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A 14-year-old male patient presented to the emergency room with fever, loose stools, shortness of breath and swelling over the right popliteal fossa for 5 days. He had no significant past medical history and received all the vaccinations according to the immunisation schedule. He had an oxygen

Post-traumatic direct carotid-cavernous fistulas may develop in patients with a closed head injury. The classical presentation is the Dandy’s triad—chemosis, pulsatile proptosis and orbital bruit. Associated findings may include orbital pain, dilated episcleral corkscrew vessels, vision deficit and cranial nerve palsies. Cranial nerves—oculomotor (III), trochlear (IV), ophthalmic (V1), and maxillary (V2) divisions of trigeminal and the abducens (VI) lie in close association of the cavernous sinus. Abducens nerve (VI) lies close to the intracavernous internal carotid artery, within the substance of the sinus and is hence easily susceptible to vascular insult. The two sinuses connect across the midline and communicate freely with each other. Back pressure changes can present with the same sided or bilateral cranial nerve palsies. We report a rare association of a long-standing left-sided carotid-cavernous fistula with right eye abduction deficit and contralateral abducens palsy.

Purpose: To study the long-term efficacy and safety of local application of imiquimod 5% and fluorouracil 1% creams in complex eyelid basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). Methods: A retrospective, non-comparative study in biopsy-proven, complex (involving canthi or >50% of eyelid length) eyelid BCC patients who were medically unfit for surgical procedures. All patients were medically treated with either of the creams using fixed-dose regimens for a minimum of 3 months. All received oral vitamin C 500 mg QID for 3 months as an adjunct for collagen healing. A minimum of “post-treatment” follow-up of 12 months was observed. Results: Of total 30 patients, imiquimod 5% and fluorouracil 1% were used in 16 and 14 patients, respectively. The mean age of our patients was 70.5 years. The co-morbidities included – severe coronary artery disease using blood-thinners ( n = 19), poorly controlled diabetes ( n = 12), poorly controlled hypertension ( n = 6), on nebulization ( n = 3), and tuberculosis with pulmonary fibrosis ( n = 2). Complete clinical tumor resolution was noted in 10 and 8 patients over 12 and 16.5 weeks, respectively, in imiquimod and fluorouracil groups. Periocular skin erythema, chemical conjunctivitis, and skin depigmentation were seen in all the patients of imiquimod group. On the other hand, the local side-effect profile in fluorouracil patients was limited. Conclusion: The medical treatment of complex eyelid BCC is a useful alternative to surgery in the elderly with significant co-morbidities. It provides a promising long-term relief with a tolerable side-effect profile. A prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial would provide stronger evidence for the efficacy of these drugs.

Percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) is an effective way of drainage in acute pancreatitis (AP) and its role in persistent organ failure (OF) has not been studied. This study assessed the outcome of severe AP managed with PCD.We retrospectively analysed outcome of AP patients undergoing PCD for persistent OF with respect to success of PCD, etiology, severity scores, OF, imaging features and PCD parameters. Success of PCD was defined as resolution of with PCD and survived without surgical necrosectomy.Between January 2016 and May 2018, 83 patients underwent PCD for persistent OF at a mean duration of 25.59 ± 21.2 days from pain onset with successful outcome in 47 (56.6%) patients. Among PCD failures, eleven (13.25%) patients underwent surgery. Overall mortality was 31 (37.3%). On multivariate analysis, pancreatic necrosis50% and absence of extrapancreatic infection (EPI) predicted the success of PCD. Presence of infected necrosis did not affect the outcome of PCD in organ failure.PCD improves the outcome in patients with OF even when done early irrespective of the status of infection of necrosis. Therefore, PCD may be considered early in the course of patients with OF.

Background Percutaneous ablation is an important part of management strategy for liver tumors. While radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation are the most widely used ablative techniques, cryoablation (CA) has several technical advantages but has been underused till recently. In this study, we report the initial experience with percutaneous CA of liver tumors. Methods This was a retrospective evaluation of consecutive patients with liver tumors who underwent percutaneous CA between October 2018 and August 2019. The ablation procedures were performed under combined ultrasound and computed tomography guidance using argon-helium–based CA systems. The baseline tumor characteristics (including size and location), Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage, and Child-Pugh score were recorded. Each patient underwent a follow-up after 1 month and at 3 months subsequently. Technical success, complete response, local tumor progression, and overall survival were evaluated. Results Nine patients (mean age, 62.4 years, median age, 66 years, five men and four women) with 10 liver tumors (mean size, 2.22 cm) underwent CA. Seven (77.8%) patients had hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and 2 patients had solitary liver metastasis. One patient with HCC had two lesions, while the rest had only one lesion. Of the two metastatic lesions, one was from carcinoma of the cervix and the other was from jejunal neuroendocrine tumor. Five tumors were located adjacent to the gallbladder, two lesions were adjacent to the right portal vein, two lesions were subcapsular, and one lesion was adjacent to the stomach. Technical success was achieved in all the patients. Complete response was achieved in 7 (77.8%) patients. The median follow-up period was 7 months (range, 3–12 months). There was no local tumor progression and no death during the follow-up period. No procedure-related complication was seen. Conclusion Percutaneous CA of hepatic tumors is technically feasible and is a safe and effective ablative technique.

There is increasing adoption of Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) treatment response (LR-TR) criteria. However, there is still a relative lack of evidence evaluating the performance of these criteria. We performed this study to assess the diagnostic accuracy of LI-RADS LR-TR criteria. A thorough search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies reporting diagnostic accuracy of LI-RADS LR-TR criteria was conducted through 30 June 2020. The meta-analytic summary of sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio of LI-RADS LR-TR criteria was computed using explant histopathology as the reference standard. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. Four studies were found eligible for meta-analysis. The total number of LR-TR observations was 462 (240 patients, 82.5% males). Different locoregional therapies (LRTs), including bland embolization, chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation, and microwave ablation, had been used. The mean time interval between LRT and liver transplantation ranged from 181 to 219 days. There was a moderate to good inter-reader agreement for LR-TR criteria. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of LR-TR criteria for viable disease were 62% (95% CI, 49–74%; I2 = 69%) and 87% (95% CI, 76–93%; I2 = 57%), respectively. The pooled diagnostic odds ratio and area under the curve were 9.83 (95% CI, 5.34–18.08; I2 = 19%) and 0.80. LI-RADS LR-TR criteria have acceptable diagnostic performance for the diagnosis of viable tumor after LRT. Well-designed prospective studies evaluating criteria of equivocal lesions and effect of different LRTs should be performed. • The pooled sensitivity and specificity of LI-RADS LR-TR criteria for the diagnosis of viable tumor were 62% and 87%, respectively. • The pooled diagnostic odds ratio and area under the curve were 9.83 and 0.80. • LR-TR criteria had a moderate to good inter-reader agreement.

