Swim bladder as a primary site of mycobacterial infection in Nothobranchius 'belly sliders'

The swim bladder inflates early after fish hatching via its interconnection with the digestive tract (ductus pneumaticus). This interconnection may serve as a portal to foreign particles, including bacteria, causing deficiencies in primary swim bladder inflation. We histologically examined 134 African annual killifish (genus Nothobranchius) with secondary loss of swim bladder function ('belly sliders'). We demonstrate that these fish lost the ability of air regulation in their swim bladders likely due to Mycobacterium spp. infection at an individual-specific age. Nearly all examined belly sliders had thickened swim bladder walls, and their swim bladder was filled with material containing mycobacteria, cell debris, young monocytic cells and phagocyting macrophages. Mycobacterial infection was restricted to the swim bladder in juveniles, where mycobacteria likely enter the host through the ductus pneumaticus. Infection in adults was systemic and mycobacteria were present in all examined organs. Presence of mycobacteria in the epithelial lining and submucosal layers of the digestive tract of adults suggests that it may also serve as the entrance site of infection. We suspect 2 sources of Mycobacterium contamination: dietary (with bloodworms) and/or contaminated hatching substrate. These sources of contamination may be eliminated by use of laboratory dry feed and egg disinfection prior to hatching.

Nutrition in open abdomen

Open abdomen is known as a serious consequence of various intra-abdominal pathologies. Initially, patients often have a life-threatening condition, sepsis or septic shock. Severe stress related malnutrition, mineral and fluid imbalance develop as metabolic consequences. Intestinal fistulas also occur as a frequent complication in patients with open abdomen. In such patients, a comprehensive approach is needed, including rehabilitation, nutritional support using optimal formulas, and local care for the open abdomen. Our case report presents a patient with open abdomen and enterocutaneous fistulation. A complex nutritional approach in the course of the disease is described and its importance is discussed. Finally, a summary of nutritional care for open abdomen patients is provided based on current recommendations.

[Ten years of endovenous ablation - achievements, failures and future]

Endovenous ablation of varicose veins is a very frequent treatment method which has more or less replaced the classic stripping method. It has its limitations, advantages as well as disadvantages. The authors present a summarizing article and their own experience with these methods. Histology examinations performed prove differences in the reaction of the endothelium to the individual types of endovenous therapy. Causes of varicose veins treatment failures are discussed.