Arm Weakness Research Articles

Symptomatic Severe Stenosis of Cavernous Internal Carotid Artery Stenting: A Case Report with Short Literature Review

AbstractIntracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis is rarely reported as compared with extracranial ICA stenosis. Atherosclerosis is one of the major beginnings of stenosis of vasculatures, which may lead to ischemic stroke causing morbidity and mortality. We report the case of a 60 -year-old man presented to us with complaints of multiple episodes of dizziness, mild headache, and transient left arm weakness for 3 months and had history of smoking, hypercholesterolemia (high level of low-density lipoprotein level = 220 mg/dL), diabetes mellitus, and hypertension under medication. No neurological deficits were observed at the time of admission. Patient underwent angioplasty and stenting with drug-eluting balloon-expandable coronary stent. Patient was discharged well at the 3rd day of procedure. No recurrence of stroke and restenosis were noted till 3 months of follow-up period. Stenting following angioplasty for treatment of symptomatic severe cavernous ICA stenosis with everolimus-eluting coronary balloon-expandable stent, Xience Xpedition, is safe and effective.

Efficacy and safety of ultrasound guided stellate ganglion block: developing new clinical indications beyond electrical storm

Abstract Background Percutaneous stellate ganglion block (PSGB) is recommended by the latest European guidelines for patients with drug and ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation refractory electrical storm (ES). Yet, due to the strong antiarrhythmic potential, combined with the good safety profile, we’ve recently used it for to the prophylaxis of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) in high-risk patients and the prophylaxis/treatment of atrial arrhythmias in patients with acute heart failure (HF). Purpose To describe our single-center experience with PSGB usage outside the conventional indication of ES. Methods We hereby describe our single center experience with PSGB from 2/2021 to 2/2024. Results 56 patients (87% male, mean age 64 ± 12 years) received a total of 91 PSGB performed with the lateral, ultrasound (US) guided technique. Most of the procedures consisted of a single bolus anesthetic injection of lidocaine plus ropivacaine, 27% in an additional continuous infusion, mainly with ropivacaine. All procedures except for 3 in a single patient who had previously received left cardiac sympathetic denervation, were performed on the left side. Most of the patients (61%) suffered ischemic cardiomyopathy (CMP), including 11 with an acute coronary syndrome; the rest had non-ischemic CMP. 63 PSGB (69%) were performed in patients with impending or manifested cardiogenic shock (SCAI classification B or more). Mean LVEF was 24 ± 12%. Most of the procedures (n=80, 88%) were performed due to ongoing refractory VAs, yet 6 (6%) aimed to prevent major VAs in high-risk patients, mostly in the setting of recent ES (within 1 month) and need for Levosimendan to support cardiac output, in one case due to recent stereotactic VT ablation, to prevent early VAs in the phase of acute radiation induced microvascular damage. All 6 were effective in preventing clinically significant VAs. Additionally, 5 single bolus PSGBs (5%) were performed due to atrial arrhythmias with high ventricular rate despite intravenous drugs in the setting of acute HF. Specifically, 3 patients had atrial fibrillation (AF), 1 patient runs of ectopic atrial tachycardia (AT) and 1 patient 2:1 atrial flutter. Left-sided PSGB significantly reduced (≥25% reduction) ventricular rate during AF and AT but not during the single case of 2:1 atrial flutter, in 2/3 AF cases a cardioversion into sinus rhythm occurred within 40 minutes from PSGB. Only 1 (1%) major complication occurred (respiratory arrest), that was quickly and effectively treated with lipid emulsion, while minor complications were observed in 11% of PSGBs (mostly transient left arm weakness). Conclusions Our data suggest that US-guided PSGB usage, thanks to its feasibility at bed-side and good safety profile, may expand, beyond ES, to not only VAs prevention in high-risk settings, but also to prophylaxis/treatment of atrial arrhythmias in critically ill patients with acute heart failure requiring concomitant inotropic support.

