Management Plan For Patients Research Articles

The Relationship Between Anemia and Parathyroid Hormone Levels in Patients With Kidney Failure Undergoing Hemodialysis Treatment in Georgia.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its associated complications, such as anemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), pose significant challenges to global healthcare systems. This study explores the demographic and clinical characteristics of 284 kidney failure (KF) patients undergoing hemodialysis, in an effort to shed light on the possible association between anemia and SHPT. A proven connection between the two could theoretically influence the management plans for CKD patients, with the hopes of achieving lower morbidity and/or mortality in this patient group. A retrospective, cross-sectional, real-world data analytical study was conducted at a hemodialysis center in Tbilisi, Georgia, encompassing a sample size of n = 284 patients on maintenance hemodialysis. The data analyzed was extracted from patients' medical records. According to our results, the prevalence of anemia was strikingly high at 82.04%, underlining its substantial burden within this patient population.Our analysis revealed a notable systemic association between anemia and SHPT, particularly when considering hemodialysis vintage. However, our final analysis model revealed no statistically significant association between anemia and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels. Conclusion:Our study revealed a significant systemic relationship between anemia and SHPTwhen hemodialysis duration was considered, despite initial analyses showing no direct association. Future research should focus on longitudinal and multi-center studies to better understand this relationship, aiming to enhance the care and management of CKD patients on hemodialysis.

Diagnostic Accuracy of FluoroCycler XT MTBDR Assay for Detection of Rifampicin and Isoniazid-resistant Mycobacteria tuberculosis in Clinical Isolates from Kenya.

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) poses a major global challenge to public health and therapeutics. It is an emerging global concern associated with increased morbidity and mortality mostly seen in the low- and middle-income countries. Molecular techniques are highly sensitive and offer timely and accurate results for TB drug resistance testing, thereby positively influencing patient management plan. The study was carried out at the National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (NTRL) in Kenya in the period between January and October 2022. A total of 243 Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) clinical isolates were included in the study. These isolates comprised of 50 isolates with mutations in rpoB, 51 isolates with katG mutations, 51 isolates with mutations in inhA, and 91 M.tb isolates lacking mutations in these genes based on Genotype MTBDRplus results. DNA from the isolates was extracted using the FluoroLyse extraction kit. Real-time polymerase chain reaction targeting the rpoB, InhA, and katG genes was performed using the FluoroType MTBDR amplification mix. Isolates with discordant results between Genotype MTBDRplus and FluoroCycler® MTBDR assays underwent targeted sequencing for the respective genes, then, sequences were analyzed for mutations using Geneious version 11.0 software. The sensitivity of the Fluorocycler XT MTBDR assay for the detection of mutations that confer drug resistance was 86% (95% confidence interval [CI] 73.0-94.0) for rpoB, 96% (95% CI 87-100) for katG and 92% (95% CI 81-98) for inhA. The assay's specificity was 97% (95% CI 93-99) for rpoB, 98% (95% CI 96-100) for katG, and 97% (95% CI 93-99) for inhA. The diagnostic accuracy of FluoroType MTBDR for the detection of mutations conferring resistance to rifampicin and isoniazid was high compared with that of Genotype MTBDRplus and demonstrates its suitability as a replacement assay for Genotype MTBDRplus.

Oral Candida in post‐radiotherapy patients with xerostomia/hyposalivation: A narrative review

AbstractObjectiveHead and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients receiving radiotherapy (RT) often suffer from xerostomia and/or hyposalivation. As saliva plays an important antimicrobial and cleansing roles, these patients are at higher risks of opportunistic infections. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of current evidence on oral Candida colonisation and infection in these patients.MethodsA literature review of clinical studies on oral Candida colonisation and candidiasis in HNC patients receiving radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy was conducted.ResultsMany clinical studies found high levels of Candida colonisation and a substantial proportion of post‐RT HNC patients suffering from oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Importantly, oral Candida could be a reservoir for life‐threatening systemic infection in immunocompromised patients. The rising prevalence of non‐albicans Candida species and drug‐resistant infections has made identification of Candida species and antifungal susceptibility more important. Recent advances in oral microbiome and its interactions with Candida are discussed. This review also offers perspectives on limitations of current evidence and suggestions for future research.ConclusionFurther research to better understand Candida carriage, microbiome, OPC, and xerostomia/hyposalivation post‐RT would aid in devising a more comprehensive long‐term management plan and novel therapeutic approaches for HNC patients to achieve the full benefits of RT while minimising side effects.

