Malignant Syndrome Research Articles

Malignant syndrome in children: About 3 clinical cases

Malignant syndrome in children: About 3 clinical cases

Nursing Experience of Patients with Malignant Syndrome in ICU Treatment

Nursing Experience of Patients with Malignant Syndrome in ICU Treatment

Rare health conditions 55: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Fraser syndrome, malignant atrophic papulosis and Jacob syndrome

The purpose of this series is to highlight a range of rare health conditions. Rare health conditions are those that affect no more and usually fewer than one person in every 2000 and many healthcare assistants (HCAs) and nurses will encounter some of these conditions, given the high number of these conditions. This 55th article will explore four of these conditions: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Fraser syndrome, malignant atrophic papulosis and Jacob syndrome.

Catatonic schizophrenia: historical error of psychiatric taxonomy?

Numerous clinical observations and studies of recent decades allow us to question the existence of a catatonic form of schizophrenia or, in any case, the legitimacy of the unconditional attribution of all cases of catatonia to schizophrenia. Antipsychotics used in the treatment of schizophrenia are often ineffective in patients with catatonia, can worsen its manifestations and increase the risk of malignant neuroleptic syndrome. The first-line drugs in the treatment of catatonia are lorazepam and other benzodiazepines, and electroconvulsive therapy is used in case of their ineffectiveness. The concept of the independence of catatonia as a separate neuropsychiatric disease requiring the special therapeutic approaches that do not coincide with traditional treatment of schizophrenia deserves attention.

ИНТЕНСИВНАЯ ТЕРАПИЯ ЖИЗНЕУГРОЖАЮЩИХ СОСТОЯНИЙ В ДЕТСКОЙ ОНКОГЕМАТОЛОГИИ

Malignant neoplasms of the blood system in children are represented by highly aggressive variants, which at the stage of diagnosis and program chemotherapy can be complicated by the development of life-threatening conditions. Understanding the risk of possible complications allows you to effectively carry out preventive and therapeutic measures, to minimize adverse outcomes. This article presents modern approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of the most common life-threatening conditions in pediatric oncohematology: acute tumor lysis syndrome, typhlitis and neutropenic enterocolitis, superior vena cava syndrome, malignant airway compression syndrome, acute impairment of consciousness, spinal cord compression syndrome, thrombosis, methemoglobinemia.

Clinical analysis of 48 cases of malignant superior vena cava syndrome

BackgroundThe aim of our study was to observe and compare the curative effect of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as comprehensive treatment on superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) caused by malignant etiology.MethodsA total of 48 patients with malignant SVCS admitted to our hospital from 2015 to 2020 were selected in this study. According to the different treatment methods, they were divided into radiotherapy group (group 1, 10 cases), chemotherapy group (group 2, 8 cases), combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy group (group 3, 22 cases), and comprehensive treatment group (group 4, 8 cases).ResultsThere were no significant differences in efficacy and side effects among the four groups (all P > 0.05). Group 4 (median survival time of 36 months) could provide longer survival time than groups 1, 2, and 3 (median survival time of 10 months, 13.5 months, and 12 months, respectively).ConclusionsFor patients with severe symptoms or good prognosis, comprehensive treatment could be selected to improve the quality of life and prolong the survival period; for patients with mild symptoms, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy could also reduce the symptoms of SVCS and treat tumor lesions.

Stewart-Treves Syndrome: A Case Report

A 68 year old female with Stewart Treves Syndrome was evaluated in the Emergency Department. Patient was resuscitated in the Emergency Department and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. The following day, she suffered a stroke and was placed on comfort care measures after palliative care discussion with family. She died three days after admission. This article discusses Stewart Treves Syndrome, a rare form of angiosarcoma that occurs with chronic lymphedema after radical mastectomy with lymph node dissection. It presents with purplish cutaneous nodules or reddish blue macules that enlarge. The mortality rate is high and survival is low. Emergency physicians should be aware of this rare, but highly lethal, malignant syndrome. A patient with history of breast cancer and radiation therapy who presents with an enlarging red-purple plaque should be admitted or referred to oncology or plastic surgery for immediate biopsy.

