Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strain Positive for the Panton-Valentine Leucocidin Gene in a Middle-Aged Patient With Multiple Septic Pulmonary Emboli.

A 59-year-old man suffered from fever and chest pain for three days following an accidental bite to a lip ulcer. His lower lip showed swelling and tenderness, and chest computed tomography showed multiple bilateral nodules. He was diagnosed with septic pulmonary embolism and a lip abscess, and blood, sputum, and lip abscess cultures confirmed the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Despite the initiation of vancomycin, he rapidly developed respiratory failure and septic shock, necessitating intubation and noradrenaline support. Gentamicin was added on the seventh day of admission due to an insufficient effect, and vancomycin was switched to linezolid on the 14th day of admission. However, his respiratory failure persisted as bilateral pneumothorax developed. Blood culture was negative on the 14th day after admission, but the patient died on the 15th day after admission. The MRSA isolate was tested for the presence of the Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) gene in conjunction with the USA300 strain. The prevalence of community-acquired (CA)-MRSA in the USA300 clone is increasing but still low in Japan, and this type of infection is commonly observed in people of all ages; this case is the first instance reported in Japan of a middle-aged patient with septic pulmonary embolism. Given the anticipated global increase in CA-MRSA infection caused by the USA300 clone and the emergence of USA300 with altered pathogenicity, it may be crucial to suspect PVL-positive CA-MRSA infections even in middle-aged or elderly patients presenting with septic pulmonary embolism as community infections.

Infrared images help to identify retinal emboli in hemodynamic retinal artery occlusion.

To report a case of stroke with internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion and retinal artery occlusion (RAO) with multiple emboli identified by infrared images. The patient presented with acute blurred vision and slurred speech since woke up in the morning. Carotid Doppler ultrasonography showed severe left ICA stenosis with the decreased flow. Computed tomography angiography demonstrated left ICA critical stenosis with compensatory flows from the right ICA. There was coexistent RAO with multiple emboli, silver-wiring, and segmentation of the retinal artery. More hyperreflective emboli were uncovered by infrared images of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Embolism may accompany with the compensatory flow for ICA occlusion. RAO patients should have thorough carotid evaluations, especially those with multiple retinal emboli.

Physiology of deep closed circuit rebreather mixed gas diving: vascular gas emboli and biological changes during a week-long liveaboard safari.

Introduction: Diving decompression theory hypothesizes inflammatory processes as a source of micronuclei which could increase related risks. Therefore, we tested 10 healthy, male divers. They performed 6-8 dives with a maximum of two dives per day at depths ranging from 21 to 122 msw with CCR mixed gas diving. Methods: Post-dive VGE were counted by echocardiography. Saliva and urine samples were taken before and after each dive to evaluate inflammation: ROS production, lipid peroxidation (8-iso-PGF2), DNA damage (8-OH-dG), cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and neopterin). Results: VGE exhibits a progressive reduction followed by an increase (p < 0.0001) which parallels inflammation responses. Indeed, ROS, 8-iso-PGF2, IL-6 and neopterin increases from 0.19 ± 0.02 to 1.13 ± 0.09 µmol.min-1 (p < 0.001); 199.8 ± 55.9 to 632.7 ± 73.3 ng.mg-1 creatinine (p < 0.0001); 2.35 ± 0.54 to 19.5 ± 2.96 pg.mL-1 (p < 0.001); and 93.7 ± 11.2 to 299 ± 25.9 µmol·mol-1 creatinine (p = 0.005), respectively. The variation after each dive was held constant around 158.3% ± 6.9% (p = 0.021); 151.4% ± 5.7% (p < 0.0001); 176.3% ± 11.9% (p < 0.0001); and 160.1% ± 5.6% (p < 0.001), respectively. Discussion: When oxy-inflammation reaches a certain level, it exceeds hormetic coping mechanisms allowing second-generation micronuclei substantiated by an increase of VGE after an initial continuous decrease consistent with a depletion of "first generation" pre-existing micronuclei.

Splenic Embolism in Infective Endocarditis: A Systematic Review of the Literature with an Emphasis on Radiological and Histopathological Diagnoses.

