RESUMO
Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) meningitis is a one of the manifestations of VZV reactivation which usually presents with fever, headache, and is sometimes preceded by a dermatomal vesicular rash. CSF analysis is the cornerstone investigation in helping to identify the causative organism or in orienting the physician toward a possible agent. CSF analysis in Viral meningitis usually reveals lymphocytic pleocytosis. However, normal CSF analysis with viral meningitis -despite being rare- has been reported especially with bacterial causes. Therefore, a first CSF puncture cannot rule out infection and a second one might be warranted if there is still high suspicion of viral meningitis with no diagnosis made by PCR. Here we present a case of an 89-year-old female who had signs and symptoms of meningitis with normal CSF analysis. However, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was positive for VZV. The patient was treated accordingly, and she recovered fully.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Auditing of polypharmacy is particularly essential in patients with cirrhosis because of the crucial role of liver in drug metabolism. The aim of this study was to audit the drug prescribed in this group of patients and analyzed the quantity and severity of potential drug-drug interaction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study we analyzed the last prescription as recorded in the Electronic Medical Record at the time of discharge for cirrhotic patients who were hospitalized during 24-months study period. Data were also collected for age, gender, and diagnoses. The drugs were analyzed for cross interactions using the Lexicomp-online e-formulary. The drug interactions are classified as: class A: no known interaction, class B: no action needed, Class C: monitor therapy, class D: consider therapy modification, and Class X: the drug should be avoided. RESULTS: A total of 333 patients with cirrhosis were audited, whereas complete and relevant data were available for 181 patients (134 males, 74%) with a mean age ± SD 59.7 ± 10.1. Out of these, 168 (92.8%) patients were using at least one medicine and the total number of medications used was 808 drugs. The observed average of utilization was 7.8 ± 3.1 drugs (range = 1-17) and 102 (56.3%) patients used polypharmacy. A total of 198 (24.5%) consumed drugs were related to cirrhosis and its complications. Six (3.3%), 30 (16.6%) and 65 (35.9%) patients had Class-X, Class D, and Class C, respectively. Utilization of polypharmacy was statistical significant in patients with class X (83.3%, p = 0.03), class D (16.6%, p = 0.01), and class C (35.9%, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: The findings highlight the importance of auditing for polypharmacy to recognize and prevent potential drug-related problems in patients with cirrhosis. Implementation of strategies to optimize medication use in patients with cirrhosis should be considered necessary as it can have a bearing on length of stay and morbidity.
