Lower Glasgow Coma Scale Score Research Articles

Genomic tracking and precise control of Klebsiella pneumoniae transmission in a newly established hospital: a prospective molecular epidemiological study

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) pose an emerging clinical threat. We investigated its introduction and transmission in a new hospital, evaluating the effect of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) as an infection control measure. Based on WGS of identified K. pneumoniae (Kpn) strains, a prospective molecular epidemiological study of nosocomial transmission of CRKP in a newly established Chinese hospital was conducted. Between September 2018 and August 2020, 206 Kpn strains were isolated, including 180 CRKP, from 152 patients. The first imported and nosocomial transmission cases were recorded in December 2018 and April 2019, respectively. Overall, 22 nosocomial transmission clusters involving 85 patients were identified, among which 5 were large-size clusters comprising 5-18 patients. Index cases of the large-size clusters were more likely associated with lower Glasgow Coma Scale scores than those of small-size clusters. Furthermore, results of multivariable logistic regression indicated that Kpn tended to transmit more among patients in the ICU [adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=4.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.97-13.47] and those infected with a ST11 strain (aOR=8.04, 95% CI 2.51-29.53) or tetracycline-resistant strains (aOR=17.63, 95% CI 6.32-57.32). However, transmission was less likely in strains bearing the rmpA gene (aOR=0.12, 95% CI 0.03-0.37). The rate of nosocomial CRKP cases decreased by 2.25 with the intervention of WGS-based infection control. Kpn transmission in the newly established hospital originated from several imported cases. Rates of nosocomial CRKP infection were reduced considerably through precise infection control measures.

Neurological Examination Frequency and Time-to-Delirium After Traumatic Brain Injury.

Frequent neurological examinations in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) disrupt sleep-wake cycles and potentially contribute to the development of delirium. To evaluate the risk of delirium among patients with TBI with respect to their neuro-check frequencies. A retrospective study of patients presenting with TBI at a single level I trauma center between January 2018 and December 2019. The primary exposure was the frequency of neurological examinations (neuro-checks) assigned at the time of admission. Patients admitted with hourly (Q1) neuro-check frequencies were compared with those who received examinations every 2 (Q2) or 4 (Q4) hours. The primary outcomes were delirium and time-to-delirium. The onset of delirium was defined as the first documented positive Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit score. Of 1552 patients with TBI, 458 (29.5%) patients experienced delirium during their hospital stay. The median time-to-delirium was 1.8 days (IQR: 1.1, 2.9). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that patients assigned Q1 neuro-checks had the greatest rate of delirium compared with the patients with Q2 and Q4 neuro-checks ( P < .001). Multivariable Cox regression modeling demonstrated that Q2 neuro-checks (hazard ratio: 0.439, 95% CI: 0.33-0.58) and Q4 neuro-checks (hazard ratio: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.34-0.68) were protective against the development of delirium compared with Q1. Other risk factors for developing delirium included pre-existing dementia, tobacco use, lower Glasgow Coma Scale score, higher injury severity score, and certain hemorrhage patterns. Patients with more frequent neuro-checks had a higher risk of developing delirium compared with those with less frequent neuro-checks.

Impact of Serum Lactate as an Early Serum Biomarker for Cardiopulmonary Parameters within the First 24 Hours of Intensive Care Unit Treatment in Patients with Isolated Traumatic Brain Injury.

Cardiopulmonary (CP) complications are well-known phenomena in patients with isolated traumatic brain injury (iTBI) that can lead to tissue hypoperfusion and hypoxia. Serum lactate level is a well-known biomarker, indicating these systemic dysregulations in various diseases, but this has not been investigated in iTBI patients so far. The current study evaluates the association between serum lactate levels upon admission and CP parameters within the first 24 h of intensive care unit (ICU) treatment in iTBI patients. 182 patients with iTBI who were admitted to our neurosurgical ICU between December 2014 and December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Serum lactate levels on admission, demographic, medical, and radiological data upon admission, as well as several CP parameters within the first 24 h of ICU treatment, were analyzed, as well as the functional outcome at discharge. The total study population was dichotomized into patients with an elevated serum lactate level (lactate-positive) and patients with a low serum lactate level (lactate-negative) upon admission. 69 patients (37.9%) had an elevated serum lactate level upon admission, which was significantly associated with a lower Glasgow Coma Scale score (p = 0.04), a higher head AIS score (p = 0.03), and a higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (p = 0.01) upon admission, as well as a higher modified Rankin Scale score (p = 0.002) and a lower Glasgow Outcome Scale score (p < 0.0001) at discharge. Furthermore, the lactate-positive group required a significantly higher norepinephrine application rate (NAR; p = 0.04) and a higher fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2; p = 0.04) to maintain the defined CP parameters within the first 24 h. ICU-admitted iTBI patients with elevated serum lactate levels upon admission required higher CP support within the first 24 h of ICU treatment after iTBI. Serum lactate may be a helpful biomarker for improving ICU treatment in the early stages.

