[A case of a single pleural localization of amebiasis]

The diagnostic of isolated pleural amebiasis is exceptional even in endemic countries. The reported observation illustrates this eventuality. The relation of this clinical factor leads to a general review on the pleuro-pulmonary manifestations of amebiasis, their mechanism and their treatment.

Mitral valvotomy in pregnancy

Our experience over an 8-year period with 42 pregnant women with mitral stenosis who underwent valvotomy formed the basis of this study. Striking clinical disability was the indication for operation. Closed transventricular valvotomy offered excellent low-risk palliation. Pregnancy per se did not increase the operative risk. The long-term results of mitral valvotomy in pregnant women were the same as those of operations carried out in nonpregnant women. Mitral valvotomy done during pregnancy has no untoward effect on the fetus.

Diagnosis by ultrasound of severe carotid artery disease in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass operations

A non-invasive method using continuous wave Doppler shift ultrasound and spectral analysis was used as a screening test for severe carotid artery disease in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass operations. One hundred and eighty-eight patients were examined before cardiac surgery (91 for ischaemic heart disease, 17 for ischaemic heart disease and valve replacement, 66 for valve replacement alone, and 14 for congenital abnormalities). The mean age of the 108 patients suffering from ischaemic heart disease was 54 years (+/- 8) and that of the 80 patients admitted either for valve replacement alone or for congenital abnormalities was 52 years (+/- 12). Five of the 108 patients suffering from ischaemic heart disease were found to have severe occlusive disease of the internal carotid artery by the ultrasound test, while the test was normal in the other two groups. Patients with severe carotid artery disease proceeded to carotid arteriography and endarterectomy before the planned heart operation.