Postmortem Computed Tomography Angiography of Newborns.

We propose an original method of postmortem computed tomography angiography of the body of a deceased newborn. The work is based on the analysis of the results of comprehensive postmortem computed tomography and pathological examination of 30 newborns, who died from congenital malformations. The key to a full-fledged postmortem radiation study using intravascular contrasting of deceased newborns and infants is the presence of vascular catheters established during life, as well as conducting it no earlier than 12 h and no later than 48 h after death. As a contrast agent, we recommend to use an iodine-containing water-soluble radiopaque drug containing at least 250 mg of iodine per 1 ml. The volume of contrast agent is calculated based on body weight, taking into account the general edema syndrome. The introduction of a contrast agent is carried out through vascular catheters in 3 stages in various positions of the body. The analysis of tomograms and 3D-reconstruction of blood vessels using their pseudocoloring allows accurate assessment of the topography of blood vessels with the possibility of separate study of the arterial and venous vessels, and to identify both congenital abnormalities of the heart and blood vessels, and their acquired pathology. CT angiography in some cases is superior to traditional autopsy in the diagnosis of blood vessel pathology. Postmortem CT angiography should be considered as an important stage of postmortem radiology in the structure of comprehensive pathological analysis of newborns and infants.

Analysis of factors associated with the prognosis of cirrhotic patients who were treated with tolvaptan for hepatic edema.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The prognosis of cirrhotic patients with hepatic edema is poor. Although several short-term predictors of tolvaptan (novel diuretic agent) treatment for such patients have been reported, the factors related to long-term survival are still unclear. METHODS: Among 459 patients with hepatic edema enrolled in a retrospective, multicenter collaborative study, we analyzed 407 patients who received tolvaptan. RESULTS: Patients consisted of 266 men and 141 women, with the median age of 68 years (range, 28-93 years). The frequency of short-term responders to tolvaptan was 59.7% (243/407). In the Cox regression analysis, short-term response to tolvaptan, low average dosages of furosemide and spironolactone during tolvaptan treatment, Child-Pugh classification A and B, and absence of hepatocellular carcinoma were independent factors contributed to 1-year survival. The 1-year and long-term cumulative survival rates in short-term responders were significantly higher than those in non-responders (P = 0.011 and 0.010, respectively). Using a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the optimal cut-off values of average daily dosages of furosemide and spironolactone for predicting 1-year survival were 19 and 23 mg/day, respectively. The long-term cumulative survival rates in patients who received a mean dosage of spironolactone < 23 mg/day during tolvaptan treatment were significantly higher than those receiving a mean dosage of ≥ 23 mg/day (P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The present study suggests that the short-term response to tolvaptan and low dosages of conventional diuretics during tolvaptan treatment might improve the 1-year and long-term survival rates in cirrhotic patients with hepatic edema.

Risk stratification for patients awaiting kidney transplantation: Role of bioimpedance derived edema index and nutrition status.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies demonstrate that the edema index (ECW/TBW) may be a significant predictor of poor outcomes as a composite of overhydration and protein-energy wasting. There is no consensus regarding ECW/TBW cut-off values. We aimed to determine the performance of ECW/TBW in all-cause mortality prediction and to establish certain cut-off values in patients on chronic hemodialysis. METHODS: Body composition of 158 hemodialysis patient was performed by using InBody S10 (Biospace, Seoul, Korea) analyzer. Demographic profile and laboratory data were collected. Subjective Global Assessment Scale (SGA) was used to assess nutrition status. In the mean follow up of 3.5 ± 1.15 years, two independent clinicians evaluated death cases and factors for all-cause mortality were established. Statistical analysis was performed with R software. RESULTS: 73 of 158 hemodialysis patients were on kidney transplant waiting list. Mean age of study subjects was 53.6 ± 15.1 years, 51.9% were females, and 13.9% had diabetes. During the follow-up period, 17.72% of patients died. They had significantly higher ECW/TBW values 0.393 vs 0.408, p < 0.001. Subjects with lower edema index had better nutrition according to SGA (SGA A 0.391; SGA B 0.400; SGA C 0.413; p < 0.001). The calculated ECW/TBW cut-off point for all-cause mortality was 0.4055, with sensitivity of 84.6%, specificity of 69.8%. On the other hand, the cut-off point for SGA scores B and C was 0.396 with sensitivity of 72.7% and specificity of 68.7%. CONCLUSION: The manufacturer provided ECW/TBW cut-off point of 0.400 should be addressed carefully, because it varies depending on the selected outcome and population studied. InBody ECW/TBW reference values from 0.390 to 0.410 are the most promising in hemodialysis population to assess all-cause mortality, nutrition status and body composition.

