What Goes Down, Might Come Up!

Author(s):  
Sharon E. Mace

In infants, vomiting is usually benign, but it can also portend significant underlying illness or injury. It is important to remember that although vomiting is commonly from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract itself, it may also be due to more generalized, systemic disorders or injuries (non-GI causes). As with most pediatric complaints a comprehensive history and physical exam is critical to direct both diagnostic testing and management. Remember the past medical history in infants includes neonatal history, growth and developmental history (include weight gain), social and family history. A history of bilious vomiting in an infant should always raise concerns occurs with obstruction, therefore, bilious vomiting always warrants evaluation.

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Syed Raza Ali Shah ◽  
Sherpa Dolkar ◽  
Jacob Mathew ◽  
Prakash Vishnu

Abstract Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has emerged as a deadliest global pandemic after its identification in December 2019 in Wuhan, China resulting in more than three million deaths worldwide. Recently FDA issued emergency authorization for three vaccines for prevention of COVID-19. Here in, we report three cases of severe immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) following COVID-19 vaccination and their clinical course. Case presentations Case #1: 53 year old male with past medical history of Crohn’s disease was admitted for myalgias and diffuse petechial rash 8 days after receiving second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. A complete blood test showed a platelet count of 2 × 109/L. Patient did not have a prior history of thrombocytopenia and other causes of thrombocytopenia were ruled out by history and pertinent lab data. He received two doses of intravenous immunoglobulin and oral dexamethasone for 4 days resulting in normalization of platelet counts. Case #2: 67 year male with past medical history of chronic ITP in remission was admitted for melena 2 days after receiving his first dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. A complete blood test showed a platelet count of 2 × 109/L. Physical exam showed generalized petechiae. There was no history of recent flares of ITP and patient had normal platelet counts following his splenectomy 4 years ago. He received two doses of IVIG and oral dexamethasone for 4 days with gradual improvement in platelet counts. Case #3: 59 year old female with past medical history of chronic ITP secondary to SLE was admitted for bloody diarrhea 2 days after receiving her first dose of Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. Physical exam was unremarkable. A complete blood test showed platelet count of 64 × 109/L which dropped to 27 × 109/L during hospital course. She received oral dexamethasone for 4 days with improvement in platelet counts. Conclusion COVID-19 vaccination induced ITP has been recently acknowledged. However, given very few cases and limited data, currently there are no guidelines for management of ITP caused by COVID-19 vaccine as well as vaccination of people with predisposing conditions.


2021 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-4
Author(s):  
Kara Calhoun ◽  

No abstract available. Article truncated after 150 words. History of Present Illness A 32-year-old woman with no known past medical history presented with progressive shortness of breath for 2 weeks. She denied having a cough, fever, or chills, but she did have a one-month history of fatigue, weakness, and painful rashes on her hands. PMH, SH, and FH • No known past medical history • Former tobacco user (quit 2 years prior to admission) • No drug use • Worked as an office assistant • Has two pet dogs and four pet macaws • No family history of lung disease • Not taking any prescription medications Physical Exam • BP: 116/65, Pulse: 105, T: 37°C, RR: 28, SpO2: 89% on HHFNC (60L; 100%) • Pulmonary: Tachypneic, in respiratory distress, crackles throughout • Cardiovascular: Tachycardic but regular, no murmurs • Extremities: No edema • Skin: Palms with purplish discoloration and erythematous papules Which of the following should be done next? 1. CT Chest 2. COVID-19 testing 3. Sputum gram stain and …


1980 ◽  
Vol 19 (03) ◽  
pp. 162-164 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rachel Harris ◽  
W. Margaret ◽  
Kathleen Hunter

The recall rate of patients’ family medical histories was studied in 200 cancer and non-cancer patients. Data on age and cause of death for parents and grandparents were collected. Although most patients knew the age and cause of death of parents, less than half knew for grandparents. Cancer patients had significantly greater recall for maternally related relatives. A subsample of patients’ family medical histories was compared to death certificate data. Patients’ reports were found to be highly inaccurate. Since only a small subgroup could provide medical history data for grandparents, the generaliz-ability for history of family illness is questioned.


