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Najmi I, Ouafi A, Oughebbi I, Dinia M, El Bouardi N, Benmaamar S, Alaoui YL, El Fakir S, El Rhazi K, Fihri OF, Smadja D, Maaroufi M, Belahsen MF. Silent brain infarctions in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2024; 249:108713. [PMID: 39740332 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2024.108713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 12/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/02/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Silent brain infarctions (SBI) are commonly detected in brain imaging. The association of SBI with rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) is not clearly relevant. Based on magnetic resonance imaging, we aimed to describe the prevalence of SBI in patients with rheumatic MS and the cardiac abnormalities related to their occurrence. METHODS This was a bicentric, cross-sectional study, conducted in Fez, Morocco which enrolled neurologically asymptomatic patients with rheumatic MS. The presence of SBI was scored on brain MRI. Age, sex, cardiac rhythm and oral anticoagulation (OAC) statement were recorded. We obtained mitral valve area and left atrium (LA) size through transthoracic echocardiography. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to assess associations between presence of SBI and the explanatory variables. RESULTS Among the 100 patients with MS (mean age 47.08 ± 9.89 years, 72 % female, sex ratio: 0.38), 56 patients had SBI (56 %), including 7 with lacunar pattern. Patients with SBI were significantly older, had more frequently moderate/severe MS, and poorer control of INR when under OAC. Enlarged LA was strongly associated with SBI, either in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) or in patients with sinus rhythm. Multivariate analysis revealed that enlarged LA (OR 20.15, [95 % CI 2.35-172.33]; p = 0.006) and labile INR (OR 3.86, [95 % CI 1.36-10.98]; p = 0.01) were independent predictors of SBI in patients with MS. CONCLUSIONS Patients with MS are at high risk of SBI. This risk increases with age, the severity of MS and above all the dilatation of LA, even without AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imane Najmi
- Neurology department (I.N, M.F.B), Hassan II University Hospital, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco.
| | - Adil Ouafi
- Cardiology department (A.O), El Ghassani Provincial Hospital, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Ismail Oughebbi
- Cardiovascular surgery department (I.O), El Ghassani Provincial Hospital, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Dinia
- Cardiology department (M.D, O.F.F), International Clinic Al Badie, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Nizar El Bouardi
- Radiology department (N.B,Y.L.A, M.M), Hassan II University Hospital, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Soumaya Benmaamar
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Clinical Research, and Health Community (S.B, S.F, K.R), Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Youssef Lmrani Alaoui
- Radiology department (N.B,Y.L.A, M.M), Hassan II University Hospital, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Samira El Fakir
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Clinical Research, and Health Community (S.B, S.F, K.R), Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Karima El Rhazi
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, Clinical Research, and Health Community (S.B, S.F, K.R), Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Oussama Fassi Fihri
- Cardiology department (M.D, O.F.F), International Clinic Al Badie, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Didier Smadja
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco; Neurology department (D.S), Sud Francilien Hospital Center, Corbeil-Essonnes, and Paris-Saclay University, France
| | - Mustapha Maaroufi
- Radiology department (N.B,Y.L.A, M.M), Hassan II University Hospital, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Faouzi Belahsen
- Neurology department (I.N, M.F.B), Hassan II University Hospital, Fez, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University, Fez, Morocco
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Conomos I. Disease of social injustice: Acute rheumatic fever in Indigenous paediatric populations. J Paediatr Child Health 2024; 60:384-386. [PMID: 38940194 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.16604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
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Rey HCV, Santos M. Advancing health-care access with handheld echocardiography for rheumatic heart disease. Lancet Glob Health 2024; 12:e899-e900. [PMID: 38762290 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(24)00172-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Helena C V Rey
- Teaching and Research Department, Instituto Nacional de Cardiologia Brazil, Rio de Janeiro 22240-006, Brazil
| | - Marisa Santos
- Health Technology Assessment Unit, Instituto Nacional de Cardiologia Brazil, Rio de Janeiro 22240-006, Brazil.
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Silvilairat S, Sornwai A, Sethasathien S, Saengsin K, Makonkawkeyoon K, Sittiwangkul R, Pongprot Y. Outcome following acute and recurrent rheumatic fever. Paediatr Int Child Health 2024; 44:13-17. [PMID: 38363075 DOI: 10.1080/20469047.2024.2313330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatic carditis is the leading cause of permanent disability caused by damage of the cardiac valve. This study aimed to determine the outcome and predictors of valve surgery in patients with acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and recurrent rheumatic fever (RRF). METHODS This was a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with ARF and RRF between 2006 and 2021. The predictors of valve surgery were analysed using multivariable Cox proportional regression. RESULTS The median age of patients with ARF and RRF (n=92) was 11 years (range 5-18). Seventeen patients (18%) were diagnosed with RRF. The most common presenting symptoms included clinical carditis (87%), heart failure (HF) (63%), fever (49%) and polyarthralgia (24%). Patients with moderate-to-severe rheumatic carditis (88%) were given prednisolone. After treatment, the severity of valvular regurgitation was reduced in 52 patients (59%). Twenty-three patients (25%) underwent valve surgery. The incidence of HF, RRF, severe mitral regurgitation on presentation, left ventricular enlargement and pulmonary hypertension was greater in the surgical group than in the non-surgical group. Recurrent rheumatic fever (hazard ratio 7.9, 95% CI 1.9-33.1), tricuspid regurgitation (TR) gradient ≥ 42 mmHg (HR 6.3, 95%CI 1.1-38.7) and left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD) ≥6 cm (HR 8.7, 95% CI 2.1-35.9) were predictors of valve surgery (multivariable Cox proportional regression analysis). CONCLUSION Clinical carditis was the most common presenting symptom in patients with ARF and RRF. The majority of patients responded positively to prednisolone. These findings highlight the predictors of valve surgery following ARF, including RRF, TR gradient ≥ 42 mmHg and LVEDD ≥ 6 cm.Abbreviations: ARF: acute rheumatic fever; CRP: C-reactive protein; ESR: erythrocyte sedimentation rate; GAS: group A beta-haemolytic Streptococcus; HF: heart failure; HR: hazard ratio; LVEDD: left ventricular end-diastolic dimension; MR: mitral regurgitation; RHD: rheumatic heart disease; RRF: recurrent rheumatic fever; TR: tricuspid regurgitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchaya Silvilairat
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Artit Sornwai
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Saviga Sethasathien
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kwannapas Saengsin
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Krit Makonkawkeyoon
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Rekwan Sittiwangkul
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Yupada Pongprot
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Carville KS, Meagher N, Abo YN, Manski-Nankervis JA, Fielding J, Steer A, McVernon J, Price DJ. Burden of antimicrobial prescribing in primary care attributable to sore throat: a retrospective cohort study of patient record data. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:117. [PMID: 38632513 PMCID: PMC11022400 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02371-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reducing antibiotic use in Australia, and the subsequent impact on antimicrobial resistance, requires multiple, sustained approaches with appropriate resources and support. Additional strategies to reduce antibiotic prescribing include effective vaccines, against pathogens such as Streptococcus pyogenes, the most common bacterial cause of sore throat. As part of efforts towards assessing the benefits of introducing new strategies to reduce antimicrobial prescribing, we aimed to determine the burden of antimicrobial prescribing for sore throat in general practice. METHODS General practice activity data from 2013 - 2017 derived from the first 8 practices participating in the 'Primary Care Audit, Teaching and Research Open Network' (Patron) program were analysed according to reason for visit (upper respiratory tract infection, URTI, or sore throat) and antibiotic prescription. The main outcome measures were percentage of sore throat or URTI presentations with antibiotic prescription by age. RESULTS A total of 722,339 visits to general practice were made by 65,449 patients; 5.7% of visits were for URTI with 0.8% meeting the more specific criteria for sore throat. 66.1% of sore throat visits and 36.2% of URTI visits resulted in antibiotic prescription. Penicillin, the recommended antibiotic for sore throat when indicated, was the antibiotic of choice in only 52.9% of sore throat cases prescribed antibiotics. Broader spectrum antibiotics were prescribed more frequently in older age groups. CONCLUSIONS Frequency of antibiotic prescribing for sore throat is high and broad, despite Australian Therapeutic guideline recommendations. Multiple, sustained interventions to reduce prescribing, including availability of effective S. pyogenes vaccines that could reduce the incidence of streptococcal pharyngitis, could obviate the need to prescribe antibiotics and support ongoing efforts to promote antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie S Carville
