Patient-Derived Organoids Recapitulate Pathological Intrinsic and Phenotypic Features of Fibrous Dysplasia

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a rare bone disorder characterized by the replacement of normal bone with benign fibro-osseous tissue. Developments in our understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment options are impeded by the lack of suitable research models. In this study, we developed an in vitro organotypic model capable of recapitulating key intrinsic and phenotypic properties of FD. Initially, transcriptomic profiling of individual cells isolated from patient lesional tissues unveiled intralesional molecular and cellular heterogeneity. Leveraging these insights, we established patient-derived organoids (PDOs) using primary cells obtained from patient FD lesions. Evaluation of PDOs demonstrated preservation of fibrosis-associated constituent cell types and transcriptional signatures observed in FD lesions. Additionally, PDOs retained distinct constellations of genomic and metabolic alterations characteristic of FD. Histological evaluation further corroborated the fidelity of PDOs in recapitulating important phenotypic features of FD that underscore their pathophysiological relevance. Our findings represent meaningful progress in the field, as they open up the possibility for in vitro modeling of rare bone lesions in a three-dimensional context and may signify the first step towards creating a personalized platform for research and therapeutic studies.

Association of cranial base suture/synchondrosis fusion with severity of increased intracranial pressure in Crouzon syndrome

This study investigated how the fusion states of the cranial base is related to the degree of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in patients with Crouzon syndrome. This retrospective cohort study enrolled patients who were diagnosed with Crouzon syndrome between May 2007 and April 2022. We categorized the patients into three groups: A, B, and C, according to the severity of increased ICP and the number of cranial vault remodeling procedures for corrective operation. The preoperative fusion states of the cranial base sutures/synchondroses were examined using facial bone computed tomography and compared between groups. Overall, 22 patients were included in Groups A, B, and C, including 8, 7, and 7 patients, respectively. The preoperative average grades of the total cranial base suture/synchondrosis fusion appeared to significantly increase with severity, except for the frontoethmoidal suture, which showed the opposite tendency. In the subgroup analysis, frontosphenoidal, sphenoparietal, sphenosquamosal, parietomastoid, and occipitomastoid suture and petro-occipital synchondrosis were associated with earlier fusion in the more severe group. Premature closure of the cranial base sutures/synchodroses seems to be associated with increased ICP severity in patients with Crouzon syndrome. Precise evaluation of minor sutures/synchondroses at the first visit might help build subsequent operative plans and predict disease prognosis.

Evaluation of Long-Term Outcomes of Transverse Facial Cleft Repair

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of linear commissuroplasty and linear skin closure with a focus on commissural migration.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

PATIENTS

Individuals who underwent transverse facial cleft repair at a single institution between 2004 and 2021.

INTERVENTIONS

The disrupted orbicularis oris muscle was reoriented and sutured. A simple linear commissuroplasty technique was used, and the cheek skin was closed linearly without Z-plasty.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The distances from Cupid's bow peak to the oral commissure were measured bilaterally, and the difference between the normal and cleft sides was obtained. Finally, its proportional value as a percentage of the total lip length was calculated from short- and long-term follow-up photographs. Cheek scarring and its effects on melolabial fold breakage were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 18 patients who underwent transverse facial cleft repair, 12 were included in this study. The mean follow-up period based on medical photographs was 1773.5 days. The average proportional difference was 4.6%, demonstrating no observable commissural migration. There were no consistent trends in the direction of migration, either on the cleft or normal side. In patients with a transverse cleft crossing the melolabial fold, the folds appeared broken before and after the cleft repair surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant long-term commissural migration was observed after transverse facial cleft repair with simple linear commissuroplasty and linear skin closure. Deliberate positioning of the new oral commissure, proper myoplasty, and meticulous skin closure with minimal scar burden can be considered key procedures for successful transverse cleft repair.

Single-stage Repair of Bilateral Cleft Lip and Bilateral Transverse Facial Cleft in Goldenhar Syndrome: A Case Report

Goldenhar syndrome (GS) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by multiple facial anomalies. This case report describes a GS presenting with bilateral cleft lip and palate and bilateral transverse facial cleft. We performed a single-stage surgery to repair the bilateral cleft lip and bilateral transverse facial cleft when the patient was 4-months-old. Bilateral cleft lip repair using the Mulliken method was performed first, and then the bilateral transverse facial cleft was corrected. Orbicularis oris muscle repair was done at each clefts. Anatomical approximation technique was used and the final oral commissure was determined considering symmetry. Satisfactory outcomes were achieved without complications.

"Strategic Application of Anatomical Subunit Approximation Technique for Correction of Complete Unilateral Cleft lip"

OBJECTIVE

To discuss advantages, disadvantages and strategical application of anatomical subunit approximation technique in complete unilateral cleft lip repair.

DESIGN

Analysis of consecutive 28 cases.

SETTING

A single surgeon experience at a university hospital.

PATIENTS

Among 77 patients who underwent cleft lip repair between May 5, 2019 and June 30, 2021, 28 patients with complete unilateral cleft lip who received cheiloplasty by author's technique.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Surgical outcomes were assessed by frontal view medical photographs obtained postoperatively at follow-up visits.

RESULTS

The average length difference between cleft and noncleft sides was <10% for transverse lip length and philtral height. Nostril sill height demonstrated about twenty percent of difference with much variable results. Although the one sample t-test revealed that differences exist between the cleft and noncleft side, they were within an acceptable range.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding the strengths and limitations of anatomical subunit approximation technique enabled strategic application in complete unilateral cleft lip repair. Satisfactory outcomes were achieved not only regarding the scar placement but also regarding the symmetry of the lips and augmentation of nasal sill.

Usefulness of resorbable plate in auricular elevation in two-stage microtia reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Achieving a well-reconstructed retroauricular sulcus with satisfactory projection and a sufficiently deep retroauricular sulcus is important and at the same time challenging. The selection of the support material is crucial to obtain a sustainable, deep sulcus. The costal cartilage is the conventional material of choice. However, risk of slippage of inserted cartilage and donor site morbidity exists. Resorbable plates are durable, easy to secure and can be easily modified into desired shape. The current study aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of using a resorbable plate for auricular elevation.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients who received auricular elevation with resorbable plates from December 2020 to October 2022 was performed. Patients demographics, number of inserted plates and screws, postoperative complication were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 65 patients with microtia who underwent auricular reconstruction, resorbable plates were applied to 12 patients. Mean follow up period was 198 (range, 86-360) days. Auricular elevation was performed with one plate at cavum conchae and remnant rib cartilage at the helix in 10 patients (87)%. Two patients had resorbable plate as support material at the both sites. Regarding postoperative complications, there were no hematoma, seroma, plate exposure or plate fracture. Two patients suffered wound problems. One patient recovered only with conservative management. The other healed completely after debridement and intravenous antibiotics administration without undesired change of shape of ear.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest using resorbable plates as an ideal support material, as it can provide firm support to achieve appropriate depth of sulcus without excessive bulk.

