Independent Predictor Of Unfavorable Outcome Research Articles

Postoperative seizure outcomes and antiseizure medication utilization based on histopathological diagnosis: A retrospective cohort study

ObjectiveAnalyze the association between histopathology, seizure outcomes, and drug load of antiseizure medications (ASMs) 5–8 years after epilepsy surgery to inform preoperative decision-making and consultation. MethodsIn this retrospective, non-interventional, single-center study, patients who visited the epilepsy clinic at West China Hospital, Sichuan University from Jan 1, 2015 to Dec 31, 2020 were assessed. Patients with postoperative histopathology after epilepsy resection were included and categorized into 13 etiological groups. The primary outcomes were achieving Engel class 1 at 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8 years postoperative. Secondary outcomes included the use of ASMs and comparison of postoperative seizure outcomes between adults and children. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to explore the association between clinical characteristics such as histopathology and seizure outcomes. ResultsA total of 315 patients were include. Patients with embryonic dysplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNT) achieved the best seizure outcomes (84.6 % Engel class 1). DNT (odds ratio, OR=0.103, 95 %CI=0.012–0.899), cavernous hemangiomas (OR=0.140, 95 %CI=0.024–0.819) and meningioma (OR=0.137, 95 %CI=0.021–0.910) were independently associated with a higher probability of seizure-free outcome. The results of epileptic seizures in adult and pediatric groups with different pathologies were significantly different, and the preoperative and postoperative ASM dosages were also different among adult patients with various etiologies. Additionally, multivariate analysis showed that early age at onset (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.754, 95 % CI=1.049–2.934, P=0.032), late surgical age (HR=0.569, 95 %CI=0.339–0.954, P=0.032), and longer duration from seizure onset to surgery (HR=1.735, 95 % CI=1.028–2.928, P=0.039) were independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes in epileptic seizures. Conclusionswe demonstrated that the seizure outcomes of focal epilepsy have high pathological specificity, with histopathological diagnosis serving as a crucial and independent determinant of seizure outcome. Surgical assessment should be contemplated for all patients with presumed refractory focal epilepsy, irrespective of their age.

Analysis of the course and outcomes of COVID-19 at different stages of the pandemic in hemodialysis patients

The purpose of this study was a comparative analysis of the characteristics of the course and outcomes of COVID-19 in HD patients at different stages of the pandemic, focusing on the of the use of immunomodulatory therapy.Materials and methods. The retrospective study included 897 HD patients with COVID-19 (mean age 60.7 years, M 58.5%) who were hospitalized at Moscow City Hospital № 52. Group 1 (n=720) consisted of patients infected between the end of March 2020 and April 2021, group 2 (n=177) included patients hospitalized in May-December 2021. Each of group was divided into 2 subgroups based on treatment approaches. Subgroup 1a (n=231) included patients of the initial period of the pandemic who did not receive adequate immunomodulatory therapy, while Subgroup 1b (n=489) included patients of the late stage, were treated with IL-6 receptor blockers and corticosteroids. In group 2, 108 patients in Subgroup 2a received similar therapy, while 69 patients in Subgroup 2b were treated with neutralizing monoclonal antibodies in the early stages of the disease.Results. Mortality rates in Group 1 and Group 2 was 20.1% and 14.7%, respectively (p<0.09). The incidence of unfavorable outcome was highest in Subgroup 1a and lowest in Subgroup 2b (31.2% vs 5.8%, p<0.01). Mortality in Subgroups 1b and 2a was comparable (14.9% and 20.4%), despite more severe initial lung damage according to CT data in Subgroup 2a. In these patients, immunomodulators was more frequently combined with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). Independent risk factors for an unfavorable outcome were the progression of pulmonary pathology, with the transformation of stages CT 1-2 to CT 3-4, and a high comorbidity index.Conclusions. The use of immunomodulatory drugs imprtoved the effectiveness of COVID-19 treatment in patients with CKD5D. In severe cases, the most favorable outcomes were achieved with a combination of immunobiological drugs, corticosteroids, and TPE. An even more significant reduction in mortality was observed following the introduction of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies into clinical practice. Independent predictors of unfavorable outcome of COVID-19 in HD patients were a high comorbidity index and the progression of CT 1-2 into CT 3-4.