The data regarding overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) following irreversible electroporation (IRE) is scarce. We performed a systematic review of the safety and efficacy of IRE for liver malignancies. Searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were performed through September 1, 2019. Studies reporting the survival data (OS and PFS) and complications (graded according to the Society of interventional Radiology classification) were included. A generalized linear mixed method with a random-effects model was used for assessing pooled incidence rates and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 25 studies (n = 776, 15 prospective, 10 retrospective) were included. Metastasis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cholangiocarcinoma were present in 354, 285, and 100 patients, respectively. The pooled OS at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months was 93.28% (95% CI: 63.23–99.12, I2= 67%), 81.29% (95% CI: 69.80–89.22, I2 = 73%), 61.47% (95% CI: 52.81–69.46, I2 = 0%), and 40.88% (95% CI: 28.43–54.61, I2 = 64%), respectively. The pooled PFS at 6, 12, and 24 months was 79.72% (95% CI: 67.88–87.97, I2 = 70%), 64.19% (95% CI: 56.68–71.06, I2 = 57%), 49.05% (95% CI: 11.47–87.73, I2 = 96%), respectively. Overall complication rate was 23.7%. Major complications (grade C-F) occurred in 6.9% patients. IRE is associated with favorable OS and PFS. Although the overall complication rate is high, most complications are graded as minor. • The pooled OS and PFS at 6, 12, and 24 months for all the tumor types was 93.28% and 79.72%, 81.29% and 64.19%, and 61.47% and 49.05%, respectively. • HCC was associated with a better OS at 12 and 36 months. • The overall complication rate was 23.7%, with major complications (SIR grade C-F) comprising 6.9%.

Background There is a significant variability in the reported outcomes following endovascular embolization of arterial pseudoaneurysms in pancreatitis. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of endovascular embolization of pancreatitis-related pseudoaneurysms. Methods Searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were performed through July 1, 2019 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. All studies with ≥10 patients reporting technical success, clinical success, complications, and mortality were included. Generalized linear mixed method with random effects model was used for assessing pooled incidence rates and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results A total of 29 studies (n = 840 with 638 pseudoaneurysms) were included. The pooled incidence rates of pseudoaneurysms in acute and chronic pancreatitis were 0.05% and 0.03%, respectively (odds ratio, 0.91, 95% CI-0.24–3.43). The most common site of pseudoaneurysm was splenic artery (37.7%). The most common embolization agent was coil (n = 415). The follow up period was 54.7 months (range, 21 days to 40.5 months). Pooled technical success rate was 97% (95% CI-92-99%, I2 83%). Clinical success rates at ≤3 months, 3–12 months, and >12 months were 82% (95% CI-70-90%, I2 42%), 86% (95% CI-75-92%, I2 44%), and 88% (95% CI-83-91%, I2 0%), respectively. There was no significant difference in the technical or clinical success between acute and chronic pancreatitis on subgroup analysis. Mortality was lower in chronic pancreatitis (OR 4.27 (95% CI 1.35–13.53, I2 0%)). Splenic infarction was the most common complication (n = 47). Conclusion Endovascular embolization is associated with a high technical and clinical success.

Background Leicester was the first city in the UK to have ‘local lockdown’ measures imposed in response to high community rates of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission. As part of this response, a directive was issued by NHS England to offer testing of asymptomatic healthcare workers (HCWs) at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods Between 20 July and 14 August 2020, we invited all HCWs at UHL to attend for SARS-CoV-2 testing by nucleic acid amplification (NAAT). We combined the result of this assay with demographic information from the electronic staff record. Results A total of 1150 staff (~8% of the workforce) volunteered. The median age was 46 years (IQR 34–55), 972 (84.5%) were female; 234 (20.4%) were of South Asian and 58 (5.0%) of Black ethnicity; 564 (49.0%) were nurses/healthcare assistants. We found no cases of asymptomatic infection. In comparison, average community test positivity rate in Leicester city was 2.6%. Conclusions Within the context of local lockdowns due to high community transmission rates, voluntary testing of asymptomatic staff has low uptake and low yield and thus its premise and cost-effectiveness should be re-considered.

Hypertension is one of the most important modifiable risk factor causing cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, non-adherence to antihypertensive medications is frequently observed in hypertensive patients and can lead to an increase in morbidity and mortality. Until recently, there was no robust clinical method to objectively diagnose non-adherence. Recently, the detection of medications in urine or blood by mass spectrometry techniques such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS-MS) has been accepted as the diagnostic method of choice for the detection of non-adherence. Despite this, it is unclear whether the concentration of urine can affect the detection of medications in urine. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of urine concentration on detection of antihypertensive medications by LC–MS-MS in which urine creatinine is used as an independent marker of urine concentration. Biochemical adherence results for 22 different medications (1,709 prescriptions) in 463 different subjects were converted to an adherence score. The adherence score was defined as the ratio of the total number of subjects in which the drug was detected to the total number of subjects to whom the drug was prescribed. The adherence scores for each medication were correlated with urine creatinine concentration for each medication. Non-adherence was observed in 47.1% of samples with a mean urine creatinine concentration of these samples of 9.4 ± 7.1 mmol/L. There was no significant difference between the urine creatinine concentrations in the detected vs non-detected groups for each of the 22 medications. Furthermore, there are no differences in adherence scores across the urine creatinine concentration. This is the first study to demonstrate that urine creatinine concentration does not affect the results of the adherence screening by LC–MS-MS.

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common disorder with high mortality in severe cases. Several markers have been studied to predict development of severe AP (SAP) including serum resistin with conflicting results. This study aimed at assessing the role of baseline serum resistin levels in predicting SAP.This prospective study collected data from 130 AP patients from July 2017 to Nov 2018. Parameters measured included demographic profile, serum resistin at admission, severity scores, hospital stay, surgery, and mortality. Patients were divided into two groups, severe and non-severe AP. The two groups were compared for baseline characteristics, serum resistin levels, hospital stay, surgery and mortality.Among 130 patients, 53 patients had SAP. SAP patients had higher BMI, baseline CRP, APACHE II and CTSI scores (We found that serum resistin is not a useful marker for predicting the severity of AP and does not correlate with increasing body weight.