Urinary Organic Acids Increase After Clinical Stabilization of Hospitalized Children With Severe Acute Malnutrition.

BACKGROUND: Despite a reduction of child mortality in low-income countries, acutely ill undernourished children still have an elevated risk of death. Those at highest risk are children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) who often show metabolic dysregulation that remains poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: We performed a pilot study to examine changes in urinary organic acids during nutritional rehabilitation of children with SAM, and to identify metabolites associated with the presence of edema or with mortality. METHODS: This study included 76 children aged between 6 and 60 months, hospitalized for SAM at the Moyo Nutritional Rehabilitation and Research Unit in Blantyre, Malawi. Urine was collected at admission and 3 days after clinical stabilization and metabolomics were performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Metabolite concentrations were evaluated with both uni- and multivariate approaches. RESULTS: Most metabolites increased 3 days after clinical stabilization, and total urinary concentration changed from 1.2 mM (interquartile range [IQR], 0.78-1.7) at admission to 3.8 mM (IQR, 2.1-6.6) after stabilization (P < .0001). In particular, 6 metabolites showed increases: 3-hydroxybutyric, 4-hydroxyhippuric, p-hydroxyphenylacetic, oxoglutaric, succinic, and lactic acids. Urinary creatinine was low at both time points, but levels did increase from 0.63 mM (IQR, 0.2-1.2) to 2.6 mM (IQR,1.6-4.4; P < .0001). No differences in urinary profiles were found between children who died versus those who survived, nor between children with severe wasting or edematous SAM. CONCLUSIONS: Total urinary metabolites and creatinine increase after stabilization and may reflect partial recovery of overall metabolism linked to refeeding. The use of urinary metabolites for risk assessment should be furthered explored. TRIAL REGISTRATION: TranSAM study (ISRCTN13916953).

Prognostic Significance of Longitudinal Clinical Congestion Pattern in Chronic Heart Failure: Insights From TIME-CHF Trial.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between longitudinal clinical congestion pattern and heart failure outcome is uncertain. This study was designed to assess the prevalence of congestion over time and to investigate its impact on outcome in chronic heart failure. METHODS: A total of 588 patients with chronic heart failure older than 60 years of age with New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class ≥II from the TIME-CHF study were included. The endpoints for this study were survival and hospitalization-free heart failure survival. Orthopnea, NYHA ≥III, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, hepatomegaly, peripheral pitting edema, jugular venous distension, and rales were repeatedly investigated and related to outcomes. These congestion-related signs and symptoms were used to design a 7-item Clinical Congestion Index. RESULTS: Sixty-one percent of patients had a Clinical Congestion Index ≥3 at baseline, which decreased to 18% at month 18. During the median [interquartile range] follow-up of 27.2 [14.3-39.8] months, 17%, 27%, and 47% of patients with baseline Clinical Congestion Index of 0, 1-2, and ≥3 at inclusion, respectively, died (P <.001). Clinical Congestion Index was identified as an independent predictor of mortality at all visits (P <.05) except month 6 and reduced hospitalization-free heart failure survival (P <.05). Successful decongestion was related to better outcome as compared to persistent congestion or partial decongestion (log-rank P <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The extent of congestion as assessed by means of clinical signs and symptoms decreased over time with intensified treatment, but it remained present or relapsed in a substantial number of patients with heart failure and was associated with poor outcome. This highlights the importance of appropriate decongestion in chronic heart failure.

Ingestion of bar soap may produce serious injury: clinical effects and risk factors.

