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Objective: To assess the limitations of intended change from one type of high sensitivity (hs) cardiac troponin (cTn) to another (hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI) in a real clinical setting. Design: An observation study. Settings: Acute emergency unit, Cardiology department, Institute for clinical and experimental medicine (IKEM), Praha. Material and Methods: Parallel testing of hs-cTnT (Cobas, Roche) and hs-cTnI (Architect, Abbott) in 567 consecutive patients of cardiology emergency. Method comparison (Passing-Bablok), calculation of time interval between sampling, assessment of delta concentration between two consecutive concentrations of hs-cTn, and comparison of classification. The time intervals between two consecutive samples were sorted into tertiles, and delta concentration was evaluated for the time interval up to 6 hours. A classification of the agreement for rule-in and rule-out diagnostics was evaluated according to the ESC Guidelines 2020 (kappa statistics). Results: There were 821 pairs of hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI results. Passing-Bablok test revealed a slope of 3.07 (95% CI 2.77-3.40), an intercept of -30.1 (95% CI -3.9 to -25.0), the equation was hs-cTnI = -30.4 + 3.07 * hs-cTnT, r= 0.934, p<0.001. The delta concentrations in the 1st tertile (42-65 min), 2nd tertile (66-112 min), and 3rd tertile (115-359 min) were (median and IQR) 3.3 (1.5-5.7); 2.6 (1.3-4.5); 48.5 (3.7-172.7) ng/L for hs-cTnT and 1.4 (0.4-2.9); 1.6 (0.6-9.5); 57.8 (5.5-755.9) ng/L for hs-cTnI. The classification agreement between hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI (ESC 1hour algorithm) was 63 % (kappa 0.425) and 77 % (kappa 0.716) for ESC 2-hour algorithm). The comparison of rule-in and rule-out classification revealed up- and down classification both for hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI. Conclusion: A relationship between hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI exists, however, recalculation is impossible. A study revealed a low adherence to the recommended diagnostic algorithms with very high variability in the time intervals between sampling. The delta concentration of hs-cTnT is lower than the delta concentration of hs-cTnI for a shorter interval between samples, and vice versa, the delta concentration of hs-cTnI is higher with the longer time interval between samples. The classification agreement between hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI was moderate for the ESC 1-hour algorithm and suitable for the ESC 2hour algorithm. Switching from one type of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin to another is not trivial, and real data analysis, clinical assessment, and communication with clinicians is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: This review will outline the current evidence on the anatomical, functional, and physiological tools that may be applied in the evaluation of patients with late recurrent angina after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Furthermore, we discuss management strategies and propose an algorithm to guide decision-making for this complex patient population. Recent Findings: Patients with prior CABG often present with late recurrent angina as a result of bypass graft failure and progression of native coronary artery disease (CAD). These patients are generally older, have a higher prevalence of comorbidities, and more complex atherosclerotic lesion morphology compared to CABG-naïve patients. In addition, guideline recommendations are based on studies in which post-CABG patients have been largely excluded. Summary: Several invasive and non-invasive diagnostic tools are currently available to assess graft patency, the hemodynamic significance of native CAD progression, left ventricular function, and myocardial viability. Such tools, in particular the latest generation coronary computed tomography angiography, are part of a systematic diagnostic work-up to guide optimal repeat revascularization strategy in patients presenting with late recurrent angina after CABG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The reason-related identification of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in primary care is helpful to treat reversible causes or decelerate progression to dementia by optimal management of existing risk factors. In this process general practitioners are in a key position. The present feasibility study investigated the practicability of a diagnostic algorithm (brain check-up), comprising neuropsychological examinations, differential diagnoses and follow-up measures., Method: By means of a standardized questionnaire, the utilization and practicability of the brain check-up was surveyed in n = 37 medical practices of general practitioners and internists in Germany., Results: The brain check-up was performed by n = 37 physicians in 389 patients (66%). The main barriers to implementation included patients' fear of facing the results, the professionals' lack of time, and costs. Overall, 73% of the participants agreed that the brain check-up was practical in everyday treatment. Long waiting times for an appointment with a neurological/psychiatric specialist were perceived as a barrier for optimal care., Conclusion: The structured algorithm is convenient in physician's everyday practice and can contribute to identify patients with MCI more easily. Therefore, it appears to be a helpful tool in primary care. To achieve sustainability in everyday use, identified barriers need to be addressed during the implementation phase., Competing Interests: Einhaltung ethischer Richtlinien. Interessenkonflikt: A.-K. Schwientek gibt an, dass kein Interessenkonflikt hinsichtlich der eingereichten Arbeit besteht; außerhalb der eingereichten Arbeit ist A.-K. Schwientek als Beraterin der The Boston Consulting Group GmbH tätig. A.-K. Bopp und S. Langer sind Angestellte der Roche Pharma AG. T. Grimmer gibt an, Beraterhonorare von AbbVie, Alector, Anavex, Biogen, Cogthera, Eisai, Eli Lilly, Functional Neuromodulation, Grifols, IQVIA, Janssen, Noselab, Novo Nordisk, Nui Care, Orphazyme, Roche Diagnostics, Roche Pharma, UCB und Vivoryon, Referentenhonorare von Biogen, Eisai, Eli Lilly, Grifols, Medical Tribune, Novo Nordisk, Roche Pharma, Schwabe und Synlab sowie Zuschüsse für seine Institution von Biogen und Roche Diagnostics erhalten zu haben. L. Wolski und V. Dogan geben an, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht. Die Befragung erfolgte unter Einhaltung des European-Society-for-Opinion-and-Market-Research(ESOMAR)-Kodex zur Markt‑, Meinungs- und Sozialforschung sowie zur Datenanalytik und im Einklang mit den Richtlinien der European Pharmaceutical Market Research Association (EPHMRA)., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: The use of a computed tomography pulmonary angiogram to diagnose pulmonary embolism (PE) has increased, leading not only to higher PE diagnoses but also to overdiagnosis and unnecessary radiation exposure, even in young patients despite a lower PE incidence. The aim of this study was to assess the failure rate of the pulmonary embolism rule-out criteria 35 (PERC-35) rule developed to reduce unnecessary testing in individuals aged ≤35 years among patients included in the Registro Informatizado de la Enfermedad TromboEmbolica Venosa (RIETE) Registry., Methods: This retrospective cohort study used data from the RIETE Registry, an ongoing, international prospective registry of patients with objectively confirmed venous thromboembolism. The primary outcome was the missed PE rate using PERC-35 criteria. Secondary outcomes included the comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics, PE localization, treatment strategies, and outcomes between PERC-negative (PERC-35N) versus PERC-positive (PERC-35P) patients., Results: Of 58,918 adult patients with acute PE, the PERC-35 rule demonstrated a low missed PE rate of 0.35% (n = 204), with an upper 95% confidence interval [CI] of 0.40%. The missed rate was 7.0% (95% CI 6.0%-7.9%) in the 18- to 35-year subgroup. Compared to PERC-35P patients, PERC-35N patients were younger (mean age 28.4 years), with a lower body mass index, and included a higher proportion of pregnant/postpartum women. PERC-35N patients had a significantly lower rate of chronic diseases and presented less frequently with dyspnea or syncope but more often with chest pain. They showed lower rates of positive D-dimer and troponin levels. PERC-35N patients experienced fewer major bleeding episodes, similar recurrence rates of PE/deep vein thrombosis, and no deaths during anticoagulation., Conclusions: The PERC-35 rule demonstrated a low failure rate to exclude PE in patients aged 18-35 years and could reduce imaging and radiation exposure in young patients with a low PE pretest probability if confirmed prospectively., (© 2024 The Author(s). Academic Emergency Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.)