Background Majority of predictors of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) use intraoperative variables. We aimed to study the role of preoperative ultrasound shear wave elastography (USWE) to predict POPF. Methods The consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) between January 2019 to March 2020 were prospectively enrolled. All patients underwent USWE assessment at the pancreatic neck level. Intraoperative variables including pancreatic texture, pancreatic duct diameter, blood loss and histological grading of fibrosis were also recorded. Associations between USWE and intraoperative variables and histological grading with the development of POPF were analyzed. Results Of the 62 patients assessed, 50 patients (mean age: 53 ± 14 years; 31 males) were included. POPF and clinically relevant POPF (CRPOPF) were observed in 22 (44%) and 7 (14%) patients respectively. Soft pancreas was an independent predictor of CRPOPF (p = 0.04). The mean USWE valve was significantly lower in patients with CRPOPF as compared to no CRPOPF (9.7 Kpa vs. 12.8Kpa, p = 0.016). At receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, USWE value of 12.65Kpa yielded sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 47%, respectively, for prediction of CRPOPF. USWE showed significant correlation with intraoperative pancreatic texture (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (ρ) = 0.565, p = 0.001). Conclusion USWE helps in preoperative prediction of CRPOPF. This may further help to customize management strategy in high risk patients.

Background Although evidence suggests that demographic characteristics including minority ethnicity increase the risk of infection with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), it is unclear whether these characteristics, together with occupational factors, influence anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG seroprevalence in hospital staff. Methods We conducted cross-sectional surveillance examining seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG amongst staff at University Hospitals of Leicester (UHL) NHS Trust. We quantified seroprevalence stratified by ethnicity, occupation and seniority of practitioner and used logistic regression to examine demographic and occupational factors associated with seropositivity. Results A total of 1148/10662 (10.8%) hospital staff members were seropositive. Compared to White staff (seroprevalence 9.1%), seroprevalence was higher in South Asian (12.3%) and Black (21.2%) staff. The occupations and department with the highest seroprevalence were nurses/healthcare assistants (13.7%) and the Emergency Department (ED)/Acute Medicine (17.5%), respectively. Seroprevalence decreased with seniority in medical/nursing practitioners. Minority ethnicity was associated with seropositivity on an adjusted analysis (South Asian: aOR 1.26; 95%CI: 1.07–1.49 and Black: 2.42; 1.90–3.09). Anaesthetics/ICU staff members were less likely to be seropositive than ED/Acute medicine staff (0.41; 0.27–0.61). Conclusions Ethnicity and occupational factors, including specialty and seniority, are associated with seropositivity for anti-SARS-Cov-2 IgG. These findings could be used to inform occupational risk assessments for front-line healthcare workers.

Locoregional therapies play an important role in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Percutaneous ablation is one of the most commonly employed nonsurgical methods for treating very early and early HCC. For small HCC, ablation is potentially curative and competes with surgical resection. The widespread availability and the spectrum of ablative techniques mandate uniform approach among interventional radiologists. Thus, it is desirable to have a consensus regarding various aspects of the liver ablation. This article represents a consensus document of the experts from the Indian Society of Vascular and Interventional Radiology involved in the care of patients with HCC. The statements are presented in two parts.

Gastroduodenal tuberculosis is an uncommon form of abdominal tuberculosis.We report our experience with five cases of gastroduodenal tuberculosis and present results of a systematic review on gastroduodenal tuberculosis regarding clinical presentation, endoscopic, imaging findings, and the diagnostic and therapeutic approach.The presentation of gastroduodenal tuberculosis is diverse and may include nonspecific abdominal pain or dyspepsia like symptoms apart from gastric outlet obstruction. Endoscopy may show presence of growth, ulcer, narrowing, or fistula on endoscopy. Endoscopic biopsy, well-biopsy, or mucosal resection of an elevated lesion are helpful. On microscopy, granuloma with or without acid fast bacilli positivity can be found. For treatment, standard antitubercular therapy should be given for 6 months. In patients with tight stricture, endoscopic balloon dilatation can be helpful. Surgery is reserved for patient with diagnostic dilemma, refractory stricture, or complications like perforation or fistula. Future research should focus on improving diagnosis with use of modern microbiological techniques like PCR and Xpert MTB/RIF.

Tenascin-C is a marker of interstitial fibrosis. We assessed whether plasma Tenascin-C differed between heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and asymptomatic controls and related to clinical outcomes. Prospective, observational study of 172 age- and sex-matched subjects (HFpEF n = 130; controls n = 42, age 73 ± 9, males 50%) who underwent phenotyping with 20 plasma biomarkers, echocardiography, cardiac MRI and 6-minute-walk-testing. The primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause death/HF hospitalisation. Tenascin-C was higher in HFpEF compared to controls (13.7 [10.8–17.3] vs (11.1 [8.9–12.9] ng/ml, p p During follow-up (median 1428 days), there were 61 composite events (21 deaths, 40 HF hospitalizations). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, Tenascin-C (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.755, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.305–2.360; p p = 0.039) were independently associated with adverse outcomes. In HFpEF, plasma Tenascin-C is higher compared to age- and sex-matched controls and a strong predictor of adverse outcomes. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03050593

Locoregional therapies play an important role in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Percutaneous ablation is one of the most commonly employed nonsurgical methods for treating very early and early HCC. For small HCCs, ablation is potentially curative and competes with surgical resection. The widespread availability and the spectrum of ablative techniques mandate uniform approach among interventional radiologists. Thus, it is desirable to have a consensus regarding various aspects of liver ablation. This article represents a consensus document of the experts from the Indian Society of Vascular and Interventional Radiology involved in the care of patients with HCC. The statements are presented in two parts.

Background Cardiovascular disease is responsible for 31% of all global deaths. Primary prevention strategies are needed to improve longer-term adherence to statins and healthy lifestyle behaviours to reduce risk in people at risk of cardiovascular disease. Methods Pragmatic randomised controlled trial recruited between May 2016 and March 2017 from primary care practices, England. Participants (n = 212) prescribed statins for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease with total cholesterol level ≥ 5 mmol/l were randomised: 105 to the intervention group and 107 to the control group, stratified by age and sex. The 3R intervention involved two facilitated, structured group education sessions focusing on medication adherence to statins, lifestyle behaviours and cardiovascular risk, with 44 weeks of medication reminders and motivational text messages and two supportive, coaching phone calls (at approximately 2 weeks and 6 months). The control group continued with usual clinical care. Both groups received a basic information leaflet. The primary outcome was medication adherence to statins objectively measured by a biochemical urine test. Self-reported adherence and practice prescription data provided additional measures. Secondary outcomes included cholesterol profile, blood pressure, anthropometric data, cardiovascular risk score, and self-reported lifestyle behaviours and psychological measures (health/medication beliefs, quality of life, health status). All outcomes were assessed at 12 months. Results Baseline adherence to statins was 47% (control) and 62% (intervention). No significant difference between the groups found for medication adherence to statins using either the urine test (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.34 to 3.06, P = 0.968) or other measures. This may have been due to the higher than expected adherence levels at baseline. The adjusted mean difference between the groups (in favour of the intervention group) for diastolic blood pressure (− 4.28 mmHg (95% CI − 0.98 to − 1.58, P = 0.002)) and waist circumference (− 2.55 cm (95% CI − 4.55 to − 0.55, P = 0.012)). The intervention group also showed greater perceived control of treatment and more coherent understanding of the condition. Conclusions The 3R programme successfully led to longer-term improvements in important clinical lifestyle indicators but no improvement in medication adherence, raising questions about the suitability of such a broad, multiple risk factor approach for improving medication adherence for primary prevention of CVD. Trial registration International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN16863160), March 11, 2006.

