Renal Infection Research Articles

Efficacy of Prolonged Antibiotic Therapy for Renal Cyst Infections in Polycystic Kidney Disease

ObjectiveTo determine the impact of antibiotic therapy (ATBT) on outcomes of renal cyst infection (CyI) in patients with polycystic kidney disease. Patients and MethodsWe undertook a single-center retrospective study of CyI in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (January 1, 2000, through December 31, 2018). Cyst infections were classified as definite (microbiologically proven), probable (radiologic signs), or possible (clinical or biologic signs only). We studied the determinants of ATBT failure (persistence of infection beyond 72 hours of microbiologically adequate initial ATBT, with requirement for ATBT change, cyst drainage, or nephrectomy) and recurrences (>14 days after the end of ATBT). ResultsAmong 90 patients, 139 CyIs (11 definite, 74 probable, 54 possible) were compiled. Cultures were positive in 106 of 139 (76%) episodes, with Escherichia coli found in 89 of 106 (84%). Treatment failures and recurrences within 1 year of follow-up were more frequent in definite/probable CyI (20/85 [34%] and 16/85 [19%]) than in possible CyI (2/54 [4%] and 4/54 [7%]; P<.01 and P=.08, respectively). Male sex (odds ratio [OR], 7.79; 95% CI, 1.72 to 46.68; P<.01), peak C-reactive protein level above 250 mg/L (OR, 7.29; 95% CI, 1.78 to 35.74; P<.01; to convert C-reactive protein values to nmol/L, multiply by 9.524), and cyst wall thickening (OR, 7.70; 95% CI, 1.77 to 43.47; P=.01) but not the modalities of initial ATBT were independently associated with higher risk of failure. In a Cox proportional hazards model, kidney transplant recipients exhibited higher risk of recurrence (hazard ratio, 3.76; 95% CI, 1.06 to 13.37; P=.04), whereas a total duration of ATBT of 28 days or longer was protective (hazard ratio, 0.02; 95% CI, 0.00 to 0.16; P<.001), with an inverse correlation between duration and recurrence (81% for treatment <21 days, 47% for 21 to 27 days, 2% for ≥28 days; P<.0001). ConclusionInitial first-line ATBT had no significant effect on renal CyI treatment failure. Treatment duration of 28 days and longer reduced recurrences.

Fever Correlation with Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Concentrations in Patients with Isolated Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): A Retrospective Comparison Study between Hospital and Out-of-Hospital Local Registries.

Background: Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is the most common systemic inflammatory rheumatic disease affecting the elderly. Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a granulomatous vasculitis affecting the aorta and its branches associated with PMR in up to 20% of cases. In recent studies based on university hospital registries, fever correlated with the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) but not with C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations at the time of diagnosis in patients with isolated PMR. A long delay to a PMR diagnosis was suggested to explain this discrepancy, possibly caused by laboratory alterations (for instance, anemia of chronic disease type) that can influence only ESR. We performed a retrospective comparison study between the university hospital and two out-of-hospital public ambulatory databases, searching for any differences in fever/low-grade fever correlation with ESR and CRP. Methods: We identified all patients with newly diagnosed PMR between 2013 and 2020, only including patients who had a body temperature (BT) measurement at the time of diagnosis and a follow-up of at least two years. We considered BT as normal at <37.2 °C. Routine diagnostic tests for differential diagnostics were performed at the time of diagnosis and during follow-ups, indicating the need for more in-depth investigations if required. The GCA was excluded based on the presence of suggestive signs or symptoms and routine ultrasound examination of temporal, axillary, subclavian, and carotid arteries by experienced ultrasonographers. Patients with malignancies, chronic renal disease, bacterial infections, and body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2 were excluded, as these conditions can increase CRP and/or ESR. Finally, we used the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS) for quantifying the burden of comorbidities and excluded patients with a CIRS index > 4 as an additional interfering factor. Results: We evaluated data from 169 (73 from hospital and 96 from territorial registries) patients with newly diagnosed isolated PMR. Among these, 77.7% were female, and 61.5% of patients had normal BT at the time of diagnosis. We divided the 169 patients into two cohorts (hospital and territorial) according to the first diagnostic referral. Age at diagnosis, ESR, CRP, median hemoglobin (HB), and diagnostic delay (days from first manifestations to final diagnosis) were statistically significantly different between the two cohorts. However, when we assessed these data according to BT in the territorial cohort, we found a statistical difference only between ESR and BT (46.39 ± 19.31 vs. 57.50 ± 28.16; p = 0.026). Conclusions: ESR but not CRP correlates with fever/low-grade fever at the time of diagnosis in PMR patients with a short diagnosis delay regardless of HB levels. ESR was the only variable having a statistically significant correlation with BT in a multilevel regression analysis adjusted for cohorts (β = 0.312; p = 0.014).

