Postpartum contraception in Australia: opportunities for increasing access in the primary care setting.

In Australia, 20% of pregnancies occur within the first year after birth and most are unintended. Both unintended pregnancies and short interpregnancy intervals (<12-18months) can have adverse effects on maternal, infant, and child health. Access to postpartum contraception reduces the risk of unintended pregnancies and short interpregnancy intervals, and supports women in pregnancy planning and birth spacing. In this forum article, we describe how postpartum contraception is currently provided in Australia and highlight opportunities for improving access in the primary care setting.

Models of care for intrauterine device provision in Australian general practice.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are safe and effective forms of long-acting reversible contraception. However, uptake in Australia is low. Although general practitioners (GPs) manage contraceptive provision, little is known about IUD service delivery. This study aims to describe the models of care (MoC) used in the provision of IUDs by Australian GPs. METHOD: Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with 20 GP IUD providers nationwide. Data were deidentified, transcribed, thematically analysed and evaluated using The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners' Quality framework for Australian general practice. RESULTS: Three MoC were described: common, streamlined and same-day insertion. The common model involved three to four appointments but was of the lowest quality. The streamlined MoC had a maximum of two appointments. Few GPs delivered same-day insertion. Task-sharing and adaptable MoC were identified. DISCUSSION: The quality of current MoC for IUD provision is non-standardised and largely inadequate. Increased GP awareness about and operation of high-quality MoC will enhance IUD access.

Increased ambient outdoor temperatures are associated with increased disease flaring in hidradenitis suppurativa.

Despite evidence to suggest a relationship between time of year and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) flaring, no studies have been conducted to date to establish a relationship directly between temperature and flaring. In this study, we aim to validate a classification approach based on administrative data for identifying medical encounters that likely represent HS flares in patient with a known diagnosis of HS within the Mass General Brigham Health System (MGB) and examine the relationship between average daily temperatures and HS disease flaring among patients in Boston. This is a retrospective cohort study. Participants were individuals with HS presenting to emergency departments or dermatology outpatient clinics with disease flares between January 2017 and January 2022. The average number of encounters for HS flares was compared with the temperature for that day and the 3- and 7-day periods prior. There were 2567 patient encounters for HS flares included in the study. Of the total identified HS flares, 75.6% occurred in females and 39.1% occurred in patients who identified as Black. Uniformly small but statistically significant relationships were noted between increased temperature and presentations for hidradenitis suppurativa flare with the highest correlation coefficient (0.0768) noted with a 3-day lag time between the heat experienced and day of presentation for flare. Increased temperature is associated with a small, but statistically significant increase in HS disease flaring. As such, HS disease flaring may rise as global temperatures do, suggesting an increase in the global burden of HS as climate change persists.

General practitioner experiences in delivering early medical abortion services to women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds: A qualitative-descriptive study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: General practitioners (GPs) are ideally placed to deliver early medical abortion (EMA), yet little is known about how GPs deliver this care to women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. We explored GP experiences in providing EMA to women from CALD backgrounds and their recommendations for service improvements. METHOD: This was a qualitative study involving telephone interviews with 18 Australian GPs who provide EMA to women from CALD backgrounds. Data were thematically analysed using the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation Behaviour model. RESULTS: GPs experienced challenges in communication and cultural competency when delivering EMA to women from CALD backgrounds due to insufficient training, lack of multilingual resources and difficulties accessing interpreters. In addition, the stigma surrounding abortion and concerns around reproductive coercion made engaging these women challenging. DISCUSSION: Upskilling GPs in culturally competent care, improving access to multilingual resources and enabling efficient interpreter use can optimise EMA delivery to women from CALD backgrounds.

Viruses, Variants, and Vaccines: How COVID-19 Has Changed the Way We Look at Skin.

Purpose of Review: This review aims to evaluate the spectrum of cutaneous reactions after both SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination while simultaneously understanding the evolution of the field of dermatology in the face of an ongoing pandemic. Recent Findings: The most commonly reported cutaneous reactions after COVID-19 infection in the literature to date include morbilliform or maculopapular rashes, chilblains, and urticaria. The incidence of cutaneous reactions after COVID-19 vaccination was 9% in larger cohort studies and more commonly occurred after mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines than adenovirus vector vaccines. The most frequently reported cutaneous reactions after COVID-19 vaccines were delayed large local reactions, local injection site reactions, urticarial eruptions, and morbilliform eruptions. Summary: With the ongoing pandemic, and continued development of new COVID-19 variants and vaccines, the landscape of cutaneous reactions continues to rapidly evolve. Dermatologists have an important role in evaluating skin manifestations of the virus, as well as discussion and promoting COVID-19 vaccination for their patients.

