Prolonged Prothrombin Time Research Articles

Effects of Variable Doses of Neurokinin B on Hematological and Coagulation Parameters in Adult Male Rats

Objective: To evaluate the dose-dependent effects of Neurokinin B on hematological and coagulation parameters in adult male Sprague Dawley rats. Study Design: Laboratory-based experimental study Place and Duration of Study: Gomal University and KMU Institute of Medical Sciences from February 2019 to April 2021. Methodology: Adult male Sprague Dawley rats (n=5 per group) were administered intraperitoneally with Neurokinin B at doses of 1 µg, 1 ηg and 1 ρg for 12 days consecutively. Control rats received distilled water injections. After 12 days, rats were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected from the left ventricle for hematological and coagulation analysis. Results: Bleeding time was significantly prolonged in NKB-µg (114±17.10sec) and Neurokinin B -ηg (72±22.25sec) compared to control (33±12.55sec). Clotting time (CT) was also increased (NKB-µg: 111±17.10sec; NKB-ηg: 69±17.10sec, control: 42±12.55sec), as did prothrombin time (PT) [NKB-µg: 93.60±10.92sec; NKB-ηg: 63.40±12.66sec, control: 15±4.12sec] and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) [NKB-µg: 94.80±14.04sec; NKB-ηg:68.60±13.74sec, control: 19.40±2.97sec]. Additionally, mean platelet volume [NKB-µg:8.94±0.36fl, control: 8.04±0.48fl] and leukocyte count (×103/µl) [NKB-µg: 12.14±0.69, control: 8.87±1.32] were significantly increased in NKB-treated animals compared to control. There was a significant increase in international normalized ratio in NKB-µg (6.86±0.80) and NKB-ηg (4.65±0.93) compared to control group (1.10±0.30). Conversely, platelet count (×103/µl) was decreased significantly in NKB-µg group (787.80±48.51) compared to the control group (960.60±58.71). Conclusion: NKB administration led to leukocytosis, thromboctopenia, and affected coagulation pathways with prolonged BT, CT, PT, APTT and INR dose-dependently.

Construction and Evaluation of a Model for the Prediction of Risk Factors Associated with Severe Pneumonia in Patients with Positive Hepatitis B Core Antibody and COVID-19 Infection in China

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a high-risk factor for severe COVID-19 cases, leading clinicians to enhance the monitoring of patients with concurrent HBV and COVID-19 infections. However, this focus is typically on patients with active HBV infection. Patients who are HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) negative and HBV core antibody (anti-HBc) positive are often considered to have either a past infection that has naturally cleared or to be in a low-replication state, and thus receive less clinical attention. However, in immunosuppressed states, such as during immunosuppressive treatment following COVID-19 infection, the virus in these patients may reactivate. In such cases, this reactivation can increase the risk of COVID-19 progressing to a severe illness. Therefore, being HBsAg negative and anti-HBc positive could be a potential risk factor for severe COVID-19. Studying the combination of anti-HBc positivity and COVID-19 infection can help identify high-risk populations, allowing for the implementation of targeted prevention and management measures, thereby reducing the occurrence of severe COVID-19 cases. Objectives: To establish and evaluate a model for predicting severe pneumonia in patients with positive anti-HBc combined with COVID-19 infection. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 380 patients who tested positive for anti-HBc, negative for HBsAg, and HBV e-antigen (HBeAg), combined with COVID-19 infection, in our hospital from December 2022 to May 2023. Based on the inclusion criteria, 163 patients were included in the study. We applied the Lasso binary logistic regression model to optimize feature selection, identifying eight non-zero coefficients using a minimum of one standard error. Using the multiple logistic regression method with backward selection, we screened six factors from the eight selected by the Lasso binary logistic regression model. These six factors were used to construct the predictive model and a nomogram. The validity of our nomogram was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curve, Hosmer-Lemeshow (HL) test, and decision-curve analysis (DCA). Results: Hypertension, diabetes, decreased absolute lymphocyte count, prolonged prothrombin time, elevated aspartate aminotransferase, and decreased albumin are high-risk factors for severe pneumonia in patients with positive anti-HBc combined with COVID-19 infection. The AUC of the predictive model constructed using these six factors is 0.785, with a 95% confidence interval of (0.709-0.862). The HL test, performed using the calibration curve, yielded a p-value of 0.868. The application of this diagnostic curve will increase the net benefit when the threshold probability is between 5% and 75%. Conclusions: The constructed nomogram can be used to predict the risk of patients with positive anti-HBc combined with COVID-19 infection progressing to severe pneumonia, based on routine blood parameters, liver function, coagulation, lactate dehydrogenase levels, and the patient's underlying disease. The predictive model demonstrates good discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility.