The impact of comorbidities on prolonged mechanical ventilation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BackgroundIn patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and acute respiratory failure, approximately 10% of them are considered to be at high risk for prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV, > 21 days). PMV have been identified as independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes. Our previous study revealed that patients aged 70 years older and COPD severity were at a significantly higher risk for PMV. We aimed to analyze the impact of comorbidities and their associated risks in patients with COPD who require PMV.MethodsThe data used in this study was collected from Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital Research Database. The COPD subjects were the patients first diagnosed COPD (index date) between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2020. The exclusion criteria were the patients with age less than 40 years, PMV before the index date or incomplete records. COPD and non-COPD patients, matched controls were used by applying the propensity score matching method.ResultsThere are 3,744 eligible patients with COPD in the study group. The study group had a rate of 1.6% (60 cases) patients with PMV. The adjusted HR of PMV was 2.21 (95% CI 1.44–3.40; P < 0.001) in the COPD patients than in non-COPD patients. Increased risks of PMV were found significantly for patients with diabetes mellitus (aHR 4.66; P < 0.001), hypertension (aHR 3.20; P = 0.004), dyslipidemia (aHR 3.02; P = 0.015), congestive heart failure (aHR 6.44; P < 0.001), coronary artery disease (aHR 3.11; P = 0.014), stroke (aHR 6.37; P < 0.001), chronic kidney disease (aHR 5.81 P < 0.001) and Dementia (aHR 5.78; P < 0.001).ConclusionsAge, gender, and comorbidities were identified as significantly higher risk factors for PMV occurrence in the COPD patients compared to the non-COPD patients. Beyond age, comorbidities also play a crucial role in PMV in COPD.

Constitutive type-1 interferons signaling activity in malignant gliomas.

Recent studies revealed a pro-tumor effect of constitutive Type-1 interferons (IFN-I) production and the downstream signaling activity in several malignancies. In contrast, heterogeneity and clinical significance of the signaling activity in gliomas remain unknown. Thus, we aimed to depict the heterogeneity and clinical significance of constitutive Type-1 interferon (IFN-I) production and the downstream signaling activity in gliomas. We utilized multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) on a 364 gliomas tissue microarray from our cohort. Moreover, we conducted bioinformatic analyses on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases to investigate the heterogeneity and clinical significance of constitutive IFN-I signaling activity in gliomas. We observed high heterogeneity of the constitutive IFN-I signaling activity among glioma subtypes. Signaling increased with the WHO malignancy grade while decreasing in the gliomas with IDH mutations. Additionally, high IFN-I activity served as an independent predictor of unfavorable outcomes, and global DNA hypermethylation in IDH-mutant gliomas was associated with decreased IFN-I signaling activity. Positive correlations were observed between the IFN-I activity and glioma-associated inflammation, encompassing both anti-tumor and pro-tumor immune responses. Furthermore, the IFN-I activity varied significantly among tumor and immune cells in the glioma microenvironment (GME). Notably, a distinct pattern of IFN-I signaling activity distribution in GME cells was observed among glioma subtypes, and the pattern was independently associated with patient overall survival. Constitutive IFN-I signaling activity varies significantly among glioma subtypes and represents a potential indicator for increased glioma inflammation and unfavorable clinical outcomes.

Cerebral autoregulation: A reliable predictor of prognosis in patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis.

To investigate the characteristics of dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and assess the relationship between dCA and prognosis. Patients with unilateral acute ischemic stroke receiving IVT were prospectively enrolled; those who did not were selected as controls. All patients underwent dCA measurements, by quantifying the phase difference (PD) and gain, at 1-3 and 7-10 days after stroke onset. Simultaneously, two dCA-based nomogram models were established to verify the predictive value of dCA for patients with mild-to-moderate stroke. Finally, 202 patients who received IVT and 238 who did not were included. IVT was positively correlated with higher PD on days 1-3 and 7-10 after stroke onset. PD values in both sides at 1-3 days after stroke onset and in the affected side at 7-10 days after onset were independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes in patients who received IVT. Additionally, in patients with mild-to-moderate stroke who received IVT, the dCA-based nomogram models significantly improved the risk predictive ability for 3-month unfavorable outcomes. IVT has a positive effect on dCA in patients with acute stroke; furthermore, dCA may be useful to predict the prognosis of patients with IVT.