Outcome of End to Side Nerve Modified Double Oberlin Procedure and End to End Dorsal Approach Spinal Accessory to Suprascapular Nerve in Partial Postganglionic BPI: A Case Report

Introduction: Brachial plexus injury (BPI) is a devastating peripheral nerve injury that mostly affecting young men, often due to motor vehicle accidents. BPIs can be classified into preganglionic and postganglionic lesions, with postganglionic injuries allowing potential nerve regeneration. The Oberlin method, aimed at reinnervating the biceps, and the Mackinnon technique, targeting both biceps and brachialis muscles, have shown promising outcomes in BPI management. Case report: A 45-year-old man presented with right hand weakness and occasional tingling in the upper arm and fingers two months after a motorcycle accident. Motor examination revealed muscle strength of 0/5 in the right trapezius, rhomboids, serratus anterior (positive winging scapula), pectoralis minor and major, latissimus dorsi, deltoid, biceps, and elbow flexion. Wrist and finger functions remained intact. Diagnosed with post-ganglionic BPI, the patient underwent two nerve transfer surgeries: the Mackinnon technique, transferring the spinal accessory nerve to the suprascapular nerve to reinnervate shoulder muscles, and the Double Oberlin procedure, transferring fascicles from the median and ulnar nerves to the musculocutaneous nerve for reinnervation of the biceps and brachialis muscles. Post-surgery, the patient engaged in an aggressive rehabilitation program focusing on strength, range of motion, and sensory re-education. Over nine months, the patient showed significant improvement in elbow flexion (MRC grade 3), wrist extension (MRC grade 5), hand grip strength (MRC grade 3) with improved sensation across the affected limb. He returned to work and daily activities with mild residual weakness and sensory deficits. Discussion: This case illustrates the effectiveness of the Mackinnon and Double Oberlin nerve transfer techniques in restoring function in a patient with total post-ganglionic BPI. The Mackinnon technique enabled shoulder muscle reinnervation, essential for abduction and stabilization, while the Double Oberlin procedure enhanced elbow flexion by reinnervating both the biceps and brachialis muscles. The combined surgical and intensive rehabilitation approach facilitated significant functional recovery. Conclusion: The successful application of the Double Oberlin and Mackinnon techniques in this case demonstrates their potential in managing total post-ganglionic BPI. Early surgical intervention and consistent rehabilitation are crucial for optimizing recovery outcomes. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in treating complex peripheral nerve injuries. Keywords: Double Oberlin, Mackinnon, Brachial Plexus Injury

SPIN-01 PRIMARY MALIGNANT MELANOMA, AN ATYPICAL PRESENTATION IN THE CERVICAL SPINE: A CASE REPORT

Abstract BACKGROUND Few studies have documented the occurrence of melanoma in the cervical spine. Of all malignant melanoma cases, 1% are primary melanoma of the central nervous system, which makes it extremely uncommon and nonspecific. We aim to report a case of the uncommon presentation of primary melanoma in the cervical spine. Case presentation: The patient was a 59-year-old Muganda male who presented with a 2-year history of anterior neck swelling as well as severe pain and a tingling sensation in the left shoulder and arm, which worsened in the recent 6 months. He developed weakness and paresthesia in the upper left arm and progressive gait disturbance of the left leg. A physical examination revealed masses in the left cervical and right submandibular region. Additionally, the upper and lower left extremities revealed hemiparesis and hemihypoesthesia. A magnetic resonance imaging scan showed a hyperintense lesion on TIWI and another hypointense lesion on T2WI, originating from the cervical spine and involving the vertebral bodies and paravertebral soft tissues. The patient underwent surgery, a black tumor was extracted, and histology revealed the tumor to be malignant melanoma. The patient died within 1 month after the diagnosis and surgery. CONCLUSION This case is presented to highlight the significance and challenges associated with making a pre- and postoperative diagnosis of primary cervical melanoma with atypical radiological characteristics. Patients with extradural lesions that show hyperintensity on T1-weighted images and hypointensity on T2-weighted images should have spinal melanoma examined as a possible differential diagnosis.

Development and internal validation of prehospital prediction models for identifying intracerebral haemorrhage in suspected stroke patients

IntroductionDistinguishing patients with intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) from other suspected stroke cases in the prehospital setting is crucial for determining the appropriate level of care and minimising the onset-to-treatment time, thereby...

Post-implementation knowledge retention of stroke: the lasting influence of FAST Heroes.