Infective endocarditis (IE) is characterised by fever, heart murmurs, and emboli. Splenic emboli are frequent in left-sided IE. A systematic review of the literature published on splenic embolism (SE) between 2000 and 2023 was conducted. Search strategies in electronic databases identified 2751 studies published between 1 January 2000 and 4 October 2023, of which 29 were finally included. The results showed that the imaging tests predominantly used to detect embolisms were computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography (PET)/CT, single-photon emission computed tomography/CT, ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. More recent studies typically used 18F-FDG PET-CT. The proportion of SE ranged from 1.4% to 71.7%. Only seven studies performed systematic conventional CT screening for intra-abdominal emboli, and the weighted mean frequency of SE was 22% (range: 8-34.8%). 18F-FDG PET-CT was performed systematically in seven studies, and splenic uptake was found in a weighted mean of 4.5%. There was a lack of uniformity in the published literature regarding the frequency and management of splenic embolisation. CT scans were the most frequently used method, until recently, when 18F-FDG PET-CT scans began to predominate. More data are necessary regarding the frequency of SE, especially focusing on their impact on IE management and prognosis.

Inflammatory breast cancer: An overview about the histo-pathological aspect and diagnosis.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of locally advanced breast cancer, classified as stage T4d according to the tumor-node-metastasis staging criteria. This subtype of breast cancer is known for its rapid progression and significantly lower survival rates compared to other forms of breast cancer. Despite its distinctive clinical features outlined by the World Health Organization, the histopathological characteristics of IBC remain not fully elucidated, presenting challenges in its diagnosis and treatment. Histologically, IBC tumors often exhibit a ductal phenotype, characterized by emboli composed of pleomorphic cells with a high nuclear grade. These emboli are predominantly found in the papillary and reticular dermis of the skin overlaying the breast, suggesting a primary involvement of the lymphatic vessels. The tumor microenvironment in IBC is a complex network involving various cells such as macrophages, monocytes, and predominantly T CD8+ lymphocytes, and elements including blood vessels and extracellular matrix molecules, which play a pivotal role in the aggressive nature of IBC. A significant aspect of IBC is the frequent loss of expression of hormone receptors like estrogen and progesterone receptors, a phenomenon that is still under active investigation. Moreover, the overexpression of ERBB2/HER2 and TP53 in IBC cases is a topic of ongoing debate, with studies indicating a higher prevalence in IBC compared to non-inflammatory breast cancer. This overview seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the histopathological features and diagnostic approaches to IBC, emphasizing the critical areas that require further research.

Inflammatory breast cancer biomarkers and biology.

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a unique breast cancer with a highly virulent course and low 5- and 10-year survival rates. Even though it only accounts for 1-5% of breast cancers it is estimated to account for 10% of breast cancer deaths annually in the United States. The accuracy of diagnosis and classification of this unique cancer is a major concern within the medical community. Early molecular and biological studies incidentally included IBC samples with other conventional breast cancers and were not informative as to the unique nature of the disease. Subsequent molecular studies that focused specifically on IBC demonstrated that IBC has a unique biology different from other forms of breast cancer. Additionally, a handful of unique signature genes that are hallmarks of IBC have also been suggested. Further understanding of IBC biology can help with diagnosis and treatment of the disease. The current article reviews the history and highlights of IBC studies.

Coronary Air Embolism Secondary to Percutaneous Lung Biopsy: A Systematic Review.

To determine mortality and morbidity associated with coronary air embolism (CAE) secondary to complications of percutaneous lung biopsy (PLB) and illicit-specific risk factor associated with this complication and overall mortality, we searched PubMed to identify reported cases of CAE secondary to PLB. After assessing inclusion eligibility, a total of 31 cases from 26 publications were included in our study. Data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test. In 31 reported cases, cardiac arrest was more common after left lower lobe (LLL) biopsies (n=4, 80%, p=0.001). Of these patients who suffered from cardiac arrest, CAE was found more frequently in the right coronary artery (RCA) than other locations but did not reach statistical significance (n=5, 62%, p=0.39). At the same time, intervention in the LLL was significantly associated with patient mortality (n=3, 60%, p=0.010). Of the patients who died, CAE was more likely to have occurred in the RCA, but this association was not statistically significant (n=4, 57%, p=0.33). LLL biopsies have a statistically significant correlation with cardiac arrest and patient death. More research is needed to examine the effect of the air location in the RCA on patient morbidity and mortality.