The case for intra-operative X-ray in cochlear implantation: Four illustrative cases and literature review.

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the utility of routine intraoperative plain film imaging in optimizing outcomes in cochlear implantation. INTRODUCTION: Evolving surgical techniques, programming, and electrode arrays have all improved performance outcomes in cochlear implantation. Yet despite decreasing complication rates, electrode misplacement remains a common occurrence. Utilization of intraoperative confirmational tools (radiologic, electrophysiologic) remains unstandardized despite the acknowledged importance of proper electrode positioning. The purpose of this article is to illustrate the use and benefits of intraoperative X-ray (IOXR) in four cases, particularly in cases of normal electrophysiologic testing. METHODS: Four cases performed by an experienced CI surgeon are discussed where electrode malposition was only detected through X-ray. Literature review was performed on the use of intraoperative imaging, focusing on plain film radiography. RESULTS: Case 1-3 describe examples of resistance-free electrode insertion in patients with normal pre-operative imaging. Intraoperative impedances and neural response telemetry (NRT) were normal. However, IOXR ultimately revealed tip fold-over prompting array repositioning. Case 4 describes an elective replacement of a soft-failing device. Resistance was encountered during array insertion, with IOXR demonstrating incomplete insertion compared with prior imaging. Positioning was revised to achieve pre-revision insertion depth, demonstrating the utility of prior IOXR in revision cases. Literature review of IOXR is discussed. CONCLUSION: Appropriate placement of the electrode is paramount to successful CI outcomes. These cases illustrate IOXR as a safe, effective method to ensure optimal placement even in cases of normal electrophysiologic testing, supporting its routine use even by the most seasoned surgeons.

Barriers and facilitators to chemotherapy initiation and adherence for patients with HIV-associated Kaposi's sarcoma in Kenya: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Kaposi sarcoma is one of the most prevalent HIV-associated malignancies in sub-Saharan Africa and is often diagnosed at advanced stage of disease. Only 50% of KS patients who qualify for chemotherapy receive it and adherence is sub-optimal. METHODS: 57 patients > 18 years with newly diagnosed KS within the AMPATH clinic network in Western Kenya were purposively selected to participate in semi-structured interviews stratified by whether they had completed, partially completed, or not completed chemotherapy for advanced stage KS. We based the interview guide and coding framework on the situated Information, Motivation, Behavioral Skills (sIMB) framework, in which the core patient centered IMB constructs are situated into the socioecological context of receiving care. RESULTS: Of the 57 participants, the median age was 37 (IQR 32-41) and the majority were male (68%). Notable barriers to chemotherapy initiation and adherence included lack of financial means, difficulty with convenience of appointments such as distance to facility, appointment times, long lines, limited appointments, intrapersonal barriers such as fear or hopelessness, and lack of proper or sufficient information about chemotherapy. Factors that facilitated chemotherapy initiation and adherence included health literacy, motivation to treat symptoms, improvement on chemotherapy, prioritization of self-care, resilience while experiencing side effects, ability to carry out behavioral skills, obtaining national health insurance, and free chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: Our findings about the barriers and facilitators to chemotherapy initiation and adherence for KS in Western Kenya support further work that promotes public health campaigns with reliable cancer and chemotherapy information, improves education about the chemotherapy process and side effects, increases oncology service ability, supports enrollment in national health insurance, and increases incorporation of chronic disease care into existing HIV treatment networks.

Telling the story of intersectional stigma in HIV-associated Kaposi's sarcoma in western Kenya: a convergent mixed-methods approach.