Hematological Malignancies in Older Patients: Focus on the Potential Role of a Geriatric Assessment Management.

Geriatric assessment management is a multidimensional tool used to evaluate prognosis for clinical outcomes and targets for interventions in older adults with cancer receiving chemotherapy. In this review, we evaluated the possible application of geriatric assessment management (GAM) in hematological malignancies. In older patients with Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma, GAM might be helpful in both predicting planned hospital admissions and improving quality of life. In chronic myeloid leukemia, the Charlson Comorbidity Index demonstrates how comorbidities could affect treatment compliance and overall outcomes. In multiple myeloma, the application of different scores such as the International Myeloma Working Group Frailty Index and the Revised Myeloma Comorbidity Index can identify frail patients who need suitable interventions in treatment plan (reducing drug dose or changing treatment). Therefore, including GAM in the management plan of older patients with hematological malignancies may direct and optimize cancer care.

Identification of T2W hypointense ring as a novel noninvasive indicator for glioma grade and IDH genotype

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the T2W hypointense ring and T2-FLAIR mismatch signs in gliomas and use these signs to construct prediction models for glioma grading and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status.MethodsTwo independent radiologists retrospectively evaluated 207 glioma patients to assess the presence of T2W hypointense ring and T2-FLAIR mismatch signs. The inter-rater reliability was calculated using the Cohen’s kappa statistic. Two logistic regression models were constructed to differentiate glioma grade and predict IDH genotype noninvasively, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the developed models.ResultsOf the 207 patients enrolled (119 males and 88 females, mean age 51.6 ± 14.8 years), 45 cases were low-grade gliomas (LGGs), 162 were high-grade gliomas (HGGs), 55 patients had IDH mutations, and 116 were IDH wild-type. The number of T2W hypointense ring signs was higher in HGGs compared to LGGs (p < 0.001) and higher in the IDH wild-type group than in the IDH mutant group (p < 0.001). There were also significant differences in T2-FLAIR mismatch signs between HGGs and LGGs, as well as between IDH mutant and wild-type groups (p < 0.001). Two predictive models incorporating T2W hypointense ring, absence of T2-FLAIR mismatch, and age were constructed. The area under the ROC curve (AUROC) was 0.940 for predicting HGGs (95% CI = 0.907–0.972) and 0.830 for differentiating IDH wild-type (95% CI = 0.757–0.904).ConclusionsThe combination of T2W hypointense ring, absence of T2-FLAIR mismatch, and age demonstrate good predictive capability for HGGs and IDH wild-type. These findings suggest that MRI can be used noninvasively to predict glioma grading and IDH mutation status, which may have important implications for patient management and treatment planning.

Evaluation of the relationship between periodontal bone destruction and mesial root concavity of the maxillary first premolar

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate the morphology of maxillary first premolar mesial root concavity and to analyse its relation to periodontal bone loss (BL) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and panoramic radiographs.MethodsThe mesial root concavity of maxillary premolar teeth was analysed via CBCT. The sex and age of the patients, starting position and depth of the root concavity, apicocoronal length of the concavity on the crown or root starting from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ), total apicocoronal length of the concavity, amount of bone loss both in CBCT images and panoramic radiographs, location of the furcation, length of the buccal and palatinal roots, and buccopalatinal cervical root width were measured.ResultsA total of 610 patients’ CBCT images were examined, and 100 were included in the study. The total number of upper premolar teeth was 200. The patients were aged between 18 and 65 years, with a mean age of 45.21 ± 13.13 years. All the teeth in the study presented mesial root concavity (100%, n = 200). The starting point of concavity was mostly on the cervical third of the root (58.5%). The mean depth and buccolingual length measurements were 0.96 mm and 4.32 mm, respectively. Depth was significantly related to the amount of alveolar bone loss (F = 5.834, p = 0.001). The highest average concavity depth was 1.29 mm in the group with 50% bone loss. The data indicated a significant relationship between the location of the furcation and bone loss (X2 = 25.215, p = 0.003). Bone loss exceeded 50% in 100% of patients in whom the furcation was in the cervical third and in only 9.5% of patients in whom the furcation was in the apical third (p = 0.003).ConclusionsAccording to the results of this study, the depth of the mesial root concavity and the coronal position of the furcation may increase the amount of alveolar bone loss. Clinicians should be aware of these anatomical factors to ensure accurate treatment planning and successful patient management.