Author(s):  
Annamaria Biczok ◽  
Philipp Karschnia ◽  
Raffaela Vitalini ◽  
Markus Lenski ◽  
Tobias Greve ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Prognostic markers for meningioma recurrence are needed to guide patient management. Apart from rare hereditary syndromes, the impact of a previous unrelated tumor disease on meningioma recurrence has not been described before. Methods We retrospectively searched our database for patients with meningioma WHO grade I and complete resection provided between 2002 and 2016. Demographical, clinical, pathological, and outcome data were recorded. The following covariates were included in the statistical model: age, sex, clinical history of unrelated tumor disease, and localization (skull base vs. convexity). Particular interest was paid to the patients’ past medical history. The study endpoint was date of tumor recurrence on imaging. Prognostic factors were obtained from multivariate proportional hazards models. Results Out of 976 meningioma patients diagnosed with a meningioma WHO grade I, 416 patients fulfilled our inclusion criteria. We encountered 305 women and 111 men with a median age of 57 years (range: 21–89 years). Forty-six patients suffered from a tumor other than meningioma, and no TERT mutation was detected in these patients. There were no differences between patients with and without a positive oncological history in terms of age, tumor localization, or mitotic cell count. Clinical history of prior tumors other than meningioma showed the strongest association with meningioma recurrence (p = 0.004, HR = 3.113, CI = 1.431–6.771) both on uni- and multivariate analysis. Conclusion Past medical history of tumors other than meningioma might be associated with an increased risk of meningioma recurrence. A detailed pre-surgical history might help to identify patients at risk for early recurrence.


Author(s):  
Chase A Rathfoot ◽  
Camron Edressi ◽  
Carolyn B Sanders ◽  
Krista Knisely ◽  
Nicolas Poupore ◽  
...  

Introduction : Previous research into the administration of rTPA therapy in acute ischemic stroke patients has largely focused on the general population, however the comorbid clinical factors held by stroke patients are important factors in clinical decision making. One such comorbid condition is Atrial Fibrillation. The purpose of this study is to determine the clinical factors associated with the administration of rtPA in Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) patients specifically with a past medical history of Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). Methods : The data for this analysis was collected at a regional stroke center from January 2010 to June 2016 in Greenville, SC. It was then analyzed retrospectively using a multivariate logistic regression to identify factors significantly associated with the inclusion or exclusion receiving rtPA therapy in the AIS/AFib patient population. This inclusion or exclusion is presented as an Odds Ratio and all data was analyzed using IBM SPSS. Results : A total of 158 patients with Atrial Fibrillation who had Acute Ischemic Strokes were identified. For the 158 patients, the clinical factors associated with receiving rtPA therapy were a Previous TIA event (OR = 12.155, 95% CI, 1.125‐131.294, P < 0.040), the administration of Antihypertensive medication before admission (OR = 7.157, 95% CI, 1.071‐47.837, P < 0.042), the administration of Diabetic medication before admission (OR = 13.058, 95% CI, 2.004‐85.105, P < 0.007), and serum LDL level (OR = 1.023, 95% CI, 1.004‐1.042, P < 0.16). Factors associated with not receiving rtPA therapy included a past medical history of Depression (OR = 0.012, 95% CI, 0.000‐0.401, P < 0.013) or Obesity (OR = 0.131, 95% CI, 0.034‐0.507, P < 0.003), Direct Admission to the Neurology Floor (OR = 0.179, 95% CI, 0.050‐0.639, P < 0.008), serum Lipid level (OR = 0.544, 95% CI, 0.381‐0.984, P < 0.044), and Diastolic Blood Pressure (OR = 0.896, 95% CI, 0.848‐0.946, P < 0.001). Conclusions : The results of this study demonstrate that there are significant associations between several clinical risk factors, patient lab values, and hospital admission factors in the administration of rTPA therapy to AIS patients with a past medical history of Atrial Fibrillation. Further research is recommended to determine the extent and reasoning behind of these associations as well as their impact on the clinical course for AIS/AFib patients.