- Doherty Epidemiology, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Niamh Meagher
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Yara-Natalie Abo
- Department of Microbiology, Infection Prevention and Control, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jo-Anne Manski-Nankervis
- Department of General Practice and Primary Care, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James Fielding
- Doherty Epidemiology, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Steer
- Centre for International Child Health, Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jodie McVernon
- Doherty Epidemiology, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David J Price
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Cimmino G, Bottino R, Formisano T, Orlandi M, Molinari D, Sperlongano S, Castaldo P, D’Elia S, Carbone A, Palladino A, Forte L, Coppolino F, Torella M, Coppola N. Current Views on Infective Endocarditis: Changing Epidemiology, Improving Diagnostic Tools and Centering the Patient for Up-to-Date Management. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020377. [PMID: 36836734 PMCID: PMC9965398 DOI: 10.3390/life13020377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a rare but potentially life-threatening disease, sometimes with longstanding sequels among surviving patients. The population at high risk of IE is represented by patients with underlying structural heart disease and/or intravascular prosthetic material. Taking into account the increasing number of intravascular and intracardiac procedures associated with device implantation, the number of patients at risk is growing too. If bacteremia develops, infected vegetation on the native/prosthetic valve or any intracardiac/intravascular device may occur as the final result of invading microorganisms/host immune system interaction. In the case of IE suspicion, all efforts must be focused on the diagnosis as IE can spread to almost any organ in the body. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of IE might be difficult and require a combination of clinical examination, microbiological assessment and echocardiographic evaluation. There is a need of novel microbiological and imaging techniques, especially in cases of blood culture-negative. In the last few years, the management of IE has changed. A multidisciplinary care team, including experts in infectious diseases, cardiology and cardiac surgery, namely, the Endocarditis Team, is highly recommended by the current guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Cimmino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-0815664141
| | - Roberta Bottino
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Tiziana Formisano
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Orlandi
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Daniele Molinari
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Simona Sperlongano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Castaldo
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Saverio D’Elia
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Andreina Carbone
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Alberto Palladino
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Lavinia Forte
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesco Coppolino
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, Section of Anaesthesiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Torella
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiac Surgery and Heart Transplant, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Nicola Coppola
- Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy
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Apolinário P, Campos I, Oliveira C, Silva C, Arantes C, Martins J, Salgado A, Salomé N, Rodrigues C, Medeiros P, Bizarro Pinho J, Marques J, Vieira C. Infective endocarditis: Epidemiology and prognosis. Rev Port Cardiol 2022; 41:283-294. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repc.2021.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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Hall LM, Gorges HJ, van Driel M, Magin P, Francis N, Heal CF. International comparison of guidelines for management of impetigo: a systematic review. Fam Pract 2022; 39:150-158. [PMID: 34184743 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmab066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impetigo is a common superficial skin infection that affects people worldwide and is usually treated with antibiotics; therefore, its management has implications for global antibiotic stewardship. OBJECTIVE This systematic review and narrative synthesis compares and contrasts international impetigo management guidelines. METHODS Guidelines for treatment of impetigo that were produced by a national authority; available to primary care physicians; and published since 2008 were included. Following a comprehensive search strategy, data extraction from eligible studies was performed independently in duplicate. Details of antiseptic and antibiotic treatment; methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus treatment; and conservative management and preventative measures were tabulated and analysed descriptively. RESULTS Fifty-one guidelines were included from 42 different countries. All guidelines recommended systemic antibiotics, 78% of these only for widespread lesions or failure of topical antibiotic treatment. The first-line systemic antibiotic treatment was restricted to narrow-spectrum options in 21 (41%) whilst 7 (14%) recommended only broad-spectrum antibiotics first-line. Thirty-four (67%) guidelines included recommendations for topical antibiotic use. Twenty guidelines (39%) did not mention antiseptic treatment for impetigo. Guidelines did not always provide clear indications for different treatment options. CONCLUSIONS Despite potentially equal efficacy to systemic antibiotics, only two-thirds of guidelines include topical antibiotic options. Many fail to include recommendations for non-antibiotic treatments such as antiseptics, preventative measures and conservative management, despite potential for antibiotic-sparing. Provision of clear definitions of disease severity and indications for treatment would enhance the ability of clinicians to adhere to recommendations. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42018117770.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne M Hall
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Mackay Clinical School, Mackay, QLD, Australia
| | - Hilary J Gorges
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Mackay Clinical School, Mackay, QLD, Australia
| | - Mieke van Driel
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Parker Magin
- Discipline of General Practice, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,GP Synergy Regional Training Organisation, NSW & ACT Research and Evaluation Unit, Mayfield, Australia
| | - Nick Francis
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Clare F Heal
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Mackay Clinical School, Mackay, QLD, Australia
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Gorges H, Hall L, Heal C. Feasibility Study for a Randomised Controlled Trial for the Topical Treatment of Impetigo in Australian General Practice. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6040197. [PMID: 34842831 PMCID: PMC8628881 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6040197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Impetigo affects millions of children worldwide. Most guidelines recommend antibiotics as first-line treatment; however, topical antiseptics present a potentially valuable, understudied, antibiotic-sparing treatment for mild impetigo. We aimed to determine the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing efficacy of soft white paraffin (SWP), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and mupirocin for mild impetigo. Participants were recruited from general practices and randomly assigned one of three treatments. Size and number of lesions were measured at the initial consultation and day six. Post-recruitment, interviews with general practitioners were transcribed and themes identified to determine protocol acceptability, recruitment barriers and avenues to improve delivery. Two participants received SWP (n = 1) and mupirocin (n = 1). Both commenced oral antibiotics following failure of assigned topical treatment in which lesions increased in size or number. Recruitment barriers included reduced presentation of impetigo due to COVID-19, pre-treatment with existing at-home medications and moderate/severe infection. Childcare centers and pharmacies were identified as alternative venues to improve the recruitment rate. Valuable insight was gained into the practicality of conducting a RCT of impetigo treatments in general practice. Future trials should consider recruiting outside of general practice clinics to capture patients at earlier, more mild stages of infection. Further investigation into the prevalence and impact of use of at-home expired antibiotics may be beneficial.