Analysis of risk factors for bleeding as a complication of ultrasound-guided percutaneous liver biopsy examination

Objective: To explore the independent risk factors for bleeding in patients following percutaneous liver biopsy examination. Methods: The clinicopathological data of patients who underwent percutaneous liver biopsy examination at Nanjing Second Hospital from January 2012 to December 2021 were retrospectively collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to investigate the effect of age, gender, lesion type (diffuse liver parenchymal lesions, focal liver lesions), number of biopsies, tissue length, presence or absence of cirrhosis, presence or absence of portosystemic shunt, erythrocytes, white blood cells, hemoglobin, platelets, prothrombin time, fibrinogen, international normalized ratio, and liver biochemical indicators on bleeding following liver biopsy, as well as to screen independent risk factors. Results: A total of 3 331 patients were examined by percutaneous liver biopsy, and 3 060 cases were actually included by excluding 271 cases who took consultation from other hospitals. The overall postoperative hemorrhagic rate was 1.6% (49/3 060). Of which, forty-four cases (1.4%) had overt bleeding (hemodynamic changes or hemoglobin decreased by more than 20 g/L), five cases (0.2%) had minor bleeding, three cases had subcapsular hepatic hemaotma, and two cases had local bleeding from liver biopsy. Among the overt bleeding cases, two cases were in the off-label group (platelet<50×109/L or international normalized ratio>1.5), and the rest were in the non-off-label group. The results of univariate analysis showed that factors such as focal liver lesions, portosystemic shunt, prolonged prothrombin time, increased international normalized ratio, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase were associated with bleeding after liver biopsy in the non-off-label group. The multivariate collinearity diagnosis revealed statistically significant differences for the indicators. Multivariate logistic regression analysis finally included factors such as lesion type, portosystemic shunt, international normalized ratio, total bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase. The results showed that patients with focal liver lesions were more prone to bleed after surgery than patients with diffuse liver parenchymal lesions (OR=3.396, P=0.002, 95%CI: 1.596-7.228). Patients with portosystemic shunt were more prone to bleed than those without portosystemic shunt (OR=3.301, P=0.018, 95%CI: 1.232-8.845). Patients were more likely to experience bleeding following liver biopsy when their total bilirubin levels were elevated (OR=1.006, P<0.001, 95%CI:1.003-1.008). Conclusion: Focal liver lesions, portosystemic shunts, and elevated total bilirubin are independent risk factors for bleeding after percutaneous liver biopsy.

Management of high dose olanzapine poisoning in a young child under limited resource setting: a case report from Nepal

Introduction: Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is widely used for treating psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Accidental overdose in children is rare but can lead to severe clinical effects. This case report discusses the management of a five-year-old male who accidently ingested 180 mg of olanzapine, the highest reported dose in a child under five years. Case Presentation: A five-year-old boy accidentally ingested 180 mg of Olanzapine, resulting in loss of consciousness and central nervous system depression. He exhibited hyperglycemia, elevated lactate, and prolonged prothrombin time, but no significant cardiovascular issues. Following intubation and supportive care, including intravenous medications and mechanical ventilation, the child gradually improved. He was discharged in stable condition with follow-up instructions. Discussion: Olanzapine toxicity in children presents with a variety of symptoms, including somnolence, hypotension, and neurological impairments, which are dose-dependent. Even in case of an exceptionally high overdose, the absence of cardiovascular toxicity supports safety profile of olanzapine. Common laboratory findings include hyperglycemia, elevated liver enzymes, and metabolic disturbances. Management involves airway protection, supportive care, and monitoring, as no specific antidote exists. Prompt and appropriate care, even in severe cases under limited resource settings, can lead to favorable outcomes. Conclusion: In cases of high dose accidental olanzapine poisoning in children, it is essential to begin quick intervention and comprehensive supportive care to achieve successful outcomes and can be managed even in limited resource settings. Preventive measures are crucial to avoid such incidents and careful monitoring is essential in managing pediatric olanzapine overdose.