Image-guided locoregional therapies have an important role in the management of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent advances in the ablative as well as endovascular therapies have expanded the role of interventional radiologists in the treatment of HCC. Following image-guided therapy, an accurate response assessment is vital. Knowledge regarding normal postprocedure changes and subtle signs of residual or recurrent disease is important. In this review, we discuss various response evaluation criteria currently employed for HCC. We also discuss the postprocedure imaging features suggestive of residual disease or recurrence and imaging biomarkers for response assessment.

Before the imposition of the strict lockdowns and the spread of COVID-19, the disruptions in China caused a ripple effect on the global supply chains. Emphasis has been laid on minimisation of costs and timely delivery of essential products. In India, as the situation worsens due to the outbreak, we have seen disruptions in the logistics supply chain. There are several reasons attributed to the increase in demand and slowing of the supply. There are several workable solutions available to look into this situation. We should work towards promoting Indian markets and amend policies to help the local workforce lessen the interdependencies of imports on other countries. This will help in strengthening the logistics supply chain in India. This will create employment opportunities and increase the GDP growth.

Gallbladder (GB) wall thickening is a relatively common finding on imaging. While there are clear recommendations for the management of gallstones, GB wall thickening presents a significant challenge. Despite advances in radiological as well as endoscopic techniques, the ability to characterize GB wall thickening is still limited.This review summarizes the currently available literature on various imaging investigations to characterize GB wall thickening. This review also summarizes the differences between benign and malignant GB wall thickening based on available imaging modalities. Transabdominal ultrasonography is the first-line investigation for evaluation of GB wall thickening. However, further characterization requires additional imaging tests. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with the use of gadolinium and diffusion-weighted sequence is the preferred modality for GB wall characterization.The accurate characterization of GB wall thickening is a challenging task. The available imaging criteria allow differentiation of benign and malignant GB wall thickening with moderate accuracy. The advanced imaging techniques, including contrast enhanced ultrasound, contrast-enhanced endoscopic ultrasound, and shear wave elastography, continue to evolve. There is a need for a well-designed reporting system for GB wall thickening to ensure uniformity of reporting of imaging tests, especially in regions with a high prevalence of GB cancer.

Sudden and extensive growth of intraocular tumors like retinoblastoma and choroidal melanoma may result in the clinical presentation of sterile or aseptic orbital cellulitis. In such masquerading situations, ocular and orbital imaging plays a significant role. The treatment with steroids may provide a rapid recovery from the aggressive orbital inflammation. However, a high index of suspicion is vital for apt diagnosis and timely management.

The amount of intra-abdominal fat on CT correlates positively with the severity of acute pancreatitis (AP). The objective of the study was to evaluate a fat-modified CT severity index (FMCTSI) and compare its performance with MCTSI. For this retrospective study, 99 patients with AP who underwent contrast-enhanced CT between 3 and 7 days after pain onset were divided into a training cohort (n = 75) and a validation cohort (n = 24). MCTSI was calculated. The total adipose tissue (TAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and total to visceral fat ratio (TVFR) were computed using semi-automatic software. These parameters were given a score of 1–3. FMCTSI was calculated by adding the fat score to MCTSI. Concordance for diagnosing the severity of AP was assessed. Areas under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) for predicting clinical outcomes were compared between FMCTSI and MCTSI. The diagnostic performance of the FMCTSI in the validation cohort was also evaluated. In the training cohort, our proposed FMCTSI performed better than MCTSI for all the outcome parameters. The highest concordance for the severity of AP was achieved for VAT-MCTSI. For all outcome parameters, the highest AUC was seen for TVFR-MCTSI. In the validation cohort, the FMCTSI achieved diagnostic performance similar to the training cohort with the highest AUC for TVFR-MCTSI. FMCTSI is a better CT index than MCTSI for predicting the severity and clinical outcomes of AP. Among the various FMCTSI parameters, TVFR-MCTSI is the best performer.

Percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) performed pro-actively for collections in acute pancreatitis (AP) is associated with better outcomes. However, there are only a few studies describing this protocol. We aimed to evaluate an aggressive PCD protocol. Consecutive patients with AP who underwent PCD with an aggressive protocol between January 2018 and January 2019 were included. This protocol involved catheter upsizing at a pre-specified interval (every 4–6 days) as well as drainage of all the new collections. The indications and technical details of PCD and clinical outcomes were compared with patients who underwent standard PCD. Out of the 185 patients with AP evaluated during the study period, 110 (59.4%) underwent PCD, all with the aggressive protocol. The historical cohort of standard PCD comprised of 113 patients. There was no significant difference in the indication of PCD and interval from pain onset to PCD between the two groups. The mean number of catheters was significantly higher in the aggressive PCD group (1.86 ± 0.962 vs. 1.44 ± 0.667, p = 0.002). Additional catheters were inserted in 54.2% of patients in aggressive group vs. 36.2% in the standard group (p = 0.006). Length of hospital stay and intensive care unit (ICU) stay were significantly longer in the standard PCD group (34.3 ± 20.14 vs. 27.45 ± 14.2 days, p

Refractory hypertension (RfHTN) is a phenotype of antihypertensive treatment failure defined as uncontrolled BP despite the use of effective doses of ≥5 antihypertensive medications including a long-acting thiazide-like diuretic (chlorthalidone) and a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. The degree of medication nonadherence is unknown among patients with RfHTN. In this prospective evaluation, 54 patients with apparent RfHTN were recruited from the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hypertension Clinic after having uncontrolled BP at 3 or more clinic visits. All patients’ BP was evaluated by automated office BP and 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring (n=49). Antihypertensive medication adherence was determined by measuring 24-hour urine specimens for antihypertensive medications and their metabolites by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (n=45). Of the 45 patients who completed 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring, 40 (88.9%) had confirmed RfHTN based on an elevated automated office BP (≥130/80 mm Hg), mean 24-hour ABP (≥125/75 mm Hg), and mean awake (day-time) ABP (≥130/80 mm Hg). Out of the 40 fully evaluated patients with RfHTN, 16 (40.0%) were fully adherent with all prescribed medications. Eighteen (45.0%) patients were partially adherent and 6 (15.0%) had none of the prescribed agents detected in their urine. Of 18 patients who were partially adherent, 5 (12.5%) were adherent with at least 5 medications, including chlorthalidone and the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, consistent with true RfHTN. Of patients identified as having apparent RfHTN, 52.5% were adherent with at least 5 antihypertensive medications, including chlorthalidone and a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, confirming true RfTHN. These findings validate RfHTN as a rare, but true phenotype of antihypertensive treatment failure.

