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Ratnani I, Fatima S, Abid MM, Surani Z, Surani S. Evidence-Based Medicine: History, Review, Criticisms, and Pitfalls. Cureus 2023; 15:e35266. [PMID: 36968905 PMCID: PMC10035760 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is the use of high-quality clinical research in making decisions about the care of patients. Its formal origin dates back to the mid-nineteenth century, and since then, it has continued to evolve. The best research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values are described as the foundations of EBM. However, several tools and skills have been developed and added over time. EBM has faced a lot of criticism, and the pitfalls are widely discussed and published in the medical literature. The biggest challenge is the changing paradigm of healthcare, cost-effectiveness, and changing evidence which has led to controversies and challenges in the rapid adaptation of the EBM. This review article discusses the history, conception, and evolution of modern-day EBM. In addition, we discuss why EBM has been criticized and highlight the pitfalls.
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Jagirdhar GSK, Surani S. Non-clostridium difficile induced pseudomembranous colitis. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:979-988. [PMID: 36874439 PMCID: PMC9979294 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i5.979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomembranous colitis is severe inflammation of the inner lining of the colon due to anoxia, ischemia, endothelial damage, and toxin production. The majority of cases of pseudomembranous colitis are due to Clostridium difficile. However, other causative pathogens and agents have been responsible for causing a similar pattern of injury to the bowel with the endoscopic appearance of yellow-white plaques and membranes on the mucosal surface of the colon. Common presenting symptoms and signs include crampy abdominal pain, nausea, watery diarrhea that can progress to bloody diarrhea, fever, leukocytosis, and dehydration. Negative testing for Clostridium difficile or failure to improve on treatment should prompt evaluation for other causes of pseudomembranous colitis. Bacterial infections other than Clostridium difficile, Viruses such as cytomegalovirus, parasitic infections, medications, drugs, chemicals, inflammatory diseases, and ischemia are other differential diagnoses to look out for in pseudomembranous colitis. Complications of pseudomembranous colitis include toxic megacolon, hypotension, colonic perforation with peritonitis, and septic shock with organ failure. Early diagnosis and treatment to prevent progression are important. The central perspective of this paper is to provide a concise review of the various etiologies for pseudomembranous colitis and management per prior literature.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX 78363, United States
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53
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Boike S, Mir M, Olson H, Cole D, Rauf I, Surani S, Khan SA. Perioperative management of emergency and elective surgeries during the pandemic. Hosp Pract (1995) 2023; 51:12-17. [PMID: 36629125 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2023.2166746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The effects of the 2019 novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, and its associated pandemic are complex and widespread. It has permeated all aspects of daily life around the world. Unsurprisingly, it also had significant impacts on proceedings within hospitals around the world as well. Most notably, the multiple waves of the pandemic have each had untoward effects on surgical productivity within hospital systems. More specifically, the disruption of surgical procedures has impacted both emergent and elective cases. In the context of emergent procedures, hospital systems have had to reevaluate how they define 'emergent,' forcing them to determine which cases could not be rescheduled versus those that could. Elective procedures, on the other hand, were nearly halted altogether in the initial pandemic waves. If these were not completely stopped in some places, then they were greatly reduced. This paper will serve to describe the effect the pandemic has had on the proceedings of both elective and emergent surgeries. It will also describe how we have reevaluated and changed the way we define 'emergent' surgeries and describe the potential implications of this. We will also describe literature that speaks to the implications of the delay of elective procedures. Additionally, the cost implications of fewer surgical procedures performed will be discussed. Finally, we will describe literature that has established protocols for scheduling surgeries in waves of the pandemic, how these have evolved over time, and how they have created confusion for hospital systems navigating the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Boike
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Mikael Mir
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Holly Olson
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Delaney Cole
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ibtisam Rauf
- St. George's School of Medicine, University Centre Grenada, West Indies, Grenada
| | - Salim Surani
- College Station, Texas A&M University, TX, USA.,Research Collaborator, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Syed Anjum Khan
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN, USA
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Kassam N, Surani S, Hameed K, Aghan E, Mayenga R, Matei I, Jengo G, Bakshi F, Mbithe H, Orwa J, Udeani G, Somji S. Magnitude, Distribution and Contextual Risk Enhancing Predictors of High 10-Year Cardiovascular Risk Among Diabetic Patients in Tanzania. Patient Relat Outcome Meas 2023; 14:87-96. [PMID: 37152069 PMCID: PMC10162395 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s405392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. In Diabetics, ASCVD is associated with poor prognosis and a higher case fatality rate compared with the general population. Sub-Saharan Africa is facing an epidemiological transition with ASCVD being prevalent among young adults. To date, over 20 million people have been living with DM in Africa, Tanzania being one of the five countries in the continent reported to have a higher prevalence. This study aimed to identify an individual's 10-year ASCVD absolute risk among a diabetic cohort in Tanzania and define contextual risk enhancing factors. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted at the Aga Khan hospital, Mwanza, for a period of 8 months. The hospital is a 42-bed district-level hospital in Tanzania. Individuals 10-year risk was calculated based on the ASCVD 2013 risk calculator by ACC/AHA. Pearson's chi-square or Fischer's exact test was used to compare categorical and continuous variables. Multivariable analysis was applied to determine contextual factors for those who had a high 10-year risk of developing ASCVD. Results The overall cohort included 573 patients. Majority of the individuals were found to be hypertensive (n = 371, 64.7%) and obese (n = 331, 58%) having a high 10-year absolute risk (n = 343, 60%) of suffering ASCVD. The study identified duration of Diabetes Mellitus (>10 years) (OR 8.15, 95% CI 5.25-14.42), concomitant hypertension (OR 1.82 95% CI 1.06-3.06), Diabetic Dyslipidemia (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.08-1.92) and deranged serum creatinine (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.02-1.03) to be the risk enhancing factors amongst our population. Conclusion The study confirms the majority of diabetic individuals in the lake region of Tanzania to have a high 10-year ASCVD risk. The high prevalence of obesity, hypertension and dyslipidemia augments ASCVD risk but provides interventional targets for health-care workers to decrease these alarming projections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeem Kassam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Correspondence: Nadeem Kassam, Email
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Pharmacy, A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Kamran Hameed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eric Aghan
- Department of Family Medicine Aga Khan University Medical College, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Robert Mayenga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Iris Matei
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Gijsberta Jengo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Fatma Bakshi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hanifa Mbithe
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - James Orwa
- Department of Population Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - George Udeani
- Department of Pharmacy, A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Samina Somji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Aasia Batool S, Kumari U, Surani S. Two Rare Diseases, One Patient: A Case Report of Mucormycosis and Granulomatous Polyangiitis. Case Rep Infect Dis 2023; 2023:7934700. [PMID: 37207042 PMCID: PMC10191744 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7934700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is a rare but fatal disease caused by a filamentous fungus involving the nose, paranasal sinuses, and brain. These organisms usually cause severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. Granulomatous polyangiitis (GPA), also known as Wegner's granulomatosis, is a rare, aseptic necrotizing granulomatous vasculitis involving small and medium-sized vessels commonly affecting the nose, ears, lungs, and kidneys. The simultaneous occurrence of mucormycosis and GPA, two rare diseases, in the same patient is exceedingly rare. In this case study, we describe a 40-year-old woman who presented with manifestations of both GPA and mucormycosis. She was started with steroids and antifungal agents and achieved significant improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Usha Kumari
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Salim Surani
- Medicine & Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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56
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Ali M, Surani S. Extensive subcutaneous emphysema with pneumothorax in COVID-19. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 44:84. [PMID: 37193105 PMCID: PMC10182373 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.44.84.36292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
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Abstract
Sleep comprises one-third of our day and plays an integral role in human health and well-being. Many factors influence sleep, with nutrition being a key element that impacts various sleep parameters. Meal-timing through strategies like chrono-nutrition leads to positive sleep outcomes. In addition, consuming a high-protein diet with essential amino acids, low-glycemic-index foods, and certain fruits rich in antioxidants can all contribute to better sleep quality. Other facets of nutrition that can affect sleep outcomes include weight loss and limiting certain nutritional elements such as caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. In this article, we will shed some light on how some of these factors can play a vital role in sleep quality.
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Zapata MR, Yashi K, Chourasia P, Surani S. Tizanidine Toxicity From Ciprofloxacin: A Cautionary Tale. Cureus 2022; 14:e32492. [PMID: 36644068 PMCID: PMC9836827 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tizanidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist used commonly by medical professionals to treat patients' chronic spasticity, muscle spasms, and neuralgia usually associated with myofascial components. This medication is also used very frequently in detoxification centers on patients treated for analgesic withdrawal, especially those who are suffering from rebound headaches due to the discontinuation of analgesics. Tizanidine is metabolized in the human body by the cytochrome P450 CYP1A2. On the other hand, ciprofloxacin is a common antibiotic belonging to the class of fluoroquinolones and is used to treat various infections. Ciprofloxacin inhibits the bacterial DNA-gyrase enzyme resulting in the destruction of the organism. Ciprofloxacin is also an inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 CYP1A2. Even though these two medications show obvious interaction still, however, both these medications are often prescribed together, and their interactions/contraindications are often overlooked by many physicians and other providers. We hereby describe the case report of the interaction between tizanidine and ciprofloxacin, along with the adverse outcome related to the concomitant use of these two drugs.
