Extra-axial primary meningeal pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma: a case report.

Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is a rare low-grade glial neoplasm of the central nervous system accounting for less than 1% of all astrocytomas. Similar to other gliomas, it can rarely arise from glial nests in the meninges, manifesting as an extra-axial mass mimicking a meningioma. Extra axial PXA is an extremely rare entity. Therefore, there are no standardized guidelines. In this article, we report the fourth case, so far, of a solitary primary extra-axial PXA mimicking a meningioma in a 23-year-old woman who presented with temporal seizures and features of raised intracranial pressure. Through this case, we tried to discuss all treatment options.

Simulation-based echocardiography learning contribution on training of medical residents.

INTRODUCTION: Echocardiography is a pivotal exam in critically ill patients, a specific training is crucial. Medical residents often lack echocardiography practice. AIM: This study aims to evaluate the impact of simulation-based training on medical residents' echocardiography mastery. METHODS: This interventional study was conducted among medical residents at the Simulation Center of the Faculty of Medicine in Monastir (CeSim) in January 2022. The intervention consisted of a theoretical training and a simulator-based practical training concerning echocardiography. Residents underwent evaluation before and after training through a "Pre-Test" and a "Post-Test," respectively, using a French-language questionnaire. Participation was entirely voluntary. RESULTS: A total of 28 medical residents participated in our study, with the majority being female (57.1%). The median age was 29 years (interquartile range: 28-31.75). Following training, the proportion of participants who reported having the necessary skills for echocardiography interpretation significantly increased (p<0.05). Respondents demonstrated significant improvements in their scores on theoretical tests and practical skills assessments. Concerning echocardiographic views, the percentage of participants who correctly identified the title of the parasternal small axis section increased from 53.6% before training to 100% after training (p <10-3). Significant enhancements were observed in all parameters evaluating the practice of echocardiographic sections by respondents on a mannequin after training, encompassing time to obtain the view, view quality, image quality, visualization of structures, interpretability, and image stability (p<10-3). There was a significant improvement in average response rates for echocardiographic clinical syndroms among medical residents before and after training. All participants emphasized the indispensability of ultrasound education in the training of physicians specializing in managing cardiopulmonary emergencies. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports the beneficial role of simulation-based training in enhancing the mastery of medical residents in echocardiography. Incorporating such training methods into their learning curricula is advisable.

An uncommon liver abscess secondary to an ingested foreign body: A case report.

Introduction: This article discusses a case study involving a unique occurrence of a hepatic abscess caused by the presence of an ingested foreign body. Hepatic abscesses, characterized by pus accumulation within liver tissue, often result from various infections, with some cases having unidentified origins. Case presentation: This study focuses on a 75-year-old man who presented at an emergency department with persistent pain in the right upper abdomen and fever for ten days. Diagnostic tests revealed a low-density, multiloculated mass in the liver and a hyperdense linear structure near the duodenum, indicating a hepatic abscess originating from duodenal perforation due to a foreign body that had migrated from ingestion. The patient underwent antibiotic treatment and a surgical procedure involving laparotomy to extract the foreign object and drain the abscess. Conclusion: this case study underscores the rare occurrence of hepatic abscesses caused by ingested foreign bodies. Swift and accurate diagnosis, along with appropriate treatment involving foreign body removal and abscess drainage, are pivotal for favorable patient outcomes. The choice of treatment strategy impacts hospital stay duration, and understanding potential complications from foreign body ingestion enhances patient management and care.

A case report of a large Splenic epidermoid cyst treated with partial splenectomy.

Introduction and importance: Splenic epidermoid cysts are rare primary congenital cysts composed of an epithelial lining that represent a small proportion of nonparasitic splenic cysts. Despite their infrequency, there is a lack of uniform diagnostic and treatment guidelines for these cysts, emphasizing the need for further research and standardized reporting. Case presentation: A 45-year-old female presented with left upper quadrant abdominal pain, characterized by a pressing sensation. Physical examination revealed a palpable mass in the upper left quadrant. Laboratory test results were normal. Abdominal ultrasonography and CT tomography confirmed a large splenic unilocular cyst consistent with an epidermoid cyst. Surgical intervention involved aspiration of the cystic fluid, partial splenectomy, and pathological examination. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful. Clinical discussion: The origin of splenic epidermoid cysts remains unclear, with theories suggesting entrapment of mesothelial cells during embryonic development. The clinical presentation varies with cyst size, often causing abdominal pain and a palpable mass. Diagnostic modalities include ultrasonography and CT scans. Surgical intervention is recommended for symptomatic or suspicious cysts to prevent complications. The chosen approach depends on cyst characteristics and patient factors. This case highlights the challenges and considerations in managing splenic epidermoid the cysts and emphasizes the need for individualized treatment approaches. Conclusion: This case contributes to the understanding of splenic epidermoid cysts and demonstrates a successful subtotal splenectomy as a treatment approach. Further research and standardized guidelines are essential to improve the management of these rare lesions and to provide better insights into their etiology and optimal treatment strategies.