Pancreatitis is one of the important medical conditions. Gastrointestinal (GI) complications of pancreatitis are important and lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis of these complications is difficult and may require a strong clinical suspicion coupled with various imaging features. This review provides an extensive update of the whole spectrum of GI complication of pancreatitis, both acute and chronic, from inflammation, ischemia, and necrosis to obstruction, perforation, and GI fistulae. The focus is on the clinical and imaging features of this less commonly described aspect of pancreatitis., Gastrointestinal complications of pancreatitis are important and lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis of these complications is difficult and may require strong clinical suspicion coupled with various imaging features.

Despite advances in endoscopic drainage procedures, percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) remains an essential interventional radiology (IR) procedure. Several factors may adversely affect the success of PTBD. We report the experience of our IR unit with PTBD in patients considered at higher risk for adverse events. Consecutive PTBDs performed between November 2017 and April 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients at increased risk for adverse events from PTBD, defined by one or more of the following factors: non-dilated system, moderate amount of perihepatic fluid, coagulopathy, altered sensorium, and PTBD performed at bedside, were identified. Technical success, complications, and outcome at 3 months were recorded. During the study period, PTBDs were performed in 90 patients. PTBDs in 57 (63.3%) patients (mean age 47.6 years, 35 females) were identified as predisposing to higher risk for adverse events. Left and right PTBD were performed in 37 (64.9%) and 15 (26.3%) patients, respectively. Bilateral PTBDs were performed in three (5.2%) patients. In two (3.5%) cases, biliary access was obtained via percutaneous cholecystostomy. Overall technical success of 91.2% (n = 52) was achieved. Carcinoma gallbladder was the most common underlying cause. Non-dilated ductal system was the most common condition deemed to predispose to higher risk for adverse events (n = 32, 56.1%), followed by perihepatic fluid (n = 9, 15.8%), and deranged coagulation parameters (n = 9, 15.8%). PTBD was performed at bedside in intensive care unit in 5 (8.8%) patients. Two (3.5%) patients had altered sensorium. Major complications in the form of biliary peritonitis were observed in three (5.2%) patients. No procedure-related mortality was observed. PTBD can be effectively and safely performed even in situations deemed to predispose patients to increased risk for adverse events. Thus, the mere presence of these conditions should not cause a denial of PTBD.

To study the ophthalmic clinical profile and the management outcomes of children having Goldenhar syndrome (GS). Retrospective review of included children fulfilling the diagnostic criteria of GS was performed. The demography, ophthalmic features, systemic anomalies, and treatment outcomes were recorded manually from patient files. An ENT, pediatrics, cardiology, and orthopedics consultation was sought for all GS patients before taking up for any ophthalmic surgical procedure. The anatomical (ocular surface and eyelid) and functional {vision and extraocular movements (EOM)} factors were exclusively studied. We ensured a minimum postoperative follow-up of 12 months, and our data were compared with the major studies featuring ‘ophthalmic features’ of GS. Totally 30 children (females = 18, 60%) were included with a median presenting age of 48 months. Twenty-seven (90%) had unilateral ophthalmic involvement with major features being upper eyelid coloboma (n = 25, 75.76%), lipodermoid (n = 18, 54.55%), and limbal dermoid (n = 10, 30.3%). Diminution of visual acuity was recorded in 22 (73.3%), while five (16.7%) had limitation of EOM. Systemically, the prominent features included hemifacial hypotrophy (100%), auricular anomalies (80%), cardiac anomalies (10%), and scoliosis (6.67%). The eyelid colobomas were repaired with the direct closure ± cantholysis technique or using a Tenzel’s flap. All children had satisfactory anatomical and functional outcomes after ophthalmic surgical interventions without any significant complications. The tailored ophthalmic surgical intervention(s) provides satisfactory restoration of anatomy and functionality of the eye. These children need specific multi-discipline consultations for the holistic management and complete care.

Purpose: To analyze the anatomical and functional ophthalmic parameters after the surgical removal of various intraorbital foreign bodies. Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records was performed featuring detailed history, ophthalmic examination, orbital computed tomographic scans, treatment details, and outcomes. The analyzed anatomical factors included extraocular movements, the position of the eyeball (proptosis, dystopia, and enophthalmos), and fullness of orbital sulci. The functional assessment was based on visual acuity, pupillary reactions, and diplopia. The outcomes were defined as complete, partial, and failure after a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Results: Of 32 patients, the organic and inorganic intraorbital foreign bodies were surgically removed from 18 (56.25%) and 14 (43.75%) orbits, respectively. At presentation, anatomically the extraocular movement restriction, proptosis/dystopia/enophthalmos, and orbital sulcus fullness were noted in 26 (81.25%), 24 (75%), and 15 (46.88%), respectively. Functionally, diminished visual acuity, diplopia, and pupil abnormalities were seen in 27 (84.38%), 14 (43.75%), and 8 (25%), respectively. After intraorbital foreign body removal at a mean follow-up of 14 months, the improvement of anatomical factors (same sequence) were observed in 8 (30.77%), 20 (83.33%), and 12 (80%), respectively. In functional factors (same sequence), the improvement was noted in none (0%), 13 (92.86%), and 5 (62.5%), respectively. Hence, the majority of patients (n = 20, 62.5%) achieved partial success, while 8 (25%) had complete success. Four (12.5%) had treatment failure despite similar management protocols. Conclusion: The anatomical outcomes are better than the functional outcomes after surgical removal of the intraorbital foreign bodies. The visual acuity does not improve considerably after the surgical removal of intraorbital foreign bodies. Overall, the wooden intraorbital foreign bodies have poorer anatomical and functional prognosis.

Aim and objective The present report describes an atypical presentation of a lacrimal gland mass in a young male patient. Symptomatology favored a benign mass that was proven to be malignant on histopathology. Background Adenoid cystic carcinoma is the most common epithelial malignancy of the lacrimal gland. The usual presentation of adenoid cystic carcinoma is in either sex at about an average 40 years of age with range from 6 to 79 years. The patient usually complains of a superotemporal orbital mass with rapid progression usually within a year. Uncommonly, these masses may present with longer history as is described in present case report. Case description A 17-year-old male patient of Indian origin presented with a mass in the superotemporal part of the right orbit for the last 5 years and 6 months. A firm and smooth orbital mass, approximately 20 mm × 15 mm, was present in superotemporal orbit that was nontender and nonpulsatile. A clinical diagnosis of lacrimal gland pleomorphic adenoma was strongly suggested by the clinical as well as radiological features. The orbital mass was excised en bloc by a right transseptal anterior orbitotomy. Histopathological examination of the excised mass revealed features characteristic of lacrimal gland adenoid cystic carcinoma. Conclusion Lacrimal gland adenoid cystic carcinoma can simulate pleomorphic adenoma and can present with history over 5 years. Hence, it should always be kept as a clinical possibility in patients with the painless superotemporal orbital mass and early excision of such orbital masses for appropriate diagnosis and management is vital. Clinical significance The duration of 5½ years at presentation in well-localized lacrimal gland adenoid cystic carcinoma is the longest period ever reported. The present article recommends keeping the differential diagnosis of adenoid cystic carcinoma in all patients with the clinically benign superotemporal orbital mass. How to cite this article Gupta P, Kaur S, Zadeng Z, et al. An Unusual Lacrimal Gland Mass. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2019;12(2 and 3):49–51.