FAST Heroes is a kindergarten-based educational program that teaches young children and their extended families (parents, grandparents), the main stroke symptoms (Face, Arm, and Speech), and the timely and appropriate steps in the event of a suspected stroke (Time). However, post-campaign knowledge retention remains a challenge. The purpose of the current study was to investigate whether and to what extent grandparents' stroke knowledge is maintained 44 months after the initial implementation of the program. Forty-five participants engaged in the present study (35 women, 10 men; 72.8§5.3) and completed an adapted version of the FAST Heroes Stroke Preparedness Questionnaire via phone calls. Compared to immediately post-program implementation, respondents were still able to recall arm weakness (OR = 1.63; p = 0.246) and slurred speech (OR = 2.02; p = 0.075) as main stroke symptoms. A decrease was observed in recalling facial drooping (OR = 0.44; p = 0.042). Reporting of the appropriate course of action, was found to be increased (OR = 4.17; p < 0.001). Respondents remembered the emergency number to call, i.e., 112 (OR = 0.97; p = 0.947). The results showed that awareness regarding the common signs of a stroke and the importance of promptly contacting emergency services following a stroke, in the population group mostly affected by stroke, is retained. Exploring knowledge preservation in a greater sample size is warranted.

Brain tumor patient perceptions toward repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for rehabilitation after surgery

Abstract Background Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is established for depression and rehabilitation after stroke and is emerging for cognitive rehabilitation. We sought to evaluate patient and carer perceptions toward rTMS for rehabilitation after neurosurgery. Methods Two surveys were undertaken. Group 1: Patients who received 7 days of rTMS for motor or language rehabilitation for severe postoperative deficits following lesional resection were prospectively surveyed on the last day of their rTMS treatment, as well as their next of kin. Group 2: Patients who had previously been diagnosed with glioma but did not receive rTMS were retrospectively surveyed through two brain tumor charities, including next of kin. Results Group 1: Twenty-one responses. Eleven patients, 10 next of kin. The commonest pathology was WHO Grade 4 glioma (n = 3). Group 2: 24 responses. Sixteen patients, 8 next of kin. The commonest pathology was WHO Grade 2 glioma (n = 7). Most Group 1 respondents reported a positive experience of rTMS (15/21). Patients experienced subjective improvements in gross motor functions of arm and leg weakness and purposeful movement (9/11). Lack of subjective motor improvement was associated with adverse symptoms (e.g., headaches; p = .01). Group 2 respondents were supportive of rTMS. Key priorities included motor and cognitive rehabilitation. They were accepting of longer and more frequent rTMS sessions than Group 1 (p = .028 and &amp;lt;.001, respectively). Commonest concerns pertained to side effects are seizures and headaches. Conclusions rTMS for rehabilitation was well-tolerated by patients with side effects being commoner in those with no subjective motor improvements. Nontreated patients and their next of kin would find longer and more sessions acceptable but have concerns about potential side effects.

Duropathy as a rare motor neuron disease mimic: from bibrachial amyotrophy to infratentorial superficial siderosis

BackgroundBibrachial amyotrophy associated with an extradural CSF collection and infratentorial superficial siderosis (SS) are rare conditions that may occasionally mimic ALS. Both disorders are assumed to be due to dural tears.Case presentationA 53-year-old man presented with a 7-year history of slowly progressive asymmetric bibrachial amyotrophy. Initially, a diagnosis of atypical motor neuron disease (MND) was made. At re-evaluation 11 years later, upper limb wasting and weakness had further progressed and were accompanied by sensorineural hearing loss. MRI of the brain and spine demonstrated extensive supra- and infratentorial SS (including the surface of the whole spinal cord) as well as a ventral longitudinal intraspinal fluid collection (VLISFC) extending along almost the entire thoracic spine. Osteodegenerative changes were observed at C5-C7 level, with osteophytes protruding posteriorly. The bony spurs at C6-C7 level were hypothesized to have lesioned the dura, causing a CSF leak and thus a VLISFC. Review of the MRI acquired at first evaluation showed that the VLISFC was already present at that time (actually beginning at C7 level), whereas the SS was not. 19 years after the onset of upper limb weakness, the patient additionally developed parkinsonism. Response to levodopa, brain scintigraphy with 123I-ioflupane and brain MRI with nigrosome 1 evaluation were consistent with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD). On the latest follow-up 21 years after symptom onset, the VLISFC was unchanged, as were upper arm weakness and wasting.ConclusionsBased on the long-term follow-up, we could establish that, while the evidence of the VLISFC was concomitant with the clinical presentation of upper limb amyotrophy and weakness, the radiological signs of SS appeared later. This suggests that SS was not per se the cause of the ALS-like clinical picture, but rather a long-term sequela of a dural leak. The latter was instead the causative lesion, giving rise to a VLISFC which compressed the cervical motor roots. Dural tears can actually cause several symptoms, and further studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiological correlates of “duropathies”. Finally, as iron metabolism has been implicated in PD, the co-occurrence of PD with SS deserves further investigation.