Predicting an unfavorable outcome in patients with liver failure associated with obstructive jaundice syndrome: a prospective observational study

INTRODUCTION: Specialized scales developed to assess survival and mortality of patients after liver transplantation have not been validated when applied to liver failure in the setting of obstructive jaundice. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prognostic value of multiparametric scoring scales and to identify predictors of unfavorable outcome in liver failure due to obstructive jaundice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 53 patients with confirmed liver failure due to obstructive jaundice of benign etiology who underwent biliary decompression were included in this prospective, observational, single-center study. Depending on the outcome two groups were distinguished: with favorable (n = 27, 51 %) and with unfavorable outcome (n = 26, 49 %). The following time points were defined for the dynamic evaluation of the course of the disease: day 1, day 3, day 7, and day 11 after decompression. Statistical processing of the data was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software for social science data analysis. RESULTS: The sensitivity and specificity of the studied scales in predicting liver failure due to obstructive jaundice were calculated on the basis of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The AUROC for the SOFA was 0.862, for the MELD — 0.882, for the APACHE II — 0.864, for the Child-Turcotte-Pugh — 0.813. The sensitivity and specificity values for the SOFA were 78.9 and 77.8 %, for the MELD — 80.8 and 79.7 %, for the APACHE II — 57.7 and 81.9 %, and for the Child-Turcotte-Pugh — 75.1 and 70.9 %, respectively. Albumin was an independent predictor of unfavorable outcome (AUC ROC 0.909, p = 0.01), sensitivity 88.6 %, specificity 85.2 %. CONCLUSIONS: The scales presented in the study and the biomarker candidate “albumin” showed significant prognostic ability, but low values of sensitivity and specificity (less than 80 %) in some points of the study require the search for additional predictors of unfavorable outcome of liver failure due to obstructive jaundice.

Favorable prognosis in posterior circulation ischemic stroke: Insights from a nationwide stroke databank

IntroductionClinical trials have historically underrepresented patients with posterior circulation ischemic stroke (PCIS). This study aimed to comprehensively assess the clinical characteristics and outcomes of PCIS patients compared to those with anterior circulation ischemic stroke (ACIS). MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted using data from the Japan Stroke Data Bank, encompassing 20 years across 130 stroke centers. The study focused on patients diagnosed with PCIS or ACIS. ResultsAmong 37,069 patients reviewed, 7425 had PCIS, whereas 29,644 had ACIS. PCIS patients were younger and had a lower female representation than ACIS patients. Notably, PCIS patients had more favorable outcomes: 71% achieved a modified Rankin Scale of 0–2 or showed no deterioration at discharge (17 days at the median after admission), compared to 60% for ACIS patients (p < 0.001). Factors associated with an unfavorable outcome in the PCIS subgroup were older age, female sex (assigned at birth), history of hypertension, and higher National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores at admission. In both sexes, older age and higher NIHSS scores were negatively associated with favorable outcomes. ConclusionsPCIS patients demonstrated a more favorable prognosis than ACIS patients. Factors like older age, female sex, and higher NIHSS scores at admission were identified as independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes in PCIS patients. Older age and higher NIHSS scores at admission were common independent negative factors for a favorable outcome regardless of sex.

Bacterial load in cerebrospinal fluid predicts unfavourable outcome in pneumococcal meningitis: a prospective nationwide cohort study

ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to determine the role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) bacterial load in adults with pneumococcal meningitis. MethodsWe quantified bacterial load in CSF samples from the diagnostic lumbar puncture of adults with community-acquired pneumococcal meningitis. We also measured CSF concentrations of complement component 5a (C5a), and determined associations between bacterial load, clinical characteristics, C5a and unfavourable outcome (Glasgow Outcome Scale score <5). ResultsBacterial load was quantified in 152 CSF samples. Median age of these patients was 61 years (interquartile range [IQR] 51–68), and 69 of 152 (45%) were female. Median CSF bacterial load was 1.6 × 104 DNA copies/mL (IQR 3.4 × 103–1.2 × 105), and did not correlate with CSF white cell count nor with CSF protein concentrations. Median CSF C5a concentration was 35.8 mg/L (IQR 15.9–105.6), and was moderately correlated with CSF bacterial loads (Spearman's rho = 0.42; p < 0001). High bacterial loads were associated with development of complications, such as circulatory shock (OR per logarithmic increase: 2.4, 95% CI: 2.0–2.9; p < 0.001) and cerebrovascular complications [OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.6–2.3; p < 0.001]). High bacterial loads were also associated with unfavourable outcome (OR: 2.8, 95% CI: 2.4–3.3; p < 0.001) and death (OR: 3.1, 95% CI: 2.6–3.8; p < 0.001). In a multivariable regression model including age, immunocompromised state, extrameningeal infection focus, admission Glasgow Coma Scale score and CSF C5a concentration, CSF bacterial load remained an independent predictor of unfavourable outcome (adjusted OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.6–3.9; p < 0.001). DiscussionHigh CSF bacterial load predicts the development of complications and unfavourable outcome in adults with pneumococcal meningitis.

Predictors of outcome and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage in acute basilar artery occlusions: Analysis of the PC-SEARCH thrombectomy registry.

Recent randomized controlled trials demonstrated superiority of mechanical thrombectomy compared to medical therapy in acute basilar artery occlusions, however, little data is available to guide clinicians in functional prognosis and risk stratification. Data from the retrospectively established PC-SEARCH Thrombectomy registry, which included patients with basilar artery occlusion from eight sites from January 2015 to December 2021, was interrogated. Outcomes were dichotomized into 90-day favorable (mRS ⩽ 3) and unfavorable (mRS > 3). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed with respect to the outcome groups and were adjusted for potential confounding baseline characteristics. Four-hundred-forty-four patients were included in this analysis. Mean age was 66 [SD 15], with 56% male, and comprised of 76% Caucasian. Patients presented with an initial median NIHSS of 18 and 199 patients (44.8%) achieved favorable 90-day functional outcomes. Independent predictors of favorable outcomes included younger age, pc-ASPECTS > 8 (OR 2.30 p < 0.001), and TICI ⩾ 2b (OR 7.56 p < 0.001). Unfavorable outcomes were associated with increasing number of passes (OR 1.29 p = 0.004) and sICH (OR 4.19 p = 0.015). IA-tPA was an independent risk factor for sICH (OR 7.15 p = 0.002) without improving favorable functional outcomes. PC-ASPECTS > 8, successful recanalization (TICI ⩾ 2b), first-pass recanalization, and younger age are independent predictors of favorable 90-day functional outcome in thrombectomy treated patients with acute basilar artery occlusion. Conversely, sICH were independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes. IA-tPA and unsuccessful recanalization are independently associated with sICH.

CT-predictors of unfavorable outcome in hemorrhagic stroke

To analyze the relationship between the changes on non-contrast CT of the head in patients with acute hemorrhagic stroke and its unfavorable outcome within 90 days. The retrospective analysis of the clinical, demographic parameters and results of CT of the head of all patients admitted to the stroke unit of the district hospital between January 2015 and December 2021 was performed. The data of 131 patients were included in the work (52% males), average age was 65.75±14.1. Fatal outcomes were recorded in 13.7% of cases. The age of the patient, severity of neurological deficit and CT-signs predicting hematoma expansion were independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes of hemorrhagic stroke within 90 days. Detection of the sings predicting hematoma enlargement on CT scans improves prognostication of the outcomes of hemorrhagic stroke.

Elevated Troponin I as a Marker for Unfavorable Outcomes in Acute Ischemic Stroke.