Promoting clinical reasoning in undergraduate Family Medicine curricula through concept mapping: a qualitative approach.

Clinical reasoning is a crucial skill for physicians, enabling them to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. The gap between basic sciences and clinical practice persists as a challenge, with traditional teaching methods yet to effectively bridge it. Concept maps (CMs), visual tools for organizing and connecting knowledge, hold promise for enhancing clinical reasoning in the undergraduate medical curriculum. However, further research is required to ascertain if CMs facilitate clinical reasoning development in medical students transitioning from basic sciences to clinical practice. This study aims to delineate how CMs can facilitate clinical reasoning in patients with multimorbidity within undergraduate Family Medicine curricula, as perceived by students and tutors, and to understand the implementation process and resources required. This exploratory qualitative study formed a part of an action research project. While introducing an educational intervention to 5th-year medical students, we conducted a qualitative evaluation. Subsequently, semi-structured group interviews were conducted with students, and a focus group was conducted with tutors. Three main educational impacts were identified: integration of clinical information, support for patient management and care plan, and collaborative learning. Key aspects for successful CM implementation included clear instructions for map construction, using user-friendly software, allocating sufficient time for the task, encouraging group discussion of CMs, and incorporating tutor feedback. CMs are pedagogical tools that facilitate clinical information integration and support management and treatment plans, helping students better understand multimorbidity patients and promoting some components of clinical reasoning in undergraduate medical education.

Deep and Machine Learning Algorithms for Diagnosing Brain Cancer and Tumors

In the rapidly evolving field of medical diagnostics, the integration of deep learning (DL) and machine learning (ML) technologies has dramatically advanced the accuracy and efficiency of brain cancer and tumor diagnosis using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This review explores the transformative impact of these technologies, highlighting their role in enhancing tumor detection, classification, and early diagnosis interventions. DL and ML algorithms have significantly improved the analysis of complex imaging data, enabling more precise and faster diagnostic decisions, which are crucial for effective patient management and treatment planning. This review encompasses a broad spectrum of studies that illustrate the capabilities of these computational techniques in handling large datasets, learning intricate patterns, and achieving a high diagnostic performance. By delving into various algorithmic approaches and their clinical implications, this study underscores the importance of continued advancements and the integration of AI technologies in the field of oncology, aiming to foster better patient outcomes through innovative diagnostic tools.

Ensemble Deep Learning-Based Image Classification for Breast Cancer Subtype and Invasiveness Diagnosis from Whole Slide Image Histopathology.

Cancer diagnosis and classification are pivotal for effective patient management and treatment planning. In this study, a comprehensive approach is presented utilizing ensemble deep learning techniques to analyze breast cancer histopathology images. Our datasets were based on two widely employed datasets from different centers for two different tasks: BACH and BreakHis. Within the BACH dataset, a proposed ensemble strategy was employed, incorporating VGG16 and ResNet50 architectures to achieve precise classification of breast cancer histopathology images. Introducing a novel image patching technique to preprocess a high-resolution image facilitated a focused analysis of localized regions of interest. The annotated BACH dataset encompassed 400 WSIs across four distinct classes: Normal, Benign, In Situ Carcinoma, and Invasive Carcinoma. In addition, the proposed ensemble was used on the BreakHis dataset, utilizing VGG16, ResNet34, and ResNet50 models to classify microscopic images into eight distinct categories (four benign and four malignant). For both datasets, a five-fold cross-validation approach was employed for rigorous training and testing. Preliminary experimental results indicated a patch classification accuracy of 95.31% (for the BACH dataset) and WSI image classification accuracy of 98.43% (BreakHis). This research significantly contributes to ongoing endeavors in harnessing artificial intelligence to advance breast cancer diagnosis, potentially fostering improved patient outcomes and alleviating healthcare burdens.