Crashing into Discovery: Nesidioblastosis in Adult, Unmasked post-Motor Vehicle Accident - A Case Study and Literature Review

Abstract Introduction/Objective Nesidioblastosis, characterized by pancreatic duct-derived B-islet cell proliferation, typically manifests with hypoglycemic symptoms. While more common in newborns, it can rarely affect adults. Here, we report an incidental finding of nesidioblastosis in a 37-year-old female following abdominal trauma due to a motor vehicle crash (MVC). Methods/Case Report A 37-year-old female with no notable medical history presented with blunt abdominal trauma following an MVC. The emergency evaluation revealed a grade 4 traumatic splenic laceration and severe hemoperitoneum. Preoperative lab results showed decreased hemoglobin, elevated white cell count, prolonged prothrombin time, and reduced calcium and magnesium levels. The patient underwent a splenectomy along with a distal pancreatectomy. While grossly unremarkable, microscopic examination revealed maintained acinar architecture with focal hyperplasia around pancreatic ducts. Enlarged acinar cells with pleomorphic nuclei and prominent nucleoli were consistent with focal nesidioblastosis. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) NA Conclusion Multiple studies have documented the first reported case of nesidioblastosis in adults was in 1975. While its exact incidence is uncertain, most sources suggest a relative frequency of 0.5 – 7% of persistent hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, with estimated overall an annual rate of around 9 per 100,000, with a higher occurrence among females. This unusual incidental discovery of nesidioblastosis in an asymptomatic patient undergoing pancreatic resection for unrelated reasons highlights the likelihood of underestimating the actual prevalence of this disease.

Treatment of malignant primary cardiac tumors requires attention to cardiovascular complications: a single-center, retrospective study.

Malignant primary cardiac tumors require multimodal approaches including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but these treatments can be associated with cardiovascular complications. However, few reports have described the cardiovascular complications related to primary cardiac tumor treatment because of their rarity. Clinical records of patients with primary cardiac tumors treated at Kyushu University Hospital from January 2010 to August 2021 were retrospectively examined. Of the 47 primary cardiac tumor patients, 13 (28%) were diagnosed with malignancy, including 5 angiosarcomas, 3 intimal sarcomas, 3 diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, 1 Ewing's sarcoma and 1 fibrosarcoma. Cardiovascular events were observed in 10 patients (77%), including cardiac dysfunction in 6 patients, arrhythmias in 5 patients, right heart failure in 2 patients, and excessively prolonged prothrombin time due to the combination of warfarin and chemotherapy in 1 patient. Two patients who showed notable cardiac complications are described. Case A involved a 69-year-old woman who underwent surgery for a left atrial intimal sarcoma, followed by postoperative chemotherapy with doxorubicin plus ifosfamide and radiotherapy. After three cycles of chemotherapy and sequential radiotherapy, her left ventricular ejection fraction decreased to 34%, and ongoing heart failure therapy was required. Case B involved a 66-year-old man who received chemotherapy for primary cardiac lymphoma, resulting in tumor shrinkage. However, due to tumor involvement of the intraventricular septum, atrioventricular block developed, requiring cardiac pacemaker implantation. High incidences of cardiac failure and arrhythmias were observed during multimodal treatments for malignant primary cardiac tumors. Proper management of complications may lead to a favorable prognosis in patients with malignant primary cardiac tumors.

Severe bleeding events among critically ill patients with haematological malignancies

BackgroundBleeding events are common complications in critically ill patients with haematological malignancies. The objective of this study was to assess the incidence and identify determinants of ICU-acquired severe bleeding events in critically ill patients with haematological malignancies. We conducted a single-center retrospective study including all adult patients with a history of haematological malignancy requiring unplanned ICU admission over a 12-year period (2007–2018). The primary endpoint was the occurrence of ICU-acquired (i.e. after the first 24 h in the ICU) severe bleeding events, as defined as grades 3 or 4 of the World Health Organization classification.ResultsA total of 1012 patients were analysed, mainly with a diagnosis of lymphoma (n = 434, 42.9%) and leukaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (n = 266, 26.3%). Most patients were recently diagnosed (n = 340, 33.6%) and under active cancer treatment within the last 3 months (n = 604, 59.7%). The main cause for admission was infection (n = 479, 47.3%), but a significant proportion of patients were admitted for a primary haemorrhage (n = 99, 10%). ICU-acquired severe bleeding events occurred in 109 (10.8%) patients after 3.0 days [1.0–7.0] in the ICU. The main source of bleeding was the gastrointestinal tract (n = 44, 40.3%). Patients experiencing an ICU-acquired severe bleeding event displayed prolonged in-ICU length of stay (9.0 days [1.0–6.0] vs. 3.0 [3.5–15.0] in non-bleeding patients, p < 0.001) and worsened outcomes with increased in-ICU and in-hospital mortality rates (55% vs. 18.3% and 65.7% vs. 33.1%, respectively, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, independent predictors of ICU-acquired severe bleeding events were chronic kidney disease (cause-specific hazard 2.00 [1.19–3.31], p = 0.008), a primary bleeding event present at the time of ICU admission (CSH 4.17 [2.71–6.43], p < 0.001), non-platelet SOFA score (CSH per point increase 1.06 [1.01–1.11], p = 0.02) and prolonged prothrombin time (CSH per 5-percent increase 0.90 [0.85–0.96], p = 0.001) on the day prior to the event of interest.ConclusionsMajor bleeding events are common complications in critically ill patients with haematological malignancies and are associated with a worsened prognosis. We identified relevant risk factors of bleeding which may prompt closer monitoring or preventive measures.