To assess if elevated cardiac troponin I (cTnI) serves as a sign of unfavorable functional outcomes in ischemic stroke. In this single-center prospective cohort study, 100 consecutive patients admitted with acute ischemic stroke (normal troponin I group n = 52, raised troponin I group n = 48) were included. Hospital mortality was documented in both groups; the remaining patients were followed up to 90 days. Then two groups were compared in terms of unfavorable short-term outcomes (Modified Rankin Scale > 3) and mortality. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to determine the predictive value of elevated cTnI. The Kaplan-Meier curve was drawn and compared to determine the difference in survival between the two groups. To find out the most probable cut-off level for an unfavorable outcome, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted. A higher frequency of coronary artery disease (p=0.030), higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) (p=0.008) score, and lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (p=0.002) was observed in raised troponin I group. Even after the exclusion of confounding elevated troponin I was found to be an independent predictor of unfavorable outcomes (adjusted odds ratio, OR 8.25 {95% confidence interval, CI: 2.65-25.75}; p<0.001). The patients with raised troponin I had a significantly lower rate of survival after 90 days (p=0.022). The elevated troponin I was observed to have a significantly high accuracy (p<0.001; area under curve, AUC: 0.768 {moderate accuracy}, 95% CI: 0 .676 to 0.861)in predicting unfavorable outcomes. Elevated cTnI is independently associated with unfavorable short-term outcomes. It is also associated with a lower rate of survival.

2582. Real-World Analysis of the Outcomes of Patients Treated with Ceftazidime-Avibactam

Abstract Background Ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZAVI) is a novel β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combination with activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and some carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales. CAZAVI has been particularly useful as a carbapenem-sparing strategy to mitigate the selection pressure observed with carbapenems. We aim to perform a real-world analysis of patients treated with CAZAVI for various clinical indications at a tertiary care center in Lebanon. Methods This is a retrospective study conducted at the American University of Beirut Medical Center from 2019-21. We excluded patients who were less than 18 years old, received CAZAVI for less than 48 hours, had severe COVID-19 infection, received more than three courses of CAZAVI, and patients on palliative care before CAZAVI treatment. Data were collected from electronic medical records. The primary endpoint was unfavorable outcome defined as death or incomplete clinical response. Results A total of 301 patients were included contributing 373 infection episodes. The median age was 66 years, with 48% of patients being male, and 55% having a high Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) of ≥ 5. A large proportion of patients had been admitted to the intensive care unit and had received antibiotics for more than 48 hours during the preceding 30 days. The majority of infection episodes were hospital-acquired (66%). The most common indication for CAZAVI was respiratory infection (44%) followed by bacteremia (9%). Clinical cultures were positive in 44% of episodes distributed as Enterobacterales 64%, P. aeruginosa 10%, and polymicrobial 26%. Clinical success was 66% and microbiological success was 52%. Mortality was 32%, 65% of which was directly attributable to the infection. The primary endpoint was achieved in 38% of episodes. Multivariate analysis of independent predictors of unfavorable outcome is shown in the Table. Independent Predictors of Unfavorable Outcomes in Patients Receiving CAZAVI Conclusion Results from this highly morbid patient population suggest a good overall response to CAZAVI therapy. The presence of multiple infection sites is an important predictor of unfavorable outcome. Disclosures Souha S Kanj, MD, Gilead: Advisor/Consultant|Menarini: Advisor/Consultant|MSD: Advisor/Consultant|Pfizer: Advisor/Consultant

The role of previous medical history and secondary complications for the outcome of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in elderly patients

BackgroundAneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) presents a devastating diagnosis for elderly individuals, resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates. The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of medical history and complications during SAH on the outcome of elderly patients. MethodsConsecutive SAH cases aged ≥ 65 years old treated in our hospital between 01/2003 and 06/2016 were included (n = 218). Data on comorbidities, previous medication, initial severity, secondary complications, and the outcome were collected. Study endpoints were occurrence of cerebral infarcts, in-hospital mortality, and unfavorable outcome at 6 months after SAH. ResultsCerebral infarcts were documented in 111 (51.2 % ) individuals. Multivariate analysis showed that angiographic vasospasm caused an increase (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.11, p = 0.022) in the risk of infarction, whereas aspirin treatment decreased (aOR = 0.25, p = 0.001) the risk of infarction. In turn, increasing age (aOR = 1.11, p = 0.002), intracranial hypertension (>20 mmHg, aOR = 3.32, p = 0.006) and acute kidney failure (aOR = 6.65, p = 0.035) during SAH were independently related to the risk of in-hospital mortality (n = 50; 22.9 % ). Finally, patients’ age (aOR = 1.09, p = 0.022), high initial SAH burden (WFNS ≥ 4: aOR = 7.5, p < 0.0001; intraventricular hemorrhage: aOR = 4.38, p = 0.007), aneurysm clipping (aOR = 4.07, p = 0.018), and intracranial hypertension during SAH (aOR = 4.08, p = 0.006) were independent predictors of unfavorable outcome (n = 106/192; 55.5 % ). Previous medical history showed no negative impact on the severity, course and outcome of SAH. ConclusionAbout half of elderly SAH patients face poor outcomes after aneurysm securing. The initial severity of and complications during SAH are the major contributors to poor treatment results. Our findings might help to optimize the treatment strategies.