INTRODUCTION: The experience of stigma can be multifaceted for people with HIV and cancer. Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), one of the most common HIV-associated cancers in sub-Saharan Africa, often presents with visible skin lesions that may put people at risk for stigmatization. In this way, HIV-associated KS is unique, as people with KS can experience stigma associated with HIV, cancer, and skin disease simultaneously. The aim of this study is to characterize the intersectionality of HIV-related, cancer-related and skin disease-related stigma in people living with HIV and KS. METHODS: We used a convergent mixed-methods approach nested within a longitudinal study of people with HIV-associated KS in western Kenya. Between February 2019 and December 2020, we collected quantitative surveys among all participants and conducted semi-structured interviews among a purposive sample of participants. Quantitative surveys were adapted from the abridged Berger HIV Stigma Scale to assess overall stigma, HIV-related stigma, cancer-related stigma, and skin disease-related stigma. Qualitative data were coded using stigma constructs from the Health Stigma and Discrimination Framework. RESULTS: In 88 semi-structured interviews, stigma was a major barrier to KS diagnosis and treatment among people with HIV-associated KS. Participant's stories of stigma were dominated by HIV-related stigma, more than cancer-related or skin disease-related stigma. However, quantitative stigma scores among the 117 participants were similar for HIV-related (Median: 28.00; IQR: 28.0, 34.0), cancer-related (Median: 28.0; IQR: 28.0, 34.8), and skin disease-related stigma (Median: 28.0; IQR: 27.0, 34.0). In semi-structured interviews, cancer-related and skin disease-related stigma were more subtle contributors; cancer-related stigma was linked to fatalism and skin-related stigma was linked to visible disease. Participants reported resolution of skin lesions contributed to lessening stigma over time; there was a significant decline in quantitative scores of overall stigma in time since KS diagnosis (adjusted ß = -0.15, p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the role mixed-method approaches can play in better understanding stigma in people living with both HIV and cancer. While HIV-related stigma may dominate perceptions of stigma among people with KS in Kenya, intersectional experiences of stigma may be subtle, and quantitative evaluation alone may be insufficient to understand intersectional stigma in certain contexts.

Understanding Diagnostic Delays for Kaposi Sarcoma in Kenya: A Qualitative Study.

BACKGROUND: Although HIV-associated Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage in sub-Saharan Africa, reasons for diagnostic delays have not been well described. METHODS: We enrolled patients >18 years with newly diagnosed KS between 2016 and 2019 into the parent study, based in western Kenya. We then purposively selected 30 participants with diversity of disease severity and geographic locations to participate in semistructured interviews. We used 2 behavioral models in developing the codebook for this analysis: situated Information, Motivation, and Behavior framework and Andersen model of total patient delay. We then analyzed the interviews using framework analysis. RESULTS: The most common patient factors that delayed diagnosis were lack of KS awareness, seeking traditional treatments, lack of personal efficacy, lack of social support, and fear of cancer, skin biopsy, amputation, and HIV diagnosis. Health system factors that delayed diagnosis included previous negative health care interactions, incorrect diagnoses, lack of physical examination, delayed referral, and lack of tissue biopsy availability. Financial constraints were prominent barriers for patients to access and receive care. Facilitators for diagnosis included being part of an HIV care network, living near health facilities, trust in the health care system, desire to treat painful or disfiguring lesions, and social support. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of KS awareness among patients and providers, stigma surrounding diagnoses, and health system referral delays were barriers in reaching KS diagnosis. Improved public health campaigns, increased availability of biopsy and pathology facilities, and health provider training about KS are needed to improve early diagnosis of KS.

Neurocysticercosis with symptomatic epilepsy manifestation.

Aim To present a unique case of a 22-year-old male patient with symptomatic epilepsy manifestation on a background of neurocysticercosis (NCC). Methods An Indian student in Kharkiv, who lived in rural parts in India, presented with sudden episodes of seizure followed by severe headaches. Laboratory analyses and neurological status (MRI) were performed. Results Neurological status of the patient revealed nystagmus and difficulty in performing co-ordination tests. General analysis of blood showed raised eosinophil count to 8%. The MRI showed a few small conglomerating peripherally enhancing thick-walled infective granulomas in left frontal lobe with extensive surrounding oedema in the left fronto-parietal lobe. The patient was treated with albendazol, levipil, methylprednisolone and pantoprazole. Clinical symptoms and subsequent MRI showed improvement. Conclusion Neurocysticercosis is often misdiagnosed in the early stages, which leads to adverse outcomes. Although seizures are the most common clinical manifestation, it is a symptom that is not found in majority of the patients. The NCC of adult onset accompanying epileptic seizures is not well studied and a link between the helminthic invasion, epilepsy and psychiatric conditions needs to be established. This disease is potentially eradicable with wellplanned eradication programs targeting all stages of Taenia solium life cycle.

Tourette syndrome or PANDAS-a case report.

Tourette syndrome (TS), a relatively common disorder, has been gaining more attention during the past two decades because of an increased number of reports. Nevertheless, it is still not completely understood. Furthermore, a clinical entity called "pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections" (PANDAS) has been introduced, which describes a tic disorder, accompanied by psychiatric disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), after a streptococcal infection in childhood. We present a case report of a 19-year-old adolescent Ukrainian female, with a history of anxiety disorder and OCD, who, despite TS remission during childhood, presented with new-onset motor and phonic tics after 1 month of severe tonsillitis. Blood and cerebrospinal cultures showed Streptococcus pyogenes, with magnetic resonance imaging revealing hypo-intense changes in the caudate nucleus on both sides. Treatment with clonazepam and fluoxetine, along with behavioral therapy, have improved the severity of her condition. This report presents a case of TS reemergence against the background of immunological reaction or PANDAS with a late adolescent onset.

