scholarly journals Persistent Smell Loss Following Undetectable SARS-CoV-2

2020 ◽  
Vol 163 (5) ◽  
pp. 923-925 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carol H. Yan ◽  
Divya P. Prajapati ◽  
Michele L. Ritter ◽  
Adam S. DeConde
Keyword(s):  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Subsequent Test ◽  
Viral Shedding ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Polymerase Chain ◽  
Smell Loss ◽  
Pcr Test

The association of smell and taste loss with COVID-19 has been well demonstrated with high prevalence rates. In certain cases, chemosensory loss may be the only symptom of COVID-19 and may linger while other symptoms have resolved. The significance of persistent smell and taste loss and its relationship to ongoing viral shedding has yet to be investigated. In this cross-sectional study, of the 316 laboratory test–confirmed COVID-19 cases at our institution, 46 had subsequent test-based confirmation of viral clearance with 2 consecutive negative RT-PCR test results (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction). Olfactory dysfunction was reported by 50% of the patients (23 of 46), with 78% (18 of 23) having subjective persistent smell loss despite negative RT-PCR test results. These preliminary data demonstrate the persistence of self-reported smell loss despite otherwise clinical resolution and undetectable nasal viral RNA.

Detection of blaVIM and blaIMP Carbapenemase-Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Clinical Samples in Iran

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Reza Zolfaghari
Keyword(s):  
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Clinical Samples ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Chain Reaction ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Polymerase Chain ◽  
High Level

Background and Aims: The prevalence of carbapenemase-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) strains has been recently reported worldwide. Therefore, accurate and rapid detection of carbapenemase-producing isolates is essential. So, this study aimed to detect blaVIM and blaIMP carbapenemase-producing strains using the modified Hodge test (MHT) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, P. aeruginosa  strains were collected from clinical samples (blood, urine, wound, and other liquids body) in Firoozgar and Shahid Motahari Hospitals in Tehran and Velayat Hospital in Rasht Province, from May to December 2018. After identifying the isolates using the standard microbial tests, carbapenemase-producing strains were isolated by the modified hodge test. After that, the detection of blaVIM and blaIMP genes was performed by RT-PCR technique. Results: One hundred P. aeruginosa were isolated from different clinical samples. Among these, 74 (74%) isolates were considered as carbapenemase positive using MHT. The frequencies of blaVIM and blaIMP genes were obtained as 83% and 11%, respectively. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate a high level of resistance to most of the antibiotics tested and a high prevalence of blaVIM gene in P. aeruginosa strains.

scholarly journals Association of Anosmia and Positive SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) RT-PCR Test Results Among Patients in the Quezon City General Hospital

2021 ◽  
Vol 36 (1) ◽  
pp. 33
Author(s):  
Jeff James Alega ◽  
Emmanuel Tadeus Cruz
Keyword(s):  
General Hospital ◽  
Neck Surgery ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
The Philippines ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Government Hospital ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Quezon City ◽  
Pcr Test

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the association of anosmia and positive SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) RT-PCR test results among patients in a tertiary government hospital in Metro Manila.   Methods: Design: Cross-Sectional Study Setting: Tertiary Government Hospital Participants: Patients aged 18 years old and above who consulted or were admitted with COVID-19 symptoms at the Quezon City General Hospital in the Philippines from July to September 2020 answered an offline version of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery AAO-HNS COVID-19 Anosmia Reporting Tool prior to undergoing (COVID-19) RT-PCR testing.   Results: Out of 172 participants, 63 (36.6%) presented with anosmia. Sixty (95.2%) out of 63 of those with anosmia had a positive COVID-19 RT-PCR test result. Forty-one (65%) participants reported anosmia as the first symptom while the most common associated symptoms were fever (59%), cough (50%), and rhinorrhea (31%). There was a significant association between anosmia and positive SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) RT-PCR tests (X2 =33.85, df=1, p<.0001).   Conclusion: Anosmia was associated with a positive SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) RT-PCR test in more than 95% of those who reported the symptom. Anosmia should be considered as a red flag sign which should be included in the screening of persons suspected of being infected with COVID-19 to help mitigate further spread of the virus.