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10
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Rheumatic heart disease in The Gambia: clinical and valvular aspects at presentation and evolution under penicillin prophylaxis. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2021; 21:503. [PMID: 34663206 PMCID: PMC8525010 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-021-02308-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains the leading cause of cardiac-related deaths and disability in children and young adults worldwide. In The Gambia, the RHD burden is thought to be high although no data are available and no control programme is yet implemented. We conducted a pilot study to generate baseline data on the clinical and valvular characteristics of RHD patients at first presentation, adherence to penicillin prophylaxis and the evolution of lesions over time. METHODS All patients registered with acute rheumatic fever (ARF) or RHD at two Gambian referral hospitals were invited for a clinical review that included echocardiography. In addition, patients were interviewed about potential risk factors, disease history, and treatment adherence. All clinical and echocardiography information at first presentation and during follow-up was retrieved from medical records. RESULTS Among 255 registered RHD patients, 35 had died, 127 were examined, and 111 confirmed RHD patients were enrolled, 64% of them females. The case fatality rate in 2017 was estimated at 19.6%. At first presentation, median age was 13 years (IQR [9; 18]), 57% patients had late stage heart failure, and 84.1% a pathological heart murmur. Although 53.2% of them reported history of recurrent sore throat, only 32.2% of them had sought medical treatment. A history suggestive of ARF was reported by 48.7% patients out of whom only 15.8% were adequately treated. Two third of the patients (65.5%) to whom it was prescribed were fully adherent to penicillin prophylaxis. Progressive worsening and repeated hospitalisation was experienced by 46.8% of the patients. 17 patients had cardiac surgery, but they represented only 18.1% of the 94 patients estimated eligible for cardiac surgery. CONCLUSION This study highlights for the first time in The Gambia the devastating consequences of RHD on the health of adolescents and young adults. Our findings suggest a high burden of disease that remains largely undetected and without appropriate secondary prophylaxis. There is a need for the urgent implementation of an effective national RHD control programto decrease the unacceptably high mortality rate, improve case detection and management, and increase community awareness of this disease.
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11
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Oliver J, Osowicki J, Cordell B, Hardy M, Engelman D, Steer AC. Incidence of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in Melbourne, Australia from 1937 to 2013. J Paediatr Child Health 2020; 56:1408-1413. [PMID: 32640123 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) most commonly presents in children aged 5-14 years old. Lifelong rheumatic heart disease (RHD) can result. This study investigated time trends in ARF and RHD using inpatient data from the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne (RCH). METHODS A retrospective cohort study covering the period 1937-2013 was conducted using records from RCH, a quaternary paediatric hospital in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Patient data were identified using RCH classification of diseases coding for ARF or RHD for years <1952. For the period 1952-1987, this system was used in addition to identifying International Classification of Disease (ICD) discharge codes that corresponded to ARF or RHD. From 1988-2013, only ICD codes were used to identify patient data. Descriptive epidemiological analyses were performed, including incidence rate calculations using historical census population denominator data. Analyses focussed on children in the peak age group. RESULTS Among children aged five to 14 years, a total of 4337 RCH admissions with ARF/RHD occurred for 3015 patients. A sharp decline in first ARF/RHD hospitalisations at RCH occurred from 1959, following a peak mean annual incidence rate during 1944-1947 of 40.1/100 000 children (95% confidence interval (CI): 36.6-43.9; P < 0.05). Over 1996-2013, the mean annual incidence rate was 1.6/100 000 (95% CI: 1.3-1.8) and reached 2.3/100 000 (95% CI: 1.3-3.7) in 2005. CONCLUSION The burden of ARF and RHD treated at RCH declined following the 1940s, mirroring changes seen in North America and Europe. Despite this, inpatient treatment for these conditions continued to be provided right up until the end of the study period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Oliver
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joshua Osowicki
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Billie Cordell
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Myra Hardy
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel Engelman
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew C Steer
- Tropical Diseases Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Horwood PF, Tarantola A, Goarant C, Matsui M, Klement E, Umezaki M, Navarro S, Greenhill AR. Health Challenges of the Pacific Region: Insights From History, Geography, Social Determinants, Genetics, and the Microbiome. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2184. [PMID: 31572391 PMCID: PMC6753857 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Pacific region, also referred to as Oceania, is a geographically widespread region populated by people of diverse cultures and ethnicities. Indigenous people in the region (Melanesians, Polynesians, Micronesians, Papuans, and Indigenous Australians) are over-represented on national, regional, and global scales for the burden of infectious and non-communicable diseases. Although social and environmental factors such as poverty, education, and access to health-care are assumed to be major drivers of this disease burden, there is also developing evidence that genetic and microbiotic factors should also be considered. To date, studies investigating genetic and/or microbiotic links with vulnerabilities to infectious and non-communicable diseases have mostly focused on populations in Europe, Asia, and USA, with uncertain associations for other populations such as indigenous communities in Oceania. Recent developments in personalized medicine have shown that identifying ethnicity-linked genetic vulnerabilities can be important for medical management. Although our understanding of the impacts of the gut microbiome on health is still in the early stages, it is likely that equivalent vulnerabilities will also be identified through the interaction between gut microbiome composition and function with pathogens and the host immune system. As rapid economic, dietary, and cultural changes occur throughout Oceania it becomes increasingly important that further research is conducted within indigenous populations to address the double burden of high rates of infectious diseases and rapidly rising non-communicable diseases so that comprehensive development goals can be planned. In this article, we review the current knowledge on the impact of nutrition, genetics, and the gut microbiome on infectious diseases in indigenous people of the Pacific region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul F. Horwood