Analysis of urine samples using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has previously revealed high rates of non-adherence to antihypertensive medication. It is unclear whether these rates represent those in the general population. This study aimed to investigate whether it is feasible to collect urine samples in a primary care setting and analyse them using LC-MS/MS to detect non-adherence to antihypertensive medication. This study used a prospective, observational cohort design. Consecutive patients were recruited opportunistically from five general practices in UK primary care. They were aged ≥65 years with hypertension and had at least one antihypertensive prescription. Participants were asked to provide a urine sample for analysis of medication adherence. Samples were sent to a laboratory via post and analysed using LC-MS/MS. Predictors of adherence to medication were explored with multivariable logistic regression. Of 349 consecutive patients approached for the study, 214 (61.3%) gave informed consent and 191 (54.7%) provided a valid urine sample for analysis. Participants were aged 76.2 ± 6.6 years and taking a median of 2 antihypertensive medications (IQR 1–3). A total of 27/191 participants (14.2%) reported not taking all of their medications on the day of urine sample collection. However, LC-MS/MS analysis of samples revealed only 4/27 (9/191 in total; 4.7%) were non-adherent to some of their medications. Patients prescribed more antihypertensive medications were less likely to be adherent (OR 0.24, 95%CI 0.09–0.65). Biochemical testing for antihypertensive medication adherence is feasible in routine primary care, although non-adherence to medication is generally low, and therefore widespread testing is not indicated.

The sensitivity of single abdominal paracentesis for diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis in patients with malignant ascites is 40-70%. Tumor cells shed from the peritoneum settle preferentially in certain recesses of the peritoneum. We aim to compare the standard technique of abdominal paracentesis versus a rollover technique in a randomized crossover study to assess the cytological yield in patients suspected to have peritoneal carcinomatosis. Each patient will serve as their own control and the outcome assessor (cytopathologist) will be blinded to the method of paracentesis performed. The primary objective will be to compare the tumor cell positivity between the standard paracentesis group and the rollover group among enrolled patients.Lay abstract Existing methods of diagnosing cancer-related ascites are dependent on microscopic evaluation of fluid obtained from the ascites. However, this may not diagnose all such cases because the fluid may not contain many tumor cells. This may be due to the settling of tumor cells in certain inaccessible locations of the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). This trial will look at whether rolling the patient from side to side could be helpful in increasing the chances of finding tumor cells in the ascites.

Purpose Intraabdominal hypertension (IAH) in acute pancreatitis (AP) may reduce tissue perfusion and impair organ function and has been shown to portend poor prognosis. We investigated the computed tomography (CT) findings in patients with AP with IAH. Methods This retrospective study comprised of consecutive patients with AP from June 2016 to June 2018 in whom intraabdominal pressure (IAP) was measured. The patients who underwent a contrast-enhanced CT within 7 days of IAP measurement were included. Using a cutoff of 12 mm Hg for IAP, the patients were divided into IAH and non-IAH groups. Measures of severity and clinical outcome were evaluated. CT parameters were compared between the groups. Results The IAH group comprised of 41 patients, while there were 20 patients in the non-IAH group. The IAH group was characterized by severe disease, increased incidence of organ failure, increased requirement for drainage and surgery, prolonged hospital and intensive care unit stay. The mortality was not significantly different between the two groups. On univariate analysis, the CT features that were found to be significantly different between the two groups were the presence of collection (p = 0.036), the maximum dimension of collection (p = 0.004), volume of collection (p = 0.019), biliary dilatation (p = 0.011), and the presence of moderate-to-severe pleural effusion (p = 0.009). On multivariate analysis, all these parameters except biliary dilatation were found to be statistically significant. Conclusion CT findings in patients with AP may suggest IAH. This can be used as an additional marker for severity of AP.

Seemingly, a paradox exists between reports of wide-scale task-dependent cortical activity and the causal requirement for only a restricted number of motor and sensory cortical areas in some behavioral studies. In this issue of Neuron, Pinto et al. (2019) indicate that scenarios where mice must accumulate evidence and hold it during a delay period are causally linked to wide regions of cortex.

Endodontic treatment works as a successful treatment modality in several cases. However, it may fail due to some reasons unforeseeable by the dentist. Many failures can be prevented by carefully assessing the difficulty level of the case before initiating treatment or by referral to a specialist. This study presents an approach using machine learning to generate an algorithm which can help predict the difficulty level of the case and decide about a referral, with the help of the standard American Association of Endodontists (AAE) Endodontic Case Difficulty Assessment Form. Using the AAE Endodontic Case Difficulty Form after obtaining the patients’ consent, 500 potential root canal patients were diagnosed. The filled forms were assessed by two pre-calibrated endodontists, and, in cases of conflicting opinion, a third endodontist’s opinion was taken. Artificial neural network was used for generating the algorithm. Using 500 filled AAE forms, a sensitivity of 94.96% was achieved by the machine learning algorithm. This study provides an option for automation to the conventional method of predicting the difficulty level of a case, thus increasing the speed of decision-making and referrals if necessary. An AAE Endodontic Case Difficulty Assessment Form when utilized along with machine learning can assist general dentists in rapid assessment of the case difficulty. This is a helpful tool in developing countries, where endodontic treatment and referral guidelines are often neglected. It also helps to make difficulty level assessments easier for novice practitioners, when they are in doubt about the same.