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59
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Panjwani S, Surani S, Aziz OM, Hameed K, Somji S, Mbithe H, Bakshi F, Mtega B, Kinasa G, Msimbe M, Mathew B, Aghan E, Chuwa H, Mwansasu C. Outcomes of Surgical Tracheostomy on Mechanically Ventilated COVID-19 Patients Admitted to a Private Tertiary Hospital in Tanzania. Cureus 2022; 14:e32245. [PMID: 36620782 PMCID: PMC9814027 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in an increase in the number of patients necessitating prolonged mechanical ventilation. Data on patients with COVID-19 undergoing tracheostomy indicating timing and outcomes are very limited. Our study illustrates--- outcomes for surgical tracheotomies performed on COVID-19 patients in Tanzania. METHODS This was a retrospective observational study conducted at the Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. RESULTS Nineteen patients with COVID-19 underwent surgical tracheotomy between 16th March and 31st December 2021. All surgical tracheostomies were performed in the operating theatre. The average duration of intubation prior to tracheotomy and tracheostomy to ventilator liberation was 16 days and 27 days respectively. Only five patients were successfully liberated from the ventilator, decannulated, and discharged successfully. CONCLUSIONS This is the first and largest study describing tracheotomy outcomes in COVID-19 patients in Tanzania. Our results revealed a high mortality rate. Multicenter studies in the private and public sectors are needed in Tanzania to determine optimal timing, identification of patients, and risk factors predictive of improved outcomes.
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60
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Khedr A, Rokser D, Borge J, Rushing H, Zoesch G, Johnson W, Wang HY, Lanz A, Bartlett BN, Poehler J, Surani S, Khan SA. Intensive care unit adaptations in the COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons learned. World J Virol 2022; 11:394-398. [PMID: 36483101 PMCID: PMC9724203 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v11.i6.394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic had deleterious effects on the healthcare systems around the world. To increase intensive care units (ICUs) bed capacities, multiple adaptations had to be made to increase surge capacity. In this editorial, we demonstrate the changes made by an ICU of a midwest community hospital in the United States. These changes included moving patients that used to be managed in the ICU to progressive care units, such as patients requiring non-invasive ventilation and high flow nasal cannula, ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients, and post-neurosurgery patients. Additionally, newer tactics were applied to the processes of assessing oxygen supply and demand, patient care rounds, and post-ICU monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar Khedr
- Department of Medicine, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, NY 10457, United States
| | - David Rokser
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Jeanine Borge
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Hannah Rushing
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Greta Zoesch
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Wade Johnson
- Department of Administration, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Han-Yin Wang
- Hospital Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - April Lanz
- Department of Administration, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Brian N Bartlett
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Jessica Poehler
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Syed A Khan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
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Hassan EM, Mushtaq H, Mahmoud EE, Chhibber S, Saleem S, Issa A, Nitesh J, Jama AB, Khedr A, Boike S, Mir M, Attallah N, Surani S, Khan SA. Overlap of diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:11702-11711. [PMID: 36405291 PMCID: PMC9669841 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i32.11702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemia state (HHS) are two life-threatening metabolic complications of diabetes that significantly increase mortality and morbidity. Despite major advances, reaching a uniform consensus regarding the diagnostic criteria and treatment of both conditions has been challenging. A significant overlap between these two extremes of the hyperglycemic crisis spectrum poses an additional hurdle. It has well been noted that a complete biochemical and clinical patient evaluation with timely diagnosis and treatment is vital for symptom resolution. Worldwide, there is a lack of large-scale studies that help define how hyperglycemic crises should be managed. This article will provide a comprehensive review of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of DKA-HHS overlap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esraa Mamdouh Hassan
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Hisham Mushtaq
- Medicine, St. Vincent's Medical Center, Bridgeport, CT 06606, United States
| | - Esraa Elaraby Mahmoud
- Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sherley Chhibber
- Medicine, Mercy Catholic Medical Center, Darby, PA 19025, United States
| | - Shoaib Saleem
- Medicine, Mayo Hospital, Lahore 54000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Ahmed Issa
- Medicine, Medical University of the Americas, Nevis, West Indies
| | - Jain Nitesh
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Abbas B Jama
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Anwar Khedr
- Medicine, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, NY 10457, United States
| | - Sydney Boike
- Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Mikael Mir
- Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Noura Attallah
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Medicine & Pharmacology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
- Anesthesiolgy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Syed A Khan
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
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Iqbal K, Hasanain M, Rathore SS, Iqbal A, Kazmi SK, Yasmin F, Koritala T, Thongprayoon C, Surani S. Incidence, predictors, and outcomes of early hospital readmissions after kidney transplantation: Systemic review and meta-analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1038315. [PMID: 36405595 PMCID: PMC9672339 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1038315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early hospital readmission (EHR) within 30 days after kidney transplantation is a significant quality indicator of transplant centers and patient care. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the incidence, predictors, and outcomes of EHR after kidney transplantation. METHODS We comprehensively searched the databases, including PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Embase, from inception until December 2021 to identify studies that assessed incidence, risk factors, and outcome of EHR. The outcomes included death-censored graft failure and mortality. Data from each study were combined using the random effect to calculate the pooled incidence, mean difference (MD), odds ratio (OR), and hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS A total of 17 studies were included. The pooled EHR incidence after kidney transplant was 24.4% (95% CI 21.7-27.3). Meta-analysis showed that recipient characteristics, including older recipient age (MD 2.05; 95% CI 0.90-3.20), Black race (OR 1.31; 95% CI 1.11, 1.55), diabetes (OR 1.32; 95% CI 1.22-1.43), and longer dialysis duration (MD 0.85; 95% CI 0.41, 1.29), donor characteristics, including older donor age (MD 2.02; 95% CI 0.93-3.11), and transplant characteristics, including delayed graft function (OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.42-2.16) and longer length of hospital stay during transplantation (MD 1.93; 95% CI 0.59-3.27), were significantly associated with the increased risk of EHR. EHR was significantly associated with the increased risk of death-censored graft failure (HR 1.70; 95% CI 1.43-2.02) and mortality (HR 1.46; 95% CI 1.27-1.67) within the first year after transplantation. CONCLUSION Almost one-fourth of kidney transplant recipients had EHR within 30 days after transplant, and they had worse post-transplant outcomes. Several risk factors for EHR were identified. This calls for future research to develop and implement for management strategies to reduce EHR in high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinza Iqbal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hasanain
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sawai Singh Rathore
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Sampurnanand Medical College, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ayman Iqbal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syeda Kanza Kazmi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Farah Yasmin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Thoyaja Koritala
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN, United States
| | - Charat Thongprayoon
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Pulmonology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
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63
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Aiyer I, Shaik L, Sheta A, Surani S. Review of Application of Machine Learning as a Screening Tool for Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Medicina (Kaunas) 2022; 58:1574. [PMID: 36363530 PMCID: PMC9696886 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58111574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a pervasive disorder with an incidence estimated at 5-14 percent among adults aged 30-70 years. It carries significant morbidity and mortality risk from cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, and cerebrovascular disease, and risks related to excessive daytime sleepiness. The gold standard for diagnosis of OSAS is the polysomnography (PSG) test which requires overnight evaluation in a sleep laboratory and expensive infrastructure, which renders it unsuitable for mass screening and diagnosis. Alternatives such as home sleep testing need patients to wear diagnostic instruments overnight, but accuracy continues to be suboptimal while access continues to be a barrier for many. Hence, there is a continued significant underdiagnosis and under-recognition of sleep apnea in the community, with at least one study suggesting that 80-90% of middle-aged adults with moderate to severe sleep apnea remain undiagnosed. Recently, we have seen a surge in applications of artificial intelligence and neural networks in healthcare diagnostics. Several studies have attempted to examine its application in the diagnosis of OSAS. Signals included in data analytics include Electrocardiogram (ECG), photo-pletysmography (PPG), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), and audio signals. A different approach is to study the application of machine learning to use demographic and standard clinical variables and physical findings to try and synthesize predictive models with high accuracy in assisting in the triage of high-risk patients for sleep testing. The current paper will review this latter approach and identify knowledge gaps that may serve as potential avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Likhita Shaik
- Department of Medicine, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA
| | - Alaa Sheta
- Department of Computer Science, Southern Connecticut University, New Haven, CT 06515, USA
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Boike S, Mir M, Rauf I, Jama AB, Sunesara S, Mushtaq H, Khedr A, Nitesh J, Surani S, Khan SA. Ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus: A phenotype that hospitalists need to understand. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:10867-10872. [PMID: 36338201 PMCID: PMC9631166 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i30.10867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes has been classified mainly into types 1 and 2. Some type 2 diabetes patients, when developing ketosis, have been labeled as having atypical diabetes. Lately, syndromes of ketosis-prone diabetes, primarily in patients who we previously classified as type 2 diabetics, have emerged, and calls are being made to even reclassify diabetes. This mini-review will extensively deal with the historical, molecular, phenotypical, and clinical basis of why ketosis-prone diabetes is different than the traditional principles of type 1 and 2 diabetes and should be classified as such. Clinicians, especially those who are not diabetologists or endocrinologists, as well as hospitalists, intensivists, and primary care providers, will greatly benefit from this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Boike
- Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Mikael Mir
- Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Ibtisam Rauf
- Medicine, St. George’s School of Medicine, Grenada FZ818, West Indies
| | - Abbas B Jama
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Shaleen Sunesara
- Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90007, United States
| | - Hisham Mushtaq
- Medicine, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Bridgeport, CT 06606, United States
| | - Anwar Khedr
- Medicine, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, NY 10457, United States
| | - Jain Nitesh
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77843, United States
- Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Syed A Khan
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
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Ngo H, Mbadugha UJ, Cepeda F, Surani S, Udeani G. Clinical and Economic Impact of Rapid Blood Pathogen Identification Via Verigene. Cureus 2022; 14:e30366. [PMID: 36407168 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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66
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Aiyer I, Shaik L, Kashyap R, Surani S. COVID-19 Misinformation: A Potent Co-Factor in the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cureus 2022; 14:e30026. [PMID: 36348909 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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67
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Yasmin F, Sahito AM, Mir SL, Khatri G, Shaikh S, Gul A, Hassan SA, Koritala T, Surani S. Electrical neuromodulation therapy for inflammatory bowel disease. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol 2022; 13:128-142. [PMID: 36187600 PMCID: PMC9516456 DOI: 10.4291/wjgp.v13.i5.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It has financial and quality of life impact on patients. Although there has been a significant advancement in treatments, a considerable number of patients do not respond to it or have severe side effects. Therapeutic approaches such as electrical neuromodulation are being investigated to provide alternate options. Although bioelectric neuromodulation technology has evolved significantly in the last decade, sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for fecal incontinence remains the only neuromodulation protocol commonly utilized use for GI disease. For IBD treatment, several electrical neuromodulation techniques have been studied, such as vagus NS, SNS, and tibial NS. Several animal and clinical experiments were conducted to study the effectiveness, with encouraging results. The precise underlying mechanisms of action for electrical neuromodulation are unclear, but this modality appears to be promising. Randomized control trials are required to investigate the efficacy of intrinsic processes. In this review, we will discuss the electrical modulation therapy for the IBD and the data pertaining to it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Yasmin
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Moiz Sahito
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Syeda Lamiya Mir
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Govinda Khatri
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Somina Shaikh
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Ambresha Gul
- Department of Medicine, People’s University of Medical and Health Sciences, Nawabshah 67480, Pakistan
| | - Syed Adeel Hassan
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louiseville, KY 40292, United States
| | - Thoyaja Koritala
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, NY 55902, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, United States
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68
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Khedr A, Mahmoud EE, Attallah N, Mir M, Boike S, Rauf I, Jama AB, Mushtaq H, Surani S, Khan SA. Role of octreotide in small bowel bleeding. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:9192-9206. [PMID: 36159407 PMCID: PMC9477697 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i26.9192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal bleeding accounts for a drastic negative impact on the quality of the patients’ lives as it requires multiple diagnostic and therapeutic interventions to identify the source of the bleeding. Small bowel bleeding is the least common cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. However, it is responsible for the majority of complaints from patients with persisting or recurring bleeding where the primary source of bleeding cannot be identified despite investigation. A somatostatin analog known as octreotide is among the medical treatment modalities currently used to manage small bowel bleeding. This medication helps control symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding by augmenting platelet aggregation, decreasing splanchnic blood flow, and antagonizing angiogenesis. In this review article, we will highlight the clinical efficacy of octreotide in small bowel bleeding and its subsequent effect on morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar Khedr
- Department of Internal Medicine, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, NY 10457, United States
| | | | - Noura Attallah
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Mikael Mir
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Sydney Boike
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Ibtisam Rauf
- Department of Medicine, St. George School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Abbas B Jama
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Hisham Mushtaq
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, United States
| | - Syed A Khan
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
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69
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Tekin A, Qamar S, Bansal V, Surani S, Singh R, Sharma M, LeMahieu AM, Hanson AC, Schulte PJ, Bogojevic M, Deo N, Sanghavi DK, Cartin-Ceba R, Jain NK, Christie AB, Sili U, Anderson HL, Denson JL, Khanna AK, Zabolotskikh IB, La Nou AT, Akhter M, Mohan SK, Dodd KW, Retford L, Boman K, Kumar VK, Walkey AJ, Gajic O, Domecq JP, Kashyap R. The Association of Latitude and Altitude with COVID-19 Symptoms: A VIRUS: COVID-19 Registry Analysis. Open Respir Med J 2022. [PMID: 37273949 DOI: 10.2174/18743064-v16-e2207130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
Better delineation of COVID-19 presentations in different climatological conditions might assist with prompt diagnosis and isolation of patients.
Objectives:
To study the association of latitude and altitude with COVID-19 symptomatology.
Methods:
This observational cohort study included 12267 adult COVID-19 patients hospitalized between 03/2020 and 01/2021 at 181 hospitals in 24 countries within the SCCM Discovery VIRUS: COVID-19 Registry. The outcome was symptoms at admission, categorized as respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, mucocutaneous, cardiovascular, and constitutional. Other symptoms were grouped as atypical. Multivariable regression modeling was performed, adjusting for baseline characteristics. Models were fitted using generalized estimating equations to account for the clustering.
Results:
The median age was 62 years, with 57% males. The median age and percentage of patients with comorbidities increased with higher latitude. Conversely, patients with comorbidities decreased with elevated altitudes. The most common symptoms were respiratory (80%), followed by constitutional (75%). Presentation with respiratory symptoms was not associated with the location. After adjustment, at lower latitudes (<30º), patients presented less commonly with gastrointestinal symptoms (p<.001, odds ratios for 15º, 25º, and 30º: 0.32, 0.81, and 0.98, respectively). Atypical symptoms were present in 21% of the patients and showed an association with altitude (p=.026, odds ratios for 75, 125, 400, and 600 meters above sea level: 0.44, 0.60, 0.84, and 0.77, respectively).
Conclusions:
We observed geographic variability in symptoms of COVID-19 patients. Respiratory symptoms were most common but were not associated with the location. Gastrointestinal symptoms were less frequent in lower latitudes. Atypical symptoms were associated with higher altitude.
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70
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Qamar S, Tekin A, Singh R, Surani S, Adhikari R, Bansal V, Sharma M, Bogojevic M, Deo N, Zec S, Valencia Morales DJ, Taji J, Kumar VK, Boman K, Khan SA, Domecq JP, Kashyap R. How do frontline healthcare workers learn from COVID-19 webinars during a pandemic? An online survey study. Hosp Pract (1995) 2022; 50:326-330. [PMID: 35982643 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2022.2114741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic severely restricted in-person learning. As a result, many educational institutions switched to online platforms to continue teaching. COVID-19 webinars have been useful for rapidly disseminating information to frontline healthcare workers. While conducting COVID-19 webinars through online platforms is a popular method to train medical professionals, their effectiveness has never been investigated. Our aim was to ascertain the usefulness of COVID-19 webinars during the pandemic. METHODS We conducted an online survey of about 400 frontline healthcare workers. 112 people responded to the survey (response rate = 28%). In it, we asked several questions to determine whether webinars had been a useful resource to help deal with COVID-19 patients. RESULTS We found that a majority of healthcare worker respondents had favourable opinions of online education during the pandemic as around 78% of respondents either agreed or highly agreed that webinars are a useful source of knowledge. A significant proportion (34%) did not participate in webinars and gave time constraints as their main reason for not participating. CONCLUSION Our results indicated that while online education is a great way to disseminate information quickly to a large amount of people, it also comes with its disadvantages. As we transition into a post-pandemic world, we need to make sure that online teaching is designed with the best interests of the healthcare workers in mind to ensure that we get the most out of it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahraz Qamar
- Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Aysun Tekin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Romil Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX 78404, United States
| | - Ramesh Adhikari
- Department of Hospital Medicine, Franciscan Health, Lafayette, USA
| | - Vikas Bansal
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mayank Sharma
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Marija Bogojevic
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Neha Deo
- Medical Student, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Simon Zec
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA
| | - Diana J Valencia Morales
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, and Health Sciences Research, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jamil Taji
- Department of Intensive Care, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN
| | | | - Karen Boman
- Society of Critical Care Medicine, Mount Prospect, IL
| | - Syed Anjum Khan
- Department of Intensive Care, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN
| | - Juan Pablo Domecq
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Rahul Kashyap
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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71
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Anjum H, Yasmin F, Ali SH, Sunesara S, Khawaja AM, Haji Datoo A, Ali M, Surani S. Think Outside the Box: A Rare Presentation of Schistosomiasis in the United States. Cureus 2022; 14:e27970. [PMID: 36120234 PMCID: PMC9467482 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Millions of people across the world are infected with schistosomiasis. But, the vast majority of them are asymptomatic. Milder symptoms can include headache, lethargy, and fever. In serious cases, ascites, hepatosplenomegaly, and death can occur. Schistosomiasis is a highly prevalent parasitic infection worldwide, mainly in tropical areas of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. We present a case of a 69-year-old female with notable travel history to the Philippines, who reported to the emergency department with a symptomatic presentation of chronic schistosomiasis with the involvement of biliary and pancreatic ducts.