Liposomal docosahexaenoic acid halts atherosclerosis progression

Background

Atherosclerosis is the main cause underlying cardiovascular disease (CVD). Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) is a hydrophobic polyunsaturated fatty acid that exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. However, the beneficial effects of DHA on CVD have been controversial likely due to variations in bioavailability after oral intake.

Purpose

In this study, we aim to investigate the potential inhibiting properties of liposomal DHA on atherosclerosis progression upon intravenous administration.

Methods

Four weeks old ApoE−/− and LDLr−/− mice were fed on athero-inducing high fat diet for 4 weeks and then randomly divided into two groups. The mice received either control liposomes (control group) or liposomes containing DHA (liposomal DHA treatment group) via intravenous injection, twice a week for 8 weeks while still being fed on high fat diet. At the experiment endpoint, whole aortas were collected for Oil Red O staining to quantify plaque area or for biochemical analysis. Plasma was collected for total cholesterol measurement and lipidomic analysis. Aortic roots were used for histological analysis.

Results

Upon intravenous injection, as shown by IVIS imaging, DHA-containing liposomes accumulated preferentially in the atherosclerotic plaques. Compared to control liposomes, liposomal DHA treatment reduced the atherosclerotic plaque area in both atherosclerosis animal models, with the total plaque area decreased by 35.8% in ApoE−/− mice, (p&lt;0.001) and by 22.4% in LDLr−/− mice (p&lt;0.05). Plaque composition analysis revealed that liposomal DHA treatment increased collagen content and reduced the number of macrophages and neutral lipid within the plaques, resulting in a lower plaque vulnerability index (1.095 for liposomal DHA treated group vs. 1.692 for control group, p&lt;0.05). Among those plaque macrophages, as demonstrated by immunohistology, M2 (anti-inflammatory) macrophages accounted for 4.44% in liposomal DHA treated mice and 2.24% in control liposomes treated mice (p&lt;0.05). In agreement with the histology results, higher mRNA expression levels of anti-inflammatory markers (IL-10, CD206 and CD163) and collagen type 1 were determined in aortic tissue after liposomal DHA treatment. Moreover, liposomal DHA did not change total cholesterol level in the blood but significantly lowered plasma levels of several species of triglycerides. In vitro experiment with bone marrow derived macrophages showed that liposomal DHA was able to suppress lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response and oxidative stress.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that incorporation of DHA in injectable liposomes is an effective way to increase the inhibitory effects of DHA on halting the progression of atherosclerosis via lowering circulating triglycerides, reducing plaque inflammation, and enhancing plaque stability. Intravenous administration of liposomal DHA may become an efficacious strategy for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): NUSMed Seed Fund

Effect of the preoperative physical status on postoperative nausea and vomiting risk: a matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

The American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification System is commonly used for preoperative assessment. Patient physical status before surgery can play an important role in postoperative nausea and vomiting. However, the relationship between the physical status classification and postoperative nausea and vomiting has not been well defined.

METHODS

Adults aged ≥ 18 years who underwent procedures under anesthesia between 2015 and 2020 were included in the study. We analyzed the relationship of postoperative nausea and vomiting with physical status classification score using propensity score matching and Cox hazard regression. Differences in intraoperative use of vasopressor and inotropes and invasive monitoring were investigated according to the classification.

RESULTS

A total of 163,500 patients were included in the study. After matching, classification 1 versus 2 included 43,400 patients; 1 versus ≤ 3, 13,287 patients; 2 versus ≤ 3, 23,530 patients (absolute standardized difference, 0-0.06). Patients with physical status classification ≤ 3 had a significantly lower postoperative nausea and vomiting risk than those with classification 1-2 (physical status classification 1 vs. ≤ 3, hazard ratio 0.76 [0.71-0.82], P < 0.001; 2 versus ≤ 3, hazard ratio 0.86 [0.82-0.91], P < 0.001). Intraoperative use of vasopressor or inotrope and invasive monitoring were noted more in the high physical status classification than the low physical status classification (absolute standardized difference [0.19-1.25]).

CONCLUSION

There were differences in intraoperative invasive monitoring and use of vasopressor or inotrope among the classifications, and a score of 3 or higher reduced the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting more than a score of 1-2.

Current concepts of neurofibromatosis type 1: pathophysiology and treatment

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is the most common tumor predisposition syndrome inherited in an autosomal dominant (100% penetrance) fashion with a wide variety of expressivity. From the perspective of plastic surgery, the most significant clinical symptoms, including disfiguration, peripheral neurologic symptoms, and skeletal abnormalities, are caused by various tumors originating from the affected nerves. Surgical removal is the standard of care for these tumors. However, the outcome is frequently unsatisfactory, facilitating the search for additional therapeutic adjuvants. Current trials of molecularly targeted therapies are promising.

Compound heterozygosity for a variably penetrant variant and a variant of unknown significance in FLT4 causes fully penetrant Milroy's lymphedema

Milroy disease, known as primary congenital lymphedema, is characterized by chronic tissue swelling due to impaired lymphatic drainage and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. This study reports a rare case of Milroy disease affecting siblings from unaffected parents. A one-month-old female infant presented with swelling of the bilateral calf and the dorsum of the feet which had been present since birth. Her 14-month-old brother had a similar presentation since birth with swelling of the bilateral calf and the dorsum of the feet. Milroy disease was diagnosed based on the clinical findings of bilateral lower limb swelling and confirmed by molecular genetic testing. The patient and her family, including her brother, parents, and maternal grandfather, were genetically tested, and two novel missense mutations (NM_182925.4: c.2534T>C; p.Leu845Pro, c.4006G>A; p.Glu1336Lys) were found in the Fms-related tyrosine kinase (FLT4) gene. Mutations segregated by the parents who carried each mutation in the heterozygous state were identified in the patient and her brother. The present case report in which Milroy disease developed in all offspring of parents with a normal phenotype suggests the possibility of a compound heterozygous mutation or non-penetrance during the process of inheritance of Milroy disease.