Emerging Role of Janus Kinase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis.

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic, inflammatory skin condition. The pathogenesis of AD involves many cytokines that utilize the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling cascade; therefore, JAK inhibitors may be used in the treatment of AD. This review aims to evaluate the pathophysiology, efficacy, and safety of JAK inhibitors and their emerging role as a therapeutic option for patients with AD. METHODS: A PubMed search of Phase I, II, and III clinical trials was conducted for relevant literature published between January 2015 and June 2020 utilizing the key terms: JAK inhibitors, atopic dermatitis, efficacy, safety, and treatment. The search was subsequently expanded to include additional terms. RESULTS: In multiple Phase II and III clinical trials, JAK inhibitors were more efficacious than placebo or vehicle controls and slightly more efficacious in direct comparisons to corticosteroids. Overall, JAK inhibitors have a moderate safety profile for use in AD. Some of the more severe theoretical adverse events included thrombosis and reactivation of viral infections. While data remain limited for the long-term efficacy and safety of JAK inhibitor use in patients with AD, many ongoing clinical trials have promising preliminary results. DISCUSSION: Short-term data suggest that both topical and oral JAK inhibitors are efficacious and safe for use in patients with AD, although cases of thrombosis and viral disease have been reported. While the current standard treatments for AD are likely preferred, failed therapy with these agents or corticosteroid phobia may be indications for the use of JAK inhibitors in patients with AD.

Relation of D-dimer levels of COVID-19 patients with diabetes mellitus.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Diabetes is a frequent comorbidity in patients with Severe COVID-19 infection associated with a worse prognosis. Hypercoagulability with elevation in D-dimer levels has been demonstrated in patients with COVID-19. This study aims to study D-dimer levels in people with diabetes compared to those without diabetes among patients with COVID-19 infection. METHODS: In this observational study 98 moderate and severely ill patients with COVID-19 infection were included at a dedicated COVID hospital. The study group was divided into patients with diabetes and without diabetes. Peak D-dimer was measured in both the groups and compared using appropriate statistical tests. RESULTS: In our study peak D-dimer levels were 1509 ± 2420 ng/mL (Mean ± SD) in people with diabetes and 515 ± 624 ng/mL (Mean ± SD) in patients without diabetes. Patients with diabetes had higher D-dimer levels which were statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows COVID-19 patients with diabetes had significantly higher D-dimer levels. Therefore, it is possible that COVID-19 infection with diabetes is more likely to cause hypercoagulable state with a worse prognosis. However clinical implications of these findings will need to be seen in further studies.

Utility of a Quantitative Approach Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging for Prognostication Regarding Motor and Functional Outcomes in Patients With Surgically Resected Deep Intracranial Cavernous Malformations.

BACKGROUND: Resection of deep intracranial cavernous malformations (CMs) is associated with a higher risk of neurological deterioration and uncertainty regarding clinical outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To examine diffusion tractography imaging (DTI) data evaluating the corticospinal tract (CST) in relation to motor and functional outcomes in patients with surgically resected deep CMs. METHODS: Perilesional CST was characterized as disrupted, displaced, or normal. Mean fractional anisotropy (FA) values were obtained for whole ipsilateral CST and in 3 regions: subcortical (proximal), perilesional, and distally. Mean FA values in anatomically equivalent regions in the contralateral CST were obtained. Clinical and radiological data were collected independently. Multivariable regression analysis was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 18 patients [brainstem (15) and thalamus/basal ganglia (3); median follow-up: 270 d] were identified over 2 yr. The CST was identified preoperatively as disrupted (6), displaced (8), and normal (4). Five of 6 patients with disruption had weakness. Higher preoperative mean FA values for distal ipsilateral CST segment were associated with better preoperative lower (P < .001), upper limb (P = .004), postoperative lower (P = .005), and upper limb (P < .001) motor examination. Preoperative mean FA values for distal ipsilateral CST segment (P = .001) and contralateral perilesional CST segment (P < .001) were negatively associated with postoperative modified Rankin scale scores. CONCLUSION: Lower preoperative mean FA values for overall and defined CST segments corresponded to worse patient pre- and postoperative motor examination and/or functional status. FA value for the distal ipsilateral CST segment has prognostic potential with respect to clinical outcomes.