ЭВОЛЮЦИЯ ПРЕДСТАВЛЕНИЙ ОБ ИНФЕКЦИИ МОЧЕВОЙ СИСТЕМЫ У ДЕТЕЙ

The article presents information on the terminological concepts in the diagnosis of inflammatory diseases of the organs of the urinary system (OUS), as well as the existing views on the criteria for their diagnosis. The modern views on the microbiome and virom of the urinary system, their role in the development of inflammatory diseases in the OUS and the pathways of invasion of infection into the kidneys. The causes, mechanisms of development and progression of renal infection are isolated, including the importance of the structural kidney anomalies and urinary tract, the role of formation of inflammasomes, biofilm and intracellular bacterial communities. Special attention is paid to modern approaches to the prevention and treatment of urinary system infections in children.

HIV/AIDS patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty are at higher risk of acute renal failure and transfusion and incurred higher cost: a propensity-matched database study

IntroductionHuman immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in HIV-positive patients has not been well documented in the current literature. Thus, this study aimed to examine the early postoperative outcomes and complications of HIV-positive TKA patients as compared to TKA patients who are HIV-negative patients by utilizing the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database.MethodsAdmissions data for TKA and HIV were analyzed from the NIS database using ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. An extensive array of preoperative and postoperative variables was compared among HIV positive TKA patients and HIV negative TKA patients. An unmatched analysis and a matched analysis using a 1:1 propensity match algorithm were conducted to compare the two groups.ResultsThe average age of the HIV-positive group was lower than the HIV-negative group (59.0 vs 66.7, p < 0.001). The HIV-positive group had a smaller percentage of females (38.4% vs 61.5%, p < 0.001) and a lower incidence of tobacco-related disorders than the HIV-negative group (10.3% vs 15.8%, p = 0.032). The HIV-positive group had a longer mean length of stay (3.0 days vs 2.4 days, p < 0.001) and a greater mean total charge incurred (90,780.25 vs 64,801.55, p < 0.001). In the unmatched analysis, the incidence of acute renal failure (6.4% vs 2%, p < 0.001), transfusions (3.9% vs 1.5%, p = 0.004), and periprosthetic joint infection (3% vs 1%, p = 0.007) was higher in HIV positive group. The matched analysis showed a higher incidence of acute renal failure group (6.4% vs 0.5%, p = 0.01) and transfusions (3.9% vs 5%, p = 0.01) in the HIV-positive but a statistically insignificant difference in the rate of periprosthetic joint infection (3% vs 1%, p = 0.153).ConclusionHIV/AIDS is associated with an increased incidence of acute renal failure and transfusions, as well as a longer length of stay and higher incurred costs in TKA patients.

Mucormycosis in Children With Hematologic Malignancies: A Case Series and Review of the Literature.

Mucormycosis is classified as the third leading cause of invasive fungal disease in immunocompromised patients and is characterized by high morbidity and mortality (33%-56%). The aim of this study is to describe presentation, treatment and outcome of Dutch pediatric hemato-oncology patients recently diagnosed with mucormycosis and to review the literature to gain more insight specifically into contemporary outcome data. Ten cases were diagnosed in the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology from 2018 to 2021 and were retrospectively reviewed. In addition, 9 case series (n = 148) were included from literature. In our case series, 5 patients of 10 children (age 2-17 years) had disseminated invasive fungal disease. Four patients had localized pulmonary disease and 1 had a localized renal infection. One diagnosis was made postmortem. The underlying diseases were acute lymphoblastic leukemia (n = 6), acute myeloid leukemia (n = 2) and lymphoma (n=2). Seven patients received combination therapy comprising of a lipid amphotericin B formulation and a triazole, surgery was performed in 67%. All neutropenic patients received granulocyte transfusions and/or granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. Mucormycosis-related mortality was 20%. In the literature review, mucormycosis-related mortality was 36% for all patients and 66% for patients with disseminated disease. Survival rates were similar over the past 2 decades. The most common underlying disorder was acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Liposomal amphotericin B was the mainstay of treatment. Seventy percent of patients underwent surgery. Although survival of mucormycosis improved significantly overtime, it plateaued in the past decades. This series shows that with screening, early diagnostics and early antifungal and if possible surgical treatment, mortality is low and even disseminated disease is salvageable if approached aggressively with a combination of surgery and antifungal treatment. Further research focused on diagnostics, combination antifungal and adjunctive therapy is necessary to enhance the survival of mucormycosis in children.