Enhancing thoracic oncology in Armenia: Impact of the implementation of an expert-guided virtual multidisciplinary tumor board.

e13808 Background: The importance of expert-guided multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTs) in the management of patients with complex malignancies is well established. Modern global telecommunication platforms allow for holding specialized virtual MDT discussions led by international experts even in limited-resource settings. The creation of such a group is of high importance for Armenia given the high incidence and increasing complexity of thoracic malignancies. We describe the initial impact of the implementation of the Thoracic Tumors Working Group (TTWG) of Armenia from August 2022 through January 2024. Methods: The TTWG of Armenia is an MDT comprised of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, and radiologists. The group was formed under the Immune-Oncology Research Institute in August 2022 to discuss the management of patients with complicated thoracic malignancies. For each case, the clinical history, imaging, pathologic findings, and patient management plans are discussed. Updates on treatment paradigms and ongoing clinical trials are also reviewed. The MDTs are held biweekly via the Zoom platform under the supervision of international experts in thoracic oncology. Recordings of MDTs were reviewed to retrospectively identify case characteristics and the impact on patient management. Results: From August 2022 through January 2024, 89 cases were discussed during 33 TTWG MDTs. On average, each MDT was attended by 14 physicians and trainees in Armenia, and by two international experts in thoracic medical and radiation oncology. Median meeting length was 55 minutes with a median of 3 cases presented. Diagnoses included lung adenocarcinoma (n=31, 37.3%), squamous cell lung carcinoma (n=15, 18.0%), neuroendocrine tumors (n=16, 19.3%), small cell lung cancer (n=16, 19.3%), and thymic epithelial tumors (n=6, 7.3%). All disease stages were represented: I 3.7%, II 4.9%, III 31.7%, and IV 47.9%. The male-to-female ratio was 3.6:1 and the median age was 63 years (range: 29-76). Based on MDT discussion, the pre-MDT diagnosis was confirmed in 95.5% (n=85) of patients with down-staging in 3.4% (n=3). The proposed pre-MDT treatment plan was significantly altered in 42.7% (n=38) of patients. Additional studies, mainly PET/CT, bronchoscopy, and broader molecular profiling were recommended for 29.2% (n=26) of patients. Follow-up discussions were held for 7.9% (n=7) of patients based on information arising from prior MDT discussions. The TTWG of Armenia continues to be active. Conclusions: Our initial data suggest that the TTWG of Armenia has had a meaningful influence on patient management by providing access to specialty-expert care and physician education. The impact on patient outcomes will continue to be assessed. The TTWG of Armenia can serve as a model to improve outcomes in other resource-limited settings.

Prostate Cancer Risk Stratification by Digital Histopathology and Deep Learning.

Prostate cancer (PCa) represents a highly heterogeneous disease that requires tools to assess oncologic risk and guide patient management and treatment planning. Current models are based on various clinical and pathologic parameters including Gleason grading, which suffers from a high interobserver variability. In this study, we determine whether objective machine learning (ML)-driven histopathology image analysis would aid us in better risk stratification of PCa. We propose a deep learning, histopathology image-based risk stratification model that combines clinicopathologic data along with hematoxylin and eosin- and Ki-67-stained histopathology images. We train and test our model, using a five-fold cross-validation strategy, on a data set from 502 treatment-naïve PCa patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) between 2000 and 2012. We used the concordance index as a measure to evaluate the performance of various risk stratification models. Our risk stratification model on the basis of convolutional neural networks demonstrated superior performance compared with Gleason grading and the Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment Post-Surgical risk stratification models. Using our model, 3.9% of the low-risk patients were correctly reclassified to be high-risk and 21.3% of the high-risk patients were correctly reclassified as low-risk. These findings highlight the importance of ML as an objective tool for histopathology image assessment and patient risk stratification. With further validation on large cohorts, the digital pathology risk classification we propose may be helpful in guiding administration of adjuvant therapy including radiotherapy after RP.