The Osaka prognostic score and Naples prognostic score: novel biomarkers for predicting short-term outcomes after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage

ObjectivesPoor immune-nutritional status has been associated with an unfavorable outcome in critical illness. The Osaka prognostic score (OPS) and the Naples prognostic score (NPS), based on inflammatory and nutritional status, has been shown to predict prognosis following cancer and other diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the OPS and NPS and the short-term outcomes of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of patients hospitalized with spontaneous ICH (n = 340) at The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between August 2016 and August 2021. Inclusion criteria included patients aged between 18 and 70, and if a blood sample was taken for laboratory testing within 24 h of admission (serum C-reactive protein, albumin, total cholesterol, and counts for neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes were collected on admission). Exclusion criteria included a non-spontaneous cause of ICH and patient death during hospitalization. Patients were divided into four groups based on OPS or five groups according to NPS. Outcomes were evaluated by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at six months post-ICH hospitalization. An unfavorable outcome was defined as a mRS score ≥ 3.ResultsA total of 289 patients met our inclusion criteria. The unfavorable outcome group had older age, a lower Glasgow Coma Scale score, a higher rate of complications and cerebral herniation, a longer hospital stay, and higher OPS and NPS when compared with the favorable outcome group. Univariate analysis showed that both OPS and NPS were strongly correlated with mRS (r = 0.196,P < 0.001; r = 0.244, P = 0.001, respectively). Multivariate analysis further showed that OPS and NPS were both independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes for patients with ICH with adjusted odds ratios of 1.802 (95% confidence interval [CI]:1.140–2.847, P = 0.012) and 1.702 (95% CI: 1.225–2.635, P = 0.02), respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) of NPS for predicting a poor outcome was 0.732 (95% CI: 0.665–0.799), which was similar to the AUC of OPS 0.724 (95% CI: 0.657–0.792).ConclusionsIn this cohort, a higher OPS and NPS on admission was associated with poor outcome at six months following ICH, supporting their potential role as markers for predicting the outcome of patients with ICH.

Brixia Chest X-ray Score, Laboratory Parameters and Vaccination Status for Prediction of Mortality in COVID-19 Hospitalized Patients.

Chest X-ray has verified its role as a crucial tool in COVID-19 assessment due to its practicability, especially in emergency units, and Brixia score has proven as a useful tool for COVID-19 pneumonia grading. The aim of our study was to investigate correlations between main laboratory parameters, vaccination status, and Brixia score, as well as to confirm if Brixia score is a significant independent predictor of unfavorable outcome (death) in COVID-19 patients. The study was designed as a cross-sectional multicentric study. It included patients with a diagnosed COVID-19 infection who were hospitalized. This study included a total of 279 patients with a median age of 62 years. The only significant predictor of unfavorable outcome (death) was Brixia score (adjusted odds ratio 1.148, p = 0.022). In addition, the results of the multiple linear regression analysis (R2 = 0.334, F = 19.424, p < 0.001) have shown that male gender (B = 0.903, p = 0.046), severe COVID-19 (B = 1.970, p < 0.001), and lactate dehydrogenase (B = 0.002, p < 0.001) were significant positive predictors, while albumin level (B = -0.211, p < 0.001) was a significant negative predictor of Brixia score. Our results provide important information about factors influencing Brixia score and its usefulness in predicting the unfavorable outcome (death) of COVID-19 patients. These findings have clinical relevance, especially in epidemic circumstances.

