Proven Epstein-Barr encephalitis with negative EBV-DNA load in cerebrospinal fluid after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

We report a case of EBV encephalitis in a seven-yr-old child with Ph+ ALL. Two months after an allogeneic HSCT from his HLA mismatched mother, the patient showed an altered sensorium, generalized seizures, and a left hemiparesis. Brain MRI demonstrated multiple lesions highly suggestive for viral encephalitis. Blood and CSF PCR analyses were negative for the most common viruses involved in immunocompromised patients including EBV. A cerebral biopsy was performed, which showed intense gliosis and perivascular lymphocytic cuffing. PCR analysis performed on brain tissue was positive only for the EBV genome, while extensive investigations for other viral infections were negative. The patient's neurological symptoms rapidly worsened and he died two months later. This case report suggests that in patients presenting neurological and radiological signs of encephalitis after an HSCT, an EBV involvement should be considered, even in the absence of CSF and blood PCR virus detection.

Preservation of chicken breast meat treated with thyme and balm essential oils.

The present study evaluated the effects of thyme and balm essential oils on the 3-wk storage of fresh chicken breast meat at 4 °C. Thyme and, to a lesser extent, balm essential oils reduced DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical formation in the meat (25% to 30% and 20%, respectively). Treatment with the 2 essential oils also limited lipid peroxidation and the deterioration of sarcoplasmic proteins, helping to preserve the meat even after 2 wk of storage. Thyme and balm essential oils decreased the natural microflora present in the meat; total microbial content decreased down to 50% in comparison to the control samples. In addition, a clear effect on lactic acid bacterial growth was recorded. Balm essential oil significantly limited the growth of Salmonella sp., whereas thyme essential oil effectively inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli. Our data demonstrate that these 2 essential oils effectively reduced deteriorative processes in chicken meat and extended the shelf life of this fresh product. Practical Application: The essential oils of thyme and balm can protect the chicken meat from decomposition during the storage time.

Magnetic resonance imaging flow void changes after cerebrospinal fluid shunt in post-traumatic hydrocephalus: clinical correlations and outcome.

The assessment of the flow-void in the cerebral aqueduct of patients with post-traumatic hydrocephalus on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation could concur the right diagnosis and have a prognostic value. We analysed prospectively 28 patients after a severe head injury (GCS

Congenital aplasia of the parotid gland with omolateral cheek angioma: case report and review of the literature.

Congenital agenesis of the parotid gland is a rare entity whose etiopathogenesis is still unclear. It is usually bilateral and is sometimes associated with other developmental anomalies of the head and neck region. A case is presented in which aplasia of the right parotid gland was associated with an omolateral angioma of the cheek. The radiological diagnostic approach and a review of the literature on agenesis of the salivary glands are presented.