Ultrasonography and Pregnancy Outcome in Threatened Abortion: A Prospective Observational Study

Background: Women who experience vaginal bleeding in the early stages of their pregnancy should be extremely worried about the phenomenon of "threatened abortion". Predicting the course of a pregnancy and choosing the best management techniques are critical to providing the best possible care for patients. The purpose of this investigation's prospective observational design was to learn more about the predictive power of ultrasound and how it may affect the medical management of upcoming abortions. Method: For the study, 200 first trimester pregnant women who showed indicators of an imminent abortion were gathered between X and Y. We looked at the fetus's heart, the size of the cervical canal, and a few other parts of the gestational sac using ultrasonography. Furthermore, records pertaining to the existence of extra data, like subchorionic hematoma, were found. Numerous exams were conducted to monitor the pregnancy's development. Results: Of the research's participants, 35% miscarried for unidentified reasons, and 65% were able to bring their pregnancies to term. The pregnancy's outcome could be accurately predicted based on the ultrasonography results. More specifically, there was a significant correlation between the development of a visible gestational sac and the presence of fetal heart activity and a higher chance of a successful pregnancy outcome. This was a strong relationship. On the other hand, women who had a subchorionic hematoma or a shorter cervical length were found to have a significantly higher risk of miscarriage. These findings show the value of ultrasonography as a technique for forecasting the course of pregnancies that are at risk of ending because of difficulties connected to the threat of abortion. Conclusion: Investigation's prospective observational design shows how ultrasound can be used to evaluate the advancement of pregnancy to determine cases where an abortion is likely to occur soon. Clinical decision-making based on ultrasound findings can improve patient management plans, patient counseling, and care for expectant patients. If prompt intervention using ultrasonographic signs improves the results of pregnancy at high risk, more research is needed to make that determination. Keywords: Ultrasonography, Threatened Abortion, Subchorionic Hematoma, and Ultrasound Markers

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Chronic Kidney Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients at Ratchaburi Hospital, Thailand

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease, common in Thailand. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Thai RA patients is uncertain. Objective: To study the prevalence and associated factors of CKD in RA patients. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study based on medical records was conducted. Participants were RA patients who visited Ratchaburi Hospital between May 2022 and October 2022. CKD was defined according to an eGFR below 60 mL/minute/1.73 m² by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation. The prevalence of CKD and associated factors was determined. Logistic regression was used to analyze the data. Results: The present study included three hundred and two patients with a mean (SD) age of 53.7 (±12.1) years. Median (IQR) RA disease duration was 60.0 (97.7) months. The prevalence of CKD was 19.2%, consisting of 13.2% at stage 3a, 4.0% at stage 3b, 2.0% at stage 4, and 0% at stage 5. The factors associated with CKD were age of 60 years or older, hypertension, dyslipidemia, age of RA onset of 60 years or older, more than three months of joint pain before disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) treatment, higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and RA treatment without methotrexate (p&lt;0.05). The findings from the multivariate analysis of factors associated with CKD revealed that hypertension (adjusted OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.36 to 5.90), more than three months of joint pain before DMARDs treatment (adjusted OR 56.70, 95% CI 12.64 to 254.41), higher ESR (adjusted OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.03), and RA treatment without methotrexate (adjusted OR 5.45, 95% CI 1.87 to 15.89) were associated with CKD after adjusting for age. Conclusion: The prevalence of CKD in RA patients was higher than in normal population. Factors associated with CKD were hypertension, more than three months of joint pain before DMARDs use, and higher ESR and RA treatment without methotrexate. Results from the present study should be applied to the management plans for patients with RA.