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. A209-A209
Author(s):  
Catherine Stewart ◽  
Paul Benjamin Loughrey ◽  
John R Lindsay

Abstract Background: Osteopetrosis is a group of rare inherited skeletal dysplasias, with each variant sharing the hallmark of increased bone mineral density (BMD). Abnormal osteoclast activity produces overly dense bone predisposing to fracture and skeletal deformities. Whilst no cure for these disorders exists, endocrinologists play an important role in surveillance and management of complications. Clinical Cases: A 43-year-old female had findings suggestive of increased BMD on radiographic imaging performed to investigate shoulder and back pain. X-ray of lumbar spine demonstrated a ‘rugger jersey’ spine appearance, while shoulder X-ray revealed mixed lucency and sclerosis of the humeral head. DXA scan showed T-scores of +11 at the hip and +12.5 at the lumbar spine. MRI of head displayed bilateral narrowing and elongation of the internal acoustic meatus and narrowing of the orbital foramina. Genetic assessment confirmed autosomal dominant osteopetrosis with a CLCN7 variant. Oral colecalciferol supplementation was commenced and multi-disciplinary management instigated with referral to ophthalmology and ENT teams. A 25-year-old male presented with a seven-year history of low back pain and prominent bony swelling around the tibial tuberosities and nape of neck. Past medical history included repeated left scaphoid fracture in 2008 and 2018. Recovery from his scaphoid fracture was complicated by non-union requiring bone grafting with open reduction and fixation. Plain X-rays of the spine again demonstrated ‘rugger jersey’ spine. DXA scan was notable for elevated T scores; +2.9 at hip and +5.8 lumbar spine. MRI spine showed vertebral endplate cortical thickening and sclerosis at multiple levels. The patient declined genetic testing and is under clinical review. A 62-year-old male was referred to the bone metabolism service following a DXA scan showing T scores of +11. 7 at the hip and +13 at the lumbar spine. His primary complaint was of neck pain and on MRI there was multi-level nerve root impingement secondary to facet joint hypertrophy. Past medical history was significant for a long history of widespread joint pains; previous X-ray reports described generalized bony sclerosis up to 11 years previously. Clinical and radiological monitoring continues. Conclusion: Individuals with osteopetrosis require a multidisciplinary approach to management. There is no curative treatment and mainstay of therapy is supportive with active surveillance for complications.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Donogh Maguire ◽  
Marylynne Woods ◽  
Conor Richards ◽  
Ross Dolan ◽  
Jesse Wilson Veitch ◽  
...  

Abstract BackgroundSevere COVID-19 infection results in a systemic inflammatory response (SIRS). This SIRS response shares similarities to the changes observed during the peri-operative period that are recognised to be associated with the development of multiple organ failure. MethodsElectronic patient records for patients who were admitted to an urban teaching hospital during the initial 7-week period of the COVID-19 pandemic in Glasgow, U.K. (17th March 2020 - 1st May 2020) were examined for routine clinical, laboratory and clinical outcome data. Age, sex, BMI and documented evidence of COVID-19 infection at time of discharge or death certification were considered minimal criteria for inclusion.ResultsOf the 224 patients who fulfilled the criteria for inclusion, 52 (23%) had died at 30-days following admission. COVID-19 related respiratory failure (75%) and multiorgan failure (12%) were the commonest causes of death recorded. Age>70 years (p<0.001), past medical history of cognitive impairment (p<0.001), previous delirium (p<0.001), clinical frailty score>3 (p<0.001), hypertension (p<0.05), heart failure (p<0.01), national early warning score (NEWS) >4 (p<0.01), positive CXR (p<0.01), and subsequent positive COVID-19 swab (p<0.001) were associated with 30-day mortality. CRP>80 mg/L (p<0.05), albumin <35g/L (p<0.05), peri-operative Glasgow Prognostic Score (poGPS) (p<0.05), lymphocytes <1.5 109/l (p<0.05), neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (p<0.001), haematocrit (<0.40 L/L (male) / <0.37 L/L (female)) (p<0.01), urea>7.5 mmol/L (p<0.001), creatinine >130 mmol/L (p<0.05) and elevated urea: albumin ratio (<0.001) were also associated with 30-day mortality.On analysis, age >70 years (O.R. 3.9, 95% C.I. 1.4 – 8.2, p<0.001), past medical history of heart failure (O.R. 3.3, 95% C.I. 1.2 – 19.3, p<0.05), NEWS >4 (O.R. 2.4, 95% C.I. 1.1 – 4.4, p<0.05), positive initial CXR (O.R. 0.4, 95% C.I. 0.2-0.9, p<0.05) and poGPS (O.R. 2.3, 95% C.I. 1.1 – 4.4, p<0.05) remained independently associated with 30-day mortality. Among those patients who tested PCR COVID-19 positive (n=122), age >70 years (O.R. 4.7, 95% C.I. 2.0 - 11.3, p<0.001), past medical history of heart failure (O.R. 4.4, 95% C.I. 1.2 – 20.5, p<0.05) and poGPS (O.R. 2.4, 95% C.I. 1.1- 5.1, p<0.05) remained independently associated with 30-days mortality.ConclusionAge > 70 years and severe systemic inflammation as measured by the peri-operative Glasgow Prognostic Score are independently associated with 30-day mortality among patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 infection.