Safety measures for COVID-19 do not compromise the outcomes of patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention: a single center retrospective study

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic impacting nearly 170 countries/regions and millions of patients worldwide. Patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) still need to be treated at percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) centers with relevant safety measures. This retrospective study was conducted to assess the therapeutic outcomes of PCI performed under the safety measures and normal conditions. AMI patients undergoing PCI between January 24 to April 30, 2020 were performed under safety measures for COVID-19. Patients received pulmonary computed tomography (CT) and underwent PCI in negative pressure ICU. Cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) staff and physicians worked with level III personal protection. Demographic and clinical data, such as door-to-balloon (DTB) time, operation time, complications for patients in this period (COVID-19 group) and the same period in 2019 (2019 group) were retrieved and analyzed. COVID-19 and 2019 groups had 37 and 96 patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in age, gender, BMI and comorbidity between the two groups. DTB time and operation time were similar between the two groups (60.0 ± 12.39 vs 58.83 ± 12.85 min, p = 0.636; 61.46 ± 9.91 vs 62.55 ± 10.72 min, p = 0.592). Hospital stay time in COVID-19 group was significantly shorter (6.78 ± 2.14 vs 8.85 ± 2.64 days, p < 0.001). The incidences of malignant arrhythmia and Takotsubo Syndrome in COVID-19 group were higher than 2019 group significantly (16.22% vs 5.21%, p = 0.039; 10.81% vs 1.04% p = 0.008). During hospitalization and 3-month follow-up, the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in the two groups were statistically similar (35.13% vs 14.58%, p = 0.094; 16.22% vs 8.33%, p = 0.184). The risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) was associated with cardiogenic shock (OR, 11.53; 95% CI, 2.888–46.036; p = 0.001), malignant arrhythmias (OR, 7.176; 95% CI, 1.893–27.203; p = 0.004) and advanced age (≥ 75 years) (OR, 6.718; 95% CI, 1.738–25.964; p = 0.006). Cardiogenic shock (OR, 17.663; 95% CI, 5.5–56.762; p < 0.001) and malignant arrhythmias (OR, 4.659; 95% CI, 1.481–14.653; p = 0.008) were also associated with death of 3 months. Our analysis showed that safety measures undertaken in this hospital, including screening of COVID-19 infection and use of personal protection equipment for conducting PCI did not compromise the surgical outcome as compared with PCI under normal condition, although there were slight increases in incidence of malignant arrhythmia and Takotsubo Syndrome.

A144 ISOLATED UPPER ESOPHAGEAL VARICES DUE TO SUPERIOR VENA CAVA SYNDROME: A CASE OF UPPER GI BLEEDING

Abstract Background Esophageal varices represent a cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGI) with significant associated morbidity and mortality. The majority of variceal bleeds are due to portal hypertension and cirrhosis. In some very rare cases isolated upper esophageal varices may occur. These present management challenges, as typical management options for varices in cirrhosis are not applicable due to differences in pathophysiology. Infusions to decrease portal pressure and TIPS procedures may be used in cirrhosis, but are not effective in patients with SVC syndrome. Aims We present a literature review on isolated upper esophageal varices due to SVC syndrome, and present a case that provides further confirmation that surgical vascular reconstruction is a viable option in these cases. Methods The case of a 49 year old female with variceal hemorrhage secondary to SVC syndrome was reviewed. A search of the literature was undertaken using the terms “varices + superior vena cava syndrome” and “upper esophageal varices + management.” Results Overall, the majority of cases of isolated upper esophageal varices are secondary to SVC syndrome. They typically occur in cases of benign, rather than malignant SVC syndrome. Only one previous case was reported to be managed with surgical vascular reconstruction. We present the case of a 49-year old woman with SVC syndrome secondary to a thrombosed dialysis line who went on to develop isolated upper esophageal varices and large volume UGI bleeding. The pathophysiology of these “downhill” varices differs enough from portal hypertension that typical variceal management options may not be appropriate. Given a previous history of unsuccessful balloon angiography and the risk associated with variceal bleeding, she was taken back to the operating room for surgical vascular reconstruction. A surgical bypass was performed. She did well post-surgery and was discharged. She had no recurrence of bleeding and had a resolution of her edema at 6 month follow up. Conclusions Isolated upper esophageal varices are a potentially serious complication of SVC syndrome, and should be considered in cases of upper GI bleeding in patients with dialysis lines as they can have limited management options. This case was successfully managed by surgical vascular reconstruction, which represents an important treatment option in these difficult cases. Funding Agencies None

407 Is Pickelhaube Sign really the hallmark of arrhythmogenic MVP in athletes? And does MVP really cause sudden death? A case report

