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Copyright of Journal of Literature Pharmacy Sciences is the property of Turkiye Klinikleri and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: In this study, we aimed to investigate the parameters of vascular and oxidative damage caused by sepsis and to evaluated the effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on these damages. Materials and Methods: Wistar-Albino male rats were used for this study. Rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 10). Group 1 animals were intraperitoneally (i.p) injected with sterile saline (Control Group). Group 2 animals were i.p injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 20 mg / kgweight dose (Sepsis Group). Group 3 animals were i.p injected with lipopolysaccharide, 20 mg / kg-weight dose. Immediately after LPS injection, CAPE was i.p injected at single dose, 10 µmol / kg-body weight (Treatment Group). A single dose of CAPE, 10 µmol / kg-body weight / day, was injected i.p to Group 4 animals for 5 days. After 5th day CAPE injection, a single dose of LPS 20 mg / kgweight was injected (Protective Group). At the 6th hour after the injections applied to all groups, blood sample were taken intracardiac and their serum were separated for the studies. Homocysteine (Hcy), asymmetric dimethyl arginine (ADMA), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and vascular cellular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, the protective and therapeutic effects of CAPE on these parameters was investigated. Results: Control group Hcy, ADMA, ET-1 and VCAM-1 levels were found to be 4.987 ± 0.096 µmol/l, 0.803 ± 0.020 nmol/ml, 21.123 ± 2.575 ng/l, 3.155 ± 0.078 ng/ml, respectively. Sepsis group Hcy, ADMA, ET-1 and VCAM-1 levels were found to be 8.975 ± 0.160 µmol/l, 3.953 ± 0.678 nmol/ml, 52.446 ± 2.546 ng/l, 10.783 ± 1.068 ng/ml, respectively. Treatment group Hcy, ADMA, ET-1 and VCAM-1 levels were found to be 5.286 ± 0.037 µmol/l, 1.304 ± 0.040 nmol/ml, 27.995 ± 1.299 ng/l, 3.72 ± 0.073 ng/ml, respectively. Protective group Hcy, ADMA, ET-1 and VCAM-1 levels were found to be 5.401 ± 0.042 µmol/l, 1.431 ± 0.056 nmol/ml, 32.708 ± 1.326 ng/l, 4.058 ± 0.069 ng/ml, respectively. It was observed that the Hcy, ADMA, ET-1 and VCAM-1 levels of the sepsis group increased significantly compared to the control group (p<0.05). It was observed that CAPE treatment significantly decreased these parameters levels. However, the use of CAPE as a protective was not as effective as its treatment effect. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that sepsis resulted in increase Hcy, ADMA, ET-1, VCAM-1 levels. All these changes indicate that sepsis-mediated vascular damage is increased. Our results demonstrated that CAPE is more effective in preventing sepsis-mediated damages when given as a treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between smokeless tobacco (Maras powder) and cigarette consumption with homocysteine, Paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), Arylesterase (ARE), and Lipoprotein-a (Lp (a)), which are known as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Material and Methods: The individuals included in the study were divided into three groups as Maras powder users (n = 38), cigarette smokers (n = 38), and healthy volunteers who did not use either tobacco group (n = 38). Serum homocysteine, PON-1, ARE, and Lp (a) levels of all participants were examined. Results: When the groups are compared, the highest homocysteine level was in the Maras powder group. While the difference between the control group and the Maras powder group was statistically significant, the difference between the control and smokers groups was statistically insignificant. Although PON values were lower in both the Maras powder and smokers groups than the control group, the difference was significant only in the smoking group. ARE was significantly lower, and Lp (a) was significantly higher in both tobacco smokers groups compared to the control group. Conclusion: Serum homocysteine, PON-1, ARE, and Lp (a) level are associated with Maras powder use. Homocysteine may be a useful early marker for cardiovascular disease in those who use Maras powder.