Clinical Manifestations, Laboratory Markers and Their Association with Mortality in Patients with Severe Covid-19 Infection in Third Wave of Epidemics in Myanmar

Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been a major threat to health around the world as it causes significant morbidity and mortality. The clinical manifestations range from a common cold to more severe diseases such as pneumonia, severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multi-organ failure, and even death. It is important to identify red flag signs for mortality, helpful for prioritization of treatment especially in poor resource setting. The study aimed to assess association of clinical and laboratory markers and the outcome in patients with severe COVID-19 infection in Myanmar. Methods A descriptive study was conducted in COVID-19 treatment centers in Myanmar- Yangon and Nay Pyi Taw, from February 2020 to August 2021. Data were collected by using standardized case report forms and then, a total of 404 confirmed COVID-19 inpatients (&gt;18 years old) were included. The p value and odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used as a measure of association and the independent associated factors for severity of disease were investigated using logistic regression analysis. Results Among 404 patients, 258 (63.9%) were discharged; and 146 (36.1%) expired in hospital. Mortality was associated with clinical parameters such as age over 65 years (odds ratio 0.47, 95% CI 0.31– 0.72; p &lt; 0.001), low initial SpO2 less than 85% (95% CI -7.46 – -3.96; p &lt; 0.001), reduced Glasgow Coma Scale score less than ‘15’ (95% CI -0.70 – -0.20; p &lt; 0.001), high Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score “2 and 3”(qSOFA score) (95% CI 0.08 – 0.91; p = 0.025), high CXR Brixia Score more than ‘8’ (95% CI 3.42 – 4.89; p &lt; 0.001); and, laboratory criteria like total WBC count greater than 12 x 109/L (95% CI 1.81 – 4.33; p &lt; 0.001), CRP greater than 0.5mg/L (95% CI -61.37 – -23.26; p &lt; 0.001), ferritin greater than 400 ng/mL (95% CI -312.36 – -139.07; p &lt; 0.001), D-dimer greater than 0.5 μg/ml (95% CI -3340.65 – -2945.21; p &lt; 0.001), high serum creatinine greater than 1 mg% (95% CI 0.16 – 0.70; p = 0.002), LDH greater than 225 U/l (95% CI -166.53 – -46.66; p &lt; 0.001), ALT greater than 40 IU/L (95% CI 11.82 – 39.32; p &lt; 0.001) and AST greater than 37 IU/L (95% CI 21.26 – 55.16; p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions Clinical manifestations significantly associated with mortality were low Glasgow Coma Scale score, initial SpO2 less than 85%, qSOFA score ‘2’ and above, and severe chest radiographic involvement (CXR Brixia Score more than ‘8’). Laboratory markers like neutrophil leukocytosis, high level of inflammatory markers (CRP, ferritin, LDH), high levels of transaminase (ALT and AST), high D-dimer, high creatinine were significantly related with mortality. Awareness, identification of these predictors on admission was essential for early anti-viral therapy and timely anti-inflammatory treatments; hence, better outcome.

Clinical features and prognosis of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease with cerebrovascular complications.

This retrospective study was used to evaluate the clinical and imaging characteristics and the prognosis of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) with cerebrovascular complications. We retrospectively analyzed 30 patients with ADPKD complicated with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs), or Moyamoya disease (MMD) who were admitted to Jinling Hospital from January 2001 to January 2022. We analyzed the clinical manifestations and imaging characteristics of ADPKD patients with cerebrovascular complications and followed up on their long-term outcomes. 30 patients, 17 men and 13 women, with an average age of 47.5 (40.0, 54.0) years were included in this study, including 12 cases of ICH, 12 cases of SAH, 5 cases of UIA, and 1 case of MMD. The 8 patients who died during follow-up had a lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) on admission (p=0.024) and a significantly higher serum creatinine (p=0.004) and blood urea nitrogen (p=0.006) than the 22 patients with long-term survival. Intracranial aneurysms, SAH, and ICH are the most common cerebrovascular diseases in ADPKD. Patients with low GCS score or worse renal function have a poor prognosis, which can lead to disability and even death.