This article addresses the diagnostic challenges of palmoplantar dermatoses (PPD) within the scope of Primary Health Care (PHC). These common skin conditions, encountered in daily practice, exhibit a diverse range of symptoms and morphologies, complicating their diagnosis. They are etiologically classified into infectious inflammatory, non-infectious inflammatory, and hereditary keratodermas. While various dermatoses may affect the palms and soles, few are specific to this area. Notable examples include palmoplantar pustulosis, dyshidrosis, erythema pernio, and Bazex syndrome. Given the high prevalence of dermatological consultations in PHC, this article underscores the significance of PHC professionals' knowledge regarding these conditions. It proposes a diagnostic algorithm to facilitate their management and timely referral., (Copyright © 2024 Sociedad Española de Médicos de Atención Primaria (SEMERGEN). Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the capabilities of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in differentiating between lipid-poor adrenal adenoma (LPAA) and adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC)., Materials and Methods: Patients of two centers who underwent surgical resection of LPAA or ACC after multiparametric MRI were retrospectively included. A training cohort was used to build a diagnostic algorithm obtained through recursive partitioning based on multiparametric MRI variables, including apparent diffusion coefficient and chemical shift signal ratio (i.e., tumor signal intensity index). The diagnostic performances of the multiparametric MRI-based algorithm were evaluated using a validation cohort, alone first and then in association with adrenal tumor size using a cut-off of 4 cm. Performances of the diagnostic algorithm for the diagnosis of ACC vs. LPAA were calculated using pathology as the reference standard., Results: Fifty-four patients (27 with LPAA and 27 with ACC; 37 women; mean age, 48.5 ± 13.3 [standard deviation (SD)] years) were used as the training cohort and 61 patients (24 with LPAA and 37 with ACC; 47 women; mean age, 49 ± 11.7 [SD] years) were used as the validation cohort. In the validation cohort, the diagnostic algorithm yielded best accuracy for the diagnosis of ACC vs. LPAA (75%; 46/61; 95% CI: 55-88) when used without lesion size. Best sensitivity was obtained with the association of the diagnostic algorithm with tumor size (96%; 23/24; 95% CI: 80-99). Best specificity was obtained with the diagnostic algorithm used alone (76%; 28/37; 95% CI: 60-87)., Conclusion: A multiparametric MRI-based diagnostic algorithm that includes apparent diffusion coefficient and tumor signal intensity index helps discriminate between ACC and LPAA with high degrees of specificity and accuracy. The association of the multiparametric MRI-based diagnostic algorithm with adrenal lesion size helps maximize the sensitivity of multiparametric MRI for the diagnosis of ACC., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no actual or potential conflict of interest related to this study., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.)

Objective (s): Evidences from various studies through the world reports experiences similar to hallucinations in people without a specific disease. This perception is called extrasensory perception, pseudo hallucination and paranormal cognition in scientific-research texts. The incidence and prevalence of extrasensory perception in different societies and the lack of information in educational programs of health service providers, indicate the necessity of appropriate criteria for diagnosing extrasensory perception from hallucinations and other sensory perception disorders. Differences in the causes and management of these situations increase the necessity of the issue. Methods: Review and qualitative study methods were used in different steps of the study. In the review study, relevant information was collected from scientific sources in the field of psychiatry and psychology and in the field of Islamic philosophy and mysticism. During a series of expert panels and based on documents from review study, different states of perception were identified and a "perceptual diagnostic algorithm and its spectrum without sensory stimulus" were designed. Results: Perceptual diagnostic algorithm is a tool to distinguish a person with experience of extrasensory perception from people with sensory perception disorders as well as normal sensory perception. Hallucination, extrasensory perception and revelation are categorized as perceptual experiences without the presence of sensory stimuli. These situations Based on these characteristics: awareness of the presence or absence of sensory stimuli, physical and mental health of the experiencer, awareness of the message of perceptual experience forms the spectrum of perception without sensory stimuli. Conclusion: The use of "perceptual diagnostic algorithm" and its spectrum without sensory stimulus" by physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors can meet the need to diagnose various sensory-related conditions in health system.

Background. The variety of phenotypic manifestations of spinal muscular atrophy 5q (5qCMA) is the reason for the difficulty in diagnosing and delaying the diagnosis, which is of particular importance today due to the emergence of new etiopathogenetic therapeutic possibilities.Objective: determination of the main clinical features and symptoms of 5qCMA with onset at different age periods, and the development of an algorithm that can help in making decisions regarding the need for testing the SMN1 gene by primary care and hospital doctors.Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of the case histories of patients observed at the Research Center of Medical Genetics with a confirmed diagnosis of 5qCMA was carried out.Results. The study included data from 315 patients, including: 173 with type I, 95 and 47 with types II and III 5qCMA. In all cases, the presence and diagnostic significance of 27 signs and symptoms were analyzed, depending on the age of disease manifestation. An attempt was made to isolate the main symptoms, which are the basis for the mandatory exclusion of 5qCMA by molecular genetic methods in patients with the onset of the disease before and after 18 months of life.

The screening for pre-invasive cervical lesions has significantly decreased the incidence of cervical neoplasm. It is recommended to be performed starting with the age of 21 with a frequency of 3-5 years and it consists of pap smear testing and HPV genotyping, and, if required, it can be continued with colposcopy or biopsy followed by pathological assessment. The importance of the early diagnosis of pre-invasive cervical lesions has led to several studies on this topic. The paper analyzed the modern literature published on the PubMed and Scopus databases. Reference studies have found that most intraepithelial lesions are caused by the presence of HPV. Other commonly associated factors are immunosuppression, multiparity and other viral infections. HPV infection can be prevented by vaccination. It is recommended for people between 11 and 26 years old and also over 27 years old if they associate risk factors. A meta-analysis performed on patients diagnosed with CIN2 revealed a lower recurrence rate in vaccinated women than in unvaccinated women. Other studies have shown the transient nature of HPV infection and spontaneous regression of pre-invasive lesions. The early diagnosis of pre-invasive lesions is necessary for the initiation of therapeutic and follow-up behavior as soon as possible, with the aim of reducing the incidence of cervical cancer. This is possible and easy to access through national health programs.

The complete diagnostic evaluation of tuberculosis based on its drug-resistance profile is critical for appropriate treatment decisions. The TB diagnostic landscape in India has been transformed with the scaling-up of WHO-recommended diagnostics, but challenges remain with specimen transportation, completing diagnostic assessment, turnaround time (TAT), and maintaining laboratories. Private laboratories have demonstrated efficiencies for specimen collection, transportation, and the timely testing and issue of results. A one-stop TB diagnostic model was designed to assess the feasibility of providing end-to-end diagnostic services in the Hisar district of Haryana state, India. A NTEP-certified private laboratory was engaged to provide the services, complementing the existing public sector diagnostic services. A total of 10,164 specimens were collected between May 2022 and January 2023 and these were followed for the complete diagnostic assessment of Drug-Susceptible TB (DS-TB) and Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB) and the time taken for issuing results. A total of 2152 (21%) patients were detected with TB, 1996 (93%) Rifampicin-Sensitive and 134 (6%) with Rifampicin-Resistant TB. Nearly 99% of the patients completed the evaluation of DS-TB and DR-TB within the recommended TAT. The One-Stop TB/DR-TB Diagnostic Solution model has demonstrated that diagnostic efficiencies could be enhanced through the strategic purchase of private laboratory services.