Native Aortic Valve Infective Endocarditis Secondary to Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Infective endocarditis (IE) refers to a microbial infection affecting either a heart valve or endocardium, resulting in tissue damage and the formation of vegetation. Native aortic valve endocarditis in children is rare and is associated with serious complications related to valvular insufficiency and systemic embolizations. As reports about community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) native aortic valve endocarditis in children are very scarce, we report this case along with a literature review about its complications and management. Here, we report the case of a seven-month-old infant who was previously healthy and presented with signs and symptoms of shock and systemic embolizations secondary to native aortic valve IE. His blood culture showed MRSA. He developed aortic valve insufficiency heart failure and multiorgan septic emboli that progressed to fatal refractory multiorgan failure. The management of complicated aortic valve endocarditis in children is challenging and needs a multidisciplinary team approach and prompt intervention.

Spontaneous uterine rupture complicated by bilateral pulmonary emboli: A case report.

Spontaneous uterine rupture in unscarred uteri complicated by pulmonary emboli is a rare event with major maternal morbidity and mortality. This is a case of a 32-year-old woman, G1P0, at term, with no pertinent past medical/surgical history, who underwent an emergency cesarean delivery for failed induction of labor complicated by uterine rupture. Post-operatively, the patient was tachycardic and hypoxic. CT arteriogram revealed massive bilateral pulmonary emboli, and she was transferred for specialist care. An emergency pulmonary embolectomy and implantation of an extracorporeal right ventricular assist device were performed. Once the patient was clinically stable, an evaluation for thrombophilias and collagen disorders was done, and was positive for a variant of unknown significance in the ELN gene (c.205G > C). This case report highlights a potential connection between uterine ruptures, hemorrhage, and multiple, large pulmonary emboli. The authors propose a multidisciplinary discussion and evaluation to identify risk factors and biologic causes for these rare but life-threatening complications.

Clinical Management of Mantle Cell Lymphoma With Concurrent Vascular Complications: A Case Report.

This is a case of a 70-year-old patient with no past medical history but a significant family history of cancer, who was admitted with acute pulmonary embolism and left lower extremity deep vein thrombosis concerning malignancy. Further investigations revealed mantle cell lymphoma. This case highlights the complex clinical management of patients presenting with concurrent hematological malignancy and vascular complications.

A Case of Right-Sided Infective Endocarditis Requiring AngioVac Debulking.

Infective endocarditis is an uncommon but consequential disease process that occurs after damage to the cardiac endothelium. Management depends on location and infection severity, but it can typically be treated with intravenous antibiotics. Still, in more complex presentations, surgical intervention may be warranted. Here, we examine a case of right-sided infective endocarditis affecting the tricuspid valve in a patient with a history of intravenous drug use. The purpose of this paper is to examine a case of right-sided endocarditis refractory to intravenous antibiotics, resulting in the need for an alternative treatment modality using AngioVAC debulking.

Blood flow and emboli transport patterns during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A computational fluid dynamics study.

PROBLEM: Despite advances in Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO), a significant mortality rate persists due to complications. The non-physiological blood flow dynamics of VA-ECMO may lead to neurological complications and organ ischemia. Continuous retrograde high-flow oxygenated blood enters through a return cannula placed in the femoral artery which opposes the pulsatile deoxygenated blood ejected by the left ventricle (LV), which impacts upper body oxygenation and subsequent hyperoxemia. The complications underscore the critical need to comprehend the impact of VA-ECMO support level and return cannula size, as mortality remains a significant concern. AIM: The aim of this study is to predict and provide insights into the complications associated with VA-ECMO using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. These complications will be assessed by characterising blood flow and emboli transport patterns through a comprehensive analysis of the influence of VA-ECMO support levels and arterial return cannula sizes. METHODS: Patient-specific 3D aortic and major branch models, derived from a male patient's CT scan during VA-ECMO undergoing respiratory dysfunction, were analyzed using CFD. The investigation employed species transport and discrete particle tracking models to study ECMO blood (oxygenated) mixing with LV blood (deoxygenated) and to trace emboli transport patterns from potential sources (circuit, LV, and aorta wall). Two cannula sizes (15 Fr and 19 Fr) were tested alongside varying ECMO pump flow rates (50%, 70%, and 90% of the total cardiac output). RESULTS: Cannula size did not significantly affect oxygen transport. At 90% VA-ECMO support, all arteries distal to the aortic arch achieved 100% oxygen saturation. As support level decreased, oxygen transport to the upper body also decreased to a minimum saturation of 73%. Emboli transport varied substantially between emboli origin and VAECMO support level, with the highest risk of cerebral emboli coming from the LV with a 15 Fr cannula at 90% support. CONCLUSION: Arterial return cannula sizing minimally impacted blood oxygen distribution; however, it did influence the distribution of emboli released from the circuit and aortic wall. Notably, it was the support level alone that significantly affected the mixing zone of VA-ECMO and cardiac blood, subsequently influencing the risk of embolization of the cardiogenic source and oxygenation levels across various arterial branches.