Temporal Association Between COVID-19 Immunoglobulin-G Antibody Induced Focal Cerebral Arteriopathy and New-Onset Acute Ischemic Stroke in a Pediatric: Is it Causal or Coincidental?

ABSTRACT Focal cerebral arteriopathies, vasculitis, microangiopathies, coagulopathies, and in-situ microthrombi leading to territorial infarction of neural tissues are some of the most recent instances which are reported as a consequence of the infection caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is one of the major neurological manifestations that have been linked with COVID-19. We describe a case of a 5-year-old boy who had an acute-onset of bilateral arm and leg weakness due to a posterior circulatory ischemic stroke that was temporally associated with COVID-19 Immunoglobulin-G antibody-induced cerebral arteriopathies and vasculitis. Laboratory examination was suggestive of elevated D-dimer levels to 3302 ng/ml, elevated C-reactive protein to 10 mg/dl, and elevated fibrinogen levels to 433 mg/dl. He had a negative COVID-19 nasopharyngeal polymerase chain reaction and positive COVID-19 serologies. Focal cerebral arteriopathy and AIS were managed by administering early antithrombotics, steroids, and multivitamins. On routine follow-ups, the patient remained free from new neurological and functional deficits. Although many hypotheses are proposed to explain the causal relationship between the two, it could as well be sheer coincidence.

Comparison of analgesic efficacy of continuous perineural catheter, liposomal bupivacaine, and dexamethasone as an adjuvant for interscalene block in total shoulder arthroplasty: a triple-blinded randomized controlled trial

BackgroundInterscalene catheters (ISC) are considered as the gold standard for perioperative pain control after total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Liposomal bupivacaine (LB) for interscalene blocks (ISB) or the addition of dexamethasone to ISBs have both presented as additional options for extended analgesia. We aimed to compare the efficacy of LB to a single shot ISB (SISB) with added dexamethasone to an ISC. We hypothesized that a single injection of LB or an ISB with a dexamethasone will provide non-inferior duration and quality of analgesia compared to ISC. MethodsA single centered triple blinded randomized controlled trial evaluated patients undergoing elective primary TSA. Patients were randomized to 3 groups, Group A (control): 0.5% bupivacaine 15 ml with a rescue catheter left in situ (0.125% bupivacaine infusion), Group B: 0.5% bupivacaine 14 ml with 4mg (1 ml) dexamethasone with a catheter left in situ (saline infusion), Group C: 10 ml of liposomal bupivacaine (133 mg) with 0.5% bupivacaine 5 ml, with a catheter left in situ (saline infusion). The primary outcome was the worst NRS (numeric rating scale) measured on arrival to PACU, 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and 36 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes recorded were time to first analgesic request, intraoperative opioid consumption, total inpatient opioid consumption, arm weakness, arm numbness, time of analgesia duration, time of motor recovery, sensory testing using pinprick on POD1, Q36, Q48, hand strength assessment using dynamometer POD1, Q36, Q48, PACU and hospital length of stay. ResultsWe analyzed 72 patients in 3 groups (Group A 24, group B 24, Group C 24). The pre-surgery physical function scores were similar between groups. The change in postoperative pain was not different among the three groups. All 3 groups demonstrated an increase in the postoperative values, a change that was not statistically significant between groups. Likewise, no difference in the mental function score was seen within or between groups. No differences in sleep quality or satisfaction were seen among groups (P values 0.405 and 1.00, respectively). No adverse events were reported in all groups. ConclusionsNo significant difference was demonstrated between a single injection ISB with dexamethasone, a LB injection and an ISC. Given the equivalence in analgesia provided with these three modalities, providers should carefully consider the option that best fits each patient. Thus, a single injection of LB or single injection of bupivacaine with dexamethasone provides similar analgesic efficacy compared to ISC.

Staged cerebral and brachiocephalic bypass in a patient with MCA and brachiocephalic steno-occlusion.