Clustering and multiple-spreading events of nosocomial severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection

Background

There is growing evidence that super-spreading events (SSEs) and multiple-spreading events (MSEs) are a characteristic feature of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. However, data regarding the possibility of SSEs or MSEs in healthcare settings are limited.

Methods

This study was performed at a tertiary-care hospital in Korea. We analysed the nosocomial COVID-19 cases that occurred in healthcare workers and inpatients and their caregivers between January and 20^th December 2020. Cases with two to four secondary cases were defined as MSEs and those with five or more secondary cases as SSEs.

Findings

We identified 21 nosocomial events (single-case events, N = 12 (57%); MSE + SSE, N = 9 (43%)) involving 65 individuals with COVID-19. Of these 65 individuals, 21 (32%) were infectors. The infectors tended to have a longer duration between symptom onset and diagnostic confirmation than did the non-infectors (median two days vs zero days, P=0.08). Importantly, 12 (18%) individuals were responsible for MSEs and one (2%) for an SSE, which collectively generated 35 (54%) secondary cases.

Conclusion

In a hospital with thorough infection-control measures, approximately 70% of the nosocomial cases of COVID-19 did not generate secondary cases, and one-fifth of the infectors were responsible for SSEs and MSEs, which accounted for approximately half of the total cases. Early case identification, isolation, and extensive contact tracing are important for the prevention of transmission and SSEs.

368 Perioperative Outcomes in Open versus Laparoscopic Surgery in Elderly Patients Undergoing Right Hemicolectomy

Introduction

With the global aging population, elderly patients are increasingly undergoing colorectal surgery. This study aims to evaluate postoperative outcomes in open (OS) and laparoscopic surgery (LS) for right hemicolectomy in elderly patients.

Method

We retrospectively reviewed patients aged 70 and above undergoing right hemicolectomy for malignancies at our institution. Additionally, Embase and Medline databases were reviewed, and comparative meta-analysis was conducted.

Results

84 patients were included in our cohort (OS = 34; LS = 50). No significant difference in anastomotic leak (AL) (OS = 4; LS = 2; p = 0.176), surgical site infection (SSI) (OS = 4; LS = 2; p = 0.216), and ileus (OS = 10; LS = 16; p = 0.801) was observed. LS was associated with decreased postoperative stay (p = 0.001). Additionally, LS had faster return of bowel function (ROBF) (p = 0.068) and resumption of diet (p = 0.147), albeit without significance. Overall survival (p = 0.062), and disease-free survival (p = 0.067) did not significantly differ between LS and OS.

Pooled analysis of 463 patients yielded no significant difference in AL (OR:1.15; 95%CI: 0.17-8.01; p = 0.89), SSI (OR:0.88; 95%CI: 0.44-1.76; p = 0.71), and ileus (OR:1.42; 95%CI: 0.69 – 2.92; p = 0.35). Postoperative stay (WMD:1.90 days; 95%CI: -1.81–5.61 days; p = 0.31), and ROBF (WMD:14.49 hours; 95%CI: -4.07–33.05 hours; p = 0.13) were shortened in LS, although without significance.

Conclusions

LS is associated with improved functional outcomes without an increased risk of postoperative morbidity or mortality.

Reasons why patients with tuberculosis in South Korea stop anti-TB treatment: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: As there had been no reduction in the TB burden in South Korea since 2000, a public-private mix (PPM) strategy was launched in 2011. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reasons for lost to follow-up (LTFU) among TB patients and their clinical characteristics.METHOD: A multicentre, cross-sectional study based on in-depth interviews with patients and their families by TB specialist nurses was conducted. Patients who were reported with a final outcome of LTFU in 2015-2017 at all PPM hospitals across the country were enrolled. Enrolled patients were classified into six subgroups by age and three major reasons for LTFU (adverse effects, refusal of treatment, marginalisation) and their clinical features were compared.RESULTS: Among 780 patients, those who were lost to follow-up due to adverse effects accounted for the largest proportion (n = 387). LTFU in those aged <65 years who refused treatment (n = 189) and those aged <65 years who were marginalised (n = 108) were related to having smear-positive TB and a previous history of unfavourable outcomes.CONCLUSION: To reduce LTFU in South Korea, comprehensive strategies, including management of adverse effects, systematic counselling and education, should be implemented.

Distinctive patterns of pulmonary function change according to baseline lung volume and diffusing capacity

SETTING: Multicentre retrospective study in South Korea.OBJECTIVE: To longitudinally evaluate changes in lung volume and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) with forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV₁).DESIGN: A total of 155 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), whose pulmonary function parameters were measured annually for 5 years, were selected from a prospective cohort in South Korea. A random coefficients model was used to estimate mean annual FEV₁, lung volume parameter and DLCO change rates.RESULTS: Patients were classified into four groups based on baseline DLCO and residual volume/total lung capacity (RV/TLC) measurements. The annual FEV₁ decline rate was greater in patients with low DLCO than in those with normal DLCO, with the greatest decline occurring in patients with low DLCO and normal RV/TLC. RV and RV/TLC declined in patients with high RV/TLC, whereas these increased in patients with normal RV/TLC. DLCO decreased longitudinally in all four groups, with the greatest decline occurring in patients with normal DLCO and normal RV/TLC.CONCLUSIONS: Different subgroups of patients with COPD exhibited distinctive pulmonary function change patterns. Baseline DLCO and RV/TLC may be used as physiological markers to predict long-term changes in pulmonary function.

Development and validation of a difficult laryngoscopy prediction model using machine learning of neck circumference and thyromental height

Background

Predicting difficult airway is challengeable in patients with limited airway evaluation. The aim of this study is to develop and validate a model that predicts difficult laryngoscopy by machine learning of neck circumference and thyromental height as predictors that can be used even for patients with limited airway evaluation.

Methods

Variables for prediction of difficulty laryngoscopy included age, sex, height, weight, body mass index, neck circumference, and thyromental distance. Difficult laryngoscopy was defined as Grade 3 and 4 by the Cormack-Lehane classification. The preanesthesia and anesthesia data of 1677 patients who had undergone general anesthesia at a single center were collected. The data set was randomly stratified into a training set (80%) and a test set (20%), with equal distribution of difficulty laryngoscopy. The training data sets were trained with five algorithms (logistic regression, multilayer perceptron, random forest, extreme gradient boosting, and light gradient boosting machine). The prediction models were validated through a test set.

Results

The model’s performance using random forest was best (area under receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.79 [95% confidence interval: 0.72–0.86], area under precision-recall curve = 0.32 [95% confidence interval: 0.27–0.37]).