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Cyrille Goarant
- Institut Pasteur de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Noumea, New Caledonia
| | - Mariko Matsui
- Institut Pasteur de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Noumea, New Caledonia
| | - Elise Klement
- Institut Pasteur de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Noumea, New Caledonia
- Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases Department, Centre Hospitalier Territorial, Noumea, New Caledonia
| | - Masahiro Umezaki
- Department of Human Ecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Severine Navarro
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Andrew R. Greenhill
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University Australia, Churchill, VIC, Australia
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13
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Bennett J, Moreland NJ, Oliver J, Crane J, Williamson DA, Sika-Paotonu D, Harwood M, Upton A, Smith S, Carapetis J, Baker MG. Understanding group A streptococcal pharyngitis and skin infections as causes of rheumatic fever: protocol for a prospective disease incidence study. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:633. [PMID: 31315580 PMCID: PMC6637506 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4126-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group A Streptococcal (GAS) infections cause the autoimmune disease acute rheumatic fever (ARF), which can progress to chronic rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Treating pharyngitis caused by GAS with antibiotics is important in preventing ARF. However, it is difficult to distinguish these infections from GAS carriers. There is growing evidence for GAS skin infections as a cause of ARF. This study will identify the incidence of true GAS pharyngitis and serological responses to GAS skin infections. The effectiveness of antibiotics for these conditions will be explored, and modifiable risk factors. Serum antibody titres indicating the upper limits of normal (ULN for ASO/ADB antibodies) will be established alongside carriage rates in asymptomatic children. METHODS This is a prospective disease incidence study, with an associated case-control study. The study population includes 1000 children (5-14 years) from Auckland, New Zealand, 800 of whom have visited their healthcare professional, resulting in a throat or skin swab for GAS, and 200 who are asymptomatic. The conditions of interest are GAS throat swab positive pharyngitis (n = 200); GAS carriage (n = 200); GAS negative throat swab (n = 200); GAS skin infections (n = 200); and asymptomatic controls (n = 200). All participants, except asymptomatic controls, will have acute and convalescent serological testing for ASO/ADB titres (collected < 9 days, and 2-4 weeks following symptom onset, respectively), alongside viral PCR from throat swabs. Asymptomatic controls will have ASO/ADB titres measured in one blood specimen and a throat swab for microbial culture. Caregivers of children will be interviewed using a questionnaire and any GAS isolates identified will be emm typed. The persistence of GAS antibodies will also be investigated. DISCUSSION Findings from this study will fill critical gaps in scientific knowledge to better understand the pathophysiology of ARF, improve clinical management of GAS infections, and design more effective ARF prevention programmes. In particular it will measure the incidence of true, serologically confirmed GAS pharyngitis; assess the immune response to GAS skin infections and its role as a cause of ARF; examine the effectiveness of oral antibiotics for treating GAS pharyngitis and carriage; and identify whether risk factors for GAS infections might provide intervention points for reducing ARF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bennett
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Nicole J. Moreland
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane Oliver
- Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Julian Crane
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Dianne Sika-Paotonu
- Deans Department and Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Matire Harwood
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Arlo Upton
- Southern Community Laboratory, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Jonathan Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University ofWestern Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Michael G. Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
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14
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D'Cunha NM, Peterson GM, Baby KE, Thomas J. Impetigo: A need for new therapies in a world of increasing antimicrobial resistance. J Clin Pharm Ther 2017; 43:150-153. [PMID: 29063621 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection and is one of the most common skin infections in children. Antibiotics are the first-line treatment when multiple lesions exist, but with an increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria the successful management of impetigo in the future is an area of concern. COMMENT Current treatment options that favour the use of oral antibiotic therapy are increasingly problematic. Widespread use of these agents contributes to antimicrobial resistance and has adverse consequences for individuals and communities. There is a need for new topical antimicrobials and antiseptics as an alternative treatment strategy. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION To successfully treat impetigo into the future and ensure that therapy does not contribute to bacterial resistance, additional research is required to ascertain the usefulness of alternative agents, including new topical antimicrobials and antiseptics.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M D'Cunha
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - G M Peterson
- Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - K E Baby
- The Canberra Hospital, Yamba Drive, Garran, ACT, Australia
| | - J Thomas
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
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15
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Group A Streptococcus, Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease: Epidemiology and Clinical Considerations. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2017; 19:15. [PMID: 28285457 PMCID: PMC5346434 DOI: 10.1007/s11936-017-0513-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Early recognition of group A streptococcal pharyngitis and appropriate management with benzathine penicillin using local clinical prediction rules together with validated rapi-strep testing when available should be incorporated in primary health care. A directed approach to the differential diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever now includes the concept of low-risk versus medium-to-high risk populations. Initiation of secondary prophylaxis and the establishment of early medium to long-term care plans is a key aspect of the management of ARF. It is a requirement to identify high-risk individuals with RHD such as those with heart failure, pregnant women, and those with severe disease and multiple valve involvement. As penicillin is the mainstay of primary and secondary prevention, further research into penicillin supply chains, alternate preparations and modes of delivery is required.