Is lower urinary tract surgery without upper pole heminephrectomy safe and effective in the long-term treatment of duplex system ureterocele?

Objective: The study aimed to retrospectively evaluate postoperative results of patients with duplex system ureterocele (DSU) who underwent endoscopic ureterocele incision (UI), lower urinary tract reconstruction (LUTR) or both, and investigate the necessity of upper pole heminephrectomy (UPH) in ureterocele treatment. Patients and methods: In total, 44 patients with DSU who were operated on in December 2005 and December 2018 were evaluated for patient characteristics, ureterocele location, differential renal function (DRF), vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), postoperative incontinence, proteinuria, hypertension and urinary tract infection (UTI). Results: UI was performed in 27 of 44 cases (61.3%) as the first-line treatment. Ten of them (37%) had no urinary infection or renal function loss at a mean of 3 years (1.5–7 years). LUTR was needed in 17 patients after UI due to VUR in 14 patients and bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in 3 patients. In total, 34 patients who underwent LUTR, proteinuria or incontinence were not detected in the mean 6 years’ follow-up. Thirty-three patients (97%) had identical renal scans and similar DRF before and after the operation. No patient underwent UPH. Conclusion: UI must be considered the first-line treatment in DSU in infancy. In older patients, especially with VUR, LUTR is effective and safe and UPH mostly is not necessary. Level of evidence: 4

Why Chronic Renal Failure Affects Males More often than Females? Review and Author’s Perspective

Renal failure is an increasing problem representing a great health challenge. It affects males more than females and blacks more than whites. Despite the anatomical gender differences in urethra might match with occurrence of urinary infection in women more than in men, it has been stated that the reverse is the true. Renal infection and even failure are more encountered in men. The reason for such gender discrepancies regarding renal failure is not yet clearly understood. In this short article, we aimed to suggest a probable answer for the following confusing question: Why does chronic renal failure affect males more often than females?

Predictive factors for failure of conservative management in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis

IntroductionEmphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a severe form of life-threatening renal infection. Conservative treatment represents the gold standard in the management of EPN, but nephrectomy remains appropriate in certain situations. ObjectiveThe aim of our study was to report our experience in the conservative management of emphysematous pyelonephritis and to identify the predictive factors of failure of conservative treatment. Patients and methodsThis is a retrospective study including all patients treated for emphysematous pyelonephritis in our department between January 2015 and December 2020. The first-line treatment was conservative based on antibiotic therapy and drainage in case of an obstructive cause. A nephrectomy was performed in case of failure of the conservative approach. Epidemiological, clinical, biological, therapeutic, and evolutionary data were collected from the patients' files. Statistical analysis was made using SPSS version 28. Results41 patients were included in our study. The mean age was 64.4 years old [28–91] with gender ratio of 0.46 (13H/28F). Diabetes mellitus was present in 75.6% of cases. The mean presentation delay was 3.28 days (Kaiser and Fournier, 2005; Kapoor et al., 2010; Aswathaman et al., 2008; Agha et al., 2020; Huang and Tseng, 2000; Falagas et al., 2007; Dutta et al., 2007; Dutta et al., 2007; Deoraj et al., 2018 Sep; Rahim et al., 2021 Mar; Maheshwari, 2021 Jul-Sep) [1-11]. In CT scan, 21 patients had class 1 EPN, 9 had class 2 EPN, 8 had class 3 EPN and 3 had class 4 EPN. The obstructive origin was found in 24 cases. Initially, 25 patients (60.9%) presented with severe sepsis and 7 patients (17.07%) developed a septic shock. Seven patients required nephrectomy with a mean delay of 2.12 days (Kapoor et al., 2010; Aswathaman et al., 2008; Agha et al., 2020; Huang and Tseng, 2000; Falagas et al., 2007) [2-6]. Five patients with septic shock refractory to conservative treatment and two patients whose evolution was marked by the occurrence of secondary septic shock. In the univariate analysis, thrombocytopenia, initially septic shock, and the need for hemodialysis were the predictive factors of failure of conservative management in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis. ConclusionEmphysematous pyelonephritis is a serious condition with significant mortality. The optimal management is based on conservative treatment in most cases. However, patients requiring hemodialysis and with thrombocytopenia and initially septic shock should be considered candidates for emergency nephrectomy.