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72
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Fontana S, Panahi L, Udeani G, Surani S, Desai D. Case Report Highlighting Cardiovascular Effects of Concomitant Use of Methamphetamine and Marijuana. Cureus 2022; 14:e27866. [PMID: 36110480 PMCID: PMC9462887 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We present the case of a 51-year-old male admitted for cardiovascular complications in the face of concomitant chronic methamphetamine and cannabis use. Upon further assessment, the patient exhibited cardiotoxicity, including acute to chronic congestive heart failure (CHF) exacerbation, hypercoagulable state, and electrolyte abnormalities. Cardiotoxicity secondary to chronic methamphetamine use has been established. However, marijuana's cardiovascular effects have not been well established. Even less information exists about the simultaneous use of methamphetamine and cannabis. With increasing interest in the use of marijuana for medical purposes, it is imperative to study any corresponding toxicity and adverse effect profile. The worldwide pattern of drug co-administration also brings the importance of this topic to light. This case report serves to provide insight into this information gap.
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73
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Kalas MA, Leon M, Chavez LO, Canalizo E, Surani S. Vascular complications of pancreatitis. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:7665-7673. [PMID: 36158481 PMCID: PMC9372863 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i22.7665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 200000 hospital admissions happen per year for acute pancreatitis and more than 50000 for chronic pancreatitis in the United States of America. Necrotizing pancreatitis accounts for 20%-30% of the cases. One-quarter of the patients with pancreatitis develop vascular complications, which carries a high mortality. This mini-review will address these complications that can help primary care physicians and hospitalists in managing their patients effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ammar Kalas
- Department of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Center, El Paso, TX 79905, United States
| | - Monica Leon
- Department of General Surgery, Centro Medico ABC, Ciudad de Mexico 01120, Mexico
| | - Luis Omar Chavez
- Department of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Center, El Paso, TX 79905, United States
| | - Eduardo Canalizo
- Department of General Surgery, Centro Medico ABC, Ciudad de Mexico 01120, Mexico
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, United States
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74
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Horseman M, Panahi L, Udeani G, Tenpas AS, Verduzco Jr. R, Patel PH, Bazan DZ, Mora A, Samuel N, Mingle AC, Leon LR, Varon J, Surani S. Drug-Induced Hyperthermia Review. Cureus 2022; 14:e27278. [PMID: 36039261 PMCID: PMC9403255 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans maintain core body temperature via a complicated system of physiologic mechanisms that counteract heat/cold fluctuations from metabolism, exertion, and the environment. Overextension of these mechanisms or disruption of body temperature homeostasis leads to bodily dysfunction, culminating in a syndrome analogous to exertional heat stroke (EHS). The inability of this thermoregulatory process to maintain the body temperature is caused by either thermal stress or certain drugs. EHS is a syndrome characterized by hyperthermia and the activation of systemic inflammation. Several drug-induced hyperthermic syndromes may resemble EHS and share common mechanisms. The purpose of this article is to review the current literature and compare exertional heat stroke (EHS) to three of the most widely studied drug-induced hyperthermic syndromes: malignant hyperthermia (MH), neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), and serotonin syndrome (SS). Drugs and drug classes that have been implicated in these conditions include amphetamines, diuretics, cocaine, antipsychotics, metoclopramide, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and many more. Observations suggest that severe or fulminant cases of drug-induced hyperthermia may evolve into an inflammatory syndrome best described as heat stroke. Their underlying mechanisms, symptoms, and treatment approaches will be reviewed to assist in accurate diagnosis, which will impact the management of potentially life-threatening complications.
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75
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Sharma M, Jagirdhar GSK, Guntupalli KK, Kashyap R, Surani S. Heart failure in general and cardiac transplant patients with COVID-19. World J Cardiol 2022; 14:392-402. [PMID: 36161057 PMCID: PMC9350602 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v14.i7.392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is primarily an infection of the respiratory tract, but it can have multisystem manifestations. Cardiac complications of COVID-19 can range from acute myocardial injury, cardiac arrhythmias, or heart failure, amongst others. Heart failure (HF) in COVID-19 can be a de novo process or due to worsening of pre-existing cardiovascular ailment. HF in a patient with COVID-19 not only poses challenges in clinical presentation and management of COVID-19 but also affect prognosis of the patient. This article aims to succinctly revisit the implications of this pandemic regarding pre-existing HF or new-onset HF based on prevailing data. It also focuses on the management and special recommendations from prior studies and guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munish Sharma
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | | | - Kalpalatha K Guntupalli
- Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Rahul Kashyap
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, United States
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76
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Yasmin F, Najeeb H, Naeem U, Moeed A, Koritala T, Surani S. Apheresis: A cell-based therapeutic tool for the inflammatory bowel disease. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:7195-7208. [PMID: 36158031 PMCID: PMC9353887 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i21.7195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a hallmark of leukocyte infiltration, followed by the release of cytokines and interleukins. Disease progression to Ulcerative Colitis (UC) or Crohn’s Disease (CD) remained largely incurable. The genetic and environmental factors disrupt enteral bacteria in the gut, which hampers the intestinal repairing capability of damaged mucosa. Commonly practiced pharmacological therapies include 5-aminosalicylic acid with corticosteroids and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. New interventions such as CDP571 and TNF-blocking RDP58 report the loss of patient response. This review discusses the non-pharmacologic selective granulocyte–monocyte-apheresis (GMA) and leukocytapheresis (LCAP) that have been proposed as treatment modalities that reduce mortality. GMA, an extracorporeal vein-to-vein technique, presents a strong safety profile case for its use as a viable therapeutic option compared to GMA's conventional medication safety profile. GMA reported minimal to no side effects in the pediatric population and pregnant women. Numerous studies report the efficacious nature of GMA in UC patients, whereas data on CD patients is insufficient. Its benefits outweigh the risks and are emerging as a favored non-pharmacological treatment option. On the contrary, LCAP uses a general extracorporeal treatment that entraps leukocytes and suppresses cytokine release. It has been deemed more efficacious than conventional drug treatments, the former causing better disease remission, and maintenance. Patients with UC/CD secondary to complications have responded well to the treatment. Side effects of the procedure have remained mild to moderate, and there is little evidence of any severe adverse event occurring in most age groups. LCAP decreases the dependence on steroids and immunosuppressive therapies for IBD. The review will discuss the role of GMA and LCAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Yasmin
- Department of Medicine, DOW University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Hala Najeeb
- Department of Medicine, DOW University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Unaiza Naeem
- Department of Medicine, DOW University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Moeed
- Department of Medicine, DOW University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Thoyaja Koritala
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, United States
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77
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Mir M, Rauf I, Goksoy S, Khedr A, Jama AB, Mushtaq H, Jain NK, Khan SA, Surani S, Koritala T. Electronic Cigarettes: Are They Smoking Cessation Aids or Health Hazards? Cureus 2022; 14:e25330. [PMID: 35761921 PMCID: PMC9232181 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the marketing of an electronic cigarette (e-cig) brand called Vuse (RJ Reynolds Vapor Company, US) to help aid in smoking cessation for adult smokers. It was believed that the consumption of traditional cigarettes and their harmful effects would be reduced given the availability of newer e-cigarettes. However, adolescent use of tobacco and nicotine products rather increased with the availability of the same e-cigarettes, and the FDA-approved market boom only worsened this problem. Although the FDA underlines the importance of marketing e-cigarettes as a possible solution for adult traditional smoking, its consequences on adolescents' health raise many concerns, which we narrated in this review article.
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78
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Najeeb H, Yasmin F, Surani S. Emerging role of biosimilars in the clinical care of inflammatory bowel disease patients. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:4327-4333. [PMID: 35663066 PMCID: PMC9125297 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i14.4327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) globally has redirected the healthcare system's focus towards safe and affordable pharmacological interventions. The inception of anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) had resulted in a trend shift from surgical interventions. However, as the patents of approved anti-TNF-α drugs expire, biological copies of the many approved products are in the pipeline. The most commonly used biosimilar for IBD has been infliximab, followed by Adalimumab biosimilars which have been approved in major countries across the world. Although biosimilars are approved on the basis of similarity of their reference product, the lack of real-world evidence of its safety in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease patients has contributed to physicians’ hesitancy. However, biosimilars are expected to reduce treatment costs and provide economic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala Najeeb
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Farah Yasmin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
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79
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Yasmin F, Najeeb H, Shaikh S, Hasanain M, Naeem U, Moeed A, Koritala T, Hasan S, Surani S. Novel drug delivery systems for inflammatory bowel disease. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:1922-1933. [PMID: 35664964 PMCID: PMC9150062 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i18.1922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic illness characterized by relapsing inflammation of the intestines. The disorder is stratified according to the severity and is marked by its two main phenotypical representations: Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Pathogenesis of the disease is ambiguous and is expected to have interactivity between genetic disposition, environmental factors such as bacterial agents, and dysregulated immune response. Treatment for IBD aims to reduce symptom extent and severity and halt disease progression. The mainstay drugs have been 5-aminosalicylates (5-ASAs), corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive agents. Parenteral, oral and rectal routes are the conventional methods of drug delivery, and among all, oral administration is most widely adopted. However, problems of systematic drug reactions and low specificity in delivering drugs to the inflamed sites have emerged with these regular routes of delivery. Novel drug delivery systems have been introduced to overcome several therapeutic obstacles and for localized drug delivery to target tissues. Enteric-coated microneedle pills, various nano-drug delivery techniques, prodrug systems, lipid-based vesicular systems, hybrid drug delivery systems, and biologic drug delivery systems constitute some of these novel methods. Microneedles are painless, they dislodge their content at the affected site, and their release can be prolonged. Recombinant bacteria such as genetically engineered Lactococcus Lactis and eukaryotic cells, including GM immune cells and red blood cells as nanoparticle carriers, can be plausible delivery methods when evaluating biologic systems. Nano-particle drug delivery systems consisting of various techniques are also employed as nanoparticles can penetrate through inflamed regions and adhere to the thick mucus of the diseased site. Prodrug systems such as 5-ASAs formulations or their derivatives are effective in reducing colonic damage. Liposomes can be modified with both hydrophilic and lipophilic particles and act as lipid-based vesicular systems, while hybrid drug delivery systems containing an internal nanoparticle section for loading drugs are potential routes too. Leukosomes are also considered as possible carrier systems, and results from mouse models have revealed that they control anti- and pro-inflammatory molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Yasmin
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Science, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Hala Najeeb
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Science, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Shehryar Shaikh
- Department of Medicine, Dow OJha University Hospital, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hasanain
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Science, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Unaiza Naeem
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Science, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Moeed
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Science, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Thoyaja Koritala
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Syedadeel Hasan
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, United States
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Nawaz FA, Deo N, Surani S, Maynard W, Gibbs ML, Kashyap R. Critical care practices in the world: Results of the global intensive care unit need assessment survey 2020. World J Crit Care Med 2022; 11:169-177. [PMID: 36331973 PMCID: PMC9136725 DOI: 10.5492/wjccm.v11.i3.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is variability in intensive care unit (ICU) resources and staffing worldwide. This may reflect variation in practice and outcomes across all health systems.