Evaluating preoperative coagulation panels in dogs undergoing liver lobectomy for primary liver tumors: A multi-institutional retrospective study.

The objectives of this study were to: (i) Determine whether operable primary liver tumors were associated with prolongations in prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and (ii) determine if these secondary hemostatic abnormalities were more prevalent with specific liver tumors. Multi-institutional retrospective study. Dogs (n = 359) undergoing liver lobectomy for a primary liver tumor with a preoperative coagulation panel. Data was identified via electronic medical record review at eight veterinary teaching hospitals. Baseline dog characteristics, coagulation panel values, platelet count, emergency versus non-emergency procedure, whether the dogs received transfusion(s) of a blood product, liver lobe removed, and histopathological diagnosis were extracted from the medical record. Chi-square analysis was used to compare categorical variables between groups. Continuous variables were assessed for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test. A total of 74 of 359 dogs (20.6%) had a prolongation in either PT or aPTT preoperatively. A total of 20 of 359 dogs (5.6%) were found to have prolongation of both PT and aPTT. Hemangiosarcoma was the only histopathological diagnosis associated with concurrent prolongations of both PT and aPTT (p < .001) in 6/16 (37.5%) dogs. Coagulation panels including PT and aPTT are unlikely to detect substantial deficiencies in secondary hemostasis in most dogs with primary liver tumors except in dogs with a histopathological diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma. PT and aPTT testing is low yield as an elective preoperative screening test in dogs with primary liver tumors except in dogs where there is a hemoabdomen or high suspicion for hepatic hemangiosarcoma.

Phosphatidylserine-blocking nanoparticles inhibit thrombosis without increased bleeding in mice

BackgroundPhosphatidylserine (PS) is a procoagulant phospholipid enriched on surfaces of activated vascular cells including platelets, endothelium, monocytes, and microvesicles. As a molecular driver of thrombosis accessible to drug blockade, PS is an attractive pharmacologic target for modulating thrombogenesis, with potentially reduced bleeding risk compared to anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies. ObjectivesTest antithrombotic capabilities of a liposomal formulation, Zn-dipicolylamine cyanine-3[22,22]/1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (molar ratio, 3:97), designated as DPAL, which we previously described binds selectively to PS-enriched cell surfaces, compared with effects on bleeding, in mouse models. MethodsPS-dependent DPAL binding to human and murine platelets was tested in vitro. Thrombosis and bleeding after DPAL intravenous administration were tested in C57Bl/6J mice following FeCl3 carotid arterial injury and tail tip amputation, respectively. Incorporation in hemostatic clots was investigated in the cremaster muscle laser injury model. Toxicity was tested by direct exposure to human endothelial cell cultures. ResultsDPAL bound agonist-stimulated, PS-positive human and murine platelets, blocked by Annexin V or Ano6 deletion, which ablate PS exposure. DPAL prolonged prothrombin time, but did not prevent thrombin-induced fibrinogen receptor activation or aggregation, nor alter blood cell counts including platelets. Following arteriolar laser injury, DPAL bound wound surfaces and edges without destabilizing plugs. DPAL dose-dependently blocked FeCl3-induced arterial thrombosis but did not substantially increase bleeding, or induce endothelial cell death. ConclusionDPAL reduces thrombogenesis with minimal effects on bleeding in mouse models via selective binding to PS. DPAL may support novel approaches to modulate pathogenic thrombin generation with improved safety profiles in multiple contexts.