First case of a renal cyst infection caused by Desulfovibrio: a case report and literature review

BackgroundGenus Desulfovibrio species is a sulphate-reducing anaerobic gram-negative rod that resides in the human oral cavity and intestinal tract. It was reported as the causative pathogen of bacteraemia and abdominal infections, but not renal cyst infection, and Desulfovibrio fairfieldensis has higher pathogenicity than other Desulfovibrio species.Case presentationA 63-year-old man was on haemodialysis for end-stage renal failure due to autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. On admission, he had a persistent high-grade fever, right lumbar back pain, and elevated C-reactive protein levels. His blood and urine cultures were negative. He received ciprofloxacin and meropenem; however, there was no clinical improvement. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography and plain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a haemorrhagic cyst at the upper pole of the right kidney. The lesion was drained. Although the drainage fluid culture was negative, D. fairfieldensis was detected in a renal cyst using a polymerase chain reaction. After the renal cyst drainage, he was treated with oral metronidazole and improved without any relapse.ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a renal cyst infection with Desulfovibrio species. D. fairfieldensis is difficult to detect, and polymerase chain reaction tests can detect this bacterium and ensure better management for a successful recovery.

MO011: The Use of a 4-Point Scoring Scale in 18F-FDG-PET/CT Imaging Helps for Diagnosis of Renal and Hepatic CYST Infections in Patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Validation Cohort

Abstract BACKGROUND AND AIMS Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is prone to multiple complications, including cyst infection (CyI). 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging proved useful in the diagnosis of renal and hepatic CyI. A 4-point scale comparing the uptake of 18F-FDG in the suspected infected cyst versus the hepatic physiological background has been proposed. We performed an independent validation of this semi-quantitative score system. METHOD All ADPDK patients hospitalized between January 2007 and March 2019 who underwent an 18F-FDG PET/CT for suspected CyI were retrospectively identified using computer-based databases. Medical files were systematically reviewed. CyI was conventionally defined by: fever (&amp;gt;38°C), abdominal pain, increased plasma CRP levels (≥70 mg/dL), absence of any other cause of inflammation and favorable outcomes after ≥21 days of antibiotics. The 18F-FDG uptake around the suspected CyI was evaluated using the 4-point scale. Stats were performed using SAS version 9.4. RESULTS Our cohort included 51 18F-FDG PET/CT in 51 patients, including 11 cases of CyI according to the above-detailed definition. The agreement between the 4-point scale and the gold-standard criteria of CyI was significant, with an odds ratio of 6.03 for CyI in case of a score ≥3 (P, 0.014). The corresponding sensitivity and specificity of PET/CT using the 4-point scale were 63.3% and 77.5%, respectively. CONCLUSION Our independent validation cohort confirms that the use of a semi-quantitative 4-point scoring system helps in the diagnosis of CyI by 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging in patients with ADPKD.

Androgen exposure alters the neutrophil response to pyelonephritis

Abstract Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in men are uncommon but carry increased risk for severe upper-tract UTI (pyelonephritis) and complications including renal scarring. In preclinical models of Escherichia coli UTI, male C3H/HeN mice uniformly develop high-titer pyelonephritis (most with renal abscesses), while the majority of female C3H/HeN mice resolve renal infection within 7–14 days. We previously showed that this difference in outcomes is testosterone dependent. Here, we find that androgen exposure in female C3H/HeN mice alters the neutrophil response to UTI, increasing the propensity for severe renal inflammation and abscess formation as opposed to bacterial clearance and resolution of infection. Concordant with our prior published results, androgen exposure in C3H female mice given Escherichia coli UTI led to 3-log higher bacterial loads in the kidneys by 14 days post infection. We found that the kidneys of androgen-exposed mice harbored more neutrophils than standard females at baseline and throughout infection, correlated with higher levels of the neutrophil-recruiting chemokine CXCL1 (murine KC) in kidney tissue. In addition, the kidneys of androgen-exposed females were enriched for aged, immature neutrophils (Ly6G+, CD49d+, CD101−). Compared to their mature (CD101+) counterparts, these cells exhibited markers of increased degranulation, altered phagocytic activity, and diminished capacity for efflux from kidney tissue. These data support a model in which androgen-exposed mice, despite an apparently more robust neutrophil presence, fail to control renal bacterial infection due to altered neutrophil functions. Supported by grants from NIH (R01 DK111541, R01 DK126697, R01 AI158418)

MP44-07 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RENAL PELVIS PRESSURE AND POST-URETEROSCOPY INFECTION IN A LIVE SWINE MODEL