Purpose: To propose an algorithm of the major and minor diagnostic criteria for macular myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV). Methods: This single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional study was based in Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy. Two authors evaluated the clinical and imaging parameters of eyes with high myopia (spherical equivalent of -6D or less) and suspected to have naïve, recurrent, or inactive mCNV. Recordings of the eyes that met the inclusion criteria were then independently evaluated by two other senior retinal specialists. Fluorescein angiography (FA), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and OCT angiography were used for multimodal imaging. Results: One-hundred and twenty-two eyes (n = 107; 39 men, 68 women) were included in the study. The mean patient age was 66 years (range, 22–89 years). There were 83 and 39 eyes in the active mCNV and control groups, respectively. The best diagnostic algorithm had positive- and negative-predictive values of 89% and 85%, respectively, and was based on four criteria: leakage/staining on FA, retinal thickening, fuzzy area on SD-OCT, and recent metamorphopsia. When excluding FA-derived findings, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) features played a diagnostic role in 33 eyes (27%). Twenty-seven eyes with active mCNV (32%) did not have the fuzzy area. Taken singularly, no clinical or imaging parameter had both sensitivity and specificity greater than 78%. Matching of 2 or 3 biomarkers did not yield a sensitivity or specificity greater than 79%. Sensitivities and specificities ≥ 90% were found in ten criteria combinations that included four to five biomarkers. The most frequent were metamorphopsia, fuzzy area, retinal thickening, and leakage. Less frequently, they included hemorrhage, staining, and RPE features such as elevation, flattening, and focal interruption. For all the parameters, the agreement between the investigators was good (Cohen k ≥ 0.66), being the lowest when detecting the ELM interruption within the lesion. Conclusions: A combination of at least four clinical and biological markers yielded the highest positive- and negative-predictive values. More ("major") and less ("minor") frequent diagnostic criteria are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are the focus of developments in public health, given their widespread distribution and the high morbidity and mortality rates reported worldwide. The clinical spectrum ranges from asymptomatic or mild infection to severe or fatal disease. Rapidity is required in diagnostics to provide adequate and prompt management of patients. The current algorithm for the laboratory diagnosis of RTIs relies on multiple approaches including gold-standard conventional methods, among which the traditional culture is the most used, and innovative ones such as molecular methods, mostly used to detect viruses and atypical bacteria. The implementation of molecular methods with syndromic panels has the potential to be a powerful decision-making tool for patient management despite requiring appropriate use of the test in different patient populations. Their use radically reduces time-to-results and increases the detection of clinically relevant pathogens compared to conventional methods. Moreover, if implemented wisely and interpreted cautiously, syndromic panels can improve antimicrobial use and patient outcomes, and optimize laboratory workflow. In this review, a narrative overview of the main etiological, clinical, and epidemiological features of RTI is reported, focusing on the laboratory diagnosis and the potentialities of syndromic panels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary infarction (PI) is a possible consequence of pulmonary embolism (PE). The real incidence of PI could be underestimated considering only non-fatal PE presentation. However, following postmortem examination, the prevalence of PI is considerably higher. This evidence suggests the necessity of proper diagnostic protocol for identifying PI. Unfortunately, PI diagnosis can sometimes be challenging, due to the overlapping of symptoms with other diseases. Nowadays, the diagnosis is mainly based on radiological evaluation, although the combination with emerging imaging techniques such as ultrasound and nuclear scanning might improve the diagnostic algorithm for PI. This review aims to summarize the available data on the prevalence of PI, the main predisposing factors for the development of PI among patients with PE, to resume the possible diagnostic tools, and finally the clinical and prognostic implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the absence of lung biopsy, there are various algorithms for the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in critically ill patients that rely on clinical signs, underlying conditions, radiological features and mycology. The aim of the present study was to compare four diagnostic algorithms in their ability to differentiate between probable IPA (i.e., requiring treatment) and colonisation. Methods: For this diagnostic accuracy study, we included a mixed ICU population with a positive Aspergillus culture from respiratory secretions and applied four different diagnostic algorithms to them. We compared agreement among the four algorithms. In a subgroup of patients with lung tissue histopathology available, we determined the sensitivity and specificity of the single algorithms. Results: A total number of 684 critically ill patients (69% medical/31% surgical) were included between 2005 and 2020. Overall, 79% (n = 543) of patients fulfilled the criteria for probable IPA according to at least one diagnostic algorithm. Only 4% of patients (n = 29) fulfilled the criteria for probable IPA according to all four algorithms. Agreement among the four diagnostic criteria was low (Cohen's kappa 0.07–0.29). From 85 patients with histopathological examination of lung tissue, 40% (n = 34) had confirmed IPA. The new EORTC/MSGERC ICU working group criteria had high specificity (0.59 [0.41–0.75]) and sensitivity (0.73 [0.59–0.85]). Conclusions: In a cohort of mixed ICU patients, the agreement among four algorithms for the diagnosis of IPA was low. Although improved by the latest diagnostic criteria, the discrimination of invasive fungal infection from Aspergillus colonisation in critically ill patients remains challenging and requires further optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In recent years, significant progress has been made in elucidating the mechanisms via which hepatocellular neoplasms, i.e., hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, arise. Hepatocellular carcinoma usually occurs in livers with chronic disease, due to deregulation of important intracellular pathways of signal transmission. Recent studies suggest that subclassification of hepatocellular carcinoma is practically useful. On the other hand, subclassification of hepatocellular adenomas has been well established through correlation of molecular alterations with morphology and protein expression. Advances in hepatic imaging have resulted in a new approach for diagnostic assessment of lesions arising in advanced chronic liver disease. Histologic examination, aided by immunohistochemistry, is the gold standard for the diagnosis and subclassification of hepatocellular neoplasms, while clinicopathologic correlation is essential for best patient management. We summarize the etiology and pathogenesis of hepatocellular neoplasms, provide practical information for their histologic diagnosis, and address various frequently asked questions regarding their diagnosis and practical implications. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a major global contributor of cancer death, usually arises in a background of chronic liver disease, as a result of molecular changes that deregulate important signal transduction pathways. Recent studies have shown that certain molecular changes of hepatocarcinogenesis are associated with clinicopathologic features and prognosis, suggesting that subclassification of HCC is practically useful. On the other hand, subclassification of hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs), a heterogenous group of neoplasms, has been well established on the basis of genotype–phenotype correlations. Histologic examination, aided by immunohistochemistry, is the gold standard for the diagnosis and subclassification of HCA and HCC, while clinicopathologic correlation is essential for best patient management. Advances in clinico-radio-pathologic correlation have introduced a new approach for the diagnostic assessment of lesions arising in advanced chronic liver disease by imaging (LI-RADS). The rapid expansion of knowledge concerning the molecular pathogenesis of HCC is now starting to produce new therapeutic approaches through precision oncology. This review summarizes the etiology and pathogenesis of HCA and HCC, provides practical information for their histologic diagnosis (including an algorithmic approach), and addresses a variety of frequently asked questions regarding the diagnosis and practical implications of these neoplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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46,XY differences/disorders of sex development (DSD) involve an abnormal gonadal and/or genital (external and/or internal) development caused by lack or incomplete intrauterine virilization, with or without the presence of Müllerian ducts remnants.