INTRODUCTION: Most household and body soaps have an alkaline pH (9-12). In addition to their foaming effect, they irritate the skin. This study aims to review soap exposure reported to the Angers Poison Control Centre. METHOD: A retrospective study of accidental or deliberate oral exposure to solid soaps reported to the Angers Poison Control Centre between 1 January 2000 and 1 April 2015. Poisoning severity was reassessed for each case according to the Poisoning Severity Score (PSS). RESULTS: 553 cases of exposure were recorded. In more than 40% of cases (n = 226), exposure occurred in community settings (retirement homes, nursing homes). Patients had a history of dementia in 220 cases (40%). The most common symptoms were labial oedema (28%, n = 153), oropharyngeal irritation (10%, n = 56), salivation (10%, n = 53), vomiting (9%, n = 48) and cough (8%, n = 45). Among symptomatic patients (n = 276), one patient died from aspiration pneumonia and one patient died from a cardiogenic shock following oropharyngeal oedema, vomiting, cough and bronchial obstruction. Patients with dementia were more often symptomatic (75% vs 34%, p < .001) and more frequently hospitalised (22% vs 0.8%, p < .001). They experienced more moderate to severe symptoms (8% vs 0%, p < .001). Mildly severe (PSS2, n = 14), highly severe (PSS3, n = 1) and fatal (PSS4, n = 2) poisoning were observed only in patients with dementia. CONCLUSION: Ingestion of soap bars is potentially serious, especially in patients with dementia. This type of soap should not be available to them in community settings and close monitoring should be considered in the event of oral exposure.

Myocardial Edema and Prognosis in Amyloidosis.

BACKGROUND: Prognosis in light-chain (AL) and transthyretin (ATTR) amyloidosis is influenced by cardiac involvement. ATTR amyloidosis has better prognosis than AL amyloidosis despite more amyloid infiltration, suggesting additional mechanisms of damage in AL amyloidosis. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the presence and prognostic significance of myocardial edema in patients with amyloidosis. METHODS: The study recruited 286 patients: 100 with systemic AL amyloidosis, 163 with cardiac ATTR amyloidosis, 12 with suspected cardiac ATTR amyloidosis (grade 1 on 99mTc-3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid), 11 asymptomatic individuals with amyloidogenic TTR gene mutations, and 30 healthy volunteers. All subjects underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance with T1 and T2 mapping and 16 underwent endomyocardial biopsy. RESULTS: Myocardial T2 was increased in amyloidosis with the degree of elevation being highest in untreated AL patients (untreated AL amyloidosis 56.6 ± 5.1 ms; treated AL amyloidosis 53.6 ± 3.9 ms; ATTR amyloidosis 54.2 ± 4.1 ms; each p < 0.01 compared with control subjects: 48.9 ± 2.0 ms). Left ventricular (LV) mass and extracellular volume fraction were higher in ATTR amyloidosis compared with AL amyloidosis while LV ejection fraction was lower (p < 0.001). Histological evidence of edema was present in 87.5% of biopsy samples ranging from 5% to 40% myocardial involvement. Using Cox regression models, myocardial T2 predicted death in AL amyloidosis (hazard ratio: 1.48; 95% confidence interval: 1.20 to 1.82) and remained significant after adjusting for extracellular volume fraction and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (hazard ratio: 1.32; 95% confidence interval: 1.05 to 1.67). CONCLUSIONS: Myocardial edema is present in cardiac amyloidosis by histology and cardiovascular magnetic resonance T2 mapping. T2 is higher in untreated AL amyloidosis compared with treated AL and ATTR amyloidosis, and is a predictor of prognosis in AL amyloidosis. This suggests mechanisms additional to amyloid infiltration contributing to mortality in amyloidosis.

Greater fluid overload and lower interdialytic weight gain are independently associated with mortality in a large international hemodialysis population.