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 May 2022MP44-07 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RENAL PELVIS PRESSURE AND POST-URETEROSCOPY INFECTION IN A LIVE SWINE MODEL David Hinojosa-Gonzalez, Christina Kottooran, Jennifer Saunders, Marle Franco, and Brian Eisner David Hinojosa-GonzalezDavid Hinojosa-Gonzalez More articles by this author , Christina KottooranChristina Kottooran More articles by this author , Jennifer SaundersJennifer Saunders More articles by this author , Marle FrancoMarle Franco More articles by this author , and Brian EisnerBrian Eisner More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002610.07AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Urosepsis is reported to occur after 5% of ureteroscopic stone procedures; rates of pyelonephritis are higher. In this study, a live swine model was used to evaluate the relationship between renal pelvis pressure and infection after ureteroscopy. METHODS: In anesthetized pigs (n=13; female; ∼60 kg each), ureteroscopy was performed as follows: cystoscopy was performed to position a 0.014” pressure sensor guidewire (Comet™, Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA) in the renal pelvis. A flexible ureteroscope was then introduced into the renal pelvis and the position of the ureteroscope and the pressure sensor wire were confirmed. Infusion of saline irrigation fluid alone or with a standardized concentration of uropathogenic e. coli strain CFT073 (1.5 x 107 CFU/ml) at target renal pelvic pressures (37 mm Hg and 75 mm Hg) was maintained for 60 minutes using a pressure bag and instantaneous feedback from the pressure-sensing guidewire. Venous blood sampling was performed during the procedure as well as at 1, 3,6, 12, and 24 hours after surgery. Vital signs were monitored, inflammatory biomarkers were assayed, and renal tissue and blood cultures were obtained. RESULTS: Thirteen (13) pig kidneys were used during the study and study groups were as follows: 37 mm Hg with saline irrigation (n=3), 75 mm Hg with saline irrigation (n=3), 37 mm Hg with saline irrigation with 1.5 x 107 CFU/ml e. coli added (n=3), and 75 mm Hg with saline irrigation with 1.5 x 107 CFU/ml e. coli added (n=4). Table 1 shows the results of the study: changes in inflammatory biomarkers were most pronounced in the 75 mm Hg saline irrigation + e. coli. All kidneys in both groups treated with saline + e. coli irrigation cultured positive for bacteria but interestingly, bacteremia was seen in 0/4 animals treated at 37 mm Hg with saline + e. coli irrigation and 4/4 animals treated at 75 mm Hg with saline + e. coli irrigation. CONCLUSIONS: In this study of a swine model of ureteroscopy, irrigation with saline + e. coli produced an inflammatory response as well as positive kidney cultures (i.e. pyelonephritis). However, bacteremia was only seen in animals treated at 75 mmHg. These data suggest that there may be a renal pelvis pressure threshold above which it is more likely that animals with infected urine may develop post-ureteroscopy bacteremia. Source of Funding: Boston Scientific Corporation © 2022 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 207Issue Supplement 5May 2022Page: e754 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2022 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information David Hinojosa-Gonzalez More articles by this author Christina Kottooran More articles by this author Jennifer Saunders More articles by this author Marle Franco More articles by this author Brian Eisner More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF DownloadLoading ...

STUDY OF INFECTION RATE DUE TO FOLLEYS CATHETER INSERTION IN ED, MEDICAL WARD AND ICU IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Introduction: Indwelling urinary tract catheterization (IUTC) is a very common intervention frequently required in hospitalized patients. It is estimated that 10-12% of hospital patients and four per cent of patients in the community have urinary catheters in situ at any given time.1 Nosocomial UTIs (urinary tract infections) develop in ve per cent of catheterized patients per day in the US, with associated bacteremia in four per cent and as many as 80% are a consequence of urinary catheters. Research has shown that just reminding physicians to remove unnecessary urinary catheters can signicantly reduce the duration of urinary catheterization and the catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) rate in a hospital. Aims:To Study of Infection Rate due to Folleys Catheter Insertion in ED, Medical Ward and ICU. Methods: This was a single centre observational, retrospective cohort study from tertiary care hospital in Kolkata, India from May 2021 – JANUARY– 2022 were included no Past History of UTI, No Past History of renal Infection and No Previous Indwelling Folleys Catheter. Result: In Critical Care (ICCU) Group, 166 (21.3%) patients had CAUTI. In Emergency Group, 297 (42.9%) patients had CAUTI. In Medical Ward Group, 332 (30.1%) patients had CAUTI. Association of CAUTI with Group was statistically signicant (p&lt;0.0001). In Critical Care (ICCU) Group, 166 (21.3%) patients had Culture. In Emergency Group, 297 (42.9%) patients had Culture. In Medical Ward Group, 332 (30.1%) patients had Culture. Association of Culture with Group was statistically signicant (p&lt;0.0001) Conclusion: The rate of CAUTI in emergency dept is higher than rate of CAUTI in other medical ward of ICCUs. and we also see that rate of CAUTI in ICCU is much lesser than rate of CAUTI in other medical ward or emergency