Right-to-Left Intra-cardiac Shunt in a COVID-19 Patient Leading to Stroke and Poor Prognosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) often presents with a wide range of complications, including respiratory distress, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and hypercoagulable states with resultant cerebrovascular incidents. Intra- and extra-pulmonological shunts can further complicate patient courses, leading to persistent hypoxemia and paradoxical emboli, resulting in potentially life-threatening consequences, necessitating a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to patient care. Here we present the case of a 73-year-old male who experienced severe persistent hypoxemic respiratory failure, superimposed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pneumonia, and stroke with a previously undiagnosed patent foramen ovale (PFO) contributing to his clinical presentation.

A Rare Case of Spontaneous Pneumothorax Leading to Cerebral Air Embolism.

Cerebral arterial air embolism (CAE), a rare subtype of air embolism, carries a 21% mortality rate. We present a unique case involving a 69-year-old female with a history of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) who suffered a transient ischemic attack (TIA) due to CAE. Unlike typical cases, CAE in this instance resulted from spontaneous pneumothorax, not the more common iatrogenic causes. Adding complexity, an unexpected discovery emerged during evaluation: a patent foramen ovale, contributing to paradoxical embolism. This underscores the vital need to consider CAE as a differential diagnosis in UIP patients with neurological symptoms, highlighting its rarity and diagnostic challenges.

The sentinel rash and neurocutaneous presentation of atrial myxoma: Case report and literature review.

Introduction: Presenting symptoms of atrial myxoma are classically viewed as a triad of cardiac, embolic, and constitutional symptoms. Dermatologic manifestations are viewed as constitutional symptoms and have not received much attention. Methods: Illustrative case presentation and literature review. Results: I admitted a 28 y woman transferred to the comprehensive stroke center with an ischemic stroke treated with intravenous thrombolysis. She had a two year history of skin lesions in the hands/fingers and feet/toes/sole. Skin biopsies showed perivascular neutrophilic inflammatory dermatitis without skin vasculitis. Admission physical exam was notable for chronic skin changes on her hand and foot and an acute erythematous petechial rash over the right side of her face in the distribution of the right external carotid artery. MRI brain showed ischemia involving the right internal carotid artery territory. Transthoracic echocardiogram identified a 2.4 cm atrial myxoma with normal mitral valve function. She underwent uncomplicated cardiac surgery with confirmation of a villous myxoma. At her 8 week follow up visit, she had resolution of her neurologic deficits, and her skin rashes had cleared.Literature review identified 17 additional published cases of sentinel rashes preceding diagnosis of atrial myxoma. Skin changes were often reported in the hand and feet and may involve the digits, palm, and sole. In 8 cases, skin biopsy identified myxomatous emboli in dermal vessels. These cutaneous manifestations share similarities with Osler nodes and Janeway lesions first described in the 1890's, now understood to represent microemboli to the dermis. Seven of these 17 cases (41 %) developed strokes after the initial presentation of cutaneous changes. Our patient had an embolic event primarily affecting the right common carotid artery territory with facial cutaneous changes due to emboli to the external carotid artery territory and cerebral ischemia in the right internal carotid artery territory. Conclusion: I recommend reclassification of the cutaneous signs of atrial myxoma as embolic (to the dermis microvasculature) rather than a constitutional symptom. As the skin biopsy often fails to show myxomatous emboli, physicians should have a high suspicion for a proximal embolic source for patients with a migratory rash preferentially affecting distal extremities. Earlier diagnosis of atrial myxoma when the sentinel rash first appears provides a valuable window of opportunity for cardiac surgery before the patient experiences stroke or peripheral emboli.