Background: Brachiocephalic steal is a rare phenomenon that may lead to hemodynamic abnormalities in the ipsilateral vertebral and carotid arteries. Current treatment includes management of vascular risk factors, endovascular stenting, and surgical management depending on the severity of symptoms. Case Information: We describe a patient with multiple vascular risk factors who presented with mild neurological symptoms and chronic right arm weakness associated with concurrent brachiocephalic steal and right MCA M1 stenosis on neuroimaging. Use of right superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery bypass and aorta-right subclavian bypass resulted in improved flow to the right hemisphere on quantitative magnetic resonance angiography and single-photon emission computed tomography, significantly lowering the risk of catastrophic ischemic stroke. Conclusion: Complex steal phenomena increase stroke risk. In cases of high-grade occlusion or advanced symptoms, endovascular or surgical management should be considered for optimal stroke prevention.

Stroke Knowledge and Response Among the General Population in Saudi Arabia: A Population-Based Survey.

Stroke, a condition that disrupts brain function and can result in long-lasting clinical symptoms or death, remains a substantial global health concern. General awareness of stroke leads to a proper response to stroke, pursuit of medical treatment, and a better outcome. Our study aims to explore how the general Saudi Arabian population responds to stroke, investigate the relationship between stroke knowledge and appropriate actions, and identify the most relied upon medical information source about stroke among the public. By highlighting these aspects, we aspire to contribute to the development of effective stroke prevention and management strategies in Saudi Arabia. This descriptive, cross-sectional, web-based study was carried out across multiple regions in Saudi Arabia. Data collection involved a validated online questionnaire (STAT) in Arabic,targeting adults aged 18 and older. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software. The study included 390 participants. Notable findings emerged regarding the recognition of stroke symptoms and the factors influencing this recognition. A substantial proportion of respondents correctly identified visual disturbances (55.9%), motor impairment (39.5%), cardiac symptoms (56.2%), sensory symptoms (32.8%), chest pain (62.6%), and arm weakness (36.7%) as indicators requiring immediate medical attention. However, there were lower correct response rates for symptoms such as sudden dizziness (22.8%), confusion (16.9%), difficulty understanding (27.9%), and urinary symptoms (26.9%). Older individuals and retirees generally scored higher in correctly identifying these symptoms. Our study highlights a commendable level of awareness of certain stroke symptoms, such as visual disturbances and chest pain, among the general population of Saudi Arabia. Nonetheless, notable gaps remain in recognizing other symptoms, such as sudden dizziness and confusion. This identification gap presents a clear opportunity for targeted educational initiatives that are essential to improving public recognition of these symptoms. By addressing these gaps, we aim to enhance the response to stroke incidents, potentially improving outcomes and reducing morbidity rates.

UNDERSTANDING THE MANAGEMENT OF DUCHENNE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY AS PER AYURVEDA

The muscular dystrophies are genitacally determined,progressive,primary disorders of muscle.Common presenting symptoms include delayed mile stones,abnormal mode of walking,difficulty in running,climbing stairs and getting up from floor,frequent falls,weakness of arms or face,ocular symptoms,enlargement or wasting of muscles and recurrent chest infections.The symptoms are progressive and a family history of similar illness may be obtained.Duchenne muscular dystrophy(D.M.D) is a severe muscle wasting disorder,resulting in early confinement to wheel chair and often death by the age of 20 years. There is no cure available for this disorder at present,prevention &amp; treatment of complications is of prime importance as per modern medicine, but Ayurvedic treatments show significant results in all signs and symptoms of disease.

TRPV4 neuromuscular disease registry highlights bulbar, skeletal and proximal limb manifestations.

Dominant missense mutations of the calcium-permeable cation channel TRPV4 cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) type 2C and two forms of distal spinal muscular atrophy. These conditions are collectively referred to as TRPV4-related neuromuscular disease and share features of motor greater than sensory dysfunction and frequent vocal fold weakness. Pathogenic variants lead to gain of ion channel function that can be rescued by TRPV4 antagonists in cellular and animal models. As small molecule TRPV4 antagonists have proven safe in trials for other disease indications, channel inhibition is a promising therapeutic strategy for TRPV4 patients. However, the current knowledge of the clinical features and natural history of TRPV4-related neuromuscular disease is insufficient to enable rational clinical trial design. To address these issues, we developed a TRPV4 patient database and administered a TRPV4-specific patient questionnaire. Here, we report demographic and clinical information, including CMT examination scores (CMTES), from 68 patients with known pathogenic TRPV4 variants, 40 of whom also completed the TRPV4 patient questionnaire. TRPV4 patients showed a bimodal age of onset, with the largest peak occurring in the first 2 years of life. Compared to CMT1A patients, TRPV4 patients showed distinct symptoms and signs, manifesting more ambulatory difficulties and more frequent involvement of proximal arm and leg muscles. Although patients reported fewer sensory symptoms, sensory dysfunction was often detected clinically. Many patients were affected by vocal fold weakness (55%) and shortness of breath (55%), and 11% required ventilatory support. Skeletal abnormalities were common, including scoliosis (64%), arthrogryposis (33%), and foot deformities. Strikingly, patients with infantile onset of disease showed less sensory involvement and less progression of symptoms. These results highlight distinctive clinical features in TRPV4 patients, including motor-predominant disease, proximal arm and leg weakness, severe ambulatory difficulties, vocal fold weakness, respiratory dysfunction, and skeletal involvement. In addition, patients with infantile onset of disease appeared to have a distinct phenotype with less apparent disease progression based on CMTES. These collective observations indicate that clinical trial design for TRPV4-related neuromuscular disease should include outcome measures that reliably capture non-length dependent motor dysfunction, vocal fold weakness, and respiratory disease.

COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN DIFFERENT CLINICAL FORMS OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Purpose: The aim of the study is to investigate cognitive impairment (CI) in patients with different clinical forms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and to propose a suitable cognitive evaluation based on available tools for diagnosis and monitoring purposes. Materials and Methods: The following tests were used: Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised (BVMT-R), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Magnetic Resonance Tomography 1.5Т (МRТ) in 60 consecutive patients; 22 were with first demyelination episode and 38 with MS. The control group of 40 healthy persons matched for sex, age and years of education. The follow-up period is three years. Results: The average screening values of PASAT, SDMT, BVSMT-R are considerably lower (р&lt;0.05) in MS patients compared to the controls and CIS patients. Point's number in the progressive forms in comparison with RRMS is reliably smaller. There was no significant difference in results between SPMS and PPMS patients at screening (р&gt;0.05). In the 3rd year, there is a significant cognitive progression in all studied groups and for all tests (р&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The use of a neuropsychological screening test is a valuable method for registering CI in patients with relapsing-remitting course, as well as in patients with a progressive course of the disease. We recommend the SDMT for screening annual follow-up because it is easy to apply, validate and reliably report the progression of CI. In patients with visual disturbances and with arm weakness, it is better to use PASAT, taking into account the level of education and depression.

Fascitis nodular como causa de tumor lateral de cuello

Nodular fasciitis is a rare and benign neoplasm of the soft tissues that can occur in any region of the body and require surgical treatment. We report the case of a 41-year-old female patient with a lateral neck tumor which reached a size of 74.7 × 32.5 mm after two years. The tumor was completely removed under general anesthesia. The pathological examination reported proliferation of myofibroblasts, suggestive of nodular fasciitis. The patient evolved homolateral Claude Bernard Syndrome, without local complications and mild weakness of the ipsilateral arm which improved after 60 days with kinesiotherapy. This condition should be considered among the differential diagnoses of lateral neck tumors.

Torticollis and right arm weakness due to atraumatic spinal epidural hematoma in a 5-year-old girl child

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is a rare presentation as cause of neurological weakness in children and is neurological emergency. The most commonly affected site in children is cardiothoracic region. Early management is associated with better functional outcomes. We report a 5-year-old girl who presented with long standing neck pain now presenting to emergency with torticollis and right arm weakness around shoulder joint. Magnetic resonance imaging of C-spine revealed posterior epidural hematoma that extend from C3/C4 level down to C6/C7 level, it is causing moderate spinal canal stenosis and mass-effect on the spinal cord, with mild intramedullary abnormal T2 signal intensity indicating myelomalacia. There were no predisposing factors in our patient. Epidural hematoma was drained surgically and post-surgery patient started showing neurological recovery on follow. Cases of spontaneous SEH have been reported in infants as well and the clinical features in children are often nonspecific leading to a delay in diagnosis. This case report aims to raise awareness about this neurological emergency, in which early intervention is crucial.