Aim. An outlook of trends and perspectives in gastroenterology in the age of digital healthcare.Key points. Diagnosis gradually transforms to the task of image recognition. Tuning a diagnostic algorithm (DA) necessarily requires a statistically representative training set of images. In transition towards electronic medical records (EMR), such data will be generated automatically. Advances in machine image recognition and the upcoming availability of a large amount of medical data suitable for configuring DA both pave the way towards efficient computerassisted diagnosis.Conclusion. The growing volumes of medical data enforce, and advances in machine image recognition enable, the transition towards computer-assisted medical diagnosis.

Since developmental hemostasis was introduced by Andrew et al. in the early 90s, age-related variations in coagulation components have been a well-established knowledge. In parallel with age-dependent hemostatic status maturation, coagulation disorders assessment stands as an important prerequisite for bleeding management. However, discrepancies observed between neonatal coagulation reference ranges and standard coagulation assays extrapolated from adults make neonatal disease evaluation and therapeutic management challenging. This study aims to provide a diagnostic approach to neonatal bleeding based on a current literature search on bleeding disorders in the neonatal period.

Resumen: La urticaria crónica es una entidad relativamente frecuente en la práctica clínica habitual, cuyo diagnóstico se establece de forma clínica. Sin embargo, existen ocasiones en las que está indicada la realización de una biopsia cutánea para confirmar el diagnóstico y diferenciarla de otras patologías que pueden cursar con erupciones urticariformes. En este trabajo revisamos los hallazgos histopatológicos que podemos encontrar tanto en la urticaria crónica como en las patologías que plantean un diagnóstico diferencial. Con base en ello, proponemos un algoritmo que recoge las indicaciones para realizar una biopsia cutánea y la orientación del diagnóstico en función de los hallazgos histopatológicos que encontremos en la misma. Abstract: Chronic urticaria is a relatively common condition in dermatology and is usually diagnosed on clinical grounds. Skin biopsy, however, may be indicated in certain cases to confirm diagnosis and rule out other conditions that can cause hive-like rashes. We review histopathologic findings seen in both chronic urticaria and other entities in the differential diagnosis. We then propose an algorithm of indications for skin biopsy in patients with hive-like rashes and suggest possible diagnoses based on the histopathologic findings.

Objectives: Quinolone resistance in Escherichia coli occurs mainly as a result of mutations in the quinolone-resistance-determining regions of gyrA and parC, which encode the drugs’ primary targets. Mutational alterations affecting drug permeability or efflux as well as plasmid-based resistance mechanisms can also contribute to resistance, albeit to a lesser extent. Simplifying and generalizing complex evolutionary trajectories, low-level resistance towards fluoroquinolones arises from a single mutation in gyrA, while clinical high-level resistance is associated with two mutations in gyrA plus one mutation in parC. Both low- and high-level resistance can be detected phenotypically using nalidixic acid and fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin, respectively. The aim of this study was to develop a decision tree based on disc diffusion data and to define epidemiological cut-offs to infer resistance mechanisms and to predict clinical resistance in E. coli. This diagnostic algorithm should provide a coherent genotype/phenotype classification, which separates the wildtype from any non-wildtype and further differentiates within the non-wildtype. Methods: Phenotypic susceptibility of 553 clinical E. coli isolates towards nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin and levofloxacin was determined by disc diffusion, and the genomes were sequenced. Based on epidemiological cut-offs, we developed a QUInolone Resistance Mechanisms Inference Algorithm (QUIRMIA) to infer the underlying resistance mechanisms responsible for the corresponding phenotypes, resulting in the categorization as “susceptible” (wildtype), “low-level resistance” (non-wildtype) and “high-level resistance” (non-wildtype). The congruence of phenotypes and whole genome sequencing (WGS)-derived genotypes was then assigned using QUIRMIA- and EUCAST-based AST interpretation. Results: QUIRMIA-based inference of resistance mechanisms and sequencing data were highly congruent (542/553, 98%). In contrast, EUCAST-based classification with its binary classification into “susceptible” and “resistant” isolates failed to recognize and properly categorize low-level resistant isolates. Conclusions: QUIRMIA provides a coherent genotype/phenotype categorization and may be integrated in the EUCAST expert rule set, thereby enabling reliable detection of low-level resistant isolates, which may help to better predict outcome and to prevent the emergence of clinical resistance.