Conclusions

Machine learning can predict difficult laryngoscopy through a combination of several predictors including neck circumference and thyromental height. The performance of the model can be improved with more data, a new variable and combination of models.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12871-021-01343-4.

Benefits of the Multidisciplinary Approach After Curative Surgery for the Treatment of Scalp Angiosarcoma

BACKGROUND

Patients with scalp angiosarcoma still present with a dismal prognosis, indicating the need for a multidisciplinary approach. The present study aimed to investigate the treatment outcomes of scalp angiosarcoma with a focus on the effect of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, performed in either an adjuvant or palliative setting, after curative surgical treatment.

METHODS

Patients with scalp angiosarcoma without evidence of systemic metastasis who were treated with curative ablative surgery between 2008 and 2018 were assessed. Oncologic outcomes, including recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS), were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 23 patients were analyzed. All patients underwent radical resection, most of whom (82.6%) achieved R0 resection. Adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy (all taxane-based) were delivered for 11 and 3 patients, respectively. Recurrence developed in 17 (73.9%) of 23 patients during a mean follow-up period of 18.4 months. The overall 2-year RFS and OS were 15.5% and 44.4%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy were associated with a significantly low risk of recurrence. In 17 patients with recurrence, those receiving palliative radiotherapy or chemotherapy had significantly higher OS than those not receiving any treatments. Compared with patients treated during the first half of the study period, those treated during the latter part, who received adjuvant and palliative radiotherapy or chemotherapy more frequently, had significantly favorable OS, with a 2-year OS of 77.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

A multidisciplinary approach using radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy combined with curative resection might be associated with better oncologic outcomes in patients with scalp angiosarcoma.

Profile of reticulated platelets in the early, subacute and late phases after transient ischemic attack or ischemic stroke

Information regarding the profile of reticulated platelets (RP) in ischemic cerebrovascular disease (CVD) patients is limited. Data from two prospective, observational, case-control studies were combined to compare the %RP using whole blood flow cytometry in patients ≤ 4 weeks of TIA/stroke onset (baseline, N = 210), and 14 ±7 days (14d, N = 182) and ≥ 90 days (90d, N = 145) after starting or changing antiplatelet therapy with healthy controls (N = 34). There were no differences in median %RP between the overall CVD patient population at baseline or 14d vs. controls (P ≥ 0.2). However, the median %RP was significantly higher in CVD patients overall at 90d (P = .036), and in the subgroup of patients with "lacunar" TIA/ischemic stroke at baseline (P = .04) and at 90d (P = .01), but not at 14d (P = .06) vs. controls. There were no significant differences in the median %RP between other TIA/stroke subgroups and controls (P ≥ 0.05). Elevated circulating reticulated platelets, as a marker of increased platelet production/turnover, may occur following an ischemic event in a well-phenotyped TIA/ischemic stroke population overall, but may precede symptom onset at least in the subgroup with small vessel occlusion. These data improve our understanding of the profile of reticulated platelets in CVD patients.

Postoperative pulmonary edema following vitrectomy in patients with ischemic heart disease and diastolic dysfunction in the post-anesthetic care unit: Two case reports

RATIONALE

The increasing incidence of cardiac comorbidities in the elderly population has led to an increasing demand for vigilance of cardiac dysfunction induced by surgery. Favorable outcomes can be ensured in such cases by an increased awareness of cardiogenic complications, early identification of the problem, and appropriate treatment.

PATIENT CONCERNS

This study presents 2 cases of acute pulmonary edema (PE) that were likely caused by ischemic heart disease and diastolic dysfunction in postoperative patients, following vitrectomy, in the post-anesthetic care unit.

DIAGNOSES

Chest x-ray and computed tomography indicated PE.

INTERVENTIONS

Following the diagnosis of PE, patients were intubated and transferred to the intensive care unit where 20 mg furosemide was injected and 10 μg/kg/min dobutamine was infused intravenously.

OUTCOMES

On postoperative day 2, the patients' vital signs were stable and there were no signs of respiratory disturbance.

LESSONS

Physicians should be alert to the potential development of PE as a postoperative complication in patients with left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction and ischemic heart disease, even if the patient has undergone a procedure with mild hemodynamic change and minimal surgical stimulation such as vitrectomy. We propose that physicians treating elderly patients with LV diastolic dysfunction and ischemic heart disease undergoing vitrectomy should consider the use of intraoperative transthoracic echocardiogram or transesophageal echocardiogram with continuous monitoring of blood pressure, using devices such as arterial catheter devices.

Heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles acting on the nasolabial fold by dissection and three-dimensional microcomputed tomography

The aim of this study was to clarify the heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles acting on the nasolabial fold (NLF) by dissection and three-dimensional microcomputed tomography for use in aesthetic treatments. This study used 56 specimens from 34 embalmed adult Korean. A reference line (RF) was set to imitate the NLF after removing the skin, from the superior point of the alar facial crease to the lateral point of the orbicularis oris muscle at the level of the corner of the mouth. The heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles along the RF could be categorized into five main patterns. The dominant pattern was that the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle (LLSAN), levator labii superioris muscle (LLS), zygomaticus minor muscle (Zmi), and zygomaticus major muscle (Zmj) were on the medial third, medial half, middle third, and lateral third of the RF, respectively. In micro-CT imaging, beneath the skin of the medial half of the NLF, the LLSAN and Zmi fibers inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the middle third of the NLF, the Zmi fibers were found before the muscle inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the lateral third of the NLF, the lateral margin of the orbicularis oris muscle and some Zmj fibers were found at the location of the NLF. The present study utilized dissections and micro-CT to reveal the general pattern and variations of heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles passing beneath the NLF. These findings will be useful for understanding which muscles affect specific parts of NLFs with various contours, for reducing the NLF in aesthetic treatments, and for reconstructing the NLF in cases of facial paralysis.

Evaluation of natural growth rate and recommended age for shaving procedure by volumetric analysis of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the preoperative natural growth pattern of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia and postoperative volume changes in patients undergoing shaving procedures.

METHODS

Thirty-three patients who underwent serial computed tomography (CT) preoperatively and/or postoperatively were identified. The natural tumor growth rate was assessed using preoperative CT scans. The postoperative tumor regrowth rates and relevant variables were analyzed.