Revisiting the Classification of Moderate and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Based on the Admission Glasgow Coma Scale Score

Abstract Objective We study the clinical relevance of classifying traumatic brain injury (TBI) into moderate and mild categories based on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at admission with respect to the treatment intensity and 6-month mortality and morbidity rates. Methods Analysis of patients from a prospectively maintained database admitted at a level I trauma center from 2013 to 2019 with an admission GCS score between 9 and 15 and a minimum follow-up of 6 months post-TBI was done to study the treatment intensity and 6-month morbidity and mortality rates for each GCS score from 9 to 15. Results In all, 2,060 patients met the study criteria, of which 1,684 were males (81.7%). Road traffic accident was the most common cause of TBI (83.7%). There was a significant linear increase in the proportion of patients who had good outcomes with increasing GCS scores from 9 to 15 (p ≤ 0.001). When the variables in each GCS score were compared with a GCS score of 15, there was an increase in the odds ratio of mortality and poor outcome with decreasing GCS scores (p ≤ 0.001). Patients with a lower admission GCS score required more intense treatment in the form of surgery and ventilation (p ≤ 0.00001). There was a higher incidence of pupillary asymmetry in patients with lower GCS scores (p ≤ 0.00001). Conclusions The classification of TBI patients into moderate and mild based on the GCS score at admission is not of any practical value, and TBI patients may be more usefully classified based on the admission GCS score into severe and not severe groups.

A Prospective Observational Study of Endotracheal Intubation Practices in an Academic Emergency Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India.

Airway management is the first critical step to be addressed in the airway, breathing, and circulation algorithm for stabilizing critically ill patients. Since the emergency department (ED) is the primary contact of these patients in health care, doctors in the ED should be trained to perform advanced airway management. In India, emergency medicine has been recognized as a new specialty by the Medical Council of India (now the National Medical Commission) since 2009. Data related to airway management in the ED in India is sparse. We conducted a one-year prospective observational study to establish descriptive data regarding endotracheal intubations performed in our ED. Descriptive data related to intubation was collected using a standardized proforma that was filled by the physician performing intubation. A total of 780 patients were included, of which 58.8% were intubated in the first attempt. The majority (60.4%) of the intubations were performed in non-trauma patients and the remaining 39.6% in trauma patients. Oxygenation failure was the most common indication (40%) for intubation followed by a low Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score (35%). Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) was performed in 36.9% of patients, and intubation was done with sedation only in 36.9% of patients. Midazolam was the most commonly used drug - either alone or in combination with other drugs. We found a strong association of first-pass success (FPS) with the method of intubation, Cormack-Lehane grading, predicted difficulty in intubation, and experience of the physician performing the first attempt of intubation (P<0.05). Hypoxemia (34.6%) and airway trauma (15.6%) were the most commonly encountered complications. Our study showed an FPS of 58.8%. Complications were seen in 49% of intubations. Our study highlights the areas for quality improvement in intubation practices in our ED, like the use of videolaryngoscopy, RSI, airway adjuncts like stylet and bougie, and intubation by more experienced physicians in patients with anticipated difficult intubation.

Incidence and predictors of mortality among adult trauma patients admitted to the intensive care units of comprehensive specialized hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia

BackgroundTrauma is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among adult population in the world. Despite many improvements in technology and care, mortality among trauma patients in the intensive care unit is still high particularly in Ethiopia. However, there is limited evidence on the incidence and predictors of mortality among trauma patients in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the incidence and predictors of mortality among adult trauma patients admitted to intensive care units.MethodsInstitutional-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted from January 9, 2019 to January 8, 2022. A total of 421 samples were chosen using simple random sampling. Data were collected with Kobo toolbox software and exported to STATA version 14.1 software for data analysis. Kaplan–Meier failure curve and log-rank test were fitted to explore the survival difference among groups. After the bivariable and multivariable Cox regression analysis, an Adjusted Hazard Ratio (AHR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) was reported to declare the strength of association and statistical significance, respectively.ResultThe overall incidence rate of mortality was 5.47 per 100 person-day observation with a median survival time of 14 days. Did not get pre-hospital care (AHR = 2.00, 95%CI 1.13, 3.53), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score < 9 (AHR = 3.89, 95%CI 1.67, 9.06), presence of complications (AHR = 3.71, 95%CI 1.29, 10.64), hypothermia at admission (AHR = 2.11, 95%CI 1.13, 3.93) and hypotension at admission (AHR = 1.93, 95%CI 1.01, 3.66) were found significant predictors of mortality among trauma patients.ConclusionThe incidence rate of mortality among trauma patients in the ICU was high. Did not get pre-hospital care, GCS < 9, presence of complications, hypothermia, and hypotension at admission were significant predictors of mortality. Therefore, healthcare providers should give special attention to trauma patients with low GCS scores, complications, hypotension, and hypothermia and better to strengthen pre-hospital services to reduce the incidence of mortality.

Epidemiological and clinical characteristics predictive of ICU mortality of patients with traumatic brain injury treated at a trauma referral hospital – a cohort study

BackgroundTraumatic brain injury (TBI) has substantial physical, psychological, social and economic impacts, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Considering its high incidence, the aim of this study was to identify epidemiological and clinical characteristics that predict mortality in patients hospitalized for TBI in intensive care units (ICUs).MethodsA retrospective cohort study was carried out with patients over 18 years old with TBI admitted to an ICU of a Brazilian trauma referral hospital between January 2012 and August 2019. TBI was compared with other traumas in terms of clinical characteristics of ICU admission and outcome. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to estimate the odds ratio for mortality.ResultsOf the 4816 patients included, 1114 had TBI, with a predominance of males (85.1%). Compared with patients with other traumas, patients with TBI had a lower mean age (45.3 ± 19.1 versus 57.1 ± 24.1 years, p < 0.001), higher median APACHE II (19 versus 15, p < 0.001) and SOFA (6 versus 3, p < 0.001) scores, lower median Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (10 versus 15, p < 0.001), higher median length of stay (7 days versus 4 days, p < 0.001) and higher mortality (27.6% versus 13.3%, p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the predictors of mortality were older age (OR: 1.008 [1.002–1.015], p = 0.016), higher APACHE II score (OR: 1.180 [1.155–1.204], p < 0.001), lower GCS score for the first 24 h (OR: 0.730 [0.700–0.760], p < 0.001), greater number of brain injuries and presence of associated chest trauma (OR: 1.727 [1.192–2.501], p < 0.001).ConclusionPatients admitted to the ICU for TBI were younger and had worse prognostic scores, longer hospital stays and higher mortality than those admitted to the ICU for other traumas. The independent predictors of mortality were older age, high APACHE II score, low GCS score, number of brain injuries and association with chest trauma.

Ten-Year Cohort Study of Emotional Distress Trajectories After Moderate-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

ObjectiveTo characterize trajectories of emotional distress across the first decade after moderate-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and explore relations with personal and injury-related factors. DesignCohort study with follow-ups at 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 years post-injury. SettingCommunity. ParticipantsParticipants were sampled from a larger longitudinal study of 4300 individuals recruited from consecutive inpatient TBI admissions to a rehabilitation hospital between 1985 and 2021 (N=4300). We analyzed data from 596 unique individuals (13.86% of total dataset; 70.81% male; Mage=40.11 years, SDage=17.49 years; 7.59% non-English-speaking background) with moderate-severe TBI who had complete data on all personal and injury-related variables (collected on admission) and emotional data at 3 or more time-points. There were 464 participants at the 1-year post-injury time-point, 485 at 2 years, 454 at 3 years, 450 at 5 years, and 248 at 10 years. InterventionsNot applicable. Main Outcome MeasureThe Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). ResultsVisualization of the individual HADS symptoms (line graph) showed that the most highly endorsed symptoms at each time-point were feeling slowed down and restlessness. On average, each symptom reduced across the first decade post-TBI, with an overall mild level of emotional distress at 10 years. However, visualization of participants’ individual trajectories based on the HADS total score (Sankey diagram) revealed significant heterogeneity. Using latent class analysis, we identified 5 distinct trajectory types based on the HADS total score: “Gradual Improving” (38.93%), “Resilience” (36.41%), “Gradual Worsening” (10.40%), and 2 non-linear trajectories of “Worsening-Remitting” (8.22%) and “Improving-Relapsing” (6.04%). Middle age at injury, lower Glasgow Coma Scale score, comorbid spinal and limb injuries, and receipt of pre-injury mental health treatment predicted earlier and/or worsening post-injury emotional distress. ConclusionsEmotional distress across the first decade after moderate-severe TBI is dynamic, heterogeneous, and often chronic, underscoring a need for ongoing monitoring and responsive treatment.