IRON OVER LOAD AND ITS RELATION WITH HAEMOSTATIC PARAMETERS IN BETA-THALASSEMIA PATIENTS

Background: Patients with beta-thalassemia major have been observed to experience changes in their coagulation profile. These changes include an elongated prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time as well as bring down levels of natural anticoagulants and coagulation factors. The mechanisms underlying the occurrence of thrombotic tendencies in some thalassemia patients remain unclear. This study aims to examine the alterations in the iron and coagulation profile among beta-thalassemia patients. Methods: After informed consent, 50 children having beta-thalassemia, and 50 healthy controls were included in this study. Blood samples were collected and serum ferritin, haematological and haemostatic parameters were measured. Data was analysed on SPSS-24. Results: The laboratory assessment revealed 43.5% of the patients had thrombocytopenia, 54% had prolonged prothrombin time (PT), and 56% of the patients had prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). All estimated coagulation factors exhibited lower activity levels in comparison to the control group. Serum ferritin exhibited a positive relationship with PT and aPTT and a substantial negative relationship with total platelet count. Conclusion: High serum ferritin levels are associated to abnormal haemostatic parameters in thalassemia patients. Regular monitoring of serum ferritin levels is essential to ensure that thalassemia patients receive appropriate treatment and support. Pak J Physiol 2024;20(3):71–3, DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v20i3.1742

Basic coagulation parameters and platelet count among malaria patients attending at Addis Zemen Primary Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Malaria is an intravascular parasitic-related blood disease that causes bleeding, coagulopathy, and thrombocytopenia. However, limited data shows the effect of Plasmodium species infection on basic coagulation parameters and platelet count. Thus, this study aimed to assess basic coagulation parameters and platelet count among malaria patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 240 study participants (120 cases and 120 controls) from June 1, 2021, to February 30, 2022. A convenient sampling technique was employed to select study participants. The blood sample was collected by a trained laboratory technologist for platelet counts, prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (PTT), international normalization ratio (INR), blood film, and serological testing. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS version 23. Data were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis H, and Spearman's rank-order correlation tests. Descriptive findings were presented through median, tables, and chart. In all cases, a P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The percentage of mild, moderate, and high malaria parasitemia levels per microliter of blood was 21.7%, 20%, and 58.3%, respectively. The overall median malaria parasitemia was 10,304 per microliter of blood. Among malaria patients, 77.5%, 61.7%, and 51.7% had prolonged PT, INR, and APTT, respectively as compared to control. Moreover, 26.7% of Plasmodium-infected participants had mild thrombocytopenia as compared to the control group (P < 0.001). The value of PT, APTT, and INR were significantly elevated, whereas the level of platelet count was inversely reduced when the malaria parasitemia level increased as compared to controls (p < 0.001).

Clinical features and treatment of 70 children with lupus anticoagulant-hypoprothrombinemia syndrome: a retrospective study from a single center in China

BackgroundLupus anticoagulant-hypoprothrombinemia syndrome (LAHPS) is a rare acquired bleeding disorder characterized by the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA) and acquired hypoprothrombinemia. ObjectivesTo summarize the experience of diagnosis, clinical features, and treatment of lupus anticoagulant-hypoprothrombinemia syndrome (LAHPS). MethodsA retrospective study of 70 children diagnosed with LAHPS from January 2019 to February 2024 at a single center was conducted. ResultsA total of 70 subjects (32 boys and 38 girls), with a mean age of 5.58 years, were included in the study. Among these subjects, 15 had autoimmune diseases (AIDs), 51 had infections, and 4 had unknown causes. Fifty-six of 70 (80%) subjects experienced bleeding with the median bleeding score of 4, 1 of 70 (1.4%) presented with thrombosis, and 13 of 70 (18.6%) were asymptomatic. All patients exhibited prolonged prothrombin time, significantly prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, decreased factor (F)II activity (FII:C), and positive lupus anticoagulant. There was a weak negative correlation between the severity of bleeding and FII:C level (rs = −0.4283; P < .001). Patients with infection-associated LAHPS were younger than those with AIDs-associated LAHPS (P < .0001). In the study, LAHPS subjects are treated with corticosteroids as the first-line therapy, or in combination with immunosuppressants. Coagulation factor replacement therapy can effectively prevent and control bleeding events. After follow-up, lupus anticoagulant of all patients had turned negative within 12 weeks. And, prothrombin time and FII:C were completely normalized of all patients without recurrence of bleeding and without thrombosis. ConclusionChildren develop LAHPS most commonly after AIDs and infection. Most patients presented with mild to moderate bleeding. The severity of bleeding symptoms was not exactly parallel to the decreased FII:C level.