RESULTS

The preoperative tumor growth rates were significantly lower in patients aged ≥ 16 years than in those aged < 16 years (P < .001). The postoperative tumor regrowth rates were significantly greater when a shaving operation was performed at age < 16 years than at age ≥ 16 years (P = .04). In patients with clinical recurrence, the postoperative remnant tumor volume was inversely correlated with the tumor regrowth rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The tumor growth rate of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia significantly decreased after age 16. This should be considered when conducting functional and aesthetic assessments in planning for the shaving of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia.

Comparison of surgical outcomes of free flap reconstructions performed by expert microsurgeons and trainees who completed a structured microsurgical training program in a teaching hospital

BACKGROUND

Few studies have evaluated clinical outcomes of novice surgeons trained in a microsurgical training program. Herein, we describe successful free flap reconstructions performed by trainees who completed a structured microsurgical training program.

METHODS

The Microsurgical Skills Training Course, a laboratory-based structured microsurgical training program, was developed and used for microsurgical training. Three trainees (postgraduate years 6 and 7) who completed the training course during residency were assigned to perform free flap reconstructions between March 2015 and February 2019. Clinical outcomes of free flap reconstruction were assessed. A retrospective propensity-score-matched analysis was performed between the trainee and expert microsurgeon groups.

RESULTS

A total of 161 patients were included. Of them, 67 (25 of the trainee group and 42 of the expert group) were propensity score-matched. No flap failure developed in either matched group (p>0.999). Rates of overall complications, partial flap loss, and emergent reoperation due to vascular compromise were not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.384, p=0.525, and p=0.322, respectively), whereas those of donor complications and overall operation time were significantly higher in the trainee group than the expert group (p=0.002 and p<0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The use of a structured microvascular training program in qualified teaching hospitals may help trainees achieve independence as microsurgeons and favorable clinical outcomes.

Regional Lymph Node Metastasis of Scalp Angiosarcoma: A Detailed Clinical Observation Study of 40 Cases

BACKGROUND

The incidence of lymph node metastasis (LNM) of angiosarcomas is reported to be less than 15%, and elective neck management has not been indicated. This study evaluated the incidence and pattern of regional LNM in patients with scalp angiosarcomas using the clinical data of its full course to understand time-event sequences of scalp angiosarcomas.

METHODS

This retrospective study included all consecutive cases of pathology-confirmed angiosarcomas and analyzed 40 cases of scalp angiosarcomas. The survival plots were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the results are presented mainly in a descriptive manner.

RESULTS

The overall survival rate for the patients was 35.8% at 2 years. In contrast to previous reports, regional LNM was observed in more than half of the patients (52.5%) with scalp angiosarcoma. Meanwhile, a direct spread to distant organs occurred in only 27.5% of the patients. Regional LNM could predict clinical manifestation of systemic disease within 3 to 6 months. No differences in survival rates between patients with and without LNM were observed in this series. Occurrence of LNM seemed to be correlated with a high mitotic rate of primary tumors, but not with tumor grade or tumor dimension. The first-echelon lymph nodes from scalp angiosarcoma were peri-parotid, post-auricular, and level 2 lymph nodes.

CONCLUSIONS

For a localized scalp angiosarcoma, it seems reasonable for initial curative surgery to include prophylactic evaluation of regional lymph nodes for pathologic nodal staging, prognosis estimation, and the decision for systemic treatments.

Systemic review of global case reports on ankle pseudo aneurysm: Analysis of epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment

INTRODUCTION

Pseudo aneurysm of the ankle is a rare presentation and the management is complex due to the complex anatomy. The aim of this review is to examine the epidemiology, etiology, diagnostic modalities used and management. This is the first systematic review of this topic in literature.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review in multiple databases (including PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus) from 1966 to May 18, 2019, to identify all case reports and case series describing patients with ankle pseudo aneurysm. This systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). Our inclusion criteria included patients with ankle pseudo aneurysm of any age. We excluded reports in which the individual level data is not available. Patients demographic (gender, age), clinical characteristics (precipitating event, duration), diagnostic modality and treatment were recorded.

RESULT

There were in total 23 case reports identified on ankle pseudo aneurysm from 1966 until 2018. Among these twenty-three reports, 16 (70%) were male and seven (30%) patients were female. Age distribution showed higher number of reports among young adults, 15 patients (65%). Based on our systematic review trauma (48%), arthroscope (48%) and arthrodesis (4%) were the etiologies described in all these case reports. Ultrasound duplex and CT Angiogram has been used as a single modality in three reports each. In fifteen patients (65%) combination of imaging has been used for diagnosis. Anterior tibial artery is the most commonly injured vessel among the reported cases, comprised of 14 (61%) patients. Among these arthroscopes were the highest reported precipitating events, 9 (64%), followed by trauma in four patients (29%) and arthrodesis in one patient (7%). Treatment modalities described in all previous reports were excision and ligation, 10 (42%); excision of sac and primary repair, 4 (17%); excision of sac followed by reversed saphenous venous graft repair, 2 (8%); US guided compression, 2 (8%); US guided thrombin injection, 4 (17%); stenting, 1 (4%) and coiling, 1 (4%).

CONCLUSION

Ankle pseudoaneurysm is mostly preventable by detailed initial assessment following trauma or careful approach during arthroscope. Evolving diagnostic modality and treatment has shed some light into noninvasive management of pseudo aneurysm of ankle.

Persistent thrombocytopenia following dengue fever: What should we do?

Thrombocytopenia is a common laboratory finding in dengue infection. However, it usually resolves as the patient recovers from the infection. Persistent thrombocytopenia following dengue infection requires further investigation. Here, we present a case of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) following dengue infection complicated by intracranial bleeding.

Diagnostic value of bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchial washing in sputum-scarce or smear-negative cases with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis: a randomized study

OBJECTIVES

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and bronchial washing (BW) are two major methods used to obtain high-quality respiratory specimens from patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) but a sputum-scarce or smear-negative status. We aimed to compare the value of BAL and BW in the diagnosis of TB in such patients.

METHODS

We enrolled patients with suspected pulmonary TB but with a sputum-scarce or smear-negative status who were referred for bronchoscopy between October 2013 and January 2016. Participants were randomized into the BAL and BW groups for evaluation. The primary outcome was the diagnostic yield for TB detection. Secondary outcomes included culture positivity, positivity of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and procedure-related complications.