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Leder K, Torresi J, Shaw M. Australia, New Zealand. Infect Dis (Lond) 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/9781119085751.ch25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Leder
- Travel Medicine and Immigrant Health, Victorian Infectious Disease Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine; Monash University; Australia
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity; University of Melbourne; Melbourne Australia
- Eastern Infectious Diseases and Travel Medicine; Boronia Victoria Australia
| | - Marc Shaw
- School of Public Health; James Cook University; Townsville Australia
- WORLDWISE Travellers Health Centres; New Zealand
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17
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Leder K, Torresi J, Shaw M. Oceania. Infect Dis (Lond) 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/9781119085751.ch26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Leder
- Travel Medicine and Immigrant Health, Victorian Infectious Disease Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine; Monash University; Australia
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity; University of Melbourne; Melbourne Australia
- Eastern Infectious Diseases and Travel Medicine; Boronia, Victoria Australia
| | - Marc Shaw
- School of Public Health; James Cook University; Townsville Australia
- WORLDWISE Travellers Health Centres; New Zealand
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18
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Oliver J, Baker MG, Pierse N, Carapetis J. Comparison of approaches to rheumatic fever surveillance across Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries. J Paediatr Child Health 2015; 51:1071-7. [PMID: 26174709 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.12969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM Rheumatic fever (RF) prevention, control and surveillance are increasingly important priorities in New Zealand (NZ) and Australia. We compared RF surveillance across Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member countries to assist in benchmarking and identifying useful approaches. METHODS A structured literature review was completed using Medline and PubMed databases, investigating RF incidence rates. Surveillance methods were noted. Health department websites were searched to assess whether addressing RF was a Government priority. RESULTS Of 32 OECD member countries, nine reported RF incidence rates after 1999. Highest rates were seen in indigenous Australians, and NZ Māori and Pacific peoples. NZ and Australian surveillance systems are highly developed, with notification and register data compiled regularly. Only these two Governments appeared to prioritise RF surveillance and control. Other countries relied mainly on hospitalisation data. There is a lack of standardisation across incidence rate calculations. Israel and Italy may have relatively high RF rates among developed countries. CONCLUSIONS RF lingers in specific populations in OECD member countries. At a minimum, RF registers are needed in higher incidence countries. Countries with low RF incidences should periodically review surveillance information to ensure rates are not increasing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Oliver
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Nevil Pierse
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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19
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Katzenellenbogen JM, Woods JA, Teng THK, Thompson SC. Atrial fibrillation in the Indigenous populations of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States: a systematic scoping review. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2015; 15:87. [PMID: 26268309 PMCID: PMC4535416 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-015-0081-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epidemiology of atrial fibrillation (AF) among Indigenous minorities in affluent countries is poorly delineated, despite the high cardiovascular disease burden in these populations. We undertook a systematic scoping review examining the epidemiology of AF in the Indigenous populations of Australia, Canada, New Zealand (NZ) and the United States (US). METHODS PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE and CINAHL-Plus databases were systematically searched in May 2014. Supplementary full-text searches of Google Scholar and government website searches were also undertaken. RESULTS Key findings from 27 publications with diverse aims and methods were included. Small studies from Canada and NZ suggest higher AF prevalence in Indigenous than other populations. However, this was not reflected in a large sample of US male military veterans. No data were identified on community-based incidence rates of AF in Indigenous populations. Australian and Canadian studies indicate higher first-ever and overall AF hospitalisation rates among Indigenous than other populations, at younger ages and with more comorbidity. Studies in stroke, heart failure and other clinical groups demonstrate AF as a common comorbidity, with AF possibly more prevalent at younger ages in Indigenous people. Indigenous patients have similar early post-hospitalisation adjusted mortality but higher 1-year risk-adjusted mortality than non-Indigenous patients. CONCLUSIONS No clear epidemiological pattern of AF frequency across the considered Indigenous populations emerges from the limited available evidence. AF should be included in key conditions reported in national surveillance reports, although Indigenous identifiers are required in administrative data from Canada and the US. Sufficiently powered, community-based studies of AF epidemiology in diverse Indigenous populations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith M Katzenellenbogen
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia (M706), 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia (M431), 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - John A Woods
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia (M706), 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia.
| | - Tiew-Hwa Katherine Teng
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia (M706), 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Sandra C Thompson
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia (M706), 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
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20
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Rémond MGW, Maguire GP. Echocardiographic screening for rheumatic heart disease-some answers, but questions remain. Transl Pediatr 2015; 4:206-9. [PMID: 26835376 PMCID: PMC4729054 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2224-4336.2015.05.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite being preventable, rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains a significant global cause of cardiovascular disease. Echocardiographic screening for early detection of RHD has the potential to enable timely commencement of treatment (secondary prophylaxis) to halt progression to severe valvular disease. However, a number of issues remain to be addressed regarding its feasibility. The natural history of Definite RHD without a prior history of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and Borderline RHD are both unclear. Even if they are variants of RHD it is not known whether secondary antibiotic prophylaxis will prevent disease progression as it does in "traditionally" diagnosed RHD. False positives can also have a detrimental impact on individuals and their families as well as place substantial burdens on health care systems. Recent research suggests that handheld echocardiography (HAND) may offer a cheaper and more convenient alternative to standard portable echocardiography (STAND) in RHD screening. However, while HAND is sensitive for the detection of Definite RHD, it is less sensitive for Borderline RHD and is relatively poor at detecting mitral stenosis (MS). Given its attendant limited specificity, potential cases detected with HAND would require re-examination by standard echocardiography. For now, echocardiographic screening for RHD should remain a subject of research rather than routine health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc G W Rémond
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Graeme P Maguire
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
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21
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Psychosocial profile of a sample of Egyptian children with rheumatic heart disease. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2015. [DOI: 10.1097/01.xme.0000461678.30239.4f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