Author(s):  
Melissa D Klein ◽  
Freddy Tinajeros ◽  
María del Carmen Menduiña ◽  
Edith Málaga ◽  
Beth J Condori ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Vertical transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi infection accounts for a growing proportion of new cases of Chagas disease. Better risk stratification is needed to predict which women are more likely to transmit the infection. Methods This study enrolled women and their infants at the Percy Boland Women’s Hospital in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Pregnant women were screened for Chagas disease by rapid test and received confirmatory serology. Infants of seropositive mothers underwent diagnostic testing with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results Among 5,828 enrolled women, 1,271 (21.8%) screened positive for Chagas disease. Older maternal age, family history of Chagas disease, home conditions, lower education level, and history of living in a rural area were significantly associated with higher adjusted odds of maternal infection. Of the 1,325 infants of seropositive mothers, 65 infants (4.9%) were diagnosed with congenital Chagas disease. Protective factors against transmission included Cesarean delivery (adjusted OR [aOR]: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.36-0.99) and family history of Chagas disease (aOR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.34-0.99). Twins were significantly more likely to be congenitally infected than singleton births (OR: 3.32, 95% CI: 1.60-6.90). Among congenitally infected infants, 32.3% had low birth weight, and 30.8% required hospitalization after birth. Conclusions Although improved access to screening and qPCR increased the number of infants diagnosed with congenital Chagas disease, many infants remain undiagnosed. A better understanding of risk factors and improved access to highly sensitive and specific diagnostic techniques for congenital Chagas disease may help improve regional initiatives to reduce disease burden.


2022 ◽  
pp. 106002802110701
Author(s):  
Francisco Ibarra ◽  
Kaitlyn Loi ◽  
Ann W. Vu

Background The use of IV insulin infusions in the acute management of hypertriglyceridemia has only been evaluated in small observational studies and case reports. Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of IV insulin infusions in the acute management of hypertriglyceridemia. Methods This was a retrospective chart review of adult patients who received an IV insulin infusion for the acute management of hypertriglyceridemia. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes were the number of patients who achieved a triglyceride level <500 mg/dL and experienced hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dL), respectively. A subgroup analysis was performed to compare outcomes between patients with and without diabetes, in addition to the IV insulin infusion rate received. Results In the total population (n = 51), there were no statistically significant differences between the insulin intensity groups in the number of patients who achieved TG levels <500 mg/dL. Compared to patients with a past medical history of diabetes, more patients without a past medical history of diabetes achieved triglyceride levels <500 mg/dL (14% vs 53%, respectively, P < 0.001). The number of hypoglycemic events observed in patients with and without a past medical history of diabetes were 5 (14%) and 4 (27%), respectively ( P = 0.023). Conclusion and Relevance Our findings suggest that patients who present with lower initial TG levels are more likely to achieve TG levels <500 mg/dL. To minimize the risk of hypoglycemia providers should consider prescribing a concomitant dextrose infusion and limiting IV insulin infusion rates ≤ 0.075 units/kg/h.


2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 (8) ◽  
Author(s):  
Aghyad K Danial ◽  
Ahmad Al-Mouakeh ◽  
Yaman K Danial ◽  
Ahmad A Nawlo ◽  
Ahmad Khalil ◽  
...  

Abstract Small bowel diaphragm disease is a rare complication related to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. It presents with non-specific symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, subacute bowel obstruction and occasionally as an acute abdominal condition. We report a case of diaphragm disease in a 33-year-old female who presented with vomiting, constipation and abdominal pain started 5 days earlier. Physical examination revealed palpated abdominal mass. The patient’s past medical history was remarkable for NSAID use. The patient was managed by surgical resection of involved intestine and diagnosis was confirmed by histological examination. Although there are few published cases of diaphragm disease in the medical literature, we recommend that this disease should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses when assessing patients presenting with non-specific abdominal symptoms with remarkable past medical history of NSAID use.


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