AIM To improve research and quality improvement measures administrative leaders can create long-term strategies by understanding the nature of ICU practices on a global scale.
METHODS The Global ICU Needs Assessment Research Group was formed on the basis of diversified skill sets. We aimed to survey sites regarding ICU type, availability of staffing, and adherence to critical care protocols. An international survey ‘Global ICU Needs Assessment’ was created using Google Forms, and this was distributed from February 17th, 2020 till September 23rd, 2020. The survey was shared with ICU providers in 34 countries. Various approaches to motivating healthcare providers were implemented in securing submissions, including use of emails, phone calls, social media applications, and WhatsApp™. By completing this survey, providers gave their consent for research purposes. This study was deemed eligible for category-2 Institutional Review Board exempt status.
RESULTS There were a total 121 adult/adult-pediatrics ICU responses from 34 countries in 76 cities. A majority of the ICUs were mixed medical-surgical [92 (76%)]. 108 (89%) were adult-only ICUs. Total 36 respondents (29.8%) were 31-40 years of age, with 79 (65%) male and 41 (35%) female participants. 89 were consultants (74%). A total of 71 (59%) respondents reported having a 24-h in-house intensivist. A total of 87 (72%) ICUs were reported to have either a 2:1 or ≥ 2:1 patient/nurse ratio. About 44% of the ICUs were open and 76% were mixed type (medical-surgical). Protocols followed regularly by the ICUs included sepsis care (82%), ventilator-associated pneumonia (79%); nutrition (76%), deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis (84%), stress ulcer prophylaxis (84%), and glycemic control (89%).
CONCLUSION Based on the findings of this international, multi-dimensional, needs-assessment survey, there is a need for increased recruitment and staffing in critical care facilities, along with improved patient-to-nurse ratios. Future research is warranted in this field with focus on implementing appropriate health standards, protocols and resources for optimal efficiency in critical care worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal A Nawaz
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Neha Deo
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - William Maynard
- Internal Medicine, TriStar Centennial Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
| | - Martin L Gibbs
- Pulmonary and Critical Care, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
| | - Rahul Kashyap
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Internal Medicine, TriStar Centennial Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
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Mushtaq H, Singh S, Mir M, Tekin A, Singh R, Lundeen J, VanDevender K, Dutt T, Khan SA, Surani S, Kashyap R. The Well-Being of Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2022; 14:e25065. [PMID: 35719833 PMCID: PMC9201991 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has turned into a global healthcare challenge, causing significant morbidity and mortality.Healthcare workers (HCWs) who are on the frontline of the COVID-19 outbreak response face an increased risk of contracting the disease. Some common challenges encountered by HCWs include exposure to the pathogen, psychological distress, and long working hours. In addition, HCWs may be more prone to develop mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep disorders, and drug addictions compared to the general population. These issues arise from increased job stress, fear of spreading the disease to loved ones, and potential discrimination or stigma associated with the disease. This study aims to review the current literature to explore the effects of COVID-19 on healthcare providers' physical and mental well-being and suggest interventional strategies to combat these issues. To that end, we performed a literature search on Google Scholar and PubMed databases using combinations of the following keywords and synonyms: "SARS-CoV-2", "Healthcare-worker", "COVID-19", "Well-being", "Wellness", "Depression", "Anxiety", and "PTSD."
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisham Mushtaq
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, USA
| | | | - Mikael Mir
- Internal Medicine, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Aysun Tekin
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA
| | - Romil Singh
- Critical Care Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - John Lundeen
- Psychiatry, TriStar Centennial Medical Center, TriStar Division, HCA Healthcare, Nashville, USA
| | - Karl VanDevender
- Internal Medicine, Frist Clinic, TriStar Centennial Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, Nashville, USA
| | - Taru Dutt
- Psychiatry, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Syed Anjum Khan
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, USA
| | - Salim Surani
- Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA.,Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA
| | - Rahul Kashyap
- Critical Care Medicine, TriStar Centennial Medical Center, TriStar Division, HCA Healthcare, Nashville, USA
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Yasmin F, Najeeb H, Moeed A, Hassan W, Khatri M, Asghar MS, Naveed AK, Ullah W, Surani S. Safety and efficacy of colchicine in COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266245. [PMID: 35381033 PMCID: PMC8982874 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colchicine has been used an effective anti-inflammatory drug to treat gout diseases. Owing to its pharmacodynamic of inhibiting interleukins, it has been repurposed to target the cytokine storm post-SARS-CoV-2 invasion. The goal of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety profile of colchicine in COVID-19 patients using the gold-standard randomised-control trials. METHODS Electronic databases (Pubmed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane) were systematically searched until June 2021 and RCTs were extracted. Outcomes of interest included all-cause mortality, COVID-19 severity, mechanical ventilation, C-reactive protein and D-dimer levels. Using a random-effects model, dichotomous outcomes were pooled using odds ratios (OR) through the generic inverse variance formula while weighted mean differences were calculated using the Wan's method. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant for all outcomes. RESULTS A total population of 16,048 from five RCTs were included in the analysis. Of this, 7957 were randomized to colchicine, and 8091 received standard care, with an average age of 60.67 years. Colchicine was observed to significantly reduce COVID-19 severity (OR: 0.41, 95% CI [0.22, 0.76]; p = 0.005), and CRP levels (WMD: -19.99, 95% CI [-32.09, -7.89]; p = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in D-dimer levels (WMD: 0.31, 95% CI [-0.61, 1.23]; p = 0.51), mechanical ventilation (OR: 0.42, 95% CI [0.17, 1.03]; p = 0.06; I2 = 74%) and all-cause mortality (OR: 0.98, 95% CI [0.83, 1.16]; p = 0.84) among patients receiving colchicine or standard care. CONCLUSION Colchicine treatment decreased CRP levels and COVID-19 severity, with dimer levels, all-cause mortality and mechanical ventilation remaining seemingly unaffected. Thus, clinical trials need to be carried out that allow effective evaluation of colchicine in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Yasmin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hala Najeeb
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Moeed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Wardah Hassan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mahima Khatri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Ahmed Kunwer Naveed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Waqas Ullah
- Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Salim Surani
- Adjunct Clinical Professor of Medicine and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- Clinical Professor, University of Houston (Voluntary), Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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83
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Shah R, Shah J, Kunyiha N, Ali SK, Sayed S, Surani S, Saleh M. Demographic, Clinical, and Co-Morbidity Characteristics of COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Cohort from a Tertiary Hospital in Kenya. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:4237-4246. [PMID: 35480998 PMCID: PMC9037723 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s361176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The first documented case of COVID-19 in Kenya was recorded March of 2020. Co-morbidities including hypertension and diabetes have been associated with increased morbidity, hospitalization, and mortality among COVID-19 patients. This retrospective study describes the clinical characteristics, disease severity, and outcomes among the patient population at a tertiary hospital in Kenya. Methods This was a retrospective descriptive study of COVID-19 patients who were admitted between March 2020 and December 2020 at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. Data collected include patient demographic and baseline characteristics. Differences between patients who were known to have diabetes and hypertension during admission were compared for statistical significance. Difference between those who survived and those who died were also compared for statistical significance. Results A total of 913 records of patients were studied with a mean age of 51.2 years (SD = 16.7), 66.5% were male and 80.8% were of African origin. History of diabetes, hypertension, and HIV status were at 27.3%, 33.1%, and 2.3%, respectively. At presentation, 33.1% (302/913) of patients had known hypertension by history, and following admission, this proportion increased to 37.7% (344/913). At presentation, 27.3% (249/913) of patients had known diabetes. During hospital stay, 20.8% (190) more patients were found to have diabetes, raising the overall percent to 48.1% (439/913). When comparing diabetes and hypertension at baseline versus at the end of admission, diabetes increased by 20.8% (p < 0.001) and hypertension by 4.6% (p = 0.049). HIV co-infection was 2.3%, and no patient had tuberculosis. Conclusion This study showed a high incidence of co-morbidities in patients infected with COVID-19. Diabetes was most common, followed by hypertension. All patients admitted with COVID-19 infection should routinely be tested for diabetes with HbA1c and have regular blood pressure monitoring in order to diagnose occult diabetes and hypertension. Adverse outcomes were found in patients with these co-morbidities and should be monitored and treated appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reena Shah
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jasmit Shah
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nancy Kunyiha
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sayed K Ali
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shahin Sayed
- Department of Pathology, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine & Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Mansoor Saleh
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
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Surani S, Taweesedt PT, Surani S, Ratnani I, Varon J. Call for a Global Vaccine Plan to Combat Current and Future Pandemics: One for ALL and ALL for One. Open Respir Med J 2022. [PMID: 37273957 DOI: 10.2174/18743064-v16-e2202040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in late December 2019 has taken the world by storm. In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) named this virus COVID-19. To date, it has infected approximately 186 million people worldwide and is attributed as the cause of death of more than 5 million people (and this number is only increasing.) The global effort to develop vaccines and therapeutics occurred at the fastest pace yet, with several vaccines' approval under emergency authorization use. There are also several post-marketing side effects, including myocarditis, cerebral venous embolism, and Guillain Barre Syndrome. Global vaccine disparity complicates the control of pandemic challenges. Several highly infectious variants have emerged, and more variants are feared to emerge if global vaccination plans are not developed soon.