RESULTS

A total of 94 patients were assessed and 91 (43 in the BAL group, 48 in the BW group) were analysed. Twenty-one patients (48.8%) in the BAL group and 30 (62.5%) in the BW group had a final diagnosis of pulmonary TB. The detection rate of M. tuberculosis by culture or NAAT was significantly higher in BAL specimens than in BW specimens (85.7% vs 50.0%, p 0.009). The procedure-related complications were hypoxic events, 2/43 (4.7%) in the BAL group and 5/48 (10.4%) in the BW group; and post-bronchoscopic fever, 3/43 (7.0%) in the BAL group and 4/48 (8.3%) in the BW group.

DISCUSSION

As long as it is tolerable, BAL rather than BW, should be used to obtain specimens for the diagnosis of pulmonary TB in sputum-scarce or smear-negative cases.

Phenotypic association of presence of a somatic GNAQ mutation with port-wine stain distribution in capillary malformation

BACKGROUND

A somatic mutation of GNAQ (c.548G>A, p.Arg183Gln) plays a key role in capillary malformation development. The present study aimed to evaluate clinical manifestations of port-win stain (PWS) associated with this genetic mutation.

METHODS

Skin tissue was obtained from 70 patients with capillary malformation who had been treated with excision for lesions. Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify the abundance of cells with the GNAQ mutation.

RESULTS

The GNAQ mutation was found in 50 patients. Patients with lesions involving upper facial region, which included forehead, eyebrow, and upper eyelid, showed a significantly higher rate of positive GNAQ mutation than those not involving it. Cases with facial PWS involving all three facial regions (upper, middle, and lower) showed significantly higher positive rate of GNAQ mutation compared to those involving one or two.

CONCLUSIONS

Presence of the somatic mutation GNAQ p.Arg183Gln might be associated with clinical manifestations of PWS.

Atypical proliferative nodule in congenital melanocytic nevus with dural invasion: a case report

Here we report a case of a focal atypical proliferative nodule (PN) arising from a congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN). Diagnosis was challenging because it had both benign and malignant clinical features. Unusual histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and intraoperative findings of this atypical PN are discussed. A 5-year-old girl was admitted for a congenital 5× 5 cm sized scalp mass. This hemangioma-like soft mass showed biphasic characteristics such as a slow, gradual, and benign increase in size but worrisome dural invasion with cranial bone defect. We removed the scalp mass with clear resection margins. Interoperatively, we found that the cranial bone defect had already filled. Histopathologic examination showed CMN with focal atypical PN. The nodule showed sharp demarcation and cellular pleomorphism. However, in immunohistochemical study, Ki-67 proliferation index and expression levels of protein S-100 and Melan-A were very low. These were unusual findings of atypical PNs. Despite her worrisome preoperative radiologic features, she showed an indolent clinical course compatible with previously reported biologic behavior. The patient underwent follow-up inspection with magnetic resonance imaging every 6 months for up to 3 years. The nodule appeared to be stationary at the last visit.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a risk factor for cancer: a nationwide population-based study in Korea

OBJECTIVE

Specific differences in cancer risk have been observed between systemic lupus erythematosus patients and the general population. Although meta-analyses have estimated cancer incidence in systemic lupus erythematosus patients, results have been inconclusive. Hence, we aimed to assess malignancy risk in systemic lupus erythematosus patients, compared to the risk in the general population.

METHODS

Systemic lupus erythematosus patients ( n = 21,016; mean age 41.67 ± 13.14 years; female 90.22%) were selected from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database between 2008 and 2014. Age- and sex-matched controls were randomly sampled in a 5:1 ratio ( n = 105,080).

RESULTS

During the 7 years of follow up, malignancy was detected in 763 (3.63%) systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 2667 (2.54%) controls. Systemic lupus erythematosus patients had a higher risk of malignancy than controls (odds ratio 1.44; 95% confidence interval 1.327-1.559), after multivariate adjustment. Systemic lupus erythematosus patients had a higher odds ratio for developing cervical, thyroid, ovarian, and oral cancer, as well as lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma than controls. Based on subgroup analysis, male systemic lupus erythematosus patients and patients younger than 40 years showed the highest lymphoma risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic lupus erythematosus might be an independent risk factor for cancer. Therefore, the importance of cancer screening programs should be emphasized in systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Our study is the first large nationwide cohort study for evaluating the risk of cancer in systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Stress and burnout syndrome in health-care providers treating dengue infection: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Increased prevalence of dengue fever had led to increase stress in providing optimal care for patients. This has been identified as a potential factor that may lead to negative health effects on medical doctors. This study was designed to review the prevalence and associated factors of burnout syndrome (including depression, anxiety, and stress level) among clinicians in the setting of increasing cases of dengue in Malaysia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, multi-centre study was carried out among doctors in contact with patients with dengue infection from four major hospitals in Malaysia in 2015 using Maslach Burnout Inventory and DASS-21 questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 313 respondents were included in this study with 15.9% of the respondents experiencing high burnout syndrome. Long working hours, depression, anxiety, and stress were significantly associated with high degree of burnout syndrome (p<0.05). However, number of dengue cases reviewed was not significantly associated with the degree of burnout syndrome. Depression and stress were among factors identified as the predictors for burnout syndrome.

CONCLUSION

High degree of burnout syndrome among clinicians with significant correlations with symptoms of depression and stress will require early identification to enable early measures to resolve, as well as prevent it. Future studies with more hospitals involvement should be conducted to establish the relationship between the degree of burnout syndrome and prevalence of dengue infection.

Colorectal cancer liver metastatic growth depends on PAD4-driven citrullination of the extracellular matrix

Citrullination of proteins, a post-translational conversion of arginine residues to citrulline, is recognized in rheumatoid arthritis, but largely undocumented in cancer. Here we show that citrullination of the extracellular matrix by cancer cell derived peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) is essential for the growth of liver metastases from colorectal cancer (CRC). Using proteomics, we demonstrate that liver metastases exhibit higher levels of citrullination and PAD4 than unaffected liver, primary CRC or adjacent colonic mucosa. Functional significance for citrullination in metastatic growth is evident in murine models where inhibition of citrullination substantially reduces liver metastatic burden. Additionally, citrullination of a key matrix component collagen type I promotes greater adhesion and decreased migration of CRC cells along with increased expression of characteristic epithelial markers, suggesting a role for citrullination in promoting mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and liver metastasis. Overall, our study reveals the potential for PAD4-dependant citrullination to drive the progression of CRC liver metastasis.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease: a nationwide, population-based study in Korea

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence and clinical significance of cardiovascular disease in systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

METHODS

We included systemic lupus erythematosus patients ( n = 18,575) without previous cardiovascular disease and age- and sex-matched individuals without systemic lupus erythematosus (controls; n = 92,875) from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database (2008-2014). Both cohorts were followed up for incident cardiovascular disease and death until 2015.