Intensive care unit readmission and unexpected death after emergency general surgery

BackgroundIntensive care unit (ICU) readmission and unexpected death are closely associated with increased length of hospitalization and total mortality. However, data about readmission or unexpected death after discharge from ICU in patients who have undergone emergency general surgery (EGS) is very limited. MethodsIn total, 1133 patients who underwent EGS were identified in the Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. Of these 1133 patients, 124 underwent readmission into the ICU or death unexpectedly after their initial discharge. The clinical characteristics of the patients were investigated. A logistic regression model was implemented for the analysis of the independent risk factors associated with ICU readmission or unexpected death. A nomogram model was established to predict the risk of ICU readmission or unexpected death within 72 h after EGS. ResultsPeripheral vascular disease and atrial fibrillation, vasopressor requirement, a higher respiratory rate or heart rate, a lower pulse oxygen saturation or a platelet count of <150 K/μL and a relatively low Glasgow coma scale score in the last 24 h before ICU discharge were independent risk factors for ICU readmission or death within 72 h. The nomogram had moderate accuracy with an area under the curve of 0.852, which had a stronger prediction power than the Stability and Workload Index for Transfer (SWIFT) score, a classic prediction model for ICU readmission risk. ConclusionsIn critically ill patients who undergo EGS, ICU readmission or unexpected death within 72 h can be predicted using a nomogram model based on eight parameters including physiological and laboratory test values in the last 24 h before discharge and comorbidities. ICU physicians should prudently assess patients to make effective discharge decisions.

Clinicoradiological and Biochemical Predictors of Mortality in Hospitalized Patients of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Abstract Background Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a cerebrovascular insult leading to bleeding within the brain parenchyma. It is associated with high rate of mortality and morbidity. The main objective of our study was to study in-hospital predictors of mortality in patients with spontaneous ICH managed medically. Methods This was a single-center prospective study and patients of ICH meeting the inclusion criteria were recruited from March 2019 to December 2020. Demographic data were collected and brain imaging was done. Each patient was observed for outcome with either discharge or death. Results Total 202 patients of ICH were included in the study. Mean age of the patients was 58.46 ± 11.6 years (26–95 years), which included 75.25% males. Most common location of ICH was gangliocapsular (42.08%) followed by thalamus (37.13%). Overall mortality was 35.60% (n = 72). On univariate analysis, predictors of mortality were higher age, low Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score, intraventricular extension, volume of hematoma, raised ICH score, leucocytosis, raised creatinine, hypernatremia, and ventilatory support. Need for ventilatory support, raised serum creatinine, and low GCS was found to be independent predictor of mortality on multivariate analysis. Conclusion Our study showed that about one-third of ICH patient died during in-hospital management. Mechanical ventilation requirement, low GCS, and raised creatinine were found to be independent predictors of mortality in our study.

Clinical profile and mortality predictors in hospitalised patients of tuberculous meningitis

Background&amp; Objective: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a serious public health problem in developing countries like India as it leads to significant mortality and neurological sequelae. Aim of study was to describe clinico-radiological profile of TBM and determine predictors of mortality. Methods: This was a prospective study and data collected including demographic details, clinical, laboratory parameters and neuroimaging finding. Diagnosis of TBM was based according to a standard case definition proposed by Marais et al.(2010). Results: One hundred and forty two TBM patients were recruited with 54.93% males and 45.07% females. Fever was most common symptom followed by headache, vomiting, altered sensorium and seizure. Most common cranial nerve palsy was of 6th cranial nerve followed by 2nd cranial nerve. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)study in 77.46% of patients showed protein &gt;100 mg/dL, 61.27% patients had CSF sugar &lt;40 mg/dL while 87.32% of patients had total cell count &gt;10 cells/cumm. Most common Neuroimaging finding was meningeal enhancement followed by hydrocephalus, infarcts, basal exudates and tuberculoma. In-hospital mortality was 17.61%. Higher age, low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, absence of headache, seizure, altered sensorium, anemia, low CSF glucose, infarct, hydrocephalus, and British medical research council (BMRC) Stage III at presentation were predictors of in-hospital mortality. Conclusions:. Age, GCS score, absence of headache, seizure, altered sensorium, anemia, low CSF glucose, infarct, hydrocephalus, and BMRC Stage III at presentation were predictors of in-hospital mortality based on this study from Bihar, India.