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Musoke C, Mondo CK, Okello E, Zhang W, Kakande B, Nyakoojo W, Freers J. Benzathine penicillin adherence for secondary prophylaxis among patients affected with rheumatic heart disease attending Mulago Hospital. Cardiovasc J Afr 2014; 24:124-9. [PMID: 24217043 PMCID: PMC3721822 DOI: 10.5830/cvja-2013-022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) frequently occurs following recurrent episodes of acute rheumatic fever (ARF). Benzathine penicillin (benzapen) is the most effective method for secondary prophylaxis against ARF whose efficacy largely depends on adherence to treatment. Various factors determine adherence to therapy but there are no data regarding current use of benzapen in patients with RHD attending Mulago Hospital. The study aims were (1) to determine the levels of adherence with benzapen prophylaxis among rheumatic heart disease patients in Mulago Hospital, and (2) establish the patient factors associated with adherence and, (3) establish the reasons for missing monthly benzathine penicillin injections. Methods This was a longitudinal observational study carried out in Mulago Hospital cardiac clinics over a period of 10 months; 95 consecutive patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria were recruited over a period of four months and followed up for six months. Data on demographic characteristics and disease status were collected by means of a standardised questionnaire and a card to document the injections of benzapen received. Results Most participants were female 75 (78.9%). The age range was five to 55 years, with a mean of 28.1 years (SD 12.2) and median of 28 years. The highest education level was primary school for most patients (44, 46.3%) with eight (8.4%) of the patients being illiterate. Most were either NYHA stage II (39, 41.1%) or III (32, 33.7%). Benzathine penicillin adherence: 44 (54%) adhered to the monthly benzapen prophylaxis, with adherence rates ≥ 80%; 38 (46%) patients were classified as non-adherent to the monthly benzapen, with rates less than 80%. The mean adherence level was 70.12% (SD 29.25) and the median level was 83.30%, with a range of 0–100%; 27 (33%) patients had extremely poor adherence levels of ≤ 60%. Factors associated with adherence: higher education status, residing near health facility favoured high adherence, while painful injection was a major reason among poor performers. Conclusion The level of non-adherence was significantly high (46%). Residence in a town/city and having at least a secondary level of education was associated with better adherence, while the painful nature of the benzapen injections and lack of transport money to travel to the health centre were the main reasons for non-adherence among RHD patients in Mulago.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Musoke
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Manji RA, Witt J, Tappia PS, Jung Y, Menkis AH, Ramjiawan B. Cost-effectiveness analysis of rheumatic heart disease prevention strategies. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2014; 13:715-24. [PMID: 24219047 DOI: 10.1586/14737167.2013.852470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD), secondary to group A streptococcal infection is endemic in the developing as well as parts of the developed world with significant costs to the patient, and to the healthcare system. We briefly review the prevalence and cost of RHD in developed and developing nations. We subsequently develop a Markov model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of three strategies (vs standard no prevention) for preventing RHD in a developing world country: primary prophylaxis (throat swab to detect and subsequently treat group A streptococci as needed); primary prophylaxis (antibiotic prophylaxis for all) with benzathine penicillin G once monthly to all patients (ages 5-21 years) regardless of evidence of infection; and secondary prophylaxis with monthly only to those with echocardiographic evidence of early RHD. Our model suggests that echocardiographic screening and secondary prophylaxis is the best strategy although the strategies change depending on parameters used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizwan A Manji
- Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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24
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Wiemers P, Marney L, Muller R, Brandon M, Kuchu P, Kuhlar K, Uchime C, Kang D, White N, Greenup R, Fraser JF, Yadav S, Tam R. Cardiac surgery in Indigenous Australians--how wide is 'the gap'? Heart Lung Circ 2014; 23:265-72. [PMID: 24321647 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2013.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 08/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality in the Indigenous Australian population. Limited research exists in regards to cardiac surgery in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) population. We aimed to investigate risk profiles, surgical pathologies, surgical management and short term outcomes in a contemporary group of patients. METHODS Variables were assessed for 557 consecutive patients who underwent surgery at our institution between August 2008 and March 2010. RESULTS 19.2% (107/557) of patients were of Indigenous origin. ATSI patients were significantly younger at time of surgery (mean age 54.1±13.23 vs. 63.1±12.46; p=<0.001) with higher rates of preventable risk factors. Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) was the dominant valvular pathology observed in the Indigenous population. Significantly higher rates of left ventricular impairment and more diffuse coronary artery disease were observed in ATSI patients. A non-significant trend towards higher 30-day mortality was observed in the Indigenous population (5.6% vs. 3.1%; p=0.244). CONCLUSIONS Cardiac surgery is generally required at a younger age in the Indigenous population with patients often presenting with more advanced disease. Despite often more advanced disease, surgical outcomes do not differ significantly from non-Indigenous patients. Continued focus on preventative strategies for coronary artery disease and RHD in the Indigenous population is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Wiemers
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia; University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Lucy Marney
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Reinhold Muller
- School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine and Rehabilitation Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matthew Brandon
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Praveen Kuchu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kasandra Kuhlar
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chimezie Uchime
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dong Kang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole White
- Mathematical Sciences School, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rachel Greenup
- Intensive Care Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - John F Fraser
- University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia; Critical Care Research Group, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sumit Yadav
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Robert Tam
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Queensland, Australia
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Vogel T, Kitcharoensakkul M, Fotis L, Baszis K. The heart and pediatric rheumatology. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2013; 40:61-85. [PMID: 24268010 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2013.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in Kawasaki disease have included attempts to define genes involved in its pathogenesis. There have been recent advances in the studies of rheumatic carditis, leading to a better understanding of the mechanism of the disease. Histologic evaluation of patients with neonatal lupus erythematosus has revealed fibrosis with collagen deposition and calcification of the atrioventricular node. Therapy for cardiac involvement in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis should involve treatment of the underlying disease and systemic inflammatory state, and typically includes nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, disease-modifying drugs, and biologic therapies targeting tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1, and interleukin-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiphanie Vogel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, Box 8116, One Children's Place, St Louis, MO 63110, USA; Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
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26
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Roberts KV, Brown ADH, Maguire GP, Atkinson DN, Carapetis JR. Utility of auscultatory screening for detecting rheumatic heart disease in high-risk children in Australia's Northern Territory. Med J Aust 2013; 199:196-9. [PMID: 23909543 DOI: 10.5694/mja13.10520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the utility of auscultatory screening for detecting echocardiographically confirmed rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in high-risk children in the Northern Territory, Australia. DESIGN Cross-sectional screening survey. SETTING Twelve rural and remote communities in the NT between September 2008 and June 2010. PARTICIPANTS 1015 predominantly Indigenous schoolchildren aged 5-15 2013s. INTERVENTION All children underwent transthoracic echocardiography, using a portable cardiovascular ultrasound machine, and cardiac auscultation by a doctor and a nurse. Sonographers and auscultators were blinded to each others' findings and the clinical history of the children. Echocardiograms were reported offsite, using a standardised protocol, by cardiologists who were also blinded to the clinical findings. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Presence of a cardiac murmur as identified by nurses (any murmur) and doctors (any murmur, and "suspicious" or "pathological" murmurs), compared with echocardiogram findings. RHD was defined according to the 2012 World Heart Federation criteria for echocardiographic diagnosis of RHD. RESULTS Of the 1015 children screened, 34 (3.3%) had abnormalities identified on their echocardiogram; 24 met echocardiographic criteria for definite or borderline RHD, and 10 had isolated congenital anomalies. Detection of any murmur by a nurse had a sensitivity of 47.1%, specificity of 74.8% and positive predictive value (PPV) of 6.1%. Doctor identification of any murmur had 38.2% sensitivity, 75.1% specificity and 5.1% PPV, and the corresponding values for doctor detection of suspicious or pathological murmurs were 20.6%, 92.2% and 8.3%. For all auscultation approaches, negative predictive value was more than 97%, but the majority of participants with cardiac abnormalities were not identified. The results were no different when only definite RHD and congenital abnormalities were considered as true cases. CONCLUSIONS Sensitivity and positive predictive value of cardiac auscultation compared with echocardiography is poor, regardless of the expertise of the auscultator. Although negative predictive value is high, most cases of heart disease were missed by auscultation, suggesting that cardiac auscultation should no longer be used to screen for RHD in high-risk schoolchildren in Australia.