The potential advantages of 18F sodium fluoride positron emission tomography-computed tomography for clinical staging and management planning in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

The staging and treatment planning of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) face challenges due to limited sensitivity of conventional imaging. 18F-sodium fluoride (18F-NaF) positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) offers potential advantages in detecting early bone involvement. This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the potential advantage of 18F-NaF PET/CT for clinical staging and management planning in patients with NPC and to compare 18F-NaF PET/CT findings with those of conventional imaging modalities. We enrolled a cohort of patients with NPC who underwent 18F-NaF PET/CT at our PET/CT center between July 1, 2017, and June 30, 2021, and analyzed the findings of 18F-NaF PET/CT and conventional imaging modalities. Data from multidisciplinary team discussions on clinical staging and management planning both before and after 18F-NaF PET/CT were recorded. Additionally, any changes in clinical staging and management planning following 18F-NaF PET/CT were documented. A total of 58 patients were included in this study. After 18F-NaF PET/CT imaging, clinical tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging was observed to have changed in seven cases (12.1%). Among these, four cases had changes in T stage and three cases in the M stage. Additionally, changes in clinical management plans were observed in eight patients (13.8%). Changes due the results of 18F-NaF PET/CT included three cases with major modification (two cases switched from curative treatment to palliative treatment, and one case switched from palliative treatment to curative treatment) and five cases with minor changes. The minor changes involved alteration to the radiotherapy target volume (three cases with an increased target volume and one case with a reduced target area). Furthermore, one case required an alteration to the radiotherapy strategy for local bone involvement. The use of 18F-NaF PET/CT in patients newly diagnosed with NPC may offer potential advantages for clinical staging and treatment planning, enabling physicians to select a more individualized treatment approach.

Impact of Frailty on Survival and Neurological Outcomes After Cardiac Arrest: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

To synthesize the evidence on the associations of frailty with the risk of mortality and neurological outcomes in patients with cardiac arrest undergoing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We conducted a literature search on PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus. We included observational studies on adult participants (18 years or older) with cardiac arrest. The eligible studies reported frailty assessments using standard tools, and the comparator group comprised nonfrail participants. We used random-effects models for all analyses and expressed pooled effect sizes as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We included data from 12 studies in our analysis. Individuals with frailty exhibited a significantly higher risk of in-hospital mortality (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.62-2.94), and increased 30-day mortality (OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.12-1.84) and 12-month mortality (OR, 4.16; 95% CI, 2.32-7.47) than the nonfrail individuals. Frail individuals also displayed lower odds of achieving favorable neurological outcomes upon hospital discharge (OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.20-0.50) and at the 30-day follow-up (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.23-0.78). Additionally, they had lower odds of return of successful spontaneous circulation (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.34-0.72). The observed associations between frailty and a higher risk of mortality reduced odds of favorable neurological outcomes, and lower odds of return of successful spontaneous circulation underscore the value of identifying frailty in individuals to achieve more accurate prognoses. Our findings highlight the importance of including frailty assessments as a component of the management plan for patients experiencing cardiac arrest.

Heart failure: the grim reaper of the cardio-renal-metabolic triad.

Current understanding of the prognosis for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and overlapping cardio-renal-metabolic components, specifically heart failure (HF) and diabetes mellitus (DM), remains limited. While previous studies have explored the interactions between CKD, HF, and DM, they have predominantly focused on cohorts of HF or DM patients. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the long-term outcomes and treatment patterns in a cohort of CKD patients, particularly those with coexisting HF and DM. We analysed data from the Swedish national CKD patient cohort, the Swedish Renal Registry, with a follow-up period extending up to 10years. The study examined the risks of all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)-defined as a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, hospitalization for congestive HF, non-fatal stroke, or cardiovascular death-and the initiation of kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Analyses were conducted using Cox proportional hazards and competing risk models. Among the 27647 patients, 48% had CKD alone, 12% had CKD with HF, 27% had CKD with DM, and 13% had CKD with both HF and DM. After 5years, mortality rates were 23% for patients with CKD, 30% for those with CKD/DM, 54% for CKD/HF, and 55% for CKD/HF/DM. The 10year absolute risk of MACE was 28% for CKD alone, 35% for CKD/DM, 67% for CKD/HF, and 73% for CKD/HF/DM. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for mortality was approximately three times higher in patients with any HF combination, with HRs of 2.57 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.43-2.71] for CKD/HF and 3.22 (95% CI 3.05-3.39) for CKD/HF/DM, compared with CKD alone. The impact of HF on MACE prognosis was even more pronounced, with adjusted sub-hazard ratios (SHRs) of 3.33 (95% CI 3.14-3.53) for CKD/HF and 4.26 (95% CI 4.04-4.50) for CKD/HF/DM. Additionally, CKD patients diagnosed with HF were less likely to commence KRT, and the risk of death prior to KRT initiation was roughly twice as high for these groups, with SHRs of 2.05 (95% CI 1.93-2.18) for CKD+HF and 2.43 (95% CI 2.29-2.58) for CKD+HF+DM. In a cohort of CKD patients, having HF contributes substantially to increased mortality and the risk of MACE, and these patients are less likely to start KRT. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted therapeutic strategies and management plans for CKD patients, particularly those with concurrent HF, to enhance patient prognosis.