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Tekin A, Qamar S, Singh R, Bansal V, Sharma M, LeMahieu AM, Hanson AC, Schulte PJ, Bogojevic M, Deo N, Zec S, Valencia Morales DJ, Belden KA, Heavner SF, Kaufman M, Cheruku S, Danesh VC, Banner-Goodspeed VM, St Hill CA, Christie AB, Khan SA, Retford L, Boman K, Kumar VK, O'Horo JC, Domecq JP, Walkey AJ, Gajic O, Kashyap R, Surani S. Association of latitude and altitude with adverse outcomes in patients with COVID-19: The VIRUS registry. World J Crit Care Med 2022; 11:102-111. [PMID: 35433315 PMCID: PMC8968480 DOI: 10.5492/wjccm.v11.i2.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) course may be affected by environmental factors. Ecological studies previously suggested a link between climatological factors and COVID-19 fatality rates. However, individual-level impact of these factors has not been thoroughly evaluated yet.
AIM To study the association of climatological factors related to patient location with unfavorable outcomes in patients.
METHODS In this observational analysis of the Society of Critical Care Medicine Discovery Viral Infection and Respiratory Illness Universal Study: COVID-19 Registry cohort, the latitudes and altitudes of hospitals were examined as a covariate for mortality within 28 d of admission and the length of hospital stay. Adjusting for baseline parameters and admission date, multivariable regression modeling was utilized. Generalized estimating equations were used to fit the models.
RESULTS Twenty-two thousand one hundred eight patients from over 20 countries were evaluated. The median age was 62 (interquartile range: 49-74) years, and 54% of the included patients were males. The median age increased with increasing latitude as well as the frequency of comorbidities. Contrarily, the percentage of comorbidities was lower in elevated altitudes. Mortality within 28 d of hospital admission was found to be 25%. The median hospital-free days among all included patients was 20 d. Despite the significant linear relationship between mortality and hospital-free days (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.39 (1.04, 1.86), P = 0.025 for mortality within 28 d of admission; aOR = -1.47 (-2.60, -0.33), P = 0.011 for hospital-free days), suggesting that adverse patient outcomes were more common in locations further away from the Equator; the results were no longer significant when adjusted for baseline differences (aOR = 1.32 (1.00, 1.74), P = 0.051 for 28-day mortality; aOR = -1.07 (-2.13, -0.01), P = 0.050 for hospital-free days). When we looked at the altitude’s effect, we discovered that it demonstrated a non-linear association with mortality within 28 d of hospital admission (aOR = 0.96 (0.62, 1.47), 1.04 (0.92, 1.19), 0.49 (0.22, 0.90), and 0.51 (0.27, 0.98), for the altitude points of 75 MASL, 125 MASL, 400 MASL, and 600 MASL, in comparison to the reference altitude of 148 m.a.s.l, respectively. P = 0.001). We detected an association between latitude and 28-day mortality as well as hospital-free days in this worldwide study. When the baseline features were taken into account, however, this did not stay significant.
CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that differences observed in previous epidemiological studies may be due to ecological fallacy rather than implying a causal relationship at the patient level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysun Tekin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Shahraz Qamar
- Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Romil Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Vikas Bansal
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Mayank Sharma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Allison M LeMahieu
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Andrew C Hanson
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Phillip J Schulte
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Marija Bogojevic
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Neha Deo
- Alix School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Simon Zec
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | | | - Katherine A Belden
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
| | | | | | - Sreekanth Cheruku
- Divisions of Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Valerie C Danesh
- Center for Applied Health Research, Baylor Scott and White Health, Dallas, TX 75246, United States
| | - Valerie M Banner-Goodspeed
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | | | - Amy B Christie
- Department of Critical Care, Atrium Health Navicent, Macon, GA 31201, United States
| | - Syed A Khan
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Lynn Retford
- Society of Critical Care Medicine, Mount Prospect, IL 60056, United States
| | - Karen Boman
- Society of Critical Care Medicine, Mount Prospect, IL 60056, United States
| | - Vishakha K Kumar
- Society of Critical Care Medicine, Mount Prospect, IL 60056, United States
| | - John C O'Horo
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Juan Pablo Domecq
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Allan J Walkey
- Pulmonary Center, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Evans Center of Implementation and Improvement Sciences, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, United States
| | - Ognjen Gajic
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Rahul Kashyap
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, United States
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Karikalan S, Sharma M, Chandna M, Sachdev M, Gaalla A, Yasmin F, Shah R, Ratnani I, Surani S. Intracardiac Thrombus in Coronavirus Disease-2019. Cureus 2022; 14:e22883. [PMID: 35399476 PMCID: PMC8980257 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.22883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Shah R, Shah J, Gohil J, Revathi G, Surani S. Secondary Infections in Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia Treated with Tocilizumab Compared to Those Not Treated with Tocilizumab: A Retrospective Study at a Tertiary Hospital in Kenya. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:2415-2425. [PMID: 35264878 PMCID: PMC8901262 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s356547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction From the first case of SARS-Co-2 in Wuhan, China, to the virus being declared as a pandemic in March 2020, the world has witnessed morbidity and mortality on a global scale. Scientists have worked at a record pace to deliver a vaccine for the prevention of this deadly disease. Tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 (IL-6) blocker, received an emergency use authorization (EUA) by the Federal Drug Agency (FDA) in June 2021. Methods This retrospective observational cohort study was conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, from March 8, 2020, to December 31, 2020. All patients with PCR confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia were included. Data were obtained from the medical records, and the admission registry was used to identify the patients, and both their electronic and paper-based files were retrieved from the medical records. Patient demographic data, medical history, baseline comorbidities, clinical characteristics, and outcome data were collected to study the infectious complications of Tocilizumab in patients affected by COVID-19 pneumonia. Results A total of 913 patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 were included. The overall superinfection infection rate among the COVID-19 patients was 6%. Superinfection in patients who received the Tocilizumab was 17.2% and in the non-Tocilizumab group was 4.8%. The superinfection rate among severe and critically ill patients was even higher at 41.8% and 69.9% (Tocilizumab group) and 2.1% and 11.8% (non-Tocilizumab group), respectively (p < 0.001). There was no difference in mortality observed between the groups (p = 0.846). Infection among HIV co-infection was very low at 2.3%. Conclusion Contrary to some studies, a higher rate of infection was observed among the Tocilizumab group, and no difference in mortality was observed between Tocilizumab and the non-Tocilizumab group. Infection among patients with HIV remains low in this susceptible population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reena Shah
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- Correspondence: Reena Shah, Tel +254735338003, Email
| | - Jasmit Shah
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jaimini Gohil
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, The Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gunturu Revathi
- Department of Pathology, The Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Pulmonology & Internal Medicine, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, Texas, USA
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Kassam N, Aziz O, Aghan E, Mandwa M, Ngimba C, Mbithe H, Surani S, Wambura C. Severe Crohn’s Disease With Intra-abdominal Fistula: First Reported Case From Tanzania. Cureus 2022; 14:e21277. [PMID: 35178327 PMCID: PMC8843346 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a case of Crohn's disease occurring in a young Tanzanian female. Crohn’s disease is rare in Africa and not encountered normally. The presentation of Crohn’s disease overlaps with many other abdominal disorders that are common in an African setting, such as tuberculosis and schistosomiasis. The disease is probably underdiagnosed in Africa due to limitations in diagnostic testing and rarity.