Sex-specific extracerebral complications in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Extracerebral complications in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) often occur during their stay at the neurocritical care unit (NCCU). Their influence on outcomes is poorly studied. The identification of sex-specific extracerebral complications in patients with aSAH and their impact on outcomes might aid more personalized monitoring and therapy strategies, aiming to improve outcomes. Consecutive patients with aSAH admitted to the NCCU over a 6-year period were evaluated for the occurrence of extracerebral complications (according to prespecified criteria). Outcomes were assessed with the Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) at 3 months and dichotomized as favorable (GOSE 5-8) and unfavorable (GOSE 1-4). Sex-specific extracerebral complications and their impact on outcomes were investigated. Based on the results of the univariate analysis, a multivariate analysis with unfavorable outcomes or the occurrence of certain complications as dependent variables was performed. Overall, 343 patients were included. Most of them were women (63.6%), and they were older than men. Demographics, presence of comorbidities, radiological findings, severity of bleeding, and aneurysm-securing strategies were compared among the sexes. More women than men suffered from cardiac complications (p = 0.013) and infection (p = 0.048). Patients with unfavorable outcomes were more likely to suffer from cardiac (p < 0.001), respiratory (p < 0.001), hepatic/gastrointestinal (p = 0.023), and hematological (p = 0.021) complications. In the multivariable analysis, known factors including age, female sex, increasing number of comorbidities, increasing World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS), and Fisher grading were expectedly associated with unfavorable outcomes. When adding complications to these models, these factors remained significant. However, when considering the complications, only pulmonary and cardiac complications remained independently associated with unfavorable outcomes. Extracerebral complications after aSAH are frequent. Cardiac and pulmonary complications are independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes. Sex-specific extracerebral complications in patients with aSAH exist. Women suffered more frequently from cardiac and infectious complications potentially explaining the worse outcomes.

Predictive Value of Neutrophil To Lymphocyte Ratio and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score in Patient With Sepsis

Background: Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio calculated from white cell differential count provides a rapid indication of the extent of an inflammatory process. The aim of the study was to evaluate the predictive value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and SOFA score in sepsis outcome. Methods: Adult patients presenting to medicine department of CMCH with suspected sepsis by qSOFA score were considered for the present study. Baseline qSOFA, SOFA Score and NLR were calculated. Patients were followed until discharge or death to observe outcome. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were ICU referral and ICU stay. All data were prospectively collected, coded and tabulated. ROC curves were constructed to evaluate the performance of NLR and SOFA in differentiating non-survivors from survivors. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to determine the independent predictors adjusted for the previously specified baseline covariates. Results: The AUC for each indicator was compared. NLR had a modest power for predicting unfavorable outcome (death) as suggested by AUC of 0.705 (95% CI: .556-.854), which was greater than that of baseline qSOFA score (0.694). NLR ≥ 8.9 was proposed as the optimal cutoff value, which provided a sensitivity of 75.0% and a specificity of 67.7% for predicting mortality in sepsis. After adjusting for other variables NLR and SOFA remain as independent predictors of unfavorable outcome. Baseline NLR also had a modest power for predicting need for ICU referral than that of baseline SOFA score. Conclusion: NLR is an easily calculated, simple, cost-effective index that could be used as a prognostic tool for clinicians when assessing sepsis patients in the emergency department and general ward. Bangladesh J Medicine 2023; 34(2): 86-92

Sex-related differences in extracranial complications in patients with traumatic brain injury.

Extracranial complications after traumatic brain injury (TBI) are common. Their influence on outcome is uncertain. Furthermore, the role of sex on the development of extracranial complications following TBI remains poorly investigated. We aimed to investigate the incidence of extracranial complications after TBI with particular focus on sex-related differences with regard to complications and their influence on outcome. This retrospective, observational study was conducted in a level I universitary swiss trauma center. Consecutive patients with TBI admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) between 2018 and 2021 were included. Patients' and trauma characteristics, in-hospital complications (i.e., cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, metabolic, gastrointestinal, hematological, and infectious) as well as functional outcome 3 months after trauma were analyzed. Data was dichotomized by sex or by outcome. Univariate as well as multivariate logistic regression was performed to reveal possible associations between sex, outcome and complications. Overall, 608 patients were included (male n = 447, 73.5%). Extracranial complications occurred most frequently in cardiovascular, renal, hematological and infectious systems. Men and women suffered similarly from extracranial complications. While men needed correction of coagulopathies more often (p = 0.029), women suffered more frequently from urogenital infections (p = 0.001). Similar results were found in a subgroup of patients (n = 193) with isolated TBI. A multivariate analysis did not show extracranial complications to be independent predictors of unfavorable outcome. Extracranial complications following TBI occur frequently during the ICU-stay, can affect almost all organ systems but are not independent predictors of unfavorable outcome. The results suggest that sex-specific strategies for early recognition of extracranial complications might not be needed in patients with TBI.