Background: Fluid overload and interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) are discrete components of the dynamic fluid balance in haemodialysis patients. We aimed to disentangle their relationship, and the prognostic importance of two clinically distinct, bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS)-derived measures, pre-dialysis and post-dialysis fluid overload (FOpre and FOpost) versus IDWG. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study on 38 614 incident patients with one or more BIS measurement within 90 days of haemodialysis initiation (1 October 2010 through 28 February 2015). We used fractional polynomial regression to determine the association pattern between FOpre, FOpost and IDWG, and multivariate adjusted Cox models with FO and/or IDWG as longitudinal and time-varying predictors to determine all-cause mortality risk. Results: In analyses using 1-month averages, patients in quartiles 3 and 4 (Q3 and Q4) of FO had an incrementally higher adjusted mortality risk compared with reference Q2, and patients in Q1 of IDWG had higher adjusted mortality compared with Q2. The highest adjusted mortality risk was observed for patients in Q4 of FOpre combined with Q1 of IDWG [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.66 (95% confidence interval 2.21-3.20), compared with FOpre-Q2/IDWG-Q2 (reference)]. Using longitudinal means of FO and IDWG only slightly altered all HRs. IDWG associated positively with FOpre, but negatively with FOpost, suggesting a link with post-dialysis extracellular volume depletion. Conclusions: FOpre and FOpost were consistently positive risk factors for mortality. Low IDWG was associated with short-term mortality, suggesting perhaps an effect of protein-energy wasting. FOpost reflected the volume status without IDWG, which implies that this fluid marker is clinically most intuitive and may be best suited to guide volume management in haemodialysis patients.

Diuretics Combined With Compression in Resistant Limb Edema of Advanced Disease-A Case Series Report.

INTRODUCTION: The extremity edema of advanced disease is a common, multifactorial feature, which impairs patients' activities and quality of life. The most frequently chosen management is based on combined decongestive physiotherapy or pharmacotherapy (with diuretics or steroids). Subcutaneous lymphatic drainage in refractory edema may decrease the swelling, prevent spontaneous lymphorrhea, but also increase the risk of infection. Safe and effective conservative management in diuretics-resistant edemas is lacking. The objective of this prospective, observational study was to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of combined physiotherapeutic and diuretic therapy in edemas refractory to parenteral diuretics. METHODS: A group of 19 patients with advanced disease and severe bilateral leg edema resistant to parenteral diuretic therapy were treated for three days with a combination of multilayer short-stretch compression bandaging and furosemide in hypersaline intravenous infusion. RESULTS: A clinically meaningful decrease in mean limb volume (of 1.52 L; 20.6%; P < 0.0001)-strongly correlating with patients' weight loss (ρ = 0.71; P = 0.0001), with a lowering of the intensity of complaints-was achieved. The treatment was well tolerated, without decreasing the performance status in any patient. Stable levels of blood pressure, laboratory kidney profile (potassium, sodium, creatinine clearance), and serum albumin were observed. Maintenance of the achieved results with a good compliance was seen during an informal follow-up at the hospice. CONCLUSION: The combination of compression therapy with hypersaline diuretics could be considered as a valuable option for refractory cases of limb edema in advanced disease.

Prognostic factors for death from visceral leishmaniasis in patients treated with liposomal amphotericin B in an endemic state in Brazil.

Objective: To characterize the clinical and epidemiological profiles of patients with visceral leishmaniasis (VL) treated with liposomal amphotericin B (LAmB) and to identify prognostic factors for death from VL in 2008-2012 in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: A historical cohort study was conducted using data obtained from treatment requests forms, Brazilian Notifiable Disease Information System and the Mortality Information System. Case-fatality rates of patients with VL treated with LAmB were compared with patients treated with other therapies. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify prognostic factors for death. Results: The overall case-fatality rate of the 577 patients treated with LAmB was 19.4%. Prognostic factors for death from VL were age between 35 and 49 years (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.3-5.4) and above 50 years (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.3-4.9), jaundice (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.2-3.7), kidney disease (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.6-4.9), presence of other infections (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.5-4.1), edema (OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1-3.4), platelet count below 50.000/mm3 (OR 3.6; 95% CI 2.1-6.0), AST higher than 100 U/L (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.3-3.8), and assistance in non-specialized institutions (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.0-3.5). Conclusions: Case-fatality rates were higher than that observed among patients with VL treated with other therapies. Identification of prognostic factors of death from VL may allow early diagnosis of patients prone to such outcome and prompt an expeditious and appropriate management of VL to reduce fatality rates.