Death and COVID-19 Anxiety in Home-Quarantined Individuals Aged 65 and Over During the Pandemic

2021 ◽  
pp. 003022282110598
Author(s):  
Hümeyra Aslaner ◽  
Betül Özen ◽  
Zeliha K. Erten ◽  
Mebrure Beyza Gökçek
Keyword(s):  
Polymerase Chain Reaction ◽  
Death Anxiety ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Anxiety Score ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Chain Reaction ◽  
Polymerase Chain ◽  
Test Result ◽  
Pcr Test

Urgent measures were taken for those at the age of 65 and over who were at the risk group all over the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is known that many individuals at the age of 65 and over have experienced anxiety due to the uncertainties. This study aimed to determine the anxiety and death anxiety in individuals aged 65 and over who were isolation at home due to being diagnosed with COVID-19 or being in contact during the pandemic process. The study is descriptive and cross-sectional. It was performed with 656 home-quarantined individuals aged between 65–80 years with positive or negative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test result. A form including questions about the death anxiety and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale Short Form prepared by the researchers were administered to the individuals by phone call. Of the participants, 49.5% were male. Median COVID-19 anxiety score was 4 (0–18). Anxiety scores of the male and female participants were similar. Participants with negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results and those with death anxiety had higher COVID anxiety scores. Death anxiety has increased by 1.661 times in male gender, 1.983 times in RT-PCR positivity and 0.146 times in the presence of symptoms. Individuals with positive COVID-19 test results or those aged 65 and over who had death anxiety and negative COVID-19 test result but who were in home-isolation due to being a contact had higher anxiety score. For this reason, those with death anxiety can be supported in line with their religious beliefs to reduce anxiety. Those with negative PCR test results in quarantine can be adequately informed about the COVID-19.

scholarly journals Covid-19 Positive Antenatal Patients in Obstetrics and Gynea Unit, Peshawar

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 14-18
Author(s):  
Rabeea Sadaf ◽  
Muhammed Zahid ◽  
Nasreen Kishwar ◽  
Umaiyma Farhad ◽  
Behzad Khan Khalil
Keyword(s):  
Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Positive Test ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Cesarean Birth ◽  
Asymptomatic Patients ◽  
Primary Responsibility ◽  
Polymerase Chain ◽  
Antenatal Visits

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to determine the frequency of COVID-19 positive antenatal patients admitted in Obstetrics & Gynecology unit Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar with the concerns that pregnant women may be more susceptible to COVID-19 as they may be more vulnerable to respiratory infection. METHODOLOGY: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Obstetrics & Gynecology units Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar from May 12th, 2020, to November 29th, 2020, screening and testing of patients admitted for childbirth was in HMC. Screening consisted of questions related to travel, contacts, and symptoms of COVID-19. All patients without a prior diagnosis of COVID-19 underwent SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of nasopharyngeal swabs, with rapid testing available. Patients scheduled for cesarean birth were screened and tested at preoperative visits RESULTS:  One hundred eighty-two patients presenting for antenatal visits were screened; 6.5% (12 out of 182) were previously diagnosed with COVID-19. The remaining 170 patients were tested at admission, and 17.6% (30 out of 170) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Twenty-two of the 30 who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (73.3%) were asymptomatic. The overall prevalence of positive test results among asymptomatic patients was 14.1% (22 out of 156). The prevalence of positive test results among asymptomatic patients increased from 1.29% (2 out of 155). CONCLUSION: The evidence on this novel infection is changing almost daily, although it will likely be many months before, we can determine the true impact it will have on both maternal and fetal well‐being. In the interim, our primary responsibility is to ensure all women have access to safe maternity services. KEYWORDS: Asymptomatic, COVID-19 Positive, Antenatal Patients, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Infection

Renal Function in Patients on Lithium Treatment

1979 ◽  
Vol 135 (1) ◽  
pp. 22-27 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. Hällgren ◽  
P. O. Alm ◽  
K. Hellsing
Keyword(s):  
Renal Function ◽  
Impaired Renal Function ◽  
Lithium Treatment ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Length Of Treatment ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Possible Cause

SummaryA cross-sectional study was performed on 66 lithium-treated patients to investigate a possibly changed kidney function, using [51Cr]-EDTA clearance, and urinary excretions of albumin and β2-microglobulin. Thirteen patients showed abnormal test results: seven had decreased glomerular filtration rate, four had increased albumin excretion and four had increased excretion of β2-microglobulin. There was no correlation between length of treatment with lithium or hypothyroidism (10 patients) and impaired renal function. Four patients had already manifested signs of renal dysfunction before lithium treatment. The high prevalence of impaired renal function among our patients is unexplained but lithium could be one possible cause.