RESULTS

During follow up, myocardial infarction occurred in 203 systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 325 controls (incidence rate: 1.76 and 0.56 per 1000 person-years, respectively), stroke occurred in 289 patients and 403 controls (incidence rate: 2.51 and 0.70 per 1000 person-years, respectively), heart failure occurred in 358 patients and 354 controls (incidence rate 3.11 and 0.61 per 1000 person-years, respectively), and death occurred in 744 patients and 948 controls (incidence rate 6.54 and 1.64 per 1000 person-years, respectively). Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus had higher risks for myocardial infarction (hazard ratio: 2.74, 95% confidence interval: 2.28-3.37), stroke (hazard ratio: 3.31, 95% confidence interval: 2.84-3.86), heart failure (hazard ratio: 4.60, 95% confidence interval: 3.96-5.35), and cardiac death (hazard ratio: 3.98, 95% confidence interval: 3.61-4.39).

CONCLUSIONS

Here, systemic lupus erythematosus was an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, thus cardiac assessment and management are critical in systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Low rates of osteoporosis treatment after hospitalization for hip fracture in Hawaii

We evaluated osteoporosis treatment and DEXA utilization rates of patients who were admitted for hip fracture in a single healthcare system in Hawaii from 2015 to 2016. We found that osteoporosis treatment and DEXA utilization rates were low, highlighting a critical gap in osteoporosis care after admission for hip fracture.

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to evaluate osteoporosis care after an admission for hip fracture at three community hospitals within a single healthcare system in Hawaii.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted (n = 428) of patients ≥ 50 years and hospitalized for hip fractures between January 1, 2015, and May 31, 2016, at three major hospitals within Hawaii Pacific Health, a large healthcare system in Hawaii. Basic demographics were collected, and medications prescribed were quantified and described within 1 year of hip fracture. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between collected variables and the odds of osteoporosis treatment.

RESULTS

Only 115 (26.9%) patients were prescribed a medication for osteoporosis as a secondary prevention within a year of hospitalization for hip fracture. DEXA scans were performed in 137 (32.0%) patients. Most of the treated patients were prescribed oral bisphosphonates. Treatment facility, female gender, and higher BMI were found to be predictive factors for osteoporosis treatment.

CONCLUSION

The use of osteoporosis medication for secondary prevention after admission for hip fracture in Hawaii is low. Efforts need to be made to improve treatment rates, especially among males.

Low-dissolved-oxygen nitrification in tropical sewage: an investigation on potential, performance and functional microbial community

Intensive aeration for nitrification is a major energy consumer in sewage treatment plants (STPs). Low-dissolved-oxygen (low-DO) nitrification has the potential to lower the aeration demand. However, the applicability of low-DO nitrification in the tropical climate is not well-understood. In this study, the potential of low-DO nitrification in tropical setting was first examined using batch kinetic experiments. Subsequently, the performance of low-DO nitrification was investigated in a laboratory-scale sequential batch reactor (SBR) for 42 days using real tropical sewage. The batch kinetic experiments showed that the seed sludge has a relatively high oxygen affinity. Thus, the rate of nitrification was not significantly reduced at low DO concentrations (0.5 mg/L). During the operation of the low-DO nitrification SBR, 90% of NH₄-N was removed. The active low-DO nitrification was mainly attributed to the limited biodegradable organics in the sewage. Fluorescence in-situ hybridisation and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing revealed the nitrifiers were related to Nitrospira genus and Nitrosomonadaceae family. Phylogenetic analysis suggests 47% of the operational taxonomic units in Nitrospira genus are closely related to a comammox bacteria. This study has demonstrated active low-DO nitrification in tropical setting, which is a more sustainable process that could significantly reduce the energy footprint of STPs.

Comparison of Recipient Outcomes After Kidney Transplantation: In-House Versus Imported Deceased Donors

BACKGROUND

Increased cold ischemia time in cadaveric kidney transplants has been associated with a high rate of delayed graft function (DGF), and even with graft survival. Kidney transplantation using in-house donors reduces cold preservation time. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes after transplantation in house and externally.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of donors and recipients of 135 deceased-donor kidney transplantations performed in our center from March 2009 to March 2016.

RESULTS

Among the 135 deceased donors, 88 (65.2%) received the kidneys from in-house donors. Median cold ischemia time of transplantation from in-house donors was shorter than for imported donors (180.00 vs 300.00 min; P < .001). The risks of DGF and slow graft function were increased among the imported versus in-house donors. Imported kidney was independently associated with greater odds of DGF in multivariate regression analysis (odds ratio, 4.165; P = .038). However, the renal function of recipients at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years after transplantation was not significantly different between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Transplantation with in-house donor kidneys was significantly associated with a decreased incidence of DGF, but long-term graft function and survival were similar compared with imported donor kidneys.

Experience with specially designed pored polyacetal mold dressing method used in McIndoe-style vaginoplasty

INTRODUCTION

Appropriate postoperative care and prolonged use of the mold are prerequisites for achieving successful results in McIndoe-style vaginoplasty.

OBJECTIVE

We introduce a specially designed pored polyacetal mold to maintain the reconstructed vagina, with favorable long-term results allowing drainage of the serous and bloody discharge without removal of the mold, and reduction of infection rate and the chance of skin graft shearing in McIndoe vaginoplasty.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data of 10 consecutive patients with Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome who underwent McIndoe vaginoplasty between March 2010 and January 2014. We used a specially designed pored polyacetal mold (Figure) in all reconstructed vaginal wounds. The anatomical surgical success was evaluated by physical examination and functional success, which was defined as satisfaction with sex evaluated by patient self-assessed questionnaire.

RESULTS

The follow-up period ranged from 1 to 3.5 years. The postoperative mean vaginal length was 9.5 cm in nine patients who used the mold regularly. In all cases in which a pored polyacetal mold was used, skin engraftment was successfully maintained without partial skin graft loss or infection. The subjective patient self-assessed satisfaction evaluation reported a high satisfaction rate.