Increased Use of Hyperosmolar Therapy for Suspected Clinically Apparent Brain Injury in Pediatric Patients with Diabetic Ketoacidosis during the Peak of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The incidence of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) increased during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study was to investigate whether rates of hyperosmolar therapy administration for suspected clinically apparent brain injury (CABI) complicating DKA also increased during this period as compared to the three years immediately preceding the pandemic and to compare the characteristics of patients with suspected CABI before the pandemic, patients with suspected CABI during the peak of the pandemic, and those with DKA but without suspected CABI during the pandemic. Patients aged ≤18 years presenting with DKA before (March 11, 2017-March 10, 2020) and during the peak of the pandemic (March 11, 2020-March 10, 2021) were identified through a rigorous search of two databases. Predefined criteria were used to diagnose suspected CABI. Biochemical, clinical, and sociodemographic data were collected from a comprehensive review of the electronic medical record. The proportion of patients with DKA who received hyperosmolar therapy was significantly higher (P = 0.014) during the pandemic compared to the prepandemic period; however, this was only significant among patients with newly diagnosed diabetes. Both groups with suspected CABI had more severe acidosis, lower Glasgow Coma Scale scores, and longer hospital admissions (P< 0.001 for all) than cases without suspected CABI. During the pandemic, the blood urea nitrogen concentration was significantly higher in patients with suspected CABI than those without suspected CABI, suggesting they were more severely dehydrated. The clinical, biochemical, and sociodemographic characteristics of patients with suspected CABI were indistinguishable before and during the pandemic. In conclusion, administration of hyperosmolar therapy for suspected CABI was more common during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, possibly a result of delayed presentation, highlighting the need for increased awareness and early recognition of the signs and symptoms of diabetes and DKA, especially during future surges of highly transmissible infections.

Derivation and Validation of a Machine Learning Algorithm for Predicting Venous Thromboembolism in Injured Children

BackgroundVenous thromboembolism (VTE) causes significant morbidity in pediatric trauma patients. We applied machine learning algorithms to the Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database to develop and validate a risk prediction model for VTE in injured children. MethodsPatients ≤18 years were identified from TQIP (2017–2019, n = 383,814). Those administered VTE prophylaxis ≤24 h and missing the outcome (VTE) were removed (n = 347,576). Feature selection identified 15 predictors: intubation, need for supplemental oxygen, spinal injury, pelvic fractures, multiple long bone fractures, major surgery (neurosurgery, thoracic, orthopedic, vascular), age, transfusion requirement, intracranial pressure monitor or external ventricular drain placement, and low Glasgow Coma Scale score. Data was split into training (n = 251,409) and testing (n = 118,175) subsets. Machine learning algorithms were trained, tested, and compared. ResultsLow-risk prediction: For the testing subset, all models outperformed the baseline rate of VTE (0.15%) with a predicted rate of 0.01–0.02% (p < 2.2e−16). 88.4–89.4% of patients were classified as low risk by the models. High-risk predictionAll models outperformed baseline with a predicted rate of VTE ranging from 1.13 to 1.32% (p < 2.2e−16). The performance of the 3 models was not significantly different. ConclusionWe developed a predictive model that differentiates injured children for development of VTE with high discrimination and can guide prophylaxis use. Level of EvidencePrognostic, Level II. Type of StudyRetrospective, Cross-sectional.

Age-to-Glasgow Coma Scale score ratio predicts gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage.