scholarly journals Effectivity Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Nasopharyngeal Swab Rapid Testing Kits in Pakistan: A Scenario of Inadequate COVID-19 Diagnosis

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Umar Saeed ◽  
Sara Rizwan Uppal ◽  
Zahra Zahid Piracha ◽  
Aftab Ahmad Khan ◽  
Azhar Rasheed ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Gold Standard ◽  
Rapid Detection ◽  
International Health ◽  
Time Frame ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Nasopharyngeal Swab ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
International Health Organizations ◽  
Polymerase Chain

Abstract COVID-19 pandemic has urged the need of rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 in limited time frame. To cope with current, COVID-19 expanding scenario, accurate diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 should be ensured by both national and international health organizations. Sporadic marketing of SARS-CoV-2 rapid detection kits raises questions regarding quality control and assurance. To aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal swab based rapid detection kits, in comparison to gold standard USFDA approved triple target real-time polymerase chain reaction. A cross-sectional study of 1500 suspected COVID-19 patients was conducted. 100 RT-PCR confirmed patients nasopharyngeal swabs were evaluated for RDT. The COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 NSP based RDT analysis showed 78% reactivity. Among RT-PCR confirmed negative subjects, 49.3% showed false positivity. The positive predictive analysis revealed 67.82% values, while the negative predictive vales of were 64.40%. The NSP RDTs showed limited sensitivities and specificities compared to gold standard RT-PCR. Accurate surveillance of COVID-19 is dependent upon authentic and validated SARS-CoV-2 detection nation-wide, which needs to be monitored by higher authorities. This study is critical for designing adequate measures by several COVID-19 strategic organizations to prevent future viral epidemics.

scholarly journals Association of Myeloid Aberrant Antigens and the Presence of BCR-ABL Gene Re-arrangements in ALL Patients

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-15
Author(s):  
Md. Shafiul Azam ◽  
Khaza Amirul Islam ◽  
Sharmin Mafruha ◽  
Mirza Golam Sarwar ◽  
Md. Salahuddin Shah ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia ◽  
Lymphoblastic Leukaemia ◽  
Selection Criteria ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Genetic Abnormality ◽  
Chain Reaction ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Polymerase Chain ◽  
Made In

Background: BCR-ABL translocation is the most common genetic abnormality associated with adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) with poor outcome. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the association of myeloid aberrant antigens and the presence of BCR-ABL gene rearrangements in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) patients in our context. Method: A total of 38 ALL patients were included in this cross-sectional study from August 2018 to July 2019 according to selection criteria. BCR-ABL was detected by Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). Results: The median age at diagnosis was 27.5 years with male (76.3%) predominance. Aberrant myeloid markers, e.g.CD13 was present in 9(64.3%) patients who were BCR-ABL positive which was statistically significant (p:<0.05). Conclusion: Early suspicion about BCR-ABL positivity can be made in ALL patients who show aberrant myeloid expression.

scholarly journals Sero-prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Berhanu Nega Alemu ◽  
Adamu Addissie ◽  
Gemechis Mamo ◽  
Negussie Deyessa ◽  
Tamrat Abebe ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Serological Test ◽  
Addis Ababa ◽  
Rapid Test ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Serological Tests ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
History Of ◽  
Community Transmission ◽  
Pcr Test

AbstractBackgroundAnti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests are being increasingly used for sero-epidemiological purposes to provide better understanding of the extent of the infection in the community, and monitoring the progression of the COVID-19 epidemic. We conducted sero-prevalence study to estimate prior infection with with SARS-CoV-2 in Addis Ababa.MethodsA cross-sectional study was done from April 23 to 28, 2020 among 301 randomly selected residents of Addis Ababa; with no known history of contact with confirmed COVID-19 person. Interviews on socio demographic and behavioural risk factor followed by serological tests were performed for SARS-CoV-2 IgM, and IgG antibodies, using COVID-19 IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassette. The test has sensitivity of 87·9% and specificity of 100% for lgM; and a sensitivity of 97·2% and specificity of 100% for IgG. RT-PCR test was also done on combined nasopharyngeal and oropharengeal swabs as an important public health consideration.FindingsThe unadjusted antibody-based crude SARS-CoV-2 prevalence was 7·6% and the adjusted true SARS-CoV-2 prevalence was estimated at 8·8% (95% CI 5·5%-11·6%) for the study population. Higher sero-prevalence were observed for males (9.0%), age below 50 years (8.2%), students and unemployed (15.6%), those with primary education (12.1%), smokers (7.8%), alcohol consumers (8.6%), chatt-chewers (13.6%) and shish smokers (18.8%). Seroprevalence was not significantly associated neither with socio-demographic not behavioral characteristics. According to the findings, possibly more individuals had been infected in Addis Ababa than what was being detected and reported by RT-PCR test suggestive of community transmission. The use of serological test for epidemiological estimation of the extent of SARS-CoV-2 epidemic gives a more precise estimate of magnitude which would be used for further monitoring and surveillance of the magnitude of the SARS CoV-2 infection.

