Esterase D polymorphism in Indians: stability studies in bloodstains

One hundred and twenty bloodstains of a heterogeneous population have been successfully typed for the esterase D enzyme. Stability studies of the enzyme in bloodstains stored at room temperature and in lysates stored at —20°C and 4°C have been carried out. Frequencies of EsD phenotypes in Indian populations have also been worked out.

Abdominal pregnancy following total hysterectomy

This paper reports a case of ectopic abdominal pregnancy following total hysterectomy and reviews the literature. Pregnancy following total hysterectomy is a rare event. Ectopic pregnancy following supracervical hysterectomy can be explained in view of the remaining patent cervical canal. In cases of total hysterectomy (abdominal or vaginal) two important factors to be considered are the persistence of a fistulous tract from the vaginal apex to the peritoneum and the prolapse of the fallopian tube into the vagina, creating a patent tract for spermatozoa. As long as some ovaries remain, the possibility of ectopic pregnancy must be entertained in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen in a female.

The effect of intravenous sodium diatrizoate on the function of the transplanted canine kidney

The response of the canine renal autograft and allograft was measured following intravenous injection of 1 cc/kg 50% sodium diatrizoate (50% Hypaque). There was no significant effect on glomerular filtration rate or renal plasma flow immediately after injection; likewise there was no significant change in GFR 24 hours following injection compared to control animals.

Immunologic monitoring and aspergillosis in renal transplant patients

Three cases of pulmonary aspergillosis in a "high risk" population of renal transplant recipients are presented. The source of infection was traced to the forced air exhaust system of the Transplantation Unit. Early definitive diagnosis of the infection was very important for effective management. Immunologic monitoring was demonstrated to be instrumental in indicating the early presence of infection, and as a guideline to reduced immunosuppression during therapy. Bronchoscopy with brushings and endobronchial cavitary biopsy were valuable methods for obtaining the infected tissue. Amphotericin B was effective when therapy was started early. Adequate levels of the drug were obtained by varying the dose and frequency of administration according to serum inhibitory titers. Control of infection was aided by immunologic monitoring at regular intervals.