Globally, head & neck sarcoma care pathways remain unclear. In 2018, the London Sarcoma Service (LSS) set up a dedicated head and neck sarcoma (HNS) multidisciplinary team (MDT) with a clear objective to provide formal access to super-specialist expertise in diagnosis, treatment planning and management of HNS. The aim of the study is to provide first results of a dedicated HNS MDT. All patients discussed between 2018 and 2022, in HNS MDT, with a new histologically confirmed HNS diagnosis were included in the study. Demographics, anatomic site, morphology, MDT recommendation, treatment details and outcomes were obtained from electronic patient records. A total of 337 patients were discussed in the HNS MDT of which 178 patients were included in the study, with a median age of 53 years(range 2–94); 67 % were soft tissue sarcomas(STS) and 33 % were bone sarcomas(BS), of which 43 % and 71 % were high grade, respectively. 55 % BS and 39 % STS underwent surgery. 9 % of BS and 7 % of STS received adjuvant Proton Beam therapy. With a median follow-up of 2.16 years, recurrence was observed in 12 %, distant metastasis in 6 % of patients and overall survival was 72 %. The HNS MDT provides expertise on diagnosis and multi-modality management of HNS. STS are more likely to be misdiagnosed. Atypical imaging characteristics should trigger a specialist referral. Adequate surgery at first presentation remains the mainstay of treatment and the strongest prognosticator of overall survival. Formation of an expert working group specific to HNS must work towards streamlining sarcoma care. • Transformative Impact: Specialized MDT enhances Head and Neck Sarcoma Care • Optimizing Outcomes: Insights into Delays, Diagnostics, and Treatment Strategies • Integrated Approach: A Diagnostic Algorithm for Improved Patient Survival [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To discuss optimal management of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women. About every second woman experiences at least one UTI in her lifetime, of those 30% experience another UTI, and 3% further recurrences. Especially young healthy women without underlying anatomical deficiencies suffer from recurrent UTIs (rUTI), which are associated with significant morbidity and reduction in quality of life. Methods: This is a narrative review, investigating publications dealing with recurrent UTI in women. Risk factors and options for management are discussed. Results: The increased susceptibility of women to rUTI is based on the female anatomy in addition to behavioural, genetic, and urological factors. However, why some women are more likely than others to develop and maintain rUTI remains to be clarified. Invasive characteristics of certain uropathogenic Escherichia coli that are able to form extra‐ and intracellular biofilms and may therefore cause delayed release of bacteria into the bladder, may play a role in this setting. Treatment recommendations for an acute episode of rUTI do not differ from those for isolated episodes. Given the nature of rUTI, different prophylactic approaches also play an important role. Women with rUTI should first be counselled to use non‐antibiotic strategies including behavioural changes, anti‐adhesive treatments, antiseptics, and immunomodulation, before antibiotic prophylaxis is considered. In addition to the traditional treatment and prophylactic therapies, new experimental strategies are emerging and show promising effects, such as faecal microbiota transfer (FMT), a treatment option that transfers microorganisms and metabolites of a healthy donor's faecal matter to patients using oral capsules, enemas, or endoscopy. Initial findings suggest that FMT might be a promising treatment approach to interrupt the cycle of rUTI. Furthermore, bacteriophages, infecting and replicating in bacteria, have been clinically trialled for UTIs. Conclusion: Due to the limitation of available data, novel treatment options require further clinical research to objectify the potential in treating bacterial infections, particularly UTIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mast cell neoplasms are an emerging challenge in the fields of internal medicine, allergy, immunology, dermatology, laboratory medicine, and pathology. In this review, we discuss the current standards for the diagnosis and prognostication of mast cell neoplasms with special reference to clinically relevant germline and somatic gene variants. In patients with cutaneous mastocytosis or with indolent systemic mastocytosis (SM), various KIT-activating mutations act as key molecular drivers of the disease. In adults, KIT p.D816V is by far the most prevalent driver, whereas other KIT mutants are detected in nearly 40% of children. In advanced SM, including aggressive SM, SM with an associated hematological neoplasm, and mast cell leukemia, additional somatic mutations in other genes, such as SRSF2 , JAK2 , RUNX1 , ASXL1 , or RAS , may be detected. These drivers are more frequently detected in SM with an associated hematological neoplasm, particularly in male patients. Recently, hereditary alpha-tryptasemia has been identified as a genetic trait more prevalent in SM compared with healthy controls. Moreover, hereditary alpha-tryptasemia is more frequent in patients with SM with Hymenoptera venom allergy and severe mediator-related symptoms than in patients with SM without symptoms. On the basis of this knowledge, we propose a diagnostic algorithm in which genetic markers are applied together with clinical and histopathologic criteria to establish the diagnosis and prognosis in SM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify the best-suited cephalometric parameter for assessing the sagittal skeletal discrepancy in the Indian population. An in vitro, observational, single-blinded, retrospective study. Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics. A total of 94 lateral cephalograms were used in this study. The study involved one key person and two examiners. The key person collected the radiographs, coded, analysed and classified them into three groups (skeletal classes I, II and III). Subsequently, the coded radiographs were independently analysed by the two examiners. They classified the cases by matching a minimum of 6 out of 11 parameters. On completion of diagnosis by the examiners, the samples were decoded and matched with the original diagnosis given by the key person. The samples in which identification of a particular cephalometric parameter matched the original evaluation as given by the key person was regarded as correctly diagnosed. The number of correctly assessed cases was used to judge the diagnostic performance of all the parameters in all the cases. Cross-validation of the method was performed, and a diagnostic algorithm was developed for diagnosis. β angle and Pi angle showed a positive predictive value of 1 in both skeletal class I and II cases. ANB angle, W angle and HBN angle showed a positive predictive value of 1 in skeletal class III cases. No single cephalometric parameter can independently be used to diagnose sagittal skeletal discrepancy in all cases. However, a conclusive diagnosis on the type of sagittal skeletal malocclusion can be made by using a simple and easy to use diagnostic algorithmic process having a combination of cephalometric parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to develop a suspicion index that aids diagnosis of secondary schizophrenia spectrum disorders in regular clinical practice. Method: We used the Delphi method to rate and refine questionnaire items in consecutive rounds. Differences in mean expert responses for schizophrenia spectrum disorders and secondary schizophrenia spectrum disorders populations allowed to define low/middle/high predictive items, which received different weights. Algorithm performance was tested in 198 disease profiles by means of sensitivity and specificity. Results: Twelve experts completed the Delphi process, and consensus was reached in 19/24 (79.2%) items for schizophrenia spectrum disorders and 17/24 (70.8%) for secondary schizophrenia spectrum disorders. We assigned rounded values to each item category according to their predictive potential. A differential distribution of scores was observed between schizophrenia spectrum disorders and secondary schizophrenia spectrum disorders when applying the suspicion index for validation to 198 disease profiles. Sensitivity and specificity analyses allowed to set a >8/10/16 risk prediction score as a threshold to consider medium/high/very high suspicion of secondary schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Conclusion: Our final outcome was the Secondary Schizophrenia Suspicion Index, the first paper-based and reliable algorithm to discriminate secondary schizophrenia spectrum disorders from schizophrenia spectrum disorders with the potential to help improve the detection of secondary schizophrenia spectrum disorder cases in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anemia is a presentation of an underlying disease or deficiency. As stated by the WHO, anemia is defined as hemoglobin (Hb) levels <12.0 g/dL in women and <13.0 g/dL in men. This review of clinical practice aimed to determine the diagnostic approach to anemia in primary care patients. Summary: Nutritional deficiencies, medications, chronic inflammatory conditions, malignancy, renal dysfunction, and bone marrow and inherent disorders contribute to anemia development. Anemia is classified and diagnosed by the values of hematological parameters, underlying pathological mechanism, and patient history. The diagnostic approach of anemia in primary care settings is focused on history, physical examination, laboratory findings including complete blood cell count, reticulocyte count, and peripheral smear examination, fecal occult blood test, and ultrasound findings. Key Messages: Anemia is the most common hematological disorder that represents a major health burden worldwide. Hb levels alter with gender, ethnicity, and physiological status. Anemia is often multifactorial. The evaluation of a patient with anemia in primary care includes clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory findings with fecal occult blood test and abdominal ultrasound. The wide variations in general practice in European countries are based on different health care systems but also knowledge of GPs that reflect educational and research policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acute appendicitis (AA) is a common abdominal emergency with a lifetime prevalence of about 7 %. As the clinical diagnosis of AA remains a challenge to emergency physicians and surgeons, imaging modalities have gained major importance in the diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected AA in order to keep both the negative appendectomy rate and the perforation rate low. Materials and methods: This is a prospective study was conducted in the Department of Radiology at Dr. VRK Women's Medical College, Teaching Hospital and Research Center Hyderabad, Our standard protocol is that all adult patients suspected of appendicitis receive an ultrasound as their first imaging test, either by an emergency physician or a radiologist. The test characteristics of conclusive and inconclusive ultrasound exams were compared with a pragmatic gold standard. Result: In our study, most of the subjects were 11-15 years i.e., out of 90 (55.55%), followed by 6-10 years, i.e., 39 out of 90 (43.3%). In our study shows that all the cases presented with pain in the right iliac fossa and clinical suspicion of acute appendicitis which were the selection criteria for the present study. Acute appendicitis symptoms were (45.85), right ureteric colic (12.2%), pelvic inflammatory disease (7.7%), ovarian cyst (1.1%) and intestinal ascariasis (1.1%). 30% of cases were inconclusive. Irrespective of the pathology, vomiting was found to be present in 62.2% of the cases. Murphy's triad of symptoms i.e. pain in abdomen, vomiting and fever held good in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in our study. Tenderness in right iliac fossa was the most common sign elicited in all the cases (100%). Conclusion: Ultrasound sensitivity and the rate of visualization of the appendix on US varied across sites and appeared to improve with more frequent use. US had universally high sensitivity and specificity when the appendix was clearly identified. Other diagnostic modalities should be considered when the appendix is not definitively visualized by US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) represents an increasing social burden, with the unsolved issue of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). The failure of clinical trials treating Alzheimer′s Disease (AD) so far highlighted the need for a different approach in drug design and patient selection. Identifying subjects in the prodromal or early symptomatic phase is critical to slow down neurodegeneration, but the implementation of screening programs with this aim will have an ethical and social aftermath. Novel minimally invasive candidate biomarkers (derived from blood, saliva, olfactory brush) or classical cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers have been developed in research settings to stratify patients with NDDs. Misfolded protein accumulation, neuroinflammation, and synaptic loss are the pathophysiological hallmarks detected by these biomarkers to refine diagnosis, prognosis, and target engagement of drugs in clinical trials. We reviewed fluid biomarkers of NDDs, considering their potential role as screening, diagnostic, or prognostic tool, and their present-day use in clinical trials (phase II and III). A special focus will be dedicated to novel techniques for the detection of misfolded proteins. Eventually, an applicative diagnostic algorithm will be proposed to translate the research data in clinical practice and select prodromal or early patients to be enrolled in the appropriate DMTs trials for NDDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The best evidence provided in the literature worldwide suggests the importance of harmonizing the investigation in drug-related fatalities. In this study, the application of a multidisciplinary approach in eight cases of drug-related deaths is presented. Although death scene findings could be highly suggestive of drug intoxication, external examination and toxicological screening test alone are insufficient. There are several variables, and it is not always easy to give the proper interpretation of the drug detection. A complete autopsy is necessary to correctly complete organ and tissues sampling for further histological and toxicological studies and obtain body fluids. The use of peripheral blood is recommended to avoid artifacts. The collection of many specimens is warranted to get more responses. The sampling aims to provide a picture of the distribution of the substance in the body. The sample and the selection of the drugs and the matrices to investigate are case-dependent. The presented diagnostic algorithm provides the coroner with all the elements to investigate drug-related deaths and cooperate with toxicologists. Toxicological forensic diagnosis is still extremely heterogeneous in regional and national contexts. Funding for method development, research, networking, facilities, and technologies improvement is mandatory to standardize the toxicological investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left atrial cardiomyopathy (LACM) has been an ongoing focus of research for several years. There is evidence that LACM is responsible for atrial fibrillation and embolic strokes of undetermined sources. Therefore, the correct diagnosis of LACM is of clinical importance. Various techniques, including electrocardiography, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, electroanatomic mapping, genetic testing, and biomarkers, can both identify and quantify structural, mechanical as well as electrical dysfunction in the atria. However, the question arises whether these techniques can reliably diagnose LACM. Because of its heterogeneity, clinical diagnosis is challenging. To date, there are no recommendations for standardized diagnosis of suspected LACM. However, standardization could help to classify LACM more precisely and derive therapeutic directions to improve individual patient management. In addition, uniform diagnostic criteria for LACM could be important for future studies. Combining several parameters and relating them seems beneficial to approach the diagnosis of LACM. This review provides an overview of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis of LACM, in which several potential parameters are discussed and, consequently, a proposal for a diagnostic algorithm is presented.