Abstract The Pickelhaube Sign is today recognized as a novel Echocardiographic Risk Marker for Malignant Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome. Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) has long been recognized to be a relatively common valve abnormality in the general population. Patients with relatively non-specific symptoms and asymptomatic athletes who have MVP still represent an important clinical conundrum for any physician involved in preventive medicine and sports screening. Although cardiac arrhythmias and/or cardiac death are an undesirable problem in MVP patients, when these subjects were studied with Holter Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring a prevalence of ventricular arrhythmias up to 34% was observed, with premature ventricular contractions as the most common pattern (66% of cases). At this regard a paper by Anders et al. described a series of cases that suggest that even clinically considered benign cases of MVP in young adults may cause sudden and unexpected death. However, cardiac arrest and Sudden Arrhythmic Cardiac Death (SCD) resulted in rare events only in patients with MVP based on data from a community study. A middle-aged athletic male who has been practicing competitive cycling for about 20 years came to our Sports Medicine Centre to undergo screening of sports preparation for competitive cycling and the related renewal of certification for participation in sports competitions. This athlete was always considered suitable in previous competitive fitness assessments performed in other sports medicine centers. His family history was unremarkable, as well as his recent and remote pathological anamnesis. The physical examination revealed a 3/6 regurgitation heart murmur with a click in the mid late systole. Previous echocardiographic examinations revealed a MVP which was considered benign with mild not relevant mitral regurgitation. He did not complain of symptoms such as dyspnoea or heart palpitations during physical activity. The resting ECG showed negative T waves in the inferior limb leads, and the stress test showed sporadic premature ventricular beats (a couple) with right bundle branch block morphology. An echocardiogram confirmed the presence of a classic mitral valve prolapse with billowing of both mitral leaflets, associated with a mild to moderate valve regurgitation. The TDI exam at the level of the lateral mitral annulus showed a high-velocity mid-systolic spike like a Pickelhaube sign, i.e. spiked German military helmet morphology. Consequently, an in-depth diagnostic imaging with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was proposed, but the athlete refused it, both because he was totally asymptomatic and above all because he would be forced to pay a considerable amount of money as the examination is not guaranteed by the Italian National Health Service. In conclusion, the athlete remained sub judice as for competitive suitability, Finally, the question is: does MVP really cause sudden death? Is it enough to detect the Pickelhaube signal by echocardiography to stop this athlete? Let us bear in mind that this athlete was asymptomatic, and he had not had any trouble during exercise and maximal effort for many years. Why must we declare him unsuitable to do competitive sports?

Panorama general de la terapia electroconvulsiva: indicaciones y funcionamiento

"The electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) constitutes one of the many treatment modalities available for management of psychiatric illnesses like depression, mania, schizophrenia, and catatonic states. It is even considered the single most effective and fastest treatment modality for patients with conditions like antidepressant-resistant depression, recurring suicidal ideations, acute psychoses, and potentially fatal conditions like malignant neuroleptic syndrome. ECT is a brain-stimulation therapy in which the therapeutic goal can be achieved through generating an electrical stimulus with enough intensity to produce a controlled seizure, achieving a positive and favorable neurobiological and neurochemical response.This article focuses on the use of ECT in treating the various neuropsychiatric conditions, its athophysiological principles, the employed technique, its main complications and overall a description of its use, its efficiency and safety, as to the experience of its employment in our institution. This comprises one of the few articles in Mexico with this kind of content that we deem fundamental as part of the general knowledge for healthcare professionals. Keywords: Electroconvulsive therapy, neuropsychiatry, mental health.

Pulmonary Capillaritis: The Breakdown of the Histologic Features

Abstract Introduction/Objective Capillary inflammation (capillaritis) is rarely the primary pathologic cause of pulmonary hemorrhage. It may coexist with vasculitis. The aim of this study is to investigate the specificity of five histologic features of pulmonary capillaritis previously described by Mark and Ramirez (discussed below). They are usually treated with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide or azathioprine. Methods A retrospective review of patients with a pathologic diagnosis of capillaritis in open lung biopsies was done. The diagnosis was confirmed by two expert pulmonary pathologists. The slides were reviewed and compared to a control group, who also underwent open lung biopsies for clinical suggestion of pulmonary hemorrhage and no pathologic diagnosis of capillaritis. Cases with malignant neoplasms, large and medium size vasculitis syndromes, and diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) were excluded. The five pathologic features of capillaritis were evaluated and scored as negative (0), focal (1+) and moderate to diffuse (2+) in both groups. Results Five cases of pulmonary capillaritis and five cases in control group were identified. The etiology of pulmonary capillaritis in the five identified cases included autoimmune diseases, pulmonary hypertension, non-specific interstitial pneumonia, and idiopathic capillaritis. The average score for the morphologic features of capillaritis versus the control group were as follows: Interstitial erythrocytes and/or hemosiderin (2+ vs 2+), fibrinoid necrosis of capillary walls (2+vs 0), intraalveolar septal capillary occlusion by fibrin thrombi (1+ vs 0), neutrophils and nuclear dust in the interstitium, in the fibrin, and in the adjacent alveolar spaces (2+ vs 1+), and fibrin clots attached to interalveolar septa in a sessile manner (2+ vs 1+). Conclusion In this small study, we can conclude that fibrinous necrosis is the most specific finding for pulmonary capillaritis while interstitial erythrocytes and/or hemosiderin is least specific. Therefore, in the presence of fibrinous necrosis; in addition to other supporting features; a pathologist is more inclined to communicate a diagnosis of pulmonary capillaritis to the clinicians.