Mechanisms in Chronic Kidney Disease and Associated Cardiovascular Remodeling Contributes to the Progression of Cognitive Impairment in Women

IntroductionIn end‐stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) (stages 4‐5) the prevalence of cognitive impairment (CI) has been estimated at 30‐60%, twice the values observed in age‐ and sex‐matched controls. CKD is greater in females vs. males due to a higher risk of renal infections, especially during the pregnancy, which may result in the renal complications later in life, when the level of protective estrogen declines. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) including hypertension and increased central arterial stiffness (CAS) accompany CKD development across all stages of this disease. CAS drives pulse pressure (PP) and pulsatile component index (PCI) increases and cerebral microvascular damage resulting in a reduction of blood supply to the brain hereby contributing to CI. Elevated PP and PCI are associated with higher mortality in CVD and CKD independently of BP. Moreover, PP is a cardiovascular risk factor independent on PCI in women &gt;55 years.HypothesisThe aim of the study was to determine whether CKD potentiates development of CI due to cardiovascular remodeling and whether CI in CKD is more pronounced in women. Furthermore, this study also aimed to determine whether reduced estrogen levels in older women with CKD contribute to the progression of CI.MethodsAll research was performed in accordance with the guidelines and regulations set forth by the Declaration of Helsinki regarding the use and enrollment of human subjects in research. A total of 26 female CKD patients (age 45‐50 years and older, CKD stage 4, GFR 15‐29, and Creatinine &gt; 1mg/dL) and 30 age and sex‐ matched healthy control patients were enrolled with exclusion criteria (history of HIV, hepatitis, malignancies, admission and/or surgery for trauma, head injury and pregnancy at time of enrollment). Blood pressure (systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP) was measured, clinical blood work, echocardiography (ECHO) and mini‐mental state examination (MMSE) was performed as well as levels of amyloid beta‐40 (Aβ‐40) measured. PCI was calculated as difference between peak systolic and end diastolic flow velocity, divided by the flow velocity. Estrogen levels were measured in the plasma samples. The data were analyzed by unpaired two‐tailed t‐test and Pearson correlation with P values adjusted for false discovery rate.ResultsCKD patients had higher SBP, PP, PCI, LV systolic and diastolic volume (estimated by ECHO), lower LV ejection fraction, higher plasma NT‐proBNP and AST (CVD markers), glucose, triglycerides, plasma Aβ‐40 (Alzheimer’s disease marker), BUN and creatinine (CKD markers) and lower score in MMSE vs. healthy control (p&lt;0.05). Plasma estrogen levels were significantly lower in CKD patients which correlated with the cognitive test scores and the renal function. Cognitive test results positively correlated with LV stroke volume, negatively correlated with PCI, a measurement of pulsatility of blood pressure, and negatively correlated with plasma ASP, a marker of CVD.ConclusionHigher PP, PCI, plasma Aβ‐40 and lower levels of estrogen and lower score in MMSE in female CKD patients supports our hypothesis that cardiovascular remodeling in women with CKD contributes to the development and progression of CI.

A Clinical Perspective of the Multifaceted Mechanism of Metformin in Diabetes, Infections, Cognitive Dysfunction, and Cancer.

In type 2 diabetes, ecological and lifecourse factors may interact with the host microbiota to influence expression of his/her genomes causing perturbation of interconnecting biological pathways with diverse clinical course. Metformin is a plant-based or plant-derived medicinal product used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes for over 60 years and is an essential drug listed by the World Health Organization. By reducing mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, metformin increased AMP (adenosine monophosphate)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity and altered cellular redox state with reduced glucagon activity, endogenous glucose production, lipogenesis, and protein synthesis. Metformin modulated immune response by directly reducing neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and improving the phagocytic function of immune cells. By increasing the relative abundance of mucin-producing and short-chain-fatty-acid-producing gut microbes, metformin further improved the host inflammatory and metabolic milieu. Experimentally, metformin promoted apoptosis and reduced proliferation of cancer cells by reducing their oxygen consumption and modulating the microenvironment. Both clinical and mechanistic studies support the pluripotent effects of metformin on reducing cardiovascular–renal events, infection, cancer, cognitive dysfunction, and all-cause death in type 2 diabetes, making this low-cost medication a fundamental therapy for individualization of other glucose-lowering drugs in type 2 diabetes. Further research into the effects of metformin on cognitive function, infection and cancer, especially in people without diabetes, will provide new insights into the therapeutic value of metformin in our pursuit of prevention and treatment of ageing-related as well as acute and chronic diseases beyond diabetes.