Risk Factors for Mortality in Critically Ill Patients with Coagulation Abnormalities: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Coagulation abnormalities are common and prognostically significant in intensive care units (ICUs) and are associated with increased mortality. This study aimed to explore the association between the levels of coagulation markers and the risk of mortality among ICU patients with coagulation abnormalities. This retrospective study investigated patients with coagulation abnormalities in the ICU between January 2021 and December 2022. The initial point for detecting hemostatic biomarkers due to clinical assessment of coagulation abnormalities was designated day 0. Patients were followed up for 28 days, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was utilized to identify risk factors for mortality. Of the 451 patients analyzed, 115 died, and 336 were alive at the end of the 28-day period. Multivariate analysis revealed that elevated thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT), tissue plasminogen activator inhibitor complex (tPAIC), prolonged prothrombin time, and thrombocytopenia were independent risk factors for mortality. For nonovert disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) patients, older age and thrombocytopenia were associated with increased risks of mortality, whereas elevated levels of plasmin α2-plasmin inhibitor complex (PIC) were found to be independent predictors of survival. In patients with overt DIC, elevated levels of tPAIC were independently associated with increased risks of mortality. Nevertheless, thrombocytopenia was independently associated with increased risks of mortality in patients with pre-DIC. Coagulation markers such as the TAT, tPAIC, PIC, and platelet count were significantly associated with mortality, underscoring the importance of maintaining a balance between coagulation and fibrinolysis. These findings highlight the potential for targeted therapeutic interventions based on specific coagulation markers to improve patient outcomes.

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome in South Korea, 2016-2021: Clinical Features of Severe Progression and Complications.

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infection with a high case fatality rate. The serious clinical features need to be further defined. We performed a retrospective analysis among SFTS patients in South Korea during 2016-2021 to update the current status. The basic epidemiology of all reported cases was analyzed, and the detailed clinical data of the subjects were further collected from study hospitals selected in terms of their geographic location and capability of SFTS care. Cases of SFTS were reported across the country and were greatly increased since the initial endemic phase, even under the passive surveillance system. The case fatality rate remained at approximately 16.8%. Coinfections at admission were present in 7.8% of the patients. Major complications included bleeding (15.2%), hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (6.7%), bacteremia or candidemia (4.0%), and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (1.7%). It took a median 4 days from the onset of illness to hospital admission. Rapid clinical deterioration was observed with a median 1 day for intensive care unit admission, 3 days for mechanical ventilation, 4 days for renal replacement therapy, and 5 days for death, all after the hospitalization. Multivariate analysis showed that the fatality was associated with older age, bacteremia, or candidemia during hospitalization, and the presence of several variables at admission such as fever, altered mentality, aspartate aminotransferase >200 IU/L, serum creatinine level >1.2 mg/dL, and prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time. Treatment options to improve clinical outcomes are limited, despite best supportive care. Specific treatment is urgently needed to change the fatal course.

Evaluation of Von Willebrand Factor in Dogs with Parvoviral Enteritis

Canine parvoviral enteritis may lead to coagulopathy in various ways. In recent years, the importance of von Willebrand factor has become the focus of more attention in infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the importance of von Willebrand factor level and coagulation parameters in dogs with parvoviral enteritis. The experimental group of this study consisted of 20 dogs with parvoviral enteritis of different breeds aged 2-6 months, and the control group consisted of 10 healthy dogs aged 2-6 months. Blood samples were taken from the dogs included in the experimental group at the 0th hour, 24th hour and before discharge, and only at the 0th hour from the healthy puppies in the control group The 0th and 24th hour von Willebrand factor values of the trial were significantly higher than the control group. The 0th hour Prothrombin Time of the trial was significantly prolonged compared to the control group. The 0th hour Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time value of the trial was significantly prolonged compared to the before-discharge and control group. The before-discharge fibrinogen level was determined to be significantly lower than at 0th and 24th hours of the trial. In conclusion, von Willebrand factor concentrations, which increase significantly in dogs with parvoviral enteritis compared to healty animals, can be evaluated as an acute phase protein. Prolongation of Prothrombin Time and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time and no significant change in fibrinogen and D-dimer values demonstrated that dogs with parvoviral enteritis were in hypercoagulation state without dissemine intravascular coagulation.