Vertebral Artery Injury in Cervical Spine Fracture Dislocation: An Observational Study in a Tertiary Care Center.

The incidence of traumatic vertebral artery injury (VAI) associated with cervical spine trauma varies widely in published trauma series. The primary aim of this study was to determine the incidence of traumatic VAIin patients who suffered cervical spine injuries by means of routine magnetic resonance imaging, and the secondary objective was to identify any associations with injury mechanism, level ofinjury, and neurologic injury severity. Materials and methods: A retrospective review was conducted on 96 patients who suffered cervical spine fracture dislocation with or without an associated spinal cord injury (SCI) in Indian Spinal Injuries Center (ISIC), New Delhi, Indiafrom January 2013 to April 2023. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to diagnose VAI. Patient's age, sex, cervical injury level, mechanism of injury, neurologic level of injury, association with foraminal fracture, facet dislocation,and clinical sequelae of vertebral artery injury were analyzed. In this study, of 96 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 18 patients (18.75%) had VAI on the MRI study. Thirteen (72.22%) of the eighteen patients had right-sided injuries, four (22.22%) had left-sided injuries, and one (5.55%) had bilateral injuries. There was an associated SCI in every VAI patient. VAI was significantly more common in patients who had ASIA A (61%, n = 11) and ASIA B (22%, n = 4)injuries, and no VAI was noted in neurologically intact patients (p<0.001). The incidence of VAI was higher in the flexion distraction type of injury (n = 12, 66%).The most commonly involved cervical spine injury level was C5-C6 (27%, n = 5), followed by 22% (n = 4) at C4-C5 and C6-C7 levels. About 27.8% (n = 5) of VAI was associated with foraminal fractures, and 72% (n = 13) of VAI was associated with facet dislocations, of which 44% (n = 8) were bifacetal and 28% (n = 5) were unifacetal dislocations. On clinical symptoms, only one (5.56%) patient had a headache, and 17 (94.4%) had no clinical features due to VAI. The incidence of traumatic vertebral artery disease is not very uncommon and requires careful and meticulous screening and management. Otherwise, complications like pseudoaneurysm, neurologic deficit, late-onset hemorrhage, infarction, and death can happen. Mostly, it is associated with high-velocity injuries and neurological injuries. MRI can be used as a good screening tool, which can be aided by a CT angiogram or digital subtraction angiographyfor confirmation. Proper pre-operative evaluation of vascular injury in cervical spine fracture dislocation is very important for patient counseling, patient management, and surgical planning.

Personalized approach to outpatient management of patients taking tamoxifen by gynecologists