Clinical practice guideline for transurethral plasmakinetic resection of prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia (2021 Edition)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is highly prevalent among older men, impacting on their quality of life, sexual function, and genitourinary health, and has become an important global burden of disease. Transurethral plasmakinetic resection of prostate (TUPKP) is one of the foremost surgical procedures for the treatment of BPH. It has become well established in clinical practice with good efficacy and safety. In 2018, we issued the guideline “2018 Standard Edition”. However much new direct evidence has now emerged and this may change some of previous recommendations. The time is ripe to develop new evidence-based guidelines, so we formed a working group of clinical experts and methodologists. The steering group members posed 31 questions relevant to the management of TUPKP for BPH covering the following areas: questions relevant to the perioperative period (preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative) of TUPKP in the treatment of BPH, postoperative complications and the level of surgeons’ surgical skill. We searched the literature for direct evidence on the management of TUPKP for BPH, and assessed its certainty generated recommendations using the grade criteria by the European Association of Urology. Recommendations were either strong or weak, or in the form of an ungraded consensus-based statement. Finally, we issued 36 statements. Among them, 23 carried strong recommendations, and 13 carried weak recommendations for the stated procedure. They covered questions relevant to the aforementioned three areas. The preoperative period for TUPKP in the treatment of BPH included indications and contraindications for TUPKP, precautions for preoperative preparation in patients with renal impairment and urinary tract infection due to urinary retention, and preoperative prophylactic use of antibiotics. Questions relevant to the intraoperative period incorporated surgical operation techniques and prevention and management of bladder explosion. The application to different populations incorporating the efficacy and safety of TUPKP in the treatment of normal volume (< 80 ml) and large-volume (≥ 80 ml) BPH compared with transurethral urethral resection prostate, transurethral plasmakinetic enucleation of prostate and open prostatectomy; the efficacy and safety of TUPKP in high-risk populations and among people taking anticoagulant (antithrombotic) drugs. Questions relevant to the postoperative period incorporated the time and speed of flushing, the time indwelling catheters are needed, principles of postoperative therapeutic use of antibiotics, follow-up time and follow-up content. Questions related to complications incorporated types of complications and their incidence, postoperative leukocyturia, the treatment measures for the perforation and extravasation of the capsule, transurethral resection syndrome, postoperative bleeding, urinary catheter blockage, bladder spasm, overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, urethral stricture, rectal injury during surgery, postoperative erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation. Final questions were related to surgeons’ skills when performing TUPKP for the treatment of BPH. We hope these recommendations can help support healthcare workers caring for patients having TUPKP for the treatment of BPH.

Conservative treatment of emphysematous pyelonephritis and diabetes

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare but serious infectious disease caused by anaerobic bacteria that is characterized by necrotizing renal parenchymal infection and has a high mortality rate. The initial management of EPN includes resuscitation, antibiotics, management of any diabetes, and minimally invasive procedures, such as percutaneous drainage. Surgery is required in the most severe cases. Here, we describe a male patient with type 2 diabetes who presented with fever and abdominal pain and was diagnosed with EPN based on laboratory results and a computed tomography (CT) scan showing distension of the left kidney, several small air bubbles in the perirenal space, and thickening of the perinephric fascia. A subcutaneous insulin infusion and meropenem were administered. Repeat CT imaging 13 days later showed gas and necrotic tissue in the renal parenchyma. Therefore, CT-guided renal puncture was performed, and Escherichia coli was cultured from the drained pus. Antibiotic treatment was continued for 20 days after admission when the patient's kidney function and clinical symptoms had significantly improved. Sixty days after diagnosis, left nephrectomy was performed. The perinephric abscess was under high tension, and the left kidney was very soft. Histopathological examination revealed severe inflammation and necrosis of the renal pelvis, with fibrosis. The patient recovered well after surgery and remained alive 5 months later. EPN is a very rare disease with a high mortality rate and is more likely to occur in patients with diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment of the infection are extremely important. For patients in whom gas and/or necrosis continue to accumulate after conservative treatment, we recommend nephrectomy.

Finger touching combined X-ray-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy in 640 cases: an 8-years' experience.