Decompressive hemicraniectomy for malignant middle cerebral artery infarction. Experience from the Western Province of Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVE: To describe our experience implementing decompressive hemicraniectomy (DH) for eligible patients with malignant middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarcts. METHODS: We retrospectively collected data of malignant MCA infarction patients requiring DH at King Abdulaziz University Hospital & King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between October 2010 and July 2015. Clinical outcome was assessed immediately postoperatively using Glasgow Coma Score (GCS), and at 12 months using the modified Rankin scale (mRS) and Barthel index. Survival was evaluated at thirty-days and one year after surgery. RESULTS: Six out of 10 patients diagnosed with malignant MCA infarction underwent DH. Among the surgically treated patients (n=6), 4 were males (66%), and the median age was 22.5 years. The median time from admission to surgery was 35.5 hours. The median post-operative GCS was 6.5. Three patients (50%) died within 30 days of DH. In those who survived, the median mRS was 4.5 and BI was 7.5. CONCLUSION: Decompressive hemicraniectomy saves life and has the potential of improving survival functional outcome when done fast and in carefully selected patients. We call for national awareness of the management of such cases and early intervention.

Influence of malnutrition upon all-cause mortality among children in Swaziland / Influencia de la malnutrición en la mortalidad por todas las causas en menores de Suazilandia

Objective: To analyze the effect of the type of malnutrition, sex, age and the presence of edema upon all-cause mortality in children under 5 years of age. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during 2010 and 2011 in Swaziland. Sex, age, weight and height were taken to classify nutritional status according to the 2006 WHO growth standards: stunting (low height for age), wasting (low weight for height or low body mass index for age) and underweight (low weight for age). The sample (309 boys and 244 girls under 5 years of age) was analyzed by sex and age groups (under and equal/over 12 months). The association between variables was evaluated using the χ2 test. Cox regression analysis (HR, 95% CI) was used to assess the likelihood of mortality. Results: The mortality risk in malnourished children under one year of age was lower among females and increased in the presence of severe edema. Wasting combined with underweight increased the mortality risk in children under 12 months of age 5-fold, versus 11-fold in older children. The combination of stunting, wasting and underweight was closely associated to mortality. Stunting alone (not combined with wasting) did not significantly increase the mortality risk. Conclusions: Sex, severe edema and wasting are predictors of mortality in malnourished children. Regardless of these factors, children with deficiencies referred to weight for height and weight for age present a greater mortality risk in comparison with children who present stunting only (AU)

Objetivo: Analizar el efecto del tipo de malnutrición, de la edad, el sexo y la presencia de edema sobre la mortalidad en menores de cinco años. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal llevado a cabo durante 2010 y 2011 en Suazilandia. Se tomaron el sexo, la edad en meses, la talla y el peso y se clasificó el estado nutricional de los menores considerando: desnutrición crónica (stunting o baja talla para la edad), aguda (wasting o bajo peso para la talla o bajo índice de masa corporal para la edad) y bajo peso para la edad (underweight) de acuerdo a los estándares de crecimiento de la OMS del 2006. La muestra (309 niños, 244 niñas, menores de 5 años) se analizó por sexo y edad considerando separadamente los menores y mayores de 12 meses. La asociación entre variables se evaluó utilizando el test de χ2 y la regresión de Cox (HR 95% CI) fue utilizada para determinar la probabilidad de muerte. Resultados: El riesgo de muerte en los menores malnutridos menores de un año es menor en las niñas y aumenta significativamente con la presencia de edema severo. La desnutrición aguda combinada con el bajo peso multiplica por cinco el riesgo de mortalidad en los menores de 12 meses y por once en los mayores de un año. La combinación de desnutrición crónica, aguda y bajo peso está estrechamente asociada a la mortalidad. La malnutrición crónica por sí sola no incrementa significativamente el riesgo de muerte. Conclusiones: El sexo, la severidad del edema y la desnutrición aguda son predictores de mortalidad. Con independencia de estos factores, los menores con déficit de peso para la talla o de peso para la edad presentan mayor riesgo de mortalidad que los menores que padecen únicamente desnutrición crónica (AU)

Clinical Significance of the Edema Index in Incident Peritoneal Dialysis Patients.