BACKGROUND: 30% of women with luminal breast cancer receiving adjuvant tamoxifen experience disease recurrence within 15 years. This demonstrates the wide variability in clinical response to tamoxifen. Both nongenetic (age, gender, body mass index, duration of drug use) and genetic factors have been described to influence the high variability of response to tamoxifen. Differences in the genes encoding the enzymes CYP2D6, CYP2C, and CYP3A (CYP2D6*4, CYP3A5*3, CYP2C9*2, CYP2C9*3, CYP2C19*2, CYP2C19*3) and the ABCB1 gene (C3435T) may also be the main factors of susceptibility to the occurrence of undesirable effects when taking tamoxifen, which in turn may lead to decreased patient adherence to therapy.&#x0D; AIM: The aim of this study was to create a concept and an algorithm for a personalized approach to outpatient management of patients taking tamoxifen by a gynecologist in connection with the carriage of polymorphisms of cytochrome P450 and drug transporter genes.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 2017–2018, the outpatient records of 230 patients with breast cancer were analyzed retrospectively. A single-stage pharmacogenetic study of 120 women with stage I–III luminal breast cancer taking tamoxifen was conducted prospectively for the presence of cytochrome P450 gene polymorphisms using the polymerase chain reaction method and assessing associations with adverse drug reactions, and 54 patients were interviewed after five-year follow-up to assess adherence and satisfaction with medical supervision.&#x0D; RESULTS: The likelihood of developing endometrial hyperplasia has been shown to increase while taking tamoxifen with increasing average age, body mass index, duration of tamoxifen use, and postmenopause. Significant associations have been identified between the carriage of the CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP3A5, and ABCB1 gene polymorphisms and the development of adverse drug reactions. Predictive models have been developed to determine the risk of adverse drug reactions. All studied adverse drug reactions associated with various genetic polymorphisms predominated in the group of patients who stopped taking tamoxifen due to poor intolerance. Gynecologists regularly observed 57.4% of patients. Moreover, the higher the adherence to therapy was, the higher was the regularity of observation by a gynecologist.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: A plan for outpatient management of patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy with tamoxifen by a gynecologist has been developed.

First contact physiotherapy: an evaluation of clinical effectiveness and costs.

First contact physiotherapy practitioners (FCPPs) are embedded within general practice, providing expert assessment, diagnosis, and management plans for patients with musculoskeletal disorders (MSKDs), without the prior need for GP consultation. To determine the clinical effectiveness and costs of FCPP models compared with GP-led models of care. Multiple site case-study design of general practices in the UK. General practice sites were recruited representing the following three models: 1) GP-led care; 2) FCPPs who could not prescribe or inject (FCPPs-standard [St]); and 3) FCPPs who could prescribe and/or inject (FCPPs-additional qualifications [AQ]). Patient participants from each site completed outcome data at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. The primary outcome was the SF-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS) score. Healthcare usage was collected for 6 months. In total, 426 adults were recruited from 46 practices across the UK. Non-inferiority analysis showed no significant difference in physical function (SF-36 PCS) across all three arms at 6 months (P = 0.667). At 3 months, a significant difference in numbers improving was seen between arms: 54.7% (n = 47) GP consultees, 72.4% (n = 71) FCPP-St, and 66.4% (n = 101) FCPP-AQ (P = 0.037). No safety issues were identified. Following initial consultation, a greater proportion of patients received medication (including opioids) in the GP-led arm (44.7%, n = 42), compared with FCPP-St (18.4%, n = 21) and FCPP-AQ (24.7%, n = 40) (P<0.001). NHS costs (initial consultation and over 6-month follow-up) were significantly higher in the GP-led model (median £105.5 per patient) versus FCPP-St (£41.0 per patient) and FCPP-AQ (£44.0 per patient) (P<0.001). FCPP-led models of care provide safe, clinically effective patient management, with cost-benefits and reduced opioid use in this cohort.

How Successful Are Veterinary Weight Management Plans for Canine Patients Experiencing Poor Welfare Due to Being Overweight and Obese?

Overweight and obesity is one of the most significant health and welfare issues affecting companion animals and are linked to several serious medical conditions, reduced welfare, and shortened lifespan. The number of overweight and obese pets increases every year. Overweight and obesity are associated with multiple chronic diseases. Underlying causes include human-related and animal-related factors. Veterinarians encounter overweight and obese canine patients in daily practice and they play an important role in weight management. This research examines the level of veterinary engagement and the success of veterinary management plans for overweight and obese canines over a five-year period. Electronic medical records (EMRs) were collected for 500 canine patients assessed as either overweight or obese and statistically analyzed for level of veterinary engagement (VE), weight loss success, prescription weight loss diet (RX) use, and comorbidities. The average age at the beginning of the study was 61.5 months. A starting Body Condition Score (BCS) of 6 or 7 was most common (87.2%). Twelve different small and large dog breeds were most highly represented (61.1%). Average weight loss rates were low and more dogs gained rather than lost weight (56.5% vs. 43.5%). While VE is important, this study suggests current VE levels are not adequate to successfully combat overweight and obesity or result in improved animal welfare.