Clinical characteristics and analysis of related factors associated with early death in newly diagnosed patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics and analysis of related factors associated with early death in newly diagnosed patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).MethodsThis retrospective study included patients who visited our hospital between January 2010 and August 2022 and were diagnosed with APL for the first time. We analyzed their clinical and laboratory characteristics and analysis of related factors associated with early death.ResultsA total of 269 patients with a primary diagnosis of APL were collected. The male to female ratio was 6:5, and the median age was 42 years (range 7–80). Among patients with initial APL diagnosis, there were 34 early deaths, resulting in an early mortality rate of 13%. The median time from diagnosis to death was 8.5 days (range 3–24). Comparative analysis of the clinical characteristics between patients who died early and those who did not, using a logistic regression model, revealed that age, white blood cell count (WBC) at initial diagnosis, and prolongation time of prothrombin time (PT) were independent risk factors for early death in patients with primary APL (P < 0.05). Comparing the clinical characteristics during hospitalization between the early death group and the non-early death group, it was observed that the daily mean of WBC during hospitalization was significantly higher in patients who died early than in those who did not (P < 0.001). Conversely, the daily mean of platelet count (PLT) was significantly lower in patients who died early compared to those who did not (P < 0.001). Furthermore, statistically significant differences were found in the mean daily infusion of PLT (P < 0.05), fibrinogen (Fib) (P < 0.05), and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) (P < 0.05) during hospitalization between patients who died early and those who did not. Specifically, the mean daily infusion of PLT and FFP was significantly higher in the early-death group than in the non-early-death group. Cerebral hemorrhage was identified as the immediate cause of death in 25 out of the 34 early-death patients (74%). The remaining causes of death included infection in 5 cases (15%), all of which were severe pulmonary infections, including 2 cases of combined differentiation syndrome, and abandonment of treatment in 4 patients (11%) at initial diagnosis.ConclusionIn patients with primary APL, age, WBC at initial diagnosis, and PT prolongation time were identified as independent risk factors for early death (P < 0.05). Laboratory findings regarding WBC and PLT during hospitalization, as well as the infusion of PLT, Fib, and FFP during hospitalization, were also statistically significant. Cerebral hemorrhage was found to be the main cause of early death in patients with primary APL.

Lactate as an early prognostic indicator in yellow phosphorus rodenticide-induced acute hepatic failure: a retrospective observational study in a tertiary care hospital

Introduction Acute hepatic failure due to yellow phosphorus rodenticide ingestion is often lethal. This study aimed to analyze demographic characteristics and prognostic indicators, focusing on hyperlactataemia as a potential early indicator of mortality in patients poisoned with yellow phosphorus rodenticide. Materials and methods This was a retrospective study of 96 patients poisoned with a yellow phosphorus-containing rodenticide (Ratol paste, which contains 3% yellow phosphorus). We examined demographic details, clinical symptoms, and biochemical markers to identify prognostic indicators. Results Demographics were similar among survivors and non-survivors. Mortality (36.5%) correlated with a higher ingested dose and treatment delays, with a mean (±SD) of 5.26 ± 2.2 survival days among those who died. Symptoms, including gastrointestinal and neurological features, typically appeared 48 h after ingestion. Non-survivors developed increased aminotransferase activities (74.3%), prolonged prothrombin time (65.7%), and hyperbilirubinaemia (65.7%) during hospitalization, significantly more commonly compared to survivors (P < 0.0001). Hyperlactataemia (lactate concentration >2 mmol/L) was present in 97.1% of non-survivors, with increased serial lactate concentrations observed in 88.6%. The median (interquartile range) admission lactate concentration among non-survivors was 4.6 mmol/L (3.36–7.53 mmol/L), and their peak median (interquartile range) lactate concentration was 6.1 mmol/L (8.74–10.6 mmol/L). In non-survivors, an increased lactate concentration preceded increased aminotransferase activities and prolonged prothrombin time. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis confirmed that a 24 h lactate concentration ≥2.67 mmol/L predicted death with 94.3% sensitivity and 91.8% specificity. Discussion The majority of patients who ingest yellow phosphorus remain asymptomatic initially and typically present to hospital following the onset of gastrointestinal symptoms, usually a day later. As progression to death occurs within a week of yellow phosphorus ingestion in most cases, determining prognosis as early as possible enables swift referral to a liver transplant centre. Based on our study, a 24 h lactate concentration ≥2.67 mmol/L appears to be an early prognostic indicator of death. In another study, a lactate concentration >5.8 mmol/L was found to be a poor prognostic indicator. Conclusions Hyperlactataemia on admission and increased serial lactate concentrations appear to be early poor prognostic signs in patients with yellow phosphorus-induced liver failure.