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The Importance of Awareness and Education in Prevention and Control of RHD. Glob Heart 2013; 8:235-9. [PMID: 25690501 DOI: 10.1016/j.gheart.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Revised: 08/15/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease are diseases of poverty, low socioeconomic status, and inadequate access to health care. These preventable diseases remain largely ignored by the developed world while they continue to cause significant mortality and morbidity in the developing world. In the face of no existing cure, we need to focus on prevention and control methods. To this end, creating awareness of the disease and its effects on millions of people in the world is critically important. In this review, we will outline the importance of these efforts, discuss the barriers to awareness and education, and highlight some important models in this arena. We strongly support awareness-raising and health promotion strategies as an integral part of a rheumatic heart disease prevention and control program.
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Hafez M, Yahia S, Eldars W, Eldegla H, Matter M, Attia G, Hawas S. Prediction of residual valvular lesions in rheumatic heart disease: role of adhesion molecules. Pediatr Cardiol 2013; 34:583-90. [PMID: 22987107 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-012-0501-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2012] [Accepted: 08/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a chronic condition characterized by fibrosis and scarring of the cardiac valves and damage to the heart muscle, leading to congestive heart failure and death. This prospective cohort study was conducted to investigate the possible relation between the levels of serum adhesion molecules and acute rheumatic fever (ARF) carditis, valvular insult severity, and residual valvular lesion after improvement of rheumatic activity. Serum levels of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin were assayed by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) for 50 children with ARF carditis during activity and after improvement and for 50 healthy children as control subjects. After the acute attack, patients were followed up regularly to detect residual valvular lesion. The serum levels of these adhesion molecules were significantly higher in the patients than in the control group (p < 0.001). In addition, the levels of serum adhesion molecules were significantly higher in the patients with severe carditis than in the patients with mild to moderate carditis (p < 0.001). Among the severe carditis group, the level of serum adhesion molecules was significantly higher among the patients with heart failure than among the patients without heart failure (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the pretreatment serum levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 were significantly higher among the patients with residual valve lesion (p = 0.002) than among those without the lesion (p < 0.001). The cutoff values were obtained for the prediction of residual valvular lesion (ICAM-1, >1,032.3 μg/ml; VCAM-1, >3,662.3 μg/ml; E-selectin, >104.8 μg/ml). Finally, by combining the three adhesion molecules in a single prediction model, the highest area under the curve (AUC) ± standard error (SE) was obtained (0.869 ± 0.052), and the positive likelihood ratio for having a residual valvular lesion was increased (17.33). Levels of serum adhesion molecules could predict residual valvular lesions in RHD patients. The authors recommend that the serum level of adhesion molecules be measured in all cases of ARF carditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Hafez
- Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University Children's Hospital, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
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Vincent FB, Bourke P, Morand EF, Mackay F, Bossingham D. Focus on systemic lupus erythematosus in indigenous Australians: towards a better understanding of autoimmune diseases. Intern Med J 2013; 43:227-34. [PMID: 23176380 DOI: 10.1111/imj.12039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The incidence and prevalence of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, primary Sjögren syndrome, scleroderma and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) varies with geography and ethnicity. For example, SLE is reported to be more common in populations such as African-Caribbeans and Indigenous Australians (IA). As well as socio-economic status, variation in severity of disease may also show ethnic variability. The initial presentation of SLE in IA, in the context of a unique genetic background and distinctive environmental influences, is often florid with a recurring spectrum of clinical phenotypes. These clinical observations suggest a unique pathway for autoimmunity pathogenesis in this population. For instance, the high prevalence of bacterial infections in IA, particularly group A streptococcus, may be a potential explanation not only for increased incidence and prevalence of SLE but also the commonly florid acute disease presentation and propensity for rapidly progressive end organ threatening disease. This article will review the state of research in autoimmune disease of IA, consider key findings related to autoimmune disease in this population and propose a model potentially to explain the involvement of innate immunity and chronic infection in autoimmune disease pathogenesis. Ultimately, understanding of SLE at this level could affect management and result in personalised and targeted therapies to improve the health status of IA as well as better understanding of SLE pathogenesis per se.
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Affiliation(s)
- F B Vincent
- Department of Immunology, Monash University, Central Clinical School, Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct (AMREP), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present the long-term follow-up of children hospitalised for severe rheumatic carditis who were treated with corticosteroids. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of the outcome of 242 patients with severe rheumatic carditis after discharge from two public hospitals in Niteroi, Brazil. We followed up 118 patients for 4 years or more, with an average of 7.7 years. They were treated with antibiotics to accomplish bacterial eradication and either intravenous methylprednisolone - 40 cases - or oral prednisone - 78 patients - to treat carditis. They were followed up in outpatient clinic. RESULTS Cardiac failure was categorised as classes III and IV according to the New York Heart Association classification. In the intravenous corticosteroid group, 21 cases (52.5%) had isolated mitral valve regurgitation, 12 (30%) had mitral plus aortic involvement, and seven (17.5%) had aortic lesion only. In the oral prednisone group, 45 (58%) had mitral valve regurgitation only, 27 (34%) had mitral plus aortic involvement, and six (8%) had aortic lesion only. A total of 28 children were in their first disease attack, of whom 19 (68%) had a rupture of chordae tendineae. A total of 58 patients (49%) sustained recurrence of carditis because of neglected secondary prophylaxis. In all, 19 cases (16%) underwent cardiac surgery - valve replacement or valvuloplasty. In 33% of the cases, the outcome was favourable - asymptomatic at follow-up. The overall mortality rate was 6.8%. CONCLUSION Many critically ill patients who complied with secondary prophylaxis were left with minor injuries, whereas those who neglected it or abandoned it had serious sequelae. The rate of abandonment and loss to follow-up was very high. Many cases (49%) were re-hospitalised because of carditis recurrence.