Prevalence, electroclinical spectrum and effect on the outcome of non-convulsive status epilepticus in critically ill patients; the utility of routine electroencephalogram

ObjectivesTo highlight the importance of routine electroencephalogram (rEEG) in detecting non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE), describing the electroclinical spectrum and effect on outcome in critically ill patients with altered mental status (CIPAMS). MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted at King Fahd University Hospital. Clinical data and EEG recordings of CIPAMS to rule out NCSE were reviewed. All patients had at least 30 minutes of EEG recording. The Salzburg Consensus criteria (SCC) were applied to diagnose NCSE. The data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0. The chi-squared test was used to compare categorical variables such as etiologies, EEG findings, and functional outcomes. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify the predictors of unfavorable outcomes. ResultsA total of 323 CIPAMS referred to rule out NCSE were enrolled (mean age 57.8 ± 20 years). Nonconvulsive status epilepticus was diagnosed in 54 (16.7%) patients. A significant association was found between subtle clinical features and NCSE (P =< 0.01). Acute ischemic stroke (18.5%), sepsis (18.5%), and hypoxic brain injury (22.2%) were the main etiologies. The previous history of epilepsy was significantly associated with NCSE (P = 0.01). Acute stroke, cardiac arrest, mechanical ventilation, and NCSE were statistically associated with unfavorable outcomes. Nonconvulsive status epilepticus was an independent predictor of unfavorable outcomes (P = 0.02, OR = 2.75, CI = 1.16–6.48) during multivariable analysis. Sepsis was associated with higher mortality (P =< 0.01, OR = 2.4, CI = 1.4–4.0). SignificanceOur study findings suggest that the utility of rEEG in detecting NCSE in CIPAMS should not be underestimated. Important observations further indicate that repeating rEEG is advisable, as this would increase the likelihood of identifying NCSE. Thus, physicians should consider and repeat rEEG when evaluating CIPAMS in order to detect NCSE, which is an independent predictor of unfavorable outcomes. Nonetheless, further studies comparing rEEG and cEEG yields are required to augment the current understanding of the electroclinical spectrum and better describe NCSE in CIPAMS.

Prediction of Poor Outcome after Successful Thrombectomy in Patients with Severe Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Pilot Retrospective Study

Several baseline hematologic and metabolic laboratory parameters have been linked to acute ischemic stroke (AIS) clinical outcomes in patients who successfully recanalized. However, no study has directly investigated these relationships within the severe stroke subgroup. The goal of this study is to identify potential predictive clinical, lab, and radiographic biomarkers in patients who present with severe AIS due to large vessel occlusion and have been successfully treated with mechanical thrombectomy. This single-center, retrospective study included patients who experienced AIS secondary to large vessel occlusion with an initial NIHSS score ≥ 21 and were recanalized successfully with mechanical thrombectomy. Retrospectively, demographic, clinical, and radiologic data from electronic medical records were extracted, and laboratory baseline parameters were obtained from emergency department records. The clinical outcome was defined as the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days, which was dichotomized into favorable functional outcome (mRS 0-3) or unfavorable functional outcome (mRS 4-6). Multivariate logistic regression was used to build predictive models. A total of 53 patients were included. There were 26 patients in the favorable outcome group and 27 in the unfavorable outcome group. Age and platelet count (PC) were found to be predictors of unfavorable outcomes in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of models 1 (age only model), 2 (PC only model), and 3 (age and PC model) were 0.71, 0.68, and 0.79, respectively. This is the first study to reveal that elevated PC is an independent predictor of unfavorable outcomes in this specialized group.