Laboratory profiling of patients with long COVID in the Brazilian Amazon region: A cross-sectional study.

The condition commonly referred to as long coronavirus disease (COVID) is characterized by the continuation of symptoms, sometimes accompanied by new symptoms that persist after the resolution of acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This observational cross-sectional study investigated 332 patients with long COVID in the Brazilian Amazon region. The study aimed to elucidate the systemic interactions associated with long COVID by compiling the findings related to hematological, coagulation, immunological, metabolic, hepatic, renal, and muscular profiles. Participants with long COVID were identified using rigorous criteria and underwent thorough laboratory examinations. The obtained data were subsequently analyzed, allowing for comparisons, associations, and correlations between findings within distinct groups in the study. Significant associations were observed between hospitalization during the acute phase and persistent laboratory abnormalities, suggesting a potential link between acute severity and long-term effects. Notably, individuals with long COVID for over a year exhibited elevated levels of monocytes, prolonged prothrombin times, reduced prothrombin activity, high levels of lactate dehydrogenase, and an increased frequency of qualitative C-reactive protein detection. This study provides valuable insights into the laboratory risk profile of patients with long COVID, particularly in the unique context of the Amazon region, where patients exhibit persistent symptoms lasting up to 1261 days.

Prothrombin deficiency with recurrent subretinal hemorrhage.

Ocular hemorrhage has been recorded in congenital factor deficiencies like hemophilia A, but it has never been documented in prothrombin deficiency. Here, we describe an unusual case of sudden vision loss in the right eye caused by subretinal hemorrhage following a coughing episode in a 67-year-old woman. Notably, the patient underwent left eye enucleation 12 years previously under similar circumstances due to subretinal hemorrhage. During the interview, it was discovered that the patient had a history of prothrombin deficiency, which was subsequently confirmed through laboratory testing. Aside from recurrent ocular bleeding and 1 instance of bleeding following dental extraction in childhood, there is no other history of bleeding. Subsequent molecular studies revealed a homozygous missense mutation at G1499A (Arg500Gln), a variant previously identified as R457Q. Although the likelihood of prothrombin deficiency initiating subretinal hemorrhage is low, it is likely to worsen retinal hemorrhage and contribute to difficulty in controlling bleeding. A comprehensive coagulation workup is essential in patients with ocular hemorrhage. Determining factor II activity should be included in individuals exhibiting variably prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time with correction in mixing studies. Additional investigations, such as genetic sequencing and family studies, are advised for those with isolated low prothrombin levels.

Hematological, Biochemical, and Inflammatory Markers in Patients Suffering from SARS-CoV-2 in Kassala, Sudan: A Cross-Sectional Hospital-Based Study

Introduction: Sudan faces the impact of SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing the urgency of timely detection and effective management. This study, conducted in Kassala, Sudan, aimed to evaluate key hematological, biochemical, and inflammatory markers in confirmed and suspected COVID-19 patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional hospital investigation was carried out in Kassala State, eastern Sudan, spanning from September 2020 to January 2021. Clinical and sociodemographic data were collected from individuals suspected of having COVID-19 using a structured questionnaire. Nasopharyngeal swab was targeted for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 while a blood sample was processed for haematological and biochemical parameters. Results: The study included 371 participants, revealing a prevalence of COVID-19 PCR positive of 61.7% (229/371). In particular, most were male (65%), with a mean age of 42.9±19.9 years. A substantial case fatality rate of 15.7% (36/229) was observed, predominantly among people 60 years and older (P &lt; 0.001). RT-PCR-confirmed patients exhibited significant associations with elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein levels, prolonged Prothrombin time, extended partial thrombin time, leucocytosis, neutrophilia, lymphopenia and hypocalcemia (P &lt; 0.000). Conclusion: This study illuminates the impact of COVID-19 on crucial hematological, renal electrolyte, inflammatory, and coagulation markers. These findings have the potential to enhance patient outcomes and reduce mortality rates by guiding informed actions and shaping public health policies.