Deficiency of Adenosine Deaminase Type 2 (DADA2) is a rare autosomal recessive inherited disorder with a variable phenotype including generalized or cerebral vasculitis and bone marrow failure. It is caused by variations in the adenosine deaminase 2 gene (ADA2), which leads to decreased adenosine deaminase 2 enzyme activity. Here we present three instructive scenarios that demonstrate DADA2 spectrum characteristics and provide a clear and thorough diagnostic and therapeutic workflow for effective patient care. Patient 1 illustrates cerebral vasculitis in DADA2. Genetic analysis reveals a compound heterozygosity including the novel ADA2 variant, p.V325Tfs*7. In patient 2, different vasculitis phenotypes of the DADA2 spectrum are presented, all resulting from the homozygous ADA2 mutation p.Y453C. In this family, the potential risk for siblings is particularly evident. Patient 3 represents pure red cell aplasia with bone marrow failure in DADA2. Here, ultimately, stem cell transplantation is considered the curative treatment option. The diversity of the DADA2 spectrum often delays diagnosis and treatment of this vulnerable patient cohort. We therefore recommend early ADA2 enzyme activity measurement as a screening tool for patients and siblings at risk, and we expect early steroid-based remission induction will help avoid fatal outcomes.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is on the verge of elimination on the Indian subcontinent. Nonetheless, the currently low VL-incidence setting brings along new challenges, one of which is the validity of the diagnostic algorithm, based on a combination of suggestive clinical symptoms in combination with a positive rK39 Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT). With this study, we aimed to assess the positive predictive value of the diagnostic algorithm in the current low-endemic setting in India by re-assessing newly diagnosed VL patients with a qPCR analysis on venous blood as the reference test. In addition, we evaluated the specificity of the rK39 RDT by testing non-VL cases with the rK39 RDT. Participants were recruited in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, India. VL patients diagnosed based on the diagnostic algorithm were recruited through six primary health care centers (PHCs); non-VL cases were identified through a door-to-door survey in currently endemic, previously endemic, and non-endemic clusters, and tested with rK39 RDT, as well as—if positive—with qPCR on peripheral blood. We found that 95% (70/74; 95% CI 87–99%) of incident VL cases diagnosed at the PHC level using the current diagnostic algorithm were confirmed by qPCR. Among 15,422 non-VL cases, 39 were rK39 RDT positive, reflecting a specificity of the test of 99.7% (95% CI 99.7–99.8%). The current diagnostic algorithm combining suggestive clinical features with a positive rK39 RDT still seems valid in the current low-endemic setting in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Detecting malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) remains difficult. 18F-FDG PET-CT has been shown helpful, but ideal threshold values of semi-quantitative markers remain unclear, partially because of variation among scanners. Using EU-certified scanners diagnostic accuracy of ideal and commonly used 18F-FDG PET-CT thresholds were investigated and differences between adult and pediatric lesions were evaluated. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed including patients from two hospitals with a clinical or radiological suspicion of MPNST between 2013 and 2019. Several markers were studied for ideal threshold values and differences among adults and children. A diagnostic algorithm was subsequently developed. Results: Sixty patients were included (10 MPNSTs). Ideal threshold values were 5.8 for SUVmax (sensitivity 0.70, specificity 0.92), 5.0 for SUVpeak (sensitivity 0.70, specificity 0.97), 1.7 for TLmax (sensitivity 0.90, specificity 0.86), and 2.3 for TLmean (sensitivity 0.90, specificity 0.79). The standard TLmean threshold value of 2.0 yielded a sensitivity of 0.90 and specificity of 0.74, while the standard SUVmax threshold value of 3.5 yielded a sensitivity of 0.80 and specificity of 0.63. SUVmax and adjusted SUV for lean body mass (SUL) were lower in children, but tumor-to-liver ratios were similar in adult and pediatric lesions. Using TLmean > 2.0 or TLmean < 2.0 and SUVmax > 3.5, a sensitivity and specificity of 1.00 and 0.63 can be achieved. Conclusion: 18F-FDG PET-CT offers adequate accuracy to detect MPNSTs. SUV values in pediatric MPNSTs may be lower, but tumor-to-liver ratios are not. By combining TLmean and SUVmax values, a 100% sensitivity can be achieved with acceptable specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses upon the pragmatic diagnostic approach of suspicious B cell infiltrations in the skin and lists the necessary histopathological and molecular tools for a thorough work‐up. We start with the description of different histopathological patterns of cutaneous B cell infiltrations and recommend pattern‐dependent immunohistochemical staining algorithms for further differential diagnosis. A summarised description of the current World Health Organisation (WHO) subtypes of primary cutaneous B cell lymphomas highlighting their most relevant clinical, histopathological and molecular features is included. Differential diagnostic clues towards secondary infiltrations by systemic B cell lymphomas, B cell‐rich T cell lymphoproliferative disorders and pseudolymphomas are provided. Furthermore, the most important pitfalls also elaborating on rare differential diagnoses are highlighted with helpful hints to solve arising diagnostic difficulties. The clinical work‐up and the staging examinations depending on the type of B cell infiltrate are relevant for patient care and a short overview of the main diagnostic standards is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on an in-depth survey of the literature, the purpose of the paper is to explore smart wearable Internet of Medical Things technologies, artificial intelligence-based diagnostic algorithms, and real-time healthcare monitoring systems in COVID-19 detection and treatment. In this research, previous findings were cumulated showing that big data analytics can optimize healthcare services in Internet of Medical Things, and we contribute to the literature by indicating that data connectivity and sharing are pivotal in healthcare services. Throughout January 2022, a quantitative literature review of the Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest databases was performed, with search terms including “COVID-19” + “smart wearable Internet of Medical Things technologies,” “artificial intelligence-based diagnostic algorithms,” and “real-time healthcare monitoring systems.” As research published between 2020 and 2022 was inspected, only 127 articles satisfied the eligibility criteria. By taking out controversial or ambiguous findings (insufficient/irrelevant data), outcomes unsubstantiated by replication, too general material, or studies with nearly identical titles, we selected 31 mainly empirical sources. Data visualization tools: Dimensions (bibliometric mapping) and VOSviewer (layout algorithms). Reporting quality assessment tool: PRISMA. Methodological quality assessment tools include: AMSTAR, Dedoose, Distiller SR, and SRDR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the significance of clinical, anthropometric indicators and determine the level of melatonin and the intensity of expression of its receptors in the esophageal mucosa in predicting obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and to develop a diagnostic algorithm for selecting patients for polysomnography (PSG). Material and methods. The study included 182 people (115 men and 67 women; the average age was 46.8±9.1 years). Diagnosis of OSA was made by means of respiratory polygraphy with registration of snoring, air flow through the nose, saturation and pulse. OSA was defined when the index of apnea / hypopnea (AHI) was ≥5. The presence of characteristic symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea was identified by a special questionnaire. The level of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin in the urine was determined. The intensity of expression of melatonin receptors of the second type in the esophageal mucosa was evaluated. The results of the study showed that anthropometric and clinical predictors play an important role in predicting OSA, however, their significance is variable in different clinical populations of patients. The proposed diagnostic algorithm, which combines anthropometric, clinical and laboratory indicators that are statistically significant in forecasting, enables to identify patients who need PSG with high accuracy.