BACKGROUND: Proper monitoring for volume overload is important to improve prognosis in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. The association between volume status and residual renal function (RRF) remains an unresolved issue. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between the edema index and survival or RRF in incident PD patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We identified all adults who underwent PD. The edema index was defined as the ratio of extracellular fluid to total body fluid. Participants with available data regarding survivorship or non-survivorship during the first year after PD initiation were included in the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The cutoff value of the edema index for 1-year mortality was >0.371 in men and >0.372 in women. Participants were divided into two groups according to the cutoff value of their baseline edema indices: High (>cutoff value) and Low (≤ cutoff value). Survivors during the first year after PD initiation were divided into two groups according to the initial and 1-year edema index: Non-improvement (maintenance of criteria in the initial Low group during the year) and Other (all participants except those in the Non-improvement group). RESULTS: In total, 631 patients were enrolled in the present study. The cutoff value of the edema index for 1-year mortality was >0.371 in men and >0.372 in women. The respective mean initial RRF values (mL · min(-1) · 1.73 m(-2)) in the Low and High groups, respectively, were 4.88 ± 4.09 and 4.21 ± 3.28 in men (P = 0.108), and 3.19 ± 2.57 and 2.98 ± 2.70 in women (P = 0.531). There were no significant differences between groups in either sex. The respective mean RRF values at 1 year after PD initiation in the Low and High groups, respectively, were 3.56 ± 4.35 and 2.73 ± 2.53 in men, and 2.80 ± 2.36 and 1.85 ± 1.51 in women. RRF at 1 year after PD initiation was higher in the Low group than in the High group (men: P = 0.027; women: P = 0.001). In men, the cumulative 5-year survival rates were 78.7% and 46.2% in the Low and High groups, respectively, whereas in women, rates were 77.2% and 58.8% in the Low and High groups, respectively. For survivors during the first year after PD initiation, the Non-improvement group was associated with a poor survival rate compared with the Other group for both sexes. CONCLUSION: A high edema index was associated with mortality in incident PD patients at baseline and follow-up. The edema index may be used as a new marker for predicting mortality in PD patients.

Relief and Recurrence of Congestion During and After Hospitalization for Acute Heart Failure: Insights From Diuretic Optimization Strategy Evaluation in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (DOSE-AHF) and Cardiorenal Rescue Study in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (CARESS-HF).

BACKGROUND: Congestion is the most frequent cause for hospitalization in acute decompensated heart failure. Although decongestion is a major goal of acute therapy, it is unclear how the clinical components of congestion (eg, peripheral edema, orthopnea) contribute to outcomes after discharge or how well decongestion is maintained. METHODS AND RESULTS: A post hoc analysis was performed of 496 patients enrolled in the Diuretic Optimization Strategy Evaluation in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (DOSE-AHF) and Cardiorenal Rescue Study in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (CARRESS-HF) trials during hospitalization with acute decompensated heart failure and clinical congestion. A simple orthodema congestion score was generated based on symptoms of orthopnea (≥2 pillows=2 points, <2 pillows=0 points) and peripheral edema (trace=0 points, moderate=1 point, severe=2 points) at baseline, discharge, and 60-day follow-up. Orthodema scores were classified as absent (score of 0), low-grade (score of 1-2), and high-grade (score of 3-4), and the association with death, rehospitalization, or unscheduled medical visits through 60 days was assessed. At baseline, 65% of patients had high-grade orthodema and 35% had low-grade orthodema. At discharge, 52% patients were free from orthodema at discharge (score=0) and these patients had lower 60-day rates of death, rehospitalization, or unscheduled visits (50%) compared with those with low-grade or high-grade orthodema (52% and 68%, respectively; P=0.038). Of the patients without orthodema at discharge, 27% relapsed to low-grade orthodema and 38% to high-grade orthodema at 60-day follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Increased severity of congestion by a simple orthodema assessment is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Despite intent to relieve congestion, current therapy often fails to relieve orthodema during hospitalization or to prevent recurrence after discharge. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifiers: NCT00608491, NCT00577135.