DISCUSSION

The multi-holed polyacetal vaginal mold was designed to perform vaginal irrigation without removal of the mold, allowing drainage of the serous and bloody discharge. This makes it possible to reduce infection rate and maintain successful skin engraftment by reducing the chance of skin graft shearing. The characteristics of polyacetal make it useful as a vaginal mold material as it is lightweight to use, easy to manufacture in accordance with the dimensions of the neovaginal space, and cost-effective. Although a constant follow-up evaluation is required, the pored polyacetal mold is an attractive vaginal mold dressing material to maximize the initial graft uptake, and it can be individually tailored in patients undergoing McIndoe-style vaginoplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

The specially designed vaginal mold made up of pored polyacetal is a proper vaginal mold, which could maximize the initial graft uptake, decrease the risk of wound infection, and, therefore, decrease contracture of the neovagina in patients undergoing McIndoe vaginoplasty.

Effect of epidural corticosteroid injection on magnetic resonance imaging findings

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine is the preferred diagnostic tool for pathologic conditions affecting the spine. However, in patients receiving epidural corticosteroid injection (ESI) for treatment of spinal diseases, there is a possibility of misreading of MR images because of air or fluid in the epidural space after the injection. Therefore, we defined the characteristics of abnormal changes in MRI findings following an ESI in patients with low back pain.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 133 patients who underwent MRI of the lumbar spine within 7 days after ESI between 2006 and 2015.All patients were administered an ESI using a 22-gauge Tuohy needle at the lumbar spine through the interlaminar approach. The epidural space was identified by the loss of resistance technique with air.

Results

The incidences of abnormal changes in MRI findings because of ESI were 54%, 31%, and 25% in patients who underwent MRI at approximately 24 h, and 2 and 3 days after ESI, respectively. Abnormal MRI findings included epidural air or fluid, needle tracks, and soft tissue changes. Epidural air, the most frequent abnormal finding (82%), was observed in 41% of patients who underwent MRI within 3 days after injection. Abnormal findings due to an ESI were not observed in MR images acquired 4 days after ESI or later.

Conclusions

Pain physicians should consider the possibility of abnormal findings in MR images acquired after epidural injection using the interlaminar approach and the loss of resistance technique with air at the lumbar spine.

Pulmonary actinomycosis masquerading as lung cancer: A case report

Pulmonary actinomycosis is a rare yet important and challenging diagnosis to make. It is commonly confused with other lung diseases, such as tuberculosis and bronchogenic carcinoma, leading to delay diagnosis or misdiagnosis. A 49-year-old man presented with a chronic cough, hemoptysis, and pleuritic chest pain. His initial imaging studies including computed tomography (CT) was suggestive of bronchogenic carcinoma. A subsequent CTguided biopsy was consistent with pulmonary actinomycosis and excluded the possibility of bronchogenic carcinoma. He was treated with antibiotic therapy and achieved remission with complete radiological resolution upon follow-up.

Bilateral optic neuritis with maculopathy: A rare manifestation of dengue fever

Dengue fever is a common mosquito-borne disease, which is endemic in tropical and subtropical countries. Bilateral optic neuropathy is a relatively unusual dengue-related ocular complication. Here, we present a case of bilateral optic neuritis with maculopathy complicating dengue infection.

Washout Ratio in the Hepatic Vein Measured by Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography to Distinguish Between Inflammatory and Noninflammatory Hepatic Disorders in Dogs

Background

Perflubutane microbubbles, a second‐generation ultrasound contrast agent, are phagocytized by Kupffer cells. This characteristic may be useful to differentiate diffuse hepatic diseases in dogs.

Hypothesis/objectives

To determine whether the washout ratio in the hepatic vein (HV) measured by contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) can distinguish between inflammatory and noninflammatory hepatic disorders in dogs.

Animals

Forty‐one client‐owned dogs with hepatic disorders including 14 with hepatitis, 7 with primary hypoplasia of the portal vein (PHPV), 9 with congenital portosystemic shunt (cPSS), and 11 with other hepatopathy were enrolled. Six dogs without hepatic disease also were evaluated as healthy controls.

Methods

Dogs with hepatic disorders were prospectively included. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography of the HV was performed for 2 minutes. Washout ratio was defined as the attenuation rate from peak intensity to the intensity at the end of the CEUS study.

Results

Washout ratio in the hepatitis group (median, 18.0%; range, 2.0–37.0%) was significantly lower than that of the PHPV (median, 52.2%; range, 11.5–86.3%), cPSS (median, 60.0%; range, 28.6–77.4%), other hepatopathy (median, 70.5%; range, 26.6–88.4%), and normal (median, 78.0%; range, 60.7–91.7%) groups. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for hepatitis was 0.960, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.853–0.990. Washout ratio ≤37.1% resulted in a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI, 78.5–100%) and specificity of 85.2% (95% CI, 67.5–94.1%) for the prediction of hepatitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Washout ratio can distinguish hepatitis from the other noninflammatory disorders with high accuracy. This result might reflect impaired Kupffer cell phagocytosis in dogs with hepatitis.

Localization of Toll-like Receptor (TLR) 2 and TLR4 mRNA in the Colorectal Mucosa of Miniature Dachshunds with Inflammatory Colorectal Polyps

Inflammatory colorectal polyps (ICRPs) are characterized by the formation of multiple or solitary polyps with marked neutrophil infiltration in the colorectal area, and are speculated to be a novel form of breed-specific canine idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In human IBD, toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 and TLR4 have been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA in the colorectal mucosa of dogs with ICRPs by in-situ hybridization using an RNAscope assay. Samples of inflamed colorectal mucosa (n = 5) and non-inflamed mucosa (n = 5) from miniature dachshunds (MDs) with ICRPs and colonic mucosa from healthy beagles (n = 5) were examined. TLR2 and TLR4 hybridization signals were localized to the colorectal epithelium, inflammatory cells and fibroblasts in the inflamed colorectal mucosa of affected dogs. The signals were significantly greater in inflamed colorectal epithelium compared with non-inflamed epithelium of MDs with ICRPs and healthy beagles (P <0.05). These results suggest that increased expression of TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA in the inflamed colorectal mucosa results from not only inflammatory cell infiltration, but also the upregulation of TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA in the colonic epithelium.

Axillary accessory breast carcinoma masquerading as axillary abscess: a case report

Accessory breast is a frequently seen developmental breast abnormality, commoner among Asians than Caucasians. This ectopic breast tissue shares many similarities as the normal breast tissue, and although subjected to the same pathological processes, accessory breast carcinoma is rare. As locations of the accessory breast may be variable, detection of pathological lesions through clinical examinations and standard diagnostic tools (i.e., mammogram) can be difficult. Staging and management should be tailored-made according to the location of the accessory breast as well as its known pattern of lymphatic drainage. We report a case of an intra-ductal carcinoma occurring in an axillary accessory breast.