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89
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Koritala T, Mene-Afejuku TO, Schaefer M, Dondapati L, Pleshkova Y, Yasmin F, Mushtaq HA, Khedr A, Adhikari R, Al Mutair A, Alhumaid S, Rabaan AA, Al-Tawfiq JA, Jain NK, Khan SA, Kashyap R, Surani S. Granulomatous Polyangiitis With Renal Involvement: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Cureus 2021; 13:e19814. [PMID: 34963834 PMCID: PMC8695666 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly named Wegner’s granulomatosis is an antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) associated vasculitis of the small vessels. GPA can affect several organ systems even though predominantly affects respiratory and renal systems. Pathogenesis is initiated by activation of the immune system to produce ANCA, Cytoplasmic (C-ANCA) antibody, which thereby leads to widespread necrosis and granulomatous inflammation. Multisystem involvement with varied symptomatology makes GPA diagnosis more challenging. Early diagnosis and management are vital and can alter the prognosis of the disease. We present a literature review and a clinical scenario of a 26-year-old male with a history of chronic sinusitis, testicular carcinoma in remission, recent onset of worsening cough, epistaxis, hoarseness of voice, weight loss, and dark-colored urine. Workup revealed high titers of C-ANCA, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, CT chest evidence of mass-like consolidation, and bronchoscopy findings of friable tissue that was not amenable for biopsy. Methylprednisolone and rituximab (RTX) were administered, which resulted in marked clinical improvement. Therefore, a keen eye for details is necessary to diagnose GPA early, which can improve disease outcomes dramatically.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lavanya Dondapati
- Internal Medicine, Dr. N.T.R University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada, IND
| | | | - Farah Yasmin
- Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
| | | | - Anwar Khedr
- Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Mankato, USA.,Medicine, Tanta University Faculty of Medicine, Tanta, EGY
| | - Ramesh Adhikari
- Hospital Medicine, Franciscan Health, Lafayette, USA.,Geriatrics, Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Abbas Al Mutair
- Emergency Medicine, Almoosa Specialist Hospital, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| | - Saad Alhumaid
- Pharmaceutical Care, Al-Ahsa Health Cluster, Al-Ahsa, SAU
| | - Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Microbiology, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, SAU
| | | | | | | | - Rahul Kashyap
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA
| | - Salim Surani
- Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA.,Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA.,Medicine, University of North Texas Dallas, Dallas, USA.,Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Associates of Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, USA.,Clinical Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, USA
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90
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Abstract
Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is characterized by defects in oxygenation caused by intra-pulmonary vasodilation occurring because of chronic liver disease, portal hypertension, or congenital portosystemic shunts. Clinical implications of portal hypertension are very well-known, however, awareness of its effect on multiple organs such as the lungs are less known. The presence of HPS in chronic liver disease is associated with increased mortality. Medical therapies available for HPS have not been proven effective and definitive treatment for HPS is mainly liver transplantation (LT). LT improves mortality for patients with HPS drastically. This article provides a review on the definition, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of HPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kejal D Gandhi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medstar Washington Hospital Center/Georgetown University, Washigton, DC 20010, United States
| | - Pahnwat Tonya Taweesedt
- Department of Medicine, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, United States
| | - Munish Sharma
- Department of Medicine, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 78413, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
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91
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Kalas MA, Chavez L, Leon M, Taweesedt PT, Surani S. Abnormal liver enzymes: A review for clinicians. World J Hepatol 2021; 13:1688-1698. [PMID: 34904038 PMCID: PMC8637680 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i11.1688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver biochemical tests are some of the most commonly ordered routine tests in the inpatient and outpatient setting, especially with the automatization of testing in this technological era. These tests include aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, bilirubin, albumin, prothrombin time and international normalized ratio (INR). Abnormal liver biochemical tests can be categorized based on the pattern and the magnitude of aminotransferases elevation. Generally, abnormalities in aminotransferases can be classified into a hepatocellular pattern or cholestatic pattern and can be further sub-classified based on the magnitude of aminotransferase elevation to mild [< 5 × upper limit of normal (ULN)], moderate (> 5-< 15 × ULN) and severe (> 15 × ULN). Hepatocellular pattern causes include but are not limited to; non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, alcohol use, chronic viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis (variable), autoimmune hepatitis, hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, celiac disease, medication-induced and ischemic hepatitis. Cholestatic pattern causes include but is not limited to; biliary pathology (obstruction, autoimmune), other conditions with hyperbilirubinemia (conjugated and unconjugated). It is crucial to interpret these commonly ordered tests accurately as appropriate further workup, treatment and referral can greatly benefit the patient due to prompt treatment which can improve the natural history of several of the diseases mentioned and possibly reduce the risk of progression to the liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ammar Kalas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, El Paso, TX 79905, United States
| | - Luis Chavez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, El Paso, TX 79905, United States
| | - Monica Leon
- Department of General Surgery, University of Mexico, Ciudad de Mexico 01120, Mexico
| | - Pahnwat Tonya Taweesedt
- Department of Medicine, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
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92
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Abstract
With increasing morbidity and mortality from chronic liver disease and acute liver failure, the need for liver transplantation is on the rise. Most of these patients are extremely vulnerable to infections as they are immune-compromised and have other chronic co-morbid conditions. Despite the recent advances in practice and improvement in diagnostic surveillance and treatment modalities, a major portion of these patients continue to be affected by post-transplant infections. Of these, fungal infections are particularly notorious given their vague and insidious onset and are very challenging to diagnose. This mini-review aims to discuss the incidence of fungal infections following liver transplantation, the different fungi involved, the risk factors, which predispose these patients to such infections, associated diagnostic challenges, and the role of prophylaxis. The population at risk is increasingly old and frail, suffering from various other co-morbid conditions, and needs special attention. To improve care and to decrease the burden of such infections, we need to identify the at-risk population with more robust clinical and diagnostic parameters. A more robust global consensus and stringent guidelines are needed to fight against resistant microbes and maintain the longevity of current antimicrobial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madiha Khalid
- Department of Medicine, Orlando Health Medical Center, Orlando, FL 32806, United States
| | - Ritesh Neupane
- Department of Medicine, Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Humayun Anjum
- Department of Medicine, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Corpus Christi, TX 78405, United States.
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93
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Karikalan S, Sharma M, Chandna MK, Chandna H, Surani S. A Rare Case of Anomalous Origin of Left Anterior Descending Artery From Right Coronary Ostium. Cureus 2021; 13:e18966. [PMID: 34815907 PMCID: PMC8606039 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery anomalies are rare congenital malformations, most often undiagnosed until late adolescence or adulthood when an angiogram is done for conditions such as myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Sometimes, an anomalous left coronary artery originating from the right coronary ostium might traverse between the aorta and pulmonary artery and cause chest pain, syncope, myocardial infarction, or sudden death even in younger patients. Here we present a case of an elderly female presenting with chest discomfort on exertion. The coronary angiogram revealed severe triple vessel disease and an ectopic left anterior descending artery arising from the right coronary ostium. After careful evaluation, it was determined that her symptoms were solely due to severe multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD). Thus, she underwent coronary artery bypass surgery for her CAD. It is important to consider anomalous coronary artery as an important differential diagnosis in patients with angina, ventricular arrhythmias, or even sudden cardiac death, especially in the younger population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suganya Karikalan
- Medicine, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences, Maduranthagam, IND
| | - Munish Sharma
- Pulmonary Medicine, Pulmonary Asociates, Corpus Christi, USA
| | | | | | - Salim Surani
- Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA.,Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA.,Medicine, University of North Texas, Dallas, USA.,Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Associates, Corpus Christi, USA.,Clinical Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, USA
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94
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Asghar MS, Yasmin F, Dapke K, Shah SMI, Zafar MDB, Khan AA, Mohiuddin O, Surani S. Evaluation of Vitamin-D Status and Its Association with Clinical Outcomes Among COVID-19 Patients in Pakistan. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 106:150-155. [PMID: 34758449 PMCID: PMC8733525 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-0577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The risk of acute respiratory tract infections is particularly pronounced in patients deficient in 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). With respect to COVID-19, there are conflicting evidence on the association of 25(OH)D levels with disease severity. We undertook this study to evaluate the 25(OH)D status in COVID-19 patients admitted in Karachi, Pakistan, and associated vitamin D deficiency with primary outcomes of mortality, length of stay, intubation, and frequency of COVID-19 symptoms. A total of 91 patients were evaluated for 25(OH)D status during their COVID-19 disease course. 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were classified as deficient (< 10 ng/mL), insufficient (10–30 ng/mL), or sufficient (> 30 ng/mL). The study population comprised 68.1% males (N = 62). The mean age was 52.6 ± 15.7 years. Vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with intensive care unit (ICU) admission (RR: 3.20; P = 0.048), invasive ventilation (RR: 2.78; P = 0.043), persistent pulmonary infiltrates (RR: 7.58; P < 0.001), and death (RR: 2.98; P < 0.001) on univariate Cox regression. On multivariate Cox regression, only death (RR: 2.13; P = 0.046) and persistent pulmonary infiltrates (RR: 6.78; P = 0.009) remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors. On Kaplan Meier curves, vitamin D deficient patients had persistent pulmonary infiltrates and a greater probability of requiring mechanical ventilation than patients with 25(OH)D ≥ 10 ng/mL. Mechanical ventilation had to be initiated early in the deficient group during the 30-day hospital stay (Chi-square: 4.565, P = 0.033). Patients with 25(OH)D ≥ 10 ng/mL also demonstrated a higher probability of survival than those with 25(OH)D concentrations < 10 ng/mL. 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficient population had longer hospital stays and worse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sohaib Asghar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences-Ojha Campus, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Farah Yasmin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Kartik Dapke
- Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, Nagpur, India
| | | | | | - Anosh Aslam Khan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Osama Mohiuddin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Salim Surani
- Adjunct Clinical Professor of Medicine and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
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95
