts are necessary to achieve the goal of a hepatitis-free Pakistan, where a healthier future can be realized.

Navigating Glioblastoma Diagnosis and Care: Transformative Pathway of Artificial Intelligence in Integrative Oncology.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), an aggressive brain tumor with high recurrence rates and limited survival, presents a pressing need for accurate and timely diagnosis. The interpretation of MRI can be complex and subjective. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising solution, leveraging its potential to revolutionize diagnostic imaging. Radiomics treats images as numerical data and extracts intricate features from images, including subtle patterns that elude human observation. By integrating radiomics with genetics through radiogenomics, AI aids in tumor classification, identifying specific mutations and genetic traits. Furthermore, AI's impact extends to treatment planning. GBM's heterogeneity and infiltrative growth complicate delineation for treatment purposes. AI-driven segmentation techniques provide accurate 2D and 3D delineations, optimizing surgical and radiotherapeutic planning. Predictive features like angiogenesis and tumor volumes enable AI models to anticipate postop complications and survival rates. It can also aid in distinguishing posttreatment radiation effects from tumor recurrence. Despite these merits, concerns linger. The quality of medical data, transparency of AI techniques, and ethical considerations require thorough addressing. Collaborative efforts between neurosurgeons, data scientists, ethicists, and regulatory bodies are imperative for AI's ethical development and implementation. Transparent communication and patient consent are vital, fostering trust and understanding in AI-augmented medical care. In conclusion, AI holds immense promise in diagnosing and managing aggressive brain tumors like GBM. Its ability to analyze complex radiological data, integrate genetics, and aid in treatment planning underscores its potential to transform patient care. However, carefully considering ethical, technical, and regulatory aspects is crucial for realizing AI's full potential in oncology.

Pathologic Complete Response Achieved in Early-Stage HER2-Positive Breast Cancer After Neoadjuvant Therapy With Trastuzumab and Chemotherapy vs. Trastuzumab, Chemotherapy, and Pertuzumab: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials.

Patients diagnosed with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer require treatment upfront because of the aggressive nature of this type of cancer. Patients with early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer are usually treated with neoadjuvant therapy. This neoadjuvant therapy comprises targeted therapy and chemotherapy. Targeted therapy is given with trastuzumab. Pertuzumab is either administered or not with trastuzumab as a targeted therapy. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to find out and compare the benefit achieved in terms of pathologic complete response (pCR) by adding pertuzumab to the neoadjuvant treatment regimen for early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer patients. Various databases were searched to find out relevant clinical trials. After going through PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane, three clinical trials were shortlisted for this systematic review and meta-analysis. These three clinical trials were double-armed. Pertuzumab was present in one arm while being absent in one arm to assess the benefit of adding pertuzumab in terms of pCR achieved. Data were analyzed using RevMan Web (Cochrane, London, UK). The odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were calculated for the outcome. The Mantel-Haenszel method and random effect model were used for analysis. The risk of bias in studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials (ROB2). The summary statistics showed that the incidence of pCR was more in the experimental group (having pertuzumab) as compared to the control group (without pertuzumab) with an odds ratio of 2.10 (95% CI: 1.56-2.83) with I2 = 0%. In three double-arm trials, there were 840 participants, 445 in the experimental group and 395 in the control group. A total of 203 (45%) patients out of 445 in the experimental group achieved pCR, whereas 127 (32%) patients out of 395 in the control group achieved pCR. Through the results of this study, it can be concluded that the rate of pCR achieved was higher in that arm in which pertuzumab was present compared to the study arm in which only trastuzumab was given as targeted therapy. Thus, it can be suggested that pertuzumab be added to the neoadjuvant regimen for early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer patients. This would result in achieving a better pCR. And by improving pCR rates, the survival outcomes of patients can be significantly improved.

Healthcare in Pakistan: Navigating Challenges and Building a Brighter Future.

A healthcare system is one of the most essential pillars of any country. The primary role of a healthcare system is to ensure that all people get the best available health facilities in a timely, acceptable, affordable, and accessible manner. However, for a healthcare system to function as such, it requires proper infrastructure and financial support. To a large extent, the healthcare system in Pakistan is facing several challenges. There is a massive shortage of hospitals, doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. Most life-saving medications are too expensive for people to afford. Now and then, there is a shortage of medicines in the market. Above all, there exists a lack of trust in the healthcare system, which gives way to the ever-increasing quackery in the country. Two parallel systems exist in the healthcare system of Pakistan. One consists of public hospitals, and the other consists of private hospitals. The former is short even of basic healthcare facilities, and the latter is too costly for the people of Pakistan to afford. Solutions to the stumbling and compromised healthcare system of Pakistan are adequate financial support and infrastructure development. Stakeholders need to invest in the healthcare system; otherwise, the healthcare system in Pakistan will continue fighting for its survival rather than improving and competing with the healthcare systems of other nations in the region.

Attitudes and Factors Determining the Practice of Routine Medical Checkups in the People of Rawalpindi, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: Routine medical checkup (RMC) is a screening and preventive technique that is implied to detect non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This study aims to assess the awareness in public regarding RMC, the association between education level and level of familiarity regarding RMC, and factors that prevent and encourage the practice of RMC by the public. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study carried out in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Health professionals and individuals who refused to consent were excluded from the study. Data was collected using a mixed-mode questionnaire, and convenient sampling was used. The sample size was calculated to be 355 according to the WHO sample size calculator. A total of 356 individuals participated in this study after giving informed consent. Both male and female adults aged 18 or older and residents of Rawalpindi were included in the study. Individuals younger than 18 were excluded.  Results: Among the 356 study participants, 160 (45%) were males, and 196 (55%) were females. The mean age was 27.57±10.027. Among the total participants, 33 (9.3%) individuals had primary-level education, 100 (28.1%) individuals had secondary-level education, and 233 (62.6%) had graduate-level education. A total of 329 (92.9%) participants knew that RMCs could help in early diagnosis and treatment. On the contrary, only 154 (43.3%) people knew that RMCs involve screening all body tissues. Only 329 (92.4%) participants said that they were aware that timely diagnosis through RMC can lead to early treatment. Graduates were generally more aware of different aspects of RMCs, especially in the domains of awareness regarding what an RMC is and that RMC can help in timely diagnosis compared to participants who had primary or secondary level of education (p<0.001). Females had a greater overall awareness of RMCs than males (p<0.001). Graduates were more likely to undergo RMCs than people educated till the primary or secondary level (p<0.001). The most common reason for undergoing RMC was "just concerned about health," which was selected by 130 (36.5%) participants. The most common reason mentioned by participants for not having an RMC was ''heavy cost,'' mentioned by 104 (29.2%) participants.  Conclusion: Most of the participants of this study were well educated and were students in terms of profession. The majority of the study population knew that RMCs could help in early diagnosis and treatment. Awareness regarding RMCs was linked to educational level. Females had overall better knowledge regarding RMCs than men. The most common reported reason to have an RMC was a health concern, and the most common reported reason for not having an RMC was its high cost.

Hypokalemic Quadriparesis As Initial Presentation of Secondary Sjogren Syndrome With Associated Autoimmune Thyroiditis: A Case Report.

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder typically presenting as dry mouth and eyes (sicca syndrome). However, the disease can involve any organ, complicating diagnosis. Renal involvement may manifest as distal renal tubular acidosis, leading to hypokalemia. We report a case of a 25-year-old woman presenting with progressive quadriparesis and vomiting. She had severe hypokalemic paralysis due to distal renal tubular acidosis. The patient was diagnosed with secondary Sjögren syndrome with autoimmune thyroiditis. She recovered completely with potassium supplementation.