scholarly journals Low neutrophil-to-lmphocyte ratio decreases risk of coronavirus disease in pregnant women

2020 ◽  
Vol 39 (2) ◽  
pp. 88
Author(s):  
Nutria Widya Purna Anggraini ◽  
Sri Sulistyowati
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Prevalence Ratio ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Global Public Health ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Rapid Tests ◽  
Coronavirus Infection ◽  
Polymerase Chain ◽  
The Relationship

<div class="WordSection1">BACKGROUND<br />Coronavirus Infection 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an emergency condition for global public health. Early detection of COVID-19 in pregnant women is needed. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), as a marker of viral inflammatory response, is used to determine the presence of a viral or bacterial infection, both acute and chronic. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between NLR and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test results in pregnant women with suspected coronavirus disease 2019.<br /><br />METHODS<br />A cross-sectional study was conducted on 9 pregnant women with suspected COVID-19. The subjects were inpatients at Moewardi Hospital Surakarta from 19 April-19 May 2020, who had rapid tests, complete blood examinations, and PCR swab tests. The NLR was categorized based on early warning scores according to research developed at Zhejiang University, with cut-off point 5.8. Diagnosis of COVID-19 was confirmed by PCR swab tests. Relation between NLR   and PCR swab results was analyzed by the prevalence ratio.<br /><br />RESULTS<br />Two patients (22.2%) had NLR &gt;5.8, with positive swab results in both (100%). Seven patients with NLR &lt;5.8 had positive swabs in only one (33.3%). The relationship between NLR and PCR swab test results showed a prevalence ratio of 0.143 (95% CI 0.023-0.877).<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />Pregnant women with NLR &lt; 5.8 had a decreased risk of COVID-19. Routine blood examination is more suitable for finding pregnant women with suspected COVID-19.</div>

scholarly journals SARS-CoV-2 infection among patients with multiple sclerosis; A cross-sectional study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mahnaz Bayat ◽  
Alireza Fayyazpoor ◽  
Afshin Borhani Haghighi ◽  
Daniyal Salehi ◽  
Hossein Molavi Vardanjan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Demographic Data ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Fars Province ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Positive Real ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Polymerase Chain ◽  
Group 5 ◽  
Disability Level

AbstractBackgroundNeurological disability associated with multiple sclerosis and immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapy which is administered for it may increases the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its morbidity/mortality.ObjectiveIn this study, we evaluated the infection rate and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS)MethodsOne thousand and three hundred and sixty one MS patients from Fars province, south of Iran, were interviewed by phone from April 3 to June 20, 2020. Basic demographic data, information about MS disease and any symptoms or laboratory results relevant to COVID-19 were gathered and reviewed by treating neurologist and MS nurses. SPSS version 22 was used for data analysis.Results68 (5%) of MS patients were suspected cases and 8 (0.58%) of all patients with positive real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or chest CT were in the confirmed group. 5 cases of the confirmed group needed hospitalization. Two patients died while both of them had PPMS and were taking rituximab. The frequency rate of suspected cases with RRMS was 57 (87.7%), followed by PPMS 5 (7.7%) and CIS 2(3.1%). In the confirmed group 37.5% had RRMS, 50% had PPMS, 25% use corticosteroid drug, and 50% were on rituximab. 62.5% of confirmed cases had high disability level and need assistance to walk. 36.8% of suspected and 25% of the confirmed cases were on IFN-β1; eventually all of them recovered well from COVID-19 infection.ConclusionThe present study showed that rate of developing COVID-19 in MS patients are similar to the general population and the frequency of PPMS phenotype, rituximab therapy and corticosteroid therapy were higher in the confirmed group.

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