Background Percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) is effective initial strategy in the step-up approach of management of acute pancreatitis (AP). The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with outcomes after PCD and develop a predictive model. Method and materials In a prospective observational study between July 2016 and Nov 2017, 101 consecutive AP patients were treated using a “step-up approach” in which PCD was used as the first step. We evaluated the association between success of PCD (survival without necrosectomy) and baseline parameters viz. etiology, demography, severity scores, C-reactive protein (CRP), and intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), morphologic characteristics on computed tomography (CT) [percentage of necrosis, CT severity index (CTSI), characteristics of collection prior to PCD (volume, site and solid component of the collection), PCD parameters (initial size, maximum size, number and duration of drainage) and factors after PCD insertion (fall in IAP, reduction in volume of collection). Results Among 101 patients, 51 required PCD. The success rate of PCD was 66.66% (34/51). Four patients required additional surgical necrosectomy after PCD. Overall mortality was 29.4% (15/51). Multivariate analysis showed percentage of volume reduction of fluid collection (p = 0.016) and organ failure (OF) resolution (p = 0.023) after one week of PCD to be independent predictors of success of PCD. A predictive model based on these two factors resulted in area under curve (AUROC) of 0.915. Nomogram was developed with these two factors to predict the probability of success of PCD. Conclusion Organ failure resolution and reduction in volume of collection after one week of PCD are significant predictors of successful PCD outcomes in patients with fluid collection following AP

Gallbladder Carcinoma (GBCA) is the most common biliary tract malignancy. As the disease is often diagnosed clinically in an advanced stage, the survival rates are dismal. Imaging studies allow for an early diagnosis of malignancy, though the findings may be indistinguishable from non-malignant disease processes affecting the gallbladder. Attempts have been made to make a specific diagnosis of GBCA at an early stage on imaging studies. Ultrasonography (US) is the most commonly employed technique for gallbladder evaluation. Gallbladder wall thickening is the most common finding of early GBCA and in this context, US is non-specific. Recently, contrast enhanced ultrasound has been shown to be effective in differentiating benign from malignant disease. Multidetector computed tomography represents the most robust imaging technique in evaluation of GBCA. It provides relatively sensitive evaluation of mural thickening, though it is not entirely specific and issues in differentiating GBCA from xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis do arise. Due to its superior soft tissue resolution, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides excellent delineation of gallbladder and biliary tree involvement. When coupled with functional MRI techniques, such as diffusion-weighted and perfusion imaging, it provides a useful problem solving tool for interrogating the malignant potential of nonspecific gallbladder lesions and detection of metastases. Positron emission tomography has a role in detection of distant metastases and following patients following treatment for malignancy. We review the current role of various imaging modalities in evaluating patients with GBCA.

Background and Aim To evaluate the role of esophageal wall thickness (EWT) on computed tomography (CT) in predicting response to endoscopic dilatation of corrosive esophageal strictures. Methods This was a retrospective study. A review of the records of patients who underwent endoscopic dilatation of esophageal strictures between January 2010 and December 2017 was performed. Patients who had a CT evaluation prior to dilatations were included. CT‐EWT was measured at the maximum visible point. Clinical details and endoscopic dilatation parameters were recorded. Technical success, clinical success, and recurrent and refractory strictures were recorded. CT‐EWT and the clinical parameters were evaluated regarding their role in predicting the number of dilatations required to achieve technical and clinical success. Results A total of 250 patients underwent endoscopic dilatations during the study period; 84 patients underwent thoracoabdominal CT. Complete clinical, endoscopic, CT data and follow up were available for 64 patients. There were 36 males. The median age was 30 years (range, 14–70 years). A total of 750 dilatations were performed. The median number of dilatations required to achieve technical success was 8.5 (range, 1–51). Dilatations were performed after a median period of 3 months (range, 1–40). Median CT‐EWT was 7 mm (range, 3–22). On univariate, as well as multivariate, analysis, CT‐EWT and the clinical parameters were found to be poor predictors of the number of dilatations required to achieve technical and clinical success. Conclusion CT‐EWT has no additional role in predicting response to the endoscopic dilatation of corrosive esophageal strictures.

Despite the advances in the medical care, tuberculosis (TB) still remains an important health problem. This is particularly relevant to the developing countries as well as the immunocompromised population in the developed world. Multidrug resistance poses another challenge and may be responsible for increasing incidence of TB, to some extent. The respiratory system is the most commonly involved, although any organ system may be affected. Abdominal involvement occurs in 11-12% of the patients with extrapulmonary TB. The clinical features of abdominal TB are nonspecific. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis of abdominal TB. Although a few imaging features strongly favour the possibility of TB, abdominal TB is a greater masquerader. In this review, we highlight the entire spectrum of the manifestations of abdominal tuberculosis (excluding the genitourinary involvement) with an emphasis on imaging findings.

Cardiometabolic diseases are among the most prevalent and harmful conditions worldwide. They are complex, comorbid conditions that require polypharmacy - a known contributor to non-adherence in cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes mellitus (DM). Suboptimal adherence is associated with poor disease control, which increases the risk of hospitalizations, mortality, and preventable financial implications. However, until recently, the lack of a gold standard for non-adherence testing in cardiometabolic diseases has been the major barrier for understanding true prevalence and mortality consequences. Recent European guidelines have endorsed biochemical testing as the preferred measure for non-adherence in CVD, with urinary screening methods being the most clinically widespread. The diagnostic and therapeutic benefits incurred to health service resources by use of biochemical non-adherence testing are vast, as hospitalizations and associated economic burdens are reduced, and tailored therapies are increased. However, biochemical testing can only signify a snap shot of adherence behavior, and true adherence may be skewed by pharmacokinetic factors. This review summarizes current literature regarding the prevalence, impact, and reasons of non-adherence in cardiometabolic disease. The benefits of current adherence diagnostic tools have been appraised, where urine in biochemical testing has been focused upon and evaluated against other matrices.

Background and Aim The two most common etiologies of acute pancreatitis (AP) are alcohol and gallstone. Whether etiology contributes to the outcome in patients with AP is an unresolved issue, more so in the severe form of the disease. The aim is to study the effects of the etiological factors of alcohol and gallstone on the disease course and the role of etiology in the subgroup of severe AP. Methods Consecutive patients of AP with alcohol or gallstone etiology were included. Various severity parameters and various outcome measures, such as need for organ support, intensive care, surgical or radiological intervention, hospital stay, and mortality, were evaluated between the two groups. Results Of the 759 patients, alcoholic pancreatitis was seen in 368 (48.5%), while gallstone disease was observed in 246 (32.4%). Gallstone pancreatitis occurred in older age (P

OBJECTIVE Liquid chromatography—tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is a new method to objectively and robustly detect nonadherence. We applied this technique to study nonadherence to cardiovascular medications in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Routine urine samples, received at the time of the annual diabetes review from 228 people with T2DM in primary care, were assessed for adherence by LC-MS/MS. RESULTS A total of 28.1% patients (N = 64) were nonadherent to antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and/or lipid-lowering medications. Nonadherence to statins was the highest at 23.7%, and nonadherence to oral hypoglycemic agents was 9.3%. HbA1c, albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and lipid profiles were significantly higher in the patients who were nonadherent compared with those who were adherent to treatment. CONCLUSIONS This unique study shows that routine urine samples can be used for adherence testing screening by LC-MS/MS and has demonstrated high nonadherence rates especially to statins in people with T2DM. Future intervention studies using LC-MS/MS as a diagnostic/therapeutic tool may help to improve clinical outcomes.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of irreversible electroporation (IRE) in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A retrospective study was conducted from September 2014 to June 2017. A total of 21 HCCs in 21 patients with cirrhosis were treated with IRE. There were eight subcapsular or exophytic, ten perivascular and three peribiliary tumors. The median tumor size was 26 mm (range 14–40 mm). The technical success of the procedure was recorded. Median follow-up, median time to local recurrence, median local tumor progression-free survival (PFS) and complications were recorded. Technical success was achieved in all the patients. The median follow-up was 10 months (range 2–30 months). The median time to local recurrence and local tumor PFS were 4 months (range 3–4 months) and 7 months (range 3–30 months), respectively. The tumor-related factor that was significantly associated with local PFS was the size. Maximum tumor diameter