Strong association between homocysteine (Hcy) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) is documented in individuals with schizophrenia and it is suggested that alterations in Hcy levels might be secondary to metabolic changes induced by atypical antipsychotics (AA). Serum paraoxonase (PON-1) activity, which is negatively affected by increased Hcy concentrations are lower in schizophrenia, and this may impact the development of metabolic side effects. Forty-five subjects with schizophrenia and 43 healthy volunteers, matched according to age, gender, smoking habits, and MetS predictors, were enrolled in this study to examine how Hcy level, PON-1 activity, and MetS indicators influence each other in schizophrenic individuals on AA treatment. Serum Hcy concentrations were significantly higher (15 ± 8 μmol/L vs 12 ± 3 μmol/L), and PON activity tended to be impaired (182±82 U/L vs 216 ± 110 U/L) in schizophrenia. Serum Hcy concentrations were not different between subjects with and without metabolic syndrome in study (14±4 μmol/L and 16±9 μmol/L) and control groups (12±3 μmol/L and 13±7 μmol/L), respectively. Similarly, PON and aryl esterase (AE) activities were not different between subjects with and without metabolic syndrome in study (PON: 185±100 U/L and 181±76 U/L; AE: 84±34 kU/L and 89±20 kU/L) and control (PON: 215±111 U/L and 216±113 U/L; AE: 83±27 kU/L and 88±33 kU/L) groups, respectively. . Hcy levels and MetS predictors were not statistically correlated. Results indicate that schizophrenic subjects on AA treatment have increased levels of Hcy compared to healthy controls and this is not influenced by the presence of MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Van Health Sciences Journal / Van Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Van Yuzuncu Yil University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Karya Journal of Health Science is the property of Karya Journal of Health Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Sakarya Tıp Dergisi is the property of Sakarya Tip Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ahi Evran Medical Journal is the property of Ahi Evran University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: Hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. It has paradoxically both antifibrinolytic and pro-hemorrhagic effects. In the study, we investigated the effect of homocysteine (Hcy) levels on thrombolytic therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Materials and. Methods: Patients who received intravenous (iv) tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) between 2005 and 2021 and had Hcy levels measured within the first 3 days were reviewed in terms of tPA efficacy, prognosis and intracerebral hemorrhage. The efficacy of tPA treatment was categorized as effective response (decrease of at least 4 points or a decrease in score to zero) and dramatic response (decrease of at least 8 points or a decrease in score to either zero or one) according to NIHSS score at 24 hours. Scores of 0 and 1 were classified as "excellent outcome", and scores of 0, 1, and 2 were classified as "good outcome" on the modified Rankin scale evaluated at 3 months. Hemorrhagic transformation was evaluated according to Fiorelli's classification. Results: Effective response was observed in 46.7% of the 182 patients (mean age 71±14 years; 99 women) included in the study, and dramatic response in 31.3%. Excellent outcome was reported in 33% of the patients, and good outcome in 53.3%. Cerebral hemorrhage of any severity was detected in 15.9% of the patients, and parenchymal hematoma type 2 in 5.5%. In the analyses made for assessing iv tPA response and cerebral hemorrhage status, no difference was found in terms of Hcy level and between the subgroups formed with different cut-off values of Hcy level. Conclusion: In our study, hyperhomocysteinemia, which is known to have negative effects on fibrinolysis and vascular integrity, did not show a significant effect on iv tPA efficacy, prognosis and complications. Prospective and large-sample sized studies are needed to better demonstrate these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As life expectancy increases over time, the incidence of neurological diseases has increased and it is important to conduct clinical and scientific studies on these issues, as they impair quality of life and cause an additional burden on the health expenditures of countries. Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurological disorder. Multiple studies have been carried out to elucidate its pathogenesis. It is thought that environmental and genetic factors, enzymes and amino acids in folate metabolism, and enzymatic transformations between vitamins contribute to the development of PD in varying degrees. The levels of homocysteine (Hcy) and vit B 12 levels, and key enzymes on folate metabolism (Methionine synthase reductase MTRR, Methionine synthase; MTR, 5,10-methyleneTHF reductase; MTHFR) may have impact on