Challenges in ICU Care: The Patient With Parkinson's Disease.

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) face unique challenges when admitted to the hospital. The nature of the disease, complexity of the pharmacotherapeutic home regimens, and the medication-related policies of institutionalized care all contribute to the challenges patients and providers face. In addition, medication errors are common in this population. Incorrectly ordered or omitted home medications or delayed administration can have significant negative consequences including worsening of PD symptoms, dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome, or malignant or hyperpyrexia syndrome. Also, this patient population may commonly encounter contraindicated medications ordered during their hospitalizations. These medication misadventures negatively affect patient care, which may lead to increased length of stay and significant adverse sequalae. Nurses, pharmacists, and other health care providers can help ease the anxiety of patients and their families by taking detailed medication histories, restarting home medication regimens, customizing medication administration to fit patients' needs, and screening patient profiles for drug-drug and drug-disease interactions. Education of hospital staff regarding the unique needs of this patient population and seeking the advice of specialists in PD can also promote improved patient care.

Catatonia in clinical reality: underdiagnosed and forgotten

Catatonia is still a poorly understood, quite common, but often overlooked clinical picture. Consequences for patients are inadequate treatment, prolonged hospital stays and more serious complications. In this overview, the causes for an underdiagnosis are presented and measures for their prevention named, help for the differential diagnostic classification of catatonia is offered and the treatment is briefly explained. Catatonia is primarily associated with schizophrenia, but is also observed in other diseases such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (MNS), in encephalitis and also in systemic diseases. Underdiagnosis can be avoided by simple measures such as a thorough physical examination, observance of verbal and non-verbal signs of catatonia, and psychiatric consultations in general hospitals. For the treatment of acute catatonia, the high-dose administration of benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy are recommended.

Clinical study of umbilical compress using anti-cancer Xiaogu formula in the management of malignant ascites

Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of umbilical compress with anti-cancer Xiaogu formula in managing malignant ascites. Methods A total of 56 patients with malignant ascites who met the inclusion criteria were randomized into 28 patients in the treatment group and 28 patients in the control group. The control group was treated with one type of diuretic, and the treatment group was given umbilical compress using Anti-Cancer Xiaogu formula and diuretics. Both groups were treated for 14 days. The changes of abdominal girth, 24 h urine volume, ascites efficacy, TCM syndrome scores, quality of life and adverse reactions were observed. Results The decrease in the maximum depth difference of the ascites in the treatment group was significantly greater than that of the control group (1.16 ± 1.29 vs. 0.00 ± 1.34, Z=-2.553). The difference was statistically significant (P 0.05). The response rate in the treatment group was 92.9% (26/28), while that of the control group was 89.3% (25/28).treatment group was 71.4%, while that of the control group was 35.7%. The difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The increase in KPS in the treatment group was significantly higher than that of the control group. The difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusions Anti-cancer Xiaogu umbilical cord combined with diuretic can reduce the degree of malignant ascites, alleviate clinical symptoms, improve quality of life and decrease the occurrence of adverse reactions when used concomitantly with diuretics in the management of malignant ascites. Key words: Ascites; Malignant carcinoid syndrome; Administration on umbilicus; anti-cancer Xiaogu formula; Spironolactone; Quality of life; Drug-related side effects and adverse reactions

A Focus on Pharmacological Management of Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia.