A Case of Cervical Chordoma

A 48 year old male presented with neck pain and left arm pain that worsened with movement alongside left arm weakness, numbness, and tingling. The differential diagnosis for a patient with symptoms of a neck mass includes benign tumors like neurofibromas, malignant tumors like chordomas, and non-neoplastic conditions like cervical spondylitis. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of the cervical spine with and without contrast identified a T1 hypointense, T2 hyperintense, heterogeneously enhancing prevertebral mass with parapharyngeal extension. A direct laryngoscopy with biopsy was performed and revealed a paraspinal tumor. The patient’s diagnosis of cervical chordoma was confirmed upon detection of Brachyury, a gene that encodes a transcription factor which promotes epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in chordoma pathogenesis. Chordomas are slow-growing tumors located within the body’s midline and they are associated with poorer outcomes because of neurovascular encasement at time of presentation. Chordomas are rare, with an incidence of 1 in 1,000,000. Approximately 6% of chordomas are located in the cervical spine. They are typically treated with surgery followed by radiation therapy. The patient underwent anterior resection for the prevertebral mass in the C2-C6 section of the cervical spinal cord. Surgery achieved subtotal resection and involved removal of the spinous processes of C3-C5 and reconstruction of the cervical spine with implants. The patient will be starting proton beam radiotherapy for his adjuvant treatment. Although rare, it is important to keep chordomas in the differential diagnosis when evaluating a patient with a neck mass.

Evaluating the Impact of Smoking and Hyperlipidemia in Patients with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

Hyperlipidemia and Smoking are risk factors of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in Pakistani community. Objectives: To determine whether smoking and hyperlipidemia were associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Methods: A comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted upon a sample of 200 male and female participants with different cardiac complications were selected and divided them into different groups like Group A and Group B. The individuals with medical complications such as severe chest pain, unexpected numbness or weakness in arms or legs and loss of vision were placed in Group A. While in Group-B 70 male and 30 female individuals with mild chest pain were include. BMI, Cholesterol, Triglyceride, LDL and HDL levels and other demographics such as age, smoking habits were measured respectively. Results: In Group A (severe disease group) there were 75 males and 25 females while in Group B (mild disease group) 70 male and 30 female individuals were listed. The mean age in Group A (59.09 ± 0.01) and Group B (59.09 ± 0.01). The results showed significant difference in Group A and B mean cholesterol (279.9 ± 0.04 vs. 239.09 ± 0.04), Triglycerides (187.02 ± 0.01 vs. 127.02 ± 0.01), LDL (153.01 ± 0.02 vs. 123.01 ± 0.02), HDL (49.04 ± 0.01 vs. 40.01 ± 0.01) and (p value&lt;0.05). Conclusions: It was concluded that hyperlipidemia and smoking were significant (p≤0.05) risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, as seen by increasing levels of cholesterol, Triglycerides and LDL in cardiovascular patients.

Driving Towards Sustainable Future Through EV Health Monitoring System

Driving is a complex activity performed in a continually varying and stimulating environment. The coordination and execution of various skills like cognitive, sensory, psychomotor and physical are extremely necessary to drive safe. Most of the studies related to driving highlighted that 75% of traffic accidents occurs due to human factors including driver’s fatigue, deprived health condition, attention loss, bad emotional state, and lack of skills. Most of the developed country is ageing. Hence, the drivers above 60 years is also increasing. Ageing results are weakening in cognitive function and threaten driver safety. The aged drivers (age above 60 years) have a comparatively more significant risk of accident due to medical emergency than other factors like bad emotional state and lack of skills. The wellness of drivers’ is considered as a key factor of traffic accidents. Heart failure and non-traumatic disease (i.e., stroke) are the main risk factors for drivers’ death. Many of the victims have no prior knowledge of the presence of the condition. Stroke is a disease caused due to the disturbance in blood supply to the parts of the brain. After experiencing stroke, a driver’s ability to drive is generally affected by the visual, perceptual, motor, and cognitive deficits. Stroke leads to arm weakness, facing dropping, blurred vision, dizziness, coordination issue and speech difficulties of victims which are essential for driving. It is necessary to protect the driver’s those are possibly be the victims for stroke. Since, stroke onset during driving lead a serious threat to the other drivers and the general public. Now-a-days, there are lots of automotive industry competing not only to provide better performance in terms of the vehicle but also to provide the driver with better comfort even in long rides. Automakers are developing vehicle that could provide health monitoring service with Internet of Things (IoT). In IoT, an automobile or vehicle-treated as a “thing”. IoT plays an important role in connected vehicles development. It provide us cloud connectivity, health monitoring, safety and security. Automakers are developing vehicles with IoT enabled including healthcare, accident prevention, vehicle safety, driver safety, driver and passenger comfort, vehicle monitoring, etc. The paper aimed on summarizing the current developments in driver’s health and comfort monitoring through IoT.