Background. Nowadays, according to the foreign and native registers data, the number of patients with periprosthetic infection (PJI) tends to increase. The early PJI diagnostics allows to provide timely effective treatment. Several widely used PJI diagnostic algorithms PJI exist. The objective of the study is comparative analysis of diagnostic value, accuracy and specificity of contemporary diagnostic algorithms. Materials and methods. A post-hoc analysis of 242 patients undergoing revision arthroplasty in 2018, held at FSFI FCTOE, was carried out. According to the study design, 127 patients were included in this study. PJI was diagnosed according to three known algorithms: ICM (International Consensus Meeting 2018), WAIOT (The World Association against Infection in Orthopedics and Trauma), EBJIS (The European Bone and Joint Infection Society 2018). Diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and total accuracy of each algorithm was carried out. The evaluation of ICM diagnostic algorithm was made with 2 variants: “not convincing = no infection”, “not convincing = infection”. The presence of infection was confirmed by bacteriological examination of synovial fluid aspirate, intraoperative biopsy of materials and sonification of explanted components. Results. The highest value of common accuracy was achieved in ICM 2018 algorithm — “not convincing = infection” was 91.3%, with sensibility and specificity — 89.3% and 93.0% respectively. The best specificity was shown by the algorithms WAIOT and ICM (“not convincing = no infection) – 95.8%, with sensibility and common accuracy — 80.4% and 89.0% respectively. The sensibility and specificity of EBJIS algorithm was 87.5% and 84.5%, respectively, the common accuracy — 85.8%. Conclusion. All included in investigation diagnostic algorithms showed high specificity values in diagnostics of hip and knee PJI without significant differences. Patients with subclinical PJI and low virulent pathogens have the biggest difficulties in PJI diagnostics. It seems that the selection of analyzed algorithms doesn’t play an important role, however PJI diagnostics requires complex approach with the use of different clinical and laboratory values.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – a recurrent functional disorder of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), the main symptom of which is abdominal pain necessarily associated with a change in intestinal function. IBS is a functional intestinal disorder in which recurrent abdominal pain is associated with a defecation act and a change in the frequency or shape of the stool. The diagnosis of IBS remains exclusively clinical. The difficulty in studying IBS, especially from the perspective of its epidemiology, is that there is still no universal and specific biological marker. Very often patients complain about symptoms typical for several functional disorders, in particular, biliary tract pathology and IBS. The article discusses the multi-component causes and mechanisms of IBS formation, which are also present in other functional gastrointestinal tract diseases. Patients with IBS often have functional disorders of the biliary tract (FDBT) that are not associated with organic pathology. There are no reliable differences in the frequency and nature of FDBT in patients with IBS, depending on its current variant - with constipation or diarrhea prevalence. As a result, the treatment of patients with IBS remains a challenge, and the recurrence of the disease depends on the state of psycho-emotional health, the presence of overlap syndrome in most cases. The article presents the main international criteria for diagnostics of IBS. The main approaches to the treatment of IBS are considered. Good results in the treatment of IBS are observed when using drugs that affect the complex of pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease. This is confirmed in the article by a clinical case study. The prescription of the Sparex drug for pain relief in a patient with IBS and FDBT is justified by the fact that it not only eliminates pain, but also improves the rheological properties of bile, typical for overlap “IBS-FDBT” syndrome.

Introduction. The presence of mosquitoes and the abundance of microfilariae in dogs are considered of great risk for invading humans with dirofilariasis. We present an extremely rare case of Dirofilaria repens in the periorbital subcutaneous area, diagnosed for the first time in Bulgaria by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Case presentation. A 39-year-old woman presented for swelling of the eyelid and eye redness, sensation of movement, irritation and pain. MRI was performed in the axial, coronary and sagittal planes, with pulse sequences T1 W, T2 tse_dix, T2 vibe_fs. On the base of the anamnestic data and pathologic changes identified by MRI, which indicated the presence of Dirofilaria, the patient was referred to an eye surgeon. After the parasitological studies, two immature female parasites of the species Dirofilaria repens (larvae; Onchocercidae; Nematoda) were identified. Conclusions. MRI is a non-invasive and effective diagnostic method for assessing changes in the proximity and the affected areas of Dirofilaria repens, to determine the exact location, for subsequent surgical access and rapid removal of the parasite.