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a channelopathy characterized by adrenergic mediated ventricular arrhythmia. Untreated CPVT is a malignant syndrome with more than 50% of arrhythmic events and up to 25% of fatal or near-fatal cardiac events at 8 years follow-up. Prevention of sudden cardiac death starts with exclusion of competitive sports. Beta blockers (BB) are the cornerstone pharmacological therapy for the prevention of cardiac event in CPVT patients. Dose of BB should be highly tolerable, preferably nadolol. Efficiency of BB is undeniable but uncompleted. Therefore, on top of BB, one can propose the use of Calcium channel blockers or Class 1c antiarrythmic drugs. Indeed Flecainide allows reducing exercise- induced premature ventricular contraction and ventricular arrhythmia. Pharmacological management should be a stepwise approach with BB as the first line of choice. At each step of therapeutic changes, heart rhythm during exercise should be monitored by Holter monitoring and exercise testing. If the pharmacological management fails, left cardiac sympathetic denervation or implantation of cardioverter defibrillator should be considered.

053Decompressive Craniectomy for Malignant Middle Cerebral Artery Syndrome: The Irish Experience

053Decompressive Craniectomy for Malignant Middle Cerebral Artery Syndrome: The Irish Experience

Author Reply to Letter to the Editor: Silent and Malignant Early Repolarization Syndrome Mimicking Hyper-Acute ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

Author Reply to Letter to the Editor: Silent and Malignant Early Repolarization Syndrome Mimicking Hyper-Acute ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

The Electrophysiological Substrate of Early Repolarization Syndrome

The early repolarization (ER) pattern is a common ECG finding. Recent studies established a definitive clinical association between ER and fatal ventricular arrhythmias. However, the arrhythmogenic substrate of ER in the intact human heart has not been characterized. To map the epicardial electrophysiological (EP) substrate in ER syndrome patients using noninvasive Electrocardiographic Imaging (ECGI), and to characterize substrate properties that support arrhythmogenicity. Twenty-nine ER syndrome patients were enrolled, 17 of which had a malignant syndrome. Characteristics of the abnormal EP substrate were analyzed using data recorded during sinus rhythm. The EP mapping data were analyzed for electrogram morphology, conduction and repolarization. Seven normal subjects provided control data. The abnormal EP substrate in ER syndrome patients has the following properties: (1) Abnormal epicardial electrograms characterized by presence of J-waves in localized regions; (2) Absence of conduction abnormalities, including delayed activation, conduction block, or fractionated electrograms; (3) Marked abbreviation of ventricular repolarization in areas with J-waves. The action potential duration (APD) was significantly shorter than normal (196±19 vs. 235±21 ms, p<0.05). Shortening of APD occurred heterogeneously, leading to steep repolarization gradients compared to normal control (45±17 vs.7±5 ms/cm, p<0.05). Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) were recorded in 2 patients. The PVC sites of origin were closely related to the abnormal EP substrate with J-waves and steep repolarization gradients. Early Repolarization is associated with steep repolarization gradients caused by localized shortening of APD. Results suggest association of PVC initiation sites with areas of repolarization abnormalities. Conduction abnormalities were not observed.

Malignant Syndrome and Serotonin Syndrome in a General Hospital Setting: Clinical Features, Frequency and Prognosis.

Objective The differences in the frequency and clinical features of malignant syndrome (MS) and serotonin syndrome (SS) in same population have only rarely been reported. To report the frequency and clinical features of MS and SS in a general hospital setting. Methods The clinical and laboratory features of patients with MS and those with SS, who were consecutively admitted to Chiba Rosai Hospital, during the past 4.5 years were reviewed. Results Of the 2005 patients admitted, MS was observed in 16 patients (0.8%) and SS in 2 (0.1%). In the 16 patients with MS, the underlying disorder included depression (n = 5), and dementia or parkinsonism (n = 11). The underlying etiology of the 2 patients with SS was depression. In 5 patients, MS was difficult to distinguish from SS because of overlapping symptoms and signs and/or treatments with both neuroleptic and serotoninergic drugs. Of the 16 patients with MS, 1 died, 1 remained wheelchair-bound, 4 were able to walk with assistance, and 10 regained their ability to ambulate independently. The 2 patients with SS recovered after cyproheptadine therapy and were discharged on foot. Conclusion MS occurs more frequently than SS in the general hospital setting. Underlying aetiologies in patients with MS were more common due to dementia or parkinsonism than in patients with psychiatric disorders. The differential diagnosis of MS and SS is often difficult and the diagnostic sensitivities largely differ for each of the diagnostic criteria. As a result, the establishment of new diagnostic criteria that specifically focus on distinguishing MS from SS is therefore required.