Recent clinical studies have demonstrated that advanced age and low initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score were independent predictors of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, used singly, age and GCS score have their respective shortcomings in predicting the occurrence of GIB. This study aimed to investigate the association between the age-to-initial GCS score ratio (AGR) and the risk of GIB following ICH. We conducted a single-center, retrospective observational study of consecutive patients presenting with spontaneous primary ICH at our hospital from January 2017 through January 2021. Patients who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria were categorized into GIB and non-GIB groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were implemented to identify the independent risk factors for the occurrence of GIB, and a multicollinearity test was performed. Furthermore, one-to-one matching was conducted to balance important patient characteristics by the groups' propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. A total of 786 consecutive patients fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria for the study, and 64 (8.14%) patients experienced GIB after primary ICH. Univariate analysis revealed that patients with GIB were significantly older [64.0 (55.0-71.75) years vs. 57.0 (51.0-66.0) years, p = 0.001] and had a higher AGR [7.32 (5.24-8.96) vs. 5.40 (4.31-7.11), p < 0.001] and a lower initial GCS score [9.0 (7.0-11.0) vs. 11.0 (8.0-13.0), p < 0.001]. The multicollinearity test revealed that no multicollinearity was observed in the multivariable models. Multivariate analysis showed that the AGR was a significant independent predictor of GIB [odds ratio (OR) 1.155, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.041-1.281, p = 0.007], as well as prior anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy (OR 0.388, 95% CI 0.160-0.940, p = 0.036) and MV used >24 h (OR 0.462, 95% CI 0.252-0.848, p = 0.013). Receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis illustrated that the optimal cutoff value for the AGR as a predictor for GIB in patients with primary ICH was 6.759 [the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.713 with a corresponding sensitivity of 60.94% and specificity of 70.5%, 95% CI 0.680-0.745, p < 0.001]. After 1:1 PSM, the matched GIB group had significantly higher AGR levels compared with the matched non-GIB group [7.47(5.38-9.32) vs. 5.24(4.24-6.40), p <0.001]. The ROC analysis indicated an AUC of 0.747 (the sensitivity was 65.62%, and the specificity was 75.0%, 95% CI 0.662-0.819, p < 0.001) for AGR levels as an independent predictor of GIB in patients with ICH. In addition, AGR levels were statistically correlated with unfunctional 90-day outcomes. A higher AGR was associated with an increased risk of GIB and unfunctional 90-day outcomes in patients with primary ICH.

Lack of Association between YEASTONE Antifungal Susceptibility Tests and Clinical Outcomes of Cryptococcus Meningitis.

The relation between antifungal susceptibility and treatment outcomes is not well-characterized. There is paucity of surveillance data for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) isolates of cryptococcus investigated with YEASTONE colorimetric broth microdilution susceptibility testing. A retrospective study of laboratory-confirmed cryptococcus meningitis (CM) patients was conducted. The antifungal susceptibility of CSF isolates was determined using YEASTONE colorimetric broth microdilution. Clinical parameters, CSF laboratory indices, and antifungal susceptibility results were analyzed to identify risk factors for mortality. High rates of resistance to fluconazole and flucytosine were observed in this cohort. Voriconazole had the lowest MIC (0.06 µg/mL) and lowest rate of resistance (3.8%). In a univariate analysis, hematological malignancy, concurrent cryptococcemia, high Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, low Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score, low CSF glucose level, high CSF cryptococcal antigen titer, and high serum cryptococcal antigen burden were associated with mortality. In a multivariate analysis, meningitis with concurrent cryptococcemia, GCS score, and high CSF cryptococcus burden, were independent predictors of poor prognosis. Both early and late mortality rates were not significantly different between CM wild type and non-wild type species.

Predictors of in-hospital mortality in stroke patients.

In-hospital mortality is a good indicator to assess the efficacy of stroke care. Identifying the predictors of in-hospital mortality is important to advance the stroke outcome and plan the future strategies of stroke management. This was a prospective cohort study conducted at a tertiary referral center in Sri Lanka to identify the possible predictors of in-hospital mortality. The study included 246 confirmed stroke patients. The diagnosis of stroke was established on the clinical history, examination and neuroimaging. The differentiation of stroke in to haemorrhagic type and ischaemic type was based on the results of computed tomography. In all patients, demographic data, comorbidities, clinical signs (pulse rate, respiratory rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, on admission Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score) and imaging findings were recorded. All patients were followed up throughout their hospital course and the in-hospital mortality was recorded. In hospital mortality was defined as the deaths which occurred due to stroke after 24 hours of hospital admission. The incidence of in-hospital mortality was 11.7% (95% confidence interval: 8-16.4). The mean day of in-hospital deaths to occur was 5.9 days (SD ± 3.8 Min 2 Max 20). According to multivariate logistic regression analysis on admission GCS score (Odds Ratio (OR)-0.71) and haemorrhagic stroke type (OR-5.12) predict the in-hospital mortality. The area under the curve of receiver operating curve drawn for the on admission GCS score was 0.78 with a sensitivity of 96.31% and specificity of 41.38% for a patient presented with the GCS score of <10. On admission GCS and haemorrhagic stroke are independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. Thus, a special attention should be given to the patients with low GCS score and haemorrhagic strokes for reducing rates of in-hospital mortality.