Furosemide and albumin for diuresis of edema (FADE): a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Fluid retention is a common complication of critical illness. It typically results from large-volume fluid infusions during acute resuscitation and is worsened by hypoalbuminemia. Recognized as edema, fluid retention is important for its association with delayed weaning and increased mortality. The standard treatment is the administration of diuretics, with or without albumin. We hypothesize that intravenous 25% albumin plus furosemide, by comparison with furosemide alone, improves diuresis, oxygenation, and hemodynamic stability in the deresuscitation of critically ill, hypoalbuminemic patients. We propose a pilot study to determine the feasibility of a trial to investigate this hypothesis. METHODS/DESIGN: FADE is a single-center, parallel, pilot randomized controlled trial. We aim to allocate 50 hemodynamically stable, hypoalbuminemic adult patients receiving diuresis to treatment with either 100 ml of either 25% albumin or normal saline placebo twice daily, for a total of six doses. Diuretics are to be prescribed by the caregiving team at least twice daily, and administered within 2 hours following study treatment. Patients, intensive care unit (ICU) clinicians, data collectors, and outcome adjudicators will be blinded to treatment allocation. Feasibility outcome measures include the proportion of patients receiving albumin within 2 hours of diuretic, the proportion of patients receiving the full six doses of study treatment, the proportion of patients who receive open label 25% albumin, and the rate of recruitment. Physiologic, laboratory, and clinical data are collected until discharge from the ICU or until 30 days. DISCUSSION: This is the first randomized trial to assess the use of hyperoncotic albumin in addition to diuretics in a general ICU population. Should this pilot study demonstrate feasibility, the primary outcome measure of the larger clinical trial will be the number of ventilator-free days, with secondary clinical outcome measures of duration of mechanical ventilation, length of ICU stay, episodes of hemodynamic instability and mortality. The addition of 25% albumin to standard diuretic therapy is a promising treatment in the post-resuscitation care of the critically ill patient. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02055872; ISRCTN70191881.

Prenatal solid tumor volume index: novel prenatal predictor of adverse outcome in sacrococcygeal teratoma.

BACKGROUND: Sacrococcygeal teratoma is the most common neonatal tumor. Fetuses with large tumors may develop hydrops from a high cardiac output state (HCOS) and progress rapidly to fetal demise. We postulate that the prenatal solid tumor volume index (STVI), or the ratio of solid tumor volume to the estimated fetal weight (EFW), has greater impact than the total tumor volume in outcome prediction. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of all sacrococcygeal teratoma patients (n = 38) between 2005 and 2012 was conducted. Total tumor volume and percent of solid component were calculated by magnetic resonance imaging and then normalized by dividing them by either head circumference or EFW. Outcomes measured were survival, hydrops or high cardiac output state, defined as a combined ventricular output of >625 mL/min/kg with abnormal Doppler or echocardiogram findings. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients were included in the study. All deaths (n = 7) had either high cardiac output state or hydrops. At a total tumor volume/EFW >0.16, the patient was 17 times more likely to develop HCOS/hydrops (P = 0.001) with 81.25% sensitivity and 86.67% specificity. At a STVI >0.09, the patient was 120 times more likely to develop HCOS/hydrops (P < 0.0001) with 81.25% sensitivity and 100% specificity. CONCLUSIONS: While total tumor volume aids in stratifying patients into high risk categories, STVI (solid tumor volume/EFW) is a better predictor of adverse outcomes. This data will allow us to identify patients who are high risk for cardiac compromise and guide appropriate therapy.