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Zaman M, Abdel-Aal ABM, Fujita Y, Phillipps KSM, Batzloff MR, Good MF, Toth I. Immunological evaluation of lipopeptide group A streptococcus (GAS) vaccine: structure-activity relationship. PLoS One 2012; 7:e30146. [PMID: 22253911 PMCID: PMC3257266 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0030146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 12/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus, GAS) is a Gram-positive bacterial pathogen responsible for a wide variety of diseases. To date, GAS vaccine development has focused primarily on the M-protein. The M-protein is highly variable at the amino (N)-terminus (determining serotype) but is conserved at the carboxyl (C)-terminus. Previously a 29 amino acid peptide (named J14) from the conserved region of the M-protein was identified as a potential vaccine candidate. J14 was capable of eliciting protective antibodies that recognized many GAS serotypes when co-administered with immuno-stimulants. This minimal epitope however showed no immunogenicity when administered alone. In an attempt overcome this immunological non-responsiveness, we developed a self-adjuvanting vaccine candidate composed of three components: the B-cell epitope (J14), a universal helper T-cell epitope (P25) and a lipid moiety consisting of lipoamino acids (Laas) which target Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). Immunological evaluation in B10.BR (H-2k) mice demonstrated that the epitope attachment to the point of lipid moiety, and the length of the Laa alkyl chain have a profound effect on vaccine immunogenicity after intranasal administration. It was demonstrated that a vaccine featuring C-terminal lipid moiety containing alkyl chains of 16 carbons, with P25 located at the N-terminus, and J14 attached to the side chain of a central lysine residue was capable of inducing optimal antibody response. These findings have considerable relevance to the development of a broad spectrum J14-based GAS vaccine and in particular provided a rational basis for peptide vaccine design based on this self-adjuvanting lipopeptide technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehfuz Zaman
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences (SCMB), St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Abu-Baker M. Abdel-Aal
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences (SCMB), St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yoshio Fujita
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences (SCMB), St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Karen S. M. Phillipps
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences (SCMB), St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael R. Batzloff
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael F. Good
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences (SCMB), St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Yacoub S, Kotit S, Yacoub MH. Disease appearance and evolution against a background of climate change and reduced resources. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2011; 369:1719-1729. [PMID: 21464067 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2011.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Global health continues to face increasing challenges owing to a variety of reasons that include the almost constant changes in disease appearance and evolution. Most, but not all, of these changes affect low-income countries and are influenced by climate change. Tracking the recent and anticipated changes in the demographics and global distribution of these changes is essential for evolving effective new methods for dealing with the problems. The recent recognition by the United Nations of the importance of non-communicable diseases is a major positive step. For the sake of this paper, the following diseases were chosen: dengue and malaria, to highlight the role of climate change on vector-borne diseases. Drug-resistant tuberculosis illustrates the role of globalization and reduced resources on disease evolution. The continuing rise in cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, particularly in resource-poor countries is largely attributed to lack of preventive and therapeutic measures against such conditions as hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis and congenital heart disease as well as neglected diseases, of which Chagas and rheumatic heart disease will be discussed further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Yacoub
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, UK.
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Pelajo CF, Lopez-Benitez JM, Torres JM, de Oliveira SKF. Adherence to secondary prophylaxis and disease recurrence in 536 Brazilian children with rheumatic fever. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2010; 8:22. [PMID: 20659324 PMCID: PMC2916898 DOI: 10.1186/1546-0096-8-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2010] [Accepted: 07/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 15 million people worldwide have rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease due to RF. Secondary prophylaxis is a critical cost-effective intervention for preventing morbidity and mortality related to RF. Ensuring adequate adherence to secondary prophylaxis for RF is a challenging task. This study aimed to describe the rates of recurrent episodes of RF, quantify adherence to secondary prophylaxis, and examine the effects of medication adherence to the rates of RF in a cohort of Brazilian children and adolescents with RF. METHODS This retrospective study took place in the Pediatric Rheumatology outpatient clinic at a tertiary care hospital (Instituto de Puericultura e Pediatria Martagão Gesteira) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and included patients with a diagnosis of RF from 1985 to 2005. RESULTS 536 patients with RF comprised the study sample. Recurrent episodes of RF occurred in 88 of 536 patients (16.5%). Patients with a recurrent episode of RF were younger (p < 0.0001), more frequently males (p = 0.003), and less adherent (p < 0.0001) to secondary prophylaxis than patients without RF recurrence. Non-adherence to medication at any time during follow-up was detected in 35% of patients. Rates of non-adherence were higher in the group of patients that were lost to follow-up (42%) than in the group of patients still in follow-up (32%) (p = 0.027). Appointment frequency was inadequate in 10% of patients. Higher rates of inadequate appointment frequency were observed among patients who were eventually lost to follow-up (14.5%) than in patients who were successfully followed-up (8%) (p = 0.022). 180 patients (33.5%) were lost to follow up at some point in time. CONCLUSIONS We recommend implementation of a registry, and a system of active search of missing patients in every service responsible for the follow-up of RF patients. Measures to increase adherence to secondary prophylaxis need to be implemented formally, once non-adherence to secondary prophylaxis is the main cause of RF recurrence. Detection of irregularity in secondary prophylaxis or in appointments should be an alert about the possibility of loss of follow-up and closer observation should be instituted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina F Pelajo
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, box#190. Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Jorge M Lopez-Benitez
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, box#190. Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Juliana M Torres
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Instituto de Puericultura e Pediatria Martagão Gesteira, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. Av. Bruno Lobo, 50. Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, 21490-591, Brazil
| | - Sheila KF de Oliveira
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Instituto de Puericultura e Pediatria Martagão Gesteira, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. Av. Bruno Lobo, 50. Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, 21490-591, Brazil
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