We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of finger touching combined X-ray-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy, and the feasibility of avoiding damage in medical staff caused by X-ray. From January 2013 to December 2020, 640 cases of percutaneous nephrolithotomy were performed through the 18-24-F channel. Among those cases, 22 (3.4%) cases were double-sided kidney stones surgeries, 294 (45.8%) cases were on the right side and 324 (50.5%) cases were on the left side. The targeted renal calyceal puncture was carried out under the combined guidance of the doctor's finger and X-ray. We assessed the X-ray exposure time of patients and doctors, average number of punctures, postoperative hospitalization, calculus removal rates, and complications. The average number of punctures was 2.8 ± 1.4. Average X-ray exposure time during procedure: 2.8 s (range: 2-8 s). Average surgical time: 106.5 ± 49.4 min. Postoperative hospitalization: 6.8 ± 4.2 d. Average reduced hemoglobin level: 5.9 g/day. Stone-free rate 4 weeks after surgeries: 95.6%. Patients with upper ureteral calculi: 395 cases (61.72%). The calculus residual rate of patients with staghorn renal calculi or multiple renal calculi complementary treatments was 82.9%, including 0 patients who received shock wave lithotripsy, 2 cases of repeated percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and 18 cases of ureteroscopy. Postoperative placement of renal drainage tube occurred in 52 cases. As for complications, no perirenal infection occurred, two severe bleeding complication cases occurred, and one case of colon perforation occurred. Finger touching combined X-ray-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy in patients with renal calculus is safe and can accurately guide the puncture without radiation hazards. The placement of a renal drainage tube was beneficial to reduce renal effusion, hematocele, and infections.

Clinical Profile and Factors Affecting Outcomes in Elderly Patients Admitted to the Medical Intensive Care Unit of a Tertiary Care Hospital.

BackgroundIn recent years, there is an increase in the proportion of the elderly population in the world. With an increase in patients' age, there is a change in the comorbidities and causes for Intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. More studies are needed to redefine healthcare delivery to elderly patients admitted to ICU.AimsThe aims are to assess the disease pattern and outcome in elderly patients admitted to the Medical ICU and to determine factors affecting the outcomes in elderly patients admitted to the Medical ICU.MethodsThis was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted in the Medical ICU of a tertiary care hospital for six months. Patients who met inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this study. Data collected from medical records were statistically analysed.ResultsOut of 859 newly admitted patients to the Medical ICU, 196 (22.81%) were elderly patients (age > 60 years). The mean age of elderly patients was 69.8 ± 7.65 years. The mortality rate in elderly patients aged > 60 years was 36.70%, which was higher when compared to 23.60% in patients aged ≤ 60 years, and the correlation was statistically significant (p<0.0001). Neurological disorders (42.8%) were the most common cause of admissions, followed by renal disorders (13.26%), respiratory diseases (9.7%), and infections (9.18%). Deaths due to neurological disorders were most common (43.66%) followed by renal disorders (14.08%), infections (11.26%), and respiratory diseases (7%). The mean number of comorbidities in elderly patients was 1.99 ± 1.21. The mortality rate in elderly patients with more than three comorbidities was 56.52%, which was higher when compared to 33.52% in elderly patients with comorbidities ≤3, and the correlation was statistically insignificant (p=0.1275). The mean length of ICU stay in elderly patients was 9.14 ± 6.73 days. The length of stay in ICU was prolonged in patients with more number of comorbidities, which was statistically significant (p<0.0001). The mortality rate was higher in patients with prolonged length of stay, and the correlation was statistically significant (p=0.0013).ConclusionThe insight over the proportion of older patients admitted to the ICU will enable policy-makers to plan accordingly. Mortality in elderly patients was high. Hence there is a need to redefine healthcare delivery to elderly patients in terms of triage and level of care in ICU. For better outcomes, risk categorisation can be done based on the number of comorbidities for optimal care. Exclusive geriatric intensive care units were needed for better care of elderly patients.

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis Disparities observed in the use of percutaneous drainage techniques.

ObjectivesThe recent drop in the mortality rates of emphysematous pyelonephritis, a serious medical condition, is attributable to renal percutaneous drainage (PCD) techniques that have also reduced the necessity for surgery. Since the difference in the objectives of the two specific techniques, i.e. PCD and percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN), is often overlooked, this study aimed to highlight the inconsistencies in the use of these two techniques.MethodsA retrospective study of 17 patients was conducted over a 10-year period from January 2008 to December 2017 at The Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman. All patients had undergone abdominal computerised tomography. The obtained images were reviewed and categorised based on Huang and Tseng’s classification.ResultsFrom the sample, 13 patients (76%) were categorised as class I and II, three (17%) as class IIIA and one (6%) as class IIIB. Five patients from the class I and II categories underwent drainage of the pelvicalyceal system, four by PCN and one by a double-J stent insertion. PCN was performed on all the class IIIA and IIIB patients. One class IIIB patient required PCD for localised gas and fluid collection but later underwent emergency nephrectomy. There were no mortalities.ConclusionThe favourable outcome of this study was in keeping with those of the more recent studies. However, despite the present classifications and guidelines, wide variations were reported in the use of percutaneous drains with PCD, ranging from 2.5–91%. The lack of precise guidelines may be a cause of these disparities in clinical management.