Mirror syndrome in a Chinese hospital: diverse causes and maternal fetal features.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical characteristics of mirror syndrome. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of cases with mirror syndrome. Data of clinical manifestations, laboratory examinations, placental morphology, treatment and prognosis of these patients were obtained and studied. RESULTS: Five cases satisfying the inclusion criteria for mirror syndrome were identified from our hospital database. The incidence of the condition was 0.0154% in China. Mirror syndrome was associated with Rhesus isoimmunization, intrauterine parvovirus B19 infection, fetal neuroblastoma, fetal heart malformation and unknown cause respectively. Fetal symptoms were multi-hydrocele and fetal heart failure complicating fetal hydrops. All of the cases manifested maternal hydrops and hemodilution, the other most common symptoms included hypertension, proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, anemia, thrombocytopenia and elevated uric acid levels. Fetal outcomes in this study were poor with a perinatal mortality rate of 100%. Placentomegaly was observed in most cases and placental morphology showed villous edema, increased intervillous fibrin deposition and one rare case of fetal adrenal neuroblastoma. Resolution of maternal symptoms was noted within 3-30 days after delivery. CONCLUSION: Mirror syndrome is associated with a substantially increased risk of fetal death and severe maternal complications. Early diagnosis of this condition during pregnancy is crucial for providing proper treatments and achieving better clinical outcomes.

Mortalidade materna e sua interface com a raça em Mato Grosso / Maternal mortality and race in the Brazilian State of Mato Grosso

Analisar a correlação entre óbitos maternos e raça/cor no Estado de Mato Grosso entre os anos de 2000 a 2006. MÉTODOS: estudo epidemiológico com base nos dados da Declaração de Óbitos, DATASUS e SIM/SES-MT, que propiciaram a análise da série histórica entre esses anos. Relacionou-se raça/cor das mulheres que foram a óbito por causas maternas com as variáveis idade, escolaridade, estado civil, causa básica de óbito e tipo de causa obstétrica. Utilizaram-se teste de Χ2 e odds ratio. RESULTADOS: o teste Χ2 evidenciou associação significativa entre raça/cor e morte materna, ao nível de significância de 95 por cento. A odds ratio apontou uma razão de chances dessas mortes 5,13 vezes maior para mulheres pretas e 5,71 para indígenas, comparadas às mulheres brancas. 'Transtornos hipertensivos da gravidez, parto/puerpério' foram a principal causa de óbito materno para as afrodescendentes e pardas; respectivamente 45,4 por cento e 29,93 por cento. As indígenas morreram mais pelas 'complicações do trabalho de parto/parto' com 27,2 por cento. Das mulheres brancas, 30,7 por cento morreram por 'outras complicações obstétricas não classificadas em outras causas'. CONCLUSÕES: em todo Mato Grosso as mortes maternas por causas obstétricas diretas pervaleceu entre mulheres pretas e indígenas...

To examine the correlation between maternal mortality rates and race/color in the Brazilian State of Mato Grosso between 2000 and 2006. METHODS: an epidemiological study was carried out using the death certificates, DATASUS and SIM/SES-MT to provide a time series for these years. The race/color of the women who died during childbirth was related to the variables age, level of education, marital status, primary cause of death and type of obstetric cause. In combination with the Χ2 test and the odds rati were used. RESULTS: the Χ2 test showed a significant association between race/color and maternal mortality, with a level of significance of 95 percent. The odds ratio revealed that such deaths were 5.13 times more likely among black women and 5.71 times more likely among indigenous women, compared to white women. 'Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, childbirth or puerperium' were the main cause of maternal mortality among African Brazilian women and women of mixed race; 45.4 percent and 29.93 percent respectively. Indigenous women died more of 'complications during labor' with 27.2 percent. White women died more (30.7 percent) of 'other obstetric complications'. CONCLUSIONS: in the state of Mato Grosso a high maternal mortality rate from direct obstetric causes are found among black and indigenous women...

Morbidity and mortality of severe malnutrition among Sudanese children in New Halfa Hospital, Eastern Sudan.

Medical files of children with severe malnutrition admitted at New Halfa hospital, Sudan during 2007-2009 were reviewed. A total of 1097 children (54.9%, 602 male) with severe malnutrition were admitted during the three year period. Oedematous severe malnutrition was found in 179 (16.3%) children. Of these 1097, 796 (72.6%) patients with severe malnutrition were children <2 years old. Out of these 1097 children, 780 (71.1%) and 112 (10.2%) had diarrhoea and malaria, respectively. Sixty-one (5.5%) of these children died, 237 (21.6%) discharged against medical advice and 799 (72.8%) were discharged. Of the 61 children who died 11 (18.0%) had septicaemia following diarrhoea and respiratory tract infections. The case fatality rate was not different with sex or with presence/absence of oedema.