Abstract WP126: Predictors Of Intracranial Hemorrhage Volume Expansion In Patients Receiving Factor Xa Inhibitors In The Annexa-4 Trial

Introduction: Andexanet, a specific reversal agent for FXa inhibitors, showed an effective hemostasis in 82% of patients with major bleeding in the ANNEXA-4 trial. However, little is known about the predictors associated with hematoma expansion in patients with FXa inhibitor-associated intracranial hemorrhage (ICrH) receiving andexanet. Methods: ANNEXA-4 was a prospective, single-arm, open-label study of andexanet in patients with acute major bleeding within 18h after taking a FXa inhibitor. Hematoma volumes at baseline and 12h after andexanet treatment were measured utilizing a computerized-assisted volumetric method. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses of baseline clinical and non-clinical parameters were performed to identify factors predictive of different volumes of hematoma expansion. Results: A total of 305 patients with both baseline and follow-up imaging were included (mean age 80 years; 60.2% with intracerebral hemorrhage; 55.4% taking apixaban; 32.5% taking rivaroxaban). Overall median baseline hematoma volume was 10.4 mls (IQR 2.7-28.1) and time from symptom onset to baseline CT was 3.3h (1.5-6.8). Mean baseline anti-FXa activity levels were 148 ng/mL (SD 107.5). In follow up scans, 48 cases (15.7%) showed evidence of ICrH expansion ≥6 mls. Utilizing a four category ICrH Expansion Scale as the dependent variable, ordinal logistic regression identified Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.64-0.97), baseline ICrH volume (OR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.04) and time from symptom onset to CT (OR 0.73 (0.53-0.99) as significant predictors of ICrH expansion. Baseline anti-FXA activity (OR 1.54; 95% CI 0.95-2.51; p value 0.08) and multiple compartment ICrH (OR 2.32; 95% CI 0.98-5.51; p value 0.06) showed trend as predictors of ICrH expansion. ICrH expansion dichotomized by ≥6 mls or &lt;6 mls as dependent variable, identified similar predictors of ICrH expansion. Conclusions: Shorter time from onset of symptoms to CT, lower GCS score and larger hematoma volumes at presentation increased the probability of ICrH expansion in FXa-associated ICrH treated with andexanet. These findings can inform the eligibility criteria of clinical trials targeting hemostatic efficacy in patients with FXa-associated ICrH.

Young Age, Liver Dysfunction, and Neurostimulant Use as Independent Risk Factors for Post-Traumatic Seizures: A Multiracial Single-Center Experience.

We aimed to determine the potentially modifiable risk factors that are predictive of post-traumatic brain injury seizures in relation to the severity of initial injury, neurosurgical interventions, neurostimulant use, and comorbidities. This retrospective study was conducted on traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients admitted to a single center from March 2008 to October 2017. We recruited 151 patients from a multiracial background with TBI, of which the data from 141 patients were analyzed, as 10 were excluded due to incomplete follow-up records or a past history of seizures. Of the remaining 141 patients, 33 (24.4%) patients developed seizures during long-term follow up post-TBI. Young age, presence of cerebral contusion, Indian race, low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores on admission, and use of neurostimulant medications were associated with increased risk of seizures. In conclusion, due to increased risk of seizures, younger TBI patients, as well as patients with low GCS on admission, cerebral contusions on brain imaging, and those who received neurostimulants or neurosurgical interventions should be monitored for post-TBI seizures. While it is possible that these findings may be explained by the differing mechanisms of injury in younger vs. older patients, the finding that patients on neurostimulants had an increased risk of seizures will need to be investigated in future studies.