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an important gastrointestinal cause of morbidity worldwide. It can severely impair the quality of life besides life-threatening acute and long-term complications. Pain and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (leading to malnutrition) impact the quality of life. Acute complications include pseudocysts, pancreatic ascites, and vascular complications. Long-term complications are diabetes mellitus and pancreatic cancer. Early diagnosis of CP is crucial to alter the natural course of the disease. However, majority of the cases are diagnosed in the advanced stage. The role of various imaging techniques in the diagnosis of CP is discussed in this review.

Objective Setting priorities in health research is a challenge at the global and national levels. Use of evidence-based approach is uncommon and needs to be promoted in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC). We describe profile of Cochrane systematic reviews focussing on participation from LMIC. Methods We searched six Cochrane review groups producing reviews relevant to child health in low- and middle-income countries for published Cochrane systematic reviews from 1 March, 2009 till 18 March, 2015 in the Cochrane Library. Results A total of 669 Cochrane systematic reviews from six review groups were found. Low proportion of lead authors from low- and middle-income countries was found in 4 out of 6 review groups. About 50% of the reviews showed inconclusive evidence. 101/669 (15%) empty reviews were found needing more primary studies. Conclusion The proportion of Cochrane authors from low- and middle-income countries is low. Capacity-building in systematic reviews and good quality primary research in these countries is warranted.

Background: Homoeopathic remedies are widely used all over the world for different disease conditions. Approximately 70% are derived from the plant; however, their preclinical evaluation is still a major concern. Objective: This study was undertaken with an aim to explore the antimicrobial effect of different homoeopathic drugs and its potencies against the Aspergillus niger. Materials and Methods: Fifteen homoeopathic mother tinctures (Θ) and their potencies (3x, 6x, 12x) were tested for their biological activity against the human pathogenic fungi A. niger using disc diffusion method according to clinical and laboratory standard (CLSIM44-A) with slight modifications. The diameter of zone of inhibition was measured and compared with vehicle control (Alcohol 90%). The experiment was performed twice to check the reproducibility. Results: The marked antifungal activity was observed with Θ of Zingiber officinale; the growth of A. niger was inhibited and showed maximum zone of inhibition up to 15.4 ± 2.88 mm followed by Holarrhena antidysenterica (13.2 ± 1.09) and Terminalia chebula (10.6 ± 1.14). Different potencies (3x, 6x and 12x) were also exhibited significant zone of inhibition, especially Allium cepa 6x (10.4 ± 0.89), Caesalpinia bonducella 6x and 12x (12.8 ± 0.54 and 10.4 ± 1.14, respectively), Eucalyptus globulus 12x (11.3 ± 1.94), Ruta graveolens 12x (15.0 ± 2.23), Thuja occidentalis 6x (10.8 ± 0.83), and Zingiber officinale 3x and 6x (13.0 ± 2.73 and 11.4 ± 2.30, respectively) as compared to control. Conclusion: The findings of study concluded that Θ and potencies can effectively inhibit the growth of A. niger in vitro. This study paves the way for development of homoeopathic antifungal treatments. However, further investigations are required to get more information about the mechanistic approach, their mode of action and in vivo evaluation.

Vasculitis includes a group of disorders characterized by inflammation of the vessel wall and classified based on the diameter of the predominantly involved vessels. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis and Henoch-Schonlein purpura are the important entities in the small vessel vasculitis group, while polyarteritis nodosa and Kawasaki disease represent the medium vessel vasculitis group. The clinical manifestations may be non-specific and there may be considerable overlap with the other disorders. Imaging plays an important role in diagnosis as well as the management of patients with small and medium vessel vasculitis. Imaging allows direct evaluation of the arteries in medium vessel vasculitis. However, the involved vessels in small vessel vasculitis are smaller than the resolution of the current imaging techniques. Hence, only the end organ changes secondary to involvement of small vessels are examined. In this review we discuss the role of current imaging modalities (predominantly computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) as well as individual disease entities in the groups of small and medium vessel vasculitis.

Biochemical testing in urine is a powerful new tool in the investigation of non-adherence to cardiovascular medications Drug testing using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) is the mainstay of the laboratory test but may be subject to pre-analytical factors that could impact on test results. The stability of cardiovascular medications in urine is one such factor that has not been fully explored in non-adherence testing and has the potential to result in patients appearing falsely non-adherent to their therapy. The stability of 29 cardiovascular medications in patients' urine samples were assessed at room temperature (RT) and at -80°C using a LC-MS-MS screening method. All drugs and drug metabolites were found to be stable under the storage conditions studied. The findings imply that the medication stability in urine samples does not have any impact on non-adherence results and thus allowing samples to be taken and transported without the need for specialist sample handling procedures. The stability of cardiovascular drugs in urine samples will allow adherence testing to be utilized more widely into routine clinics and research.

Background and Aims Peptic ulcer disease (PUD)–related gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is known to respond favorably to endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD). However, data on efficacy of EBD for other etiologies of benign GOO are sparse. We aimed to compare the response of EBD among different etiologies of GOO. Methods Records of all patients with benign GOO who underwent EBD at our tertiary-care center between January 1998 and December 2017 were analyzed. Dilation was done by using through-the-scope balloons. Procedural and clinical success of EBD was compared among different etiologies. Results A total of 306 patients were evaluated, of whom 264 (mean [± standard deviation] [SD] age 37.89 ± 17.49 years; men 183, women 81) underwent dilation. Etiologically, caustic ingestion was the commonest cause of GOO (53.8%) followed by PUD (26.1%) and medication-induced (8.3%). Overall procedural and clinical success was achieved in 200 (75.7%) and 243 (92.04%) patients, respectively, requiring a mean (± SD) of 2.55 (2.8) and 5.37 (3.9) sessions, respectively. Caustic-induced GOO responded less favorably, requiring a higher number of dilation sessions and having more refractory strictures than other etiologies. Medication-induced GOO performed worse than PUD-related GOO. Of the 264 patients, 9 (3.4%) had perforations during EBD, 3 had contained leaks and were managed conservatively, and 6 underwent successful surgery. Conclusion EBD is successful in a majority of patients with benign GOO, with caustic-induced GOO and medication-induced GOO being more difficult than PUD-related GOO.