Abstract Background The reliable diagnosis of human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection is important, particularly as it can be vertically transmitted by breast feeding mothers to their infants. However, current diagnosis in Japan requires a confirmatory western blot (WB) test after screening/primary testing for HTLV-1 antibodies, but this test often gives indeterminate results. Thus, this collaborative study evaluated the reliability of diagnostic assays for HTLV-1 infection, including a WB-based one, along with line immunoassay (LIA) as an alternative to WB for confirmatory testing. Results Using peripheral blood samples from blood donors and pregnant women previously serologically screened and subjected to WB analysis, we analyzed the performances of 10 HTLV-1 antibody assay kits commercially available in Japan. No marked differences in the performances of eight of the screening kits were apparent. However, LIA determined most of the WB-indeterminate samples to be conclusively positive or negative (an 88.0% detection rate). When we also compared the sensitivity to HTLV-1 envelope gp21 with that of other antigens by LIA, the sensitivity to gp21 was the strongest. When we also compared the sensitivity to envelope gp46 by LIA with that of WB, LIA showed stronger sensitivity to gp46 than WB did. These findings indicate that LIA is an alternative confirmatory test to WB analysis without gp21. Therefore, we established a novel diagnostic test algorithm for HTLV-1 infection in Japan, including both the performance of a confirmatory test where LIA replaced WB on primary test-reactive samples and an additional decision based on a standardized nucleic acid detection step (polymerase chain reaction, PCR) on the confirmatory test-indeterminate samples. The final assessment of the clinical usefulness of this algorithm involved performing WB analysis, LIA, and/or PCR in parallel for confirmatory testing of known reactive samples serologically screened at clinical laboratories. Consequently, LIA followed by PCR (LIA/PCR), but neither WB/PCR nor PCR/LIA, was found to be the most reliable diagnostic algorithm. Conclusions Because the above results show that our novel algorithm is clinically useful, we propose that it is recommended for solving the aforementioned WB-associated reliability issues and for providing a more rapid and precise diagnosis of HTLV-1 infection.

In the new recommendations of the European Society of Cardiology for Chronic Coronary Syndrome, a new diagnostic algorithm is proposed in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of this algorithm was to propose a solution of the accumulated problems in the diagnosis of CAD, in particular, a high frequency of negative non-invasive tests and unchanged coronary arteries during invasive coronary angiography. The new diagnostic algorithm includes a revision of the pre-test probability scale, the introduction of the concept of clinical probability, clarifies the role of various non-invasive tests with the central role of non-invasive testing for myocardial ischemia. However, due to the lack of data on a number of key issues, significant gaps remain that impede the use of this algorithm in practice. This review is devoted to the consideration of problematic issues of the proposed algorithm, while a critical analysis of the algorithm itself and an assessment of recent publications are carried out. Various aspects of the application of a new scale for assessing pre-test probability, determining the clinical probability of CAD, the choice of non-invasive and invasive diagnostic tests, the place of the load electrocardiography test in the diagnosis of coronary heart disease are examined in detail. Gaps in the evidence base and limitations of the algorithm are considered, as well as the possibility of its use in Russian conditions. This review can help in adapting new recommendations to domestic conditions, as well as help practitioners to use it in their daily work.

Aim. To study clinical and laboratory features of panniculitis (Pn) in modern rheumatology. Materials and methods. The study included 690 patients with Pn (615 women and 75 men, average age 39.410.26) with the prevailing referral diagnosis of Erythema nodosum (59.2%), Pn (27.5%), Rheumatic disease Rd (9%), other diseases (4.4%),who had been on outpatient and/or inpatient treatment for 10 years. All patients were examined according to our diagnostic algorithm: general clinical, immunological and histological examinations, computed tomography of the chest organs, tuberculin tests. Results. Pn with Rd was diagnosed in 140 patients (118 women and 22 men, average age 40.2114.87), average disease duration 31.06 [0.1; 541] months. In most cases (49%) patients had idiopathic lobular Pn which belongs to the group of systematic lesions of connective tissue (M35.6), as well as systemic lupus erythematosus and Behcet disease (13% each), rheumatoid arthritis (8%), dermatomyositis (6.4%), etc. Matching of the referral and final diagnoses was 35% in case of Rd. Among the examined patients prevailed those with a moderate (51.07%) degree of activity of the underlying disease. Within the study group Pn was represented by all forms, but mainly by nodular form (64.02%). Mesenteric form was characteristic only for idiopathic lobular Pn. The main features of Pn associated with Rd were identified. In modern clinical practice the type of Pn and the activity of the underlying disease determine the approaches to treatment.

Abnormal values for standard laboratory tests of coagulation are frequently reported in critically ill patients. Sepsis-associated coagulopathy with prolonged prothrombin time and thrombocytopenia is common among patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU). Isolated prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) occurs less frequently in the ICU setting and has numerous causes. Moreover, there are several preanalytical factors that may impact on results obtained. Isolated prolongation of aPTT in the absence of clinically relevant bleeding is a common finding in patients in the ICU. The first step in the diagnostic process is exclusion of preanalytical error. Next, based on the clinical picture (normal haemostasis vs. bleeding tendency), the appropriate tests should be ordered, taking into account acquired and congenital causes. To establish a diagnosis in a timely fashion, the proposed practical diagnostic algorithm can be followed.

The incidence and prevalence of acute pancreatitis (AP) is increasing over time. The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis is established by revised Atlanta criteria (2012). Multiple criteria and scoring systems have been used for assessment of severity of AP. Majority of acute pancreatitis cases (80%) are mild, the challenge remains in early diagnosis, severity assessment and treatment of severe AP and its complications. Assessment of severity of AP is important part of management because line of treatment depends on aetiology and severity of acute pancreatitis. In this article a comprehensive review of recent advances in diagnosis and severity assessment of acute pancreatitis has been described.

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a heterogeneous group of diseases that are associated with decompensated acquired hemolysis. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia in children is most commonly observed after a viral illness. However, it is quite a rare disorder with the incidence of less than 0.2 cases per 100,000 of pediatric population. That is why the purpose of the article was to present a clinical case of autoimmune hemolytic anemia. A case of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in a 4-year-old boy is presented. On admission, he was diagnosed with acute viral infection with bilateral pneumonia and abdominal syndrome. While at hospital, the boy’s condition has worsened dramatically: weakness and pallor of the skin increased rapidly. Complete blood count revealed progressive hemolytic anemia (Hb 57 g/l, erythrocytes 2.58 × 1012/l, Ht 0.16, leukocytes 13.88 × 109/l, erythrocyte sedimentation rate 69 mm/h, platelets 400 × 109/l). There was a moderate increase of bilirubin due to unconjugated fraction (31.3 and 21.2 µmol/l, respectively). The issue of hemotransfusion was raised, but as a result of the crossmatching compatibility test, 20 packages of same-group blood were rejected due to incompatibilities. Aggressive immunosuppressive therapy (integrated administration of high-dose corticosteroids combined with intravenous immunoglobulins at a dose of 2 g/kg/day) allowed hemolysis to be stopped, and patient’s condition has improved, the issue of blood transfusion was rejected. The peculiarity of the presented case is a critical increase of anemia in the absence of classical signs of hemolysis, impossibility of hemotransfusion and a positive dynamics at prescription of high doses of corticosteroids and immunoglobulin. Thus, pediatricians should be aware of autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and it is important to increase their knowledge about the correct diagnostic algorithm in these cases. The drugs of choice for the treatment of autoimmune hemolytic anemia are intravenous immunoglobulins in immunosuppressive doses and a short course of glucocorticoids. In cases of resistance to such treatment, perftoranum transfusion is indicated.