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Rohde J, Joseph A, Tambedou B, Jain NK, Khan SA, Surani S, Kashyap R, Koritala T. Reducing 30-Day All-Cause Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Readmission Rate With a Multidisciplinary Quality Improvement Project. Cureus 2021; 13:e19917. [PMID: 34976520 PMCID: PMC8712235 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Our objective was to implement a comprehensive quality improvement project to decrease the 30-day readmission rate for all-cause acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) at a rural Midwestern community hospital in the United States. Prospective data were collected from January 1 to December 31, 2017. A total of 77 patients met the study criteria and were included for analysis. Baseline data analysis involved data for 72 patients from September 1, 2015, to October 1, 2016, and showed a 30.6% all-cause 30-day AECOPD readmission rate. The Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) model was used for this quality improvement project. All aspects of this project were successfully implemented, and the resulting 30-day all-cause AECOPD readmission rate decreased to 16.9% during the study time frame. Through this comprehensive quality improvement project, the 30-day all-cause AECOPD readmission rate was reduced by 23.7%.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Salim Surani
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA.,Medicine, University of North Texas Dallas, Dallas, USA.,Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Associates of Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, USA.,Clinical Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, USA
| | - Rahul Kashyap
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA
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96
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Arredondo E, Udeani G, Panahi L, Taweesedt PT, Surani S. Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults: What Primary Care Physicians Need to Know. Cureus 2021; 13:e17843. [PMID: 34660049 PMCID: PMC8501746 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.17843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remains a prominent disease state characterized as the recurrent collapse of the upper airway while sleeping and is estimated to plague 936 million adults globally. Although the initial clinical presentation of OSA appears harmless, it increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, stroke, and hypertension; metabolic disorders; and an overall decrease in quality of life, in addition to increasing mortality. Current treatment of OSA includes lifestyle changes, behavioral modification, mandibular advancement devices, surgical treatment, and continuous positive airway pressure, which remains the gold standard. It is crucial to identify OSA early on and initiate treatment to mitigate the adverse health risks it imposes. This review will discuss the pathophysiology, epidemiology, management strategies, and medical treatment of OSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Arredondo
- Pharmacy, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA
| | - George Udeani
- Pharmacy, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA
| | - Ladan Panahi
- Pharmacy, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA
| | | | - Salim Surani
- Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA.,Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA.,Medicine, University of North Texas, Dallas, USA.,Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Associates, Corpus Christi, USA.,Clinical Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, USA
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97
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Asghar MS, Yasmin F, Ahsan MN, Alvi H, Taweesedt P, Surani S. Comparison of first and second waves of COVID-19 through severity markers in ICU patients of a developing country. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2021; 11:576-584. [PMID: 34567444 PMCID: PMC8462838 DOI: 10.1080/20009666.2021.1949793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Many countries are experiencing outbreaks of the second wave of COVID-19 infection. With these outbreaks, the severity of the disease is still ambiguously projected. Certain inflammatory markers are known to be associated with the severity of the disease and regular monitoring of these biomarkers in intensive care unit admissions is paramount to improve clinical outcomes.Objectives: This study was aimed to compare the severity markers of the patients infected during the first wave versus the second wave in an intensive care unit.Methods: We conducted a retrospective study obtaining patient's data from hospital records, admitted during the first wave in March-May 2020, and compared the data with those COVID-19 patients admitted during the second wave from October-November 2020. A descriptive comparison was done among the patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) during both waves of the pandemic.Results: 92 patients from first wave and 68 patients from second wave were included in the analysis, all admitted to ICU with equal gender distribution. Increased age and length of ICU stay was observed during the first wave. BMI, in-hospital mortality and invasive ventilation were statistically indifferent between both the waves. There was significantly higher APACHE-II during first wave (p = 0.007), but SOFA at day 1 (p = 0.213) and day 7 of ICU stay remain indifferent (p = 0.119). Inflammatory markers were less severe during second wave while only neutrophils and lymphocytes were found to peak higher.Conclusion: Most of the severity markers were less intense during the early analysis of second wave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sohaib Asghar
- Internal Medicine, Dow University Hospital - Ojha Campus, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Farah Yasmin
- Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Ahsan
- Nephrology, Dow University Hospital - Ojha Campus, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Haris Alvi
- Internal Medicine, Dow University Hospital - Ojha Campus, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Pahnwatt Taweesedt
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Texas, USA
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Internal Medicine, University of North Texas, Dallas, USA
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98
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Pattan V, Kashyap R, Bansal V, Candula N, Koritala T, Surani S. Genomics in medicine: A new era in medicine. World J Methodol 2021; 11:231-242. [PMID: 34631481 PMCID: PMC8472545 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v11.i5.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The sequencing of complete human genome revolutionized the genomic medicine. However, the complex interplay of gene-environment-lifestyle and influence of non-coding genomic regions on human health remain largely unexplored. Genomic medicine has great potential for diagnoses or disease prediction, disease prevention and, targeted treatment. However, many of the promising tools of genomic medicine are still in their infancy and their application may be limited because of the limited knowledge we have that precludes its use in many clinical settings. In this review article, we have reviewed the evolution of genomic methodologies/tools, their limitations, and scope, for current and future clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwanath Pattan
- Division of Endocrinology, Wyoming Medical Center, Casper, WY 82601, United States
| | - Rahul Kashyap
- Department of Anesthesiology and Peri-operative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Vikas Bansal
- Department of Anesthesiology and Peri-operative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Narsimha Candula
- Hospital Medicine, University Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL 32209, United States
| | - Thoyaja Koritala
- Hospital Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, MN 56001, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX 78405, United States
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99
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Kassam N, Aghan E, Aziz O, Mbithe H, Hameed K, Shah R, Surani S, Orwa J, Somji S. Factors Associated with Mortality Among Hospitalized Adults with COVID-19 Pneumonia at a Private Tertiary Hospital in Tanzania: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:5431-5440. [PMID: 34526810 PMCID: PMC8436253 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s330580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The emergence of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused millions of deaths worldwide. There has been paucity of data for hospitalized African patients suffering from COVID-19. This study aimed to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality in patients suffering from COVID-19 in Tanzania. Methods This was a single center, retrospective, observational cohort study in adult patients hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19 infection. Demographics, clinical pattern, laboratory and radiological investigations associated with increased odds of mortality were analyzed. Results Of the 157 patients, 107 (68.1%) patients survived and 50 (31.8%) died. Mortality was highest in patients suffering with severe (26%) and critical (68%) forms of the disease. The median age of the cohort was 52 years (IQR 42-61), majority of patients were male (86%) and of African origin (46%), who presented with fever (69%), cough (62%) and difficulty in breathing (43%). Factors that were associated with mortality among our cohort were advanced age (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.03-1.11), being overweight and obese (OR 9.44, 95% CI 2.71-41.0), suffering with severe form of the disease (OR 4.77, 95% CI 1.18-25.0) and being admitted to the HDU and ICU (OR 6.68, 95% CI 2.06-24.6). Conclusion The overall in-hospital mortality was 31.8%. Older age, obesity, the severe form of the disease and admission to the ICU and HDU were major risk factors associated with in-hospital mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeem Kassam
- Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania & Aga Khan University, Medical College, Dar-es- Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eric Aghan
- Family Medicine, The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania & Aga Khan University, Medical College, East Africa, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Omar Aziz
- Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania & Aga Khan University, Medical College, Dar-es- Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hanifa Mbithe
- Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania & Aga Khan University, Medical College, Dar-es- Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Kamran Hameed
- Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania & Aga Khan University, Medical College, Dar-es- Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Reena Shah
- Infectious Disease & Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan University, Medical College, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Salim Surani
- Pulmonology & Internal Medicine, Texas a&m University, Texas A&M College Station, TX, USA
| | - James Orwa
- Population Health, Aga Khan University, Medical College, East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samina Somji
- Internal Medicine, The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania & Aga Khan University, Medical College, Dar-es- Salaam, Tanzania
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100
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Gandhi KD, Sharma M, Taweesedt PT, Surani S. Role of proning and positive end-expiratory pressure in COVID-19. World J Crit Care Med 2021; 10:183-193. [PMID: 34616655 PMCID: PMC8462021 DOI: 10.5492/wjccm.v10.i5.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus, which was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in early 2020 has brought with itself major morbidity and mortality. It has increased hospital occupancy, heralded economic turmoil, and the rapid transmission and community spread have added to the burden of the virus. Most of the patients are admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for acute hypoxic respiratory failure often secondary to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Based on the limited data available, there have been different opinions about the respiratory mechanics of the ARDS caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Our article provides an insight into COVID-19 pathophysiology and how it differs from typical ARDS. Based on these differences, our article explains the different approach to ventilation in COVID-19 ARDS compared to typical ARDS. We critically analyze the role of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and proning in the ICU patients. Through the limited data and clinical experience are available, we believe that early proning in COVID-19 patients improves oxygenation and optimal PEEP should be titrated based on individual lung compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kejal D Gandhi
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University/Medstar Washington Hospital Center, Washigton, DC 20010, United States
| | - Munish Sharma
- Department of Medicine, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, United States
| | - Pahnwat Tonya Taweesedt
- Department of Medicine, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, United States
| | - Salim Surani
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX 78404, United States
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