Recurrent Syncope Unveiling Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Pulmonary Artery Thrombi in a Pediatric Patient.

We present a case of a nine-year-old female patient who presented with recurrent syncope and was ultimately diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to pulmonary artery thrombi in the context of anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). Extensive investigations including imaging studies revealed PH. Thromboembolic workup confirmed multiple pulmonary artery thrombi, and anti-phospholipid antibody testing confirmed APS. The patient received anticoagulation therapy tailored to APS management. Follow-up assessments demonstrated significant improvement in PH leading to cessation of syncope episodes. In this case, we underscore the importance of considering rare causes of syncope in the pediatric age group, particularly autoimmune disorders. Timely recognition and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes in such cases. This report contributes to understanding the diverse clinical presentations of APS and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach in patients with unexplained syncope.

An infective endocarditis complicated by multiple septic emboli: case report.

BACKGROUND: Owing to challenges associated with heart failure and cardiac embolism, infectious endocarditis emerges as a critical pathology characterized by elevated mortality and morbidity rates. Our case stands out as a rare instance of endocarditis involving multisystem embolization, with a successful outcome. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of an 81-year-old man whose admission was further complicated by various septic emboli affecting the brain (manifesting as a brain abscess and ischemic stroke), spleen (resulting in splenic infarction), and spinal cord. The patient received a diagnosis of infective endocarditis affecting the native mitral valve. Following prompt medical and surgical intervention, the overall progression was favorable despite encountering several challenges. CONCLUSIONS: This case is notable for its detailed description and analysis of the multiple embolic events. More importantly, it underscores the significance of timely surgical intervention and the collaborative approach of a heart team in the face of complicated endocarditis marked by numerous septic emboli. Despite the typically grim prognosis associated with such cases, the outcomes emphasize the positive impact of timely surgery on prognosis.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Cellulitis Causing Meningitis From Hematogenous Dissemination: A Case Report.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus meningitis is commonly associated with surgical procedures that closely interact with the central nervous system; however, hematogenous spread via bacteremia is rarely reported. Here, we present a case of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus meningitis as a complication of a diabetic foot infection that disseminated into a bloodstream infection causing infective endocarditis, discitis, vertebral osteomyelitis, and meningitis that was successfully treated with intravenous daptomycin and rifampin.

A Rare Intersection of Septic Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Insights from the Case of a 70-Year-Old Patient.

We describe a rare and complex case of septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (SCST) in a 70-year-old patient who initially presented with ocular symptoms that rapidly progressed to severe intracranial vascular complications, including subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Despite the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and anticoagulants, the patient's condition deteriorated. SCST, often caused by sinus infections, presents a significant diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma, with mortality rates exceeding 20%. This report underscores the diversity of clinical presentations, ranging from mild headaches to severe cranial nerve deficits, that complicate diagnosis and treatment. The inability to detect any aneurysms in our patient using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography angiography (CTA) may indicate an alternative pathogenesis. This could involve venous hypertension and endothelial hyperpermeability. This case illustrates the need for personalized treatment approaches, as recommended by the European Federation of Neurological Societies, and the importance of a multidisciplinary perspective when managing such intricate neurological conditions. Our findings contribute to the understanding of SCST coexisting with SAH.

Fusobacterium necrophorum intratonsillar abscess as a source of bacteremia in a patient with a history of substance abuse.

A 22-year-old male, with a history of recreational drug use, was admitted with a 24-hour history of sore throat, bilateral otalgia, fever, chills, sweats, and pain in the upper chest. The blood cultures were positive for Fusobacterium necrophorum. A thoracic and neck soft tissue computed tomography (CT) scan revealed an intratonsillar abscess and pulmonary septic emboli. Initial treatment with Piperacillin-tazobactam and Clindamycin was de-escalated after 5 days. The patient made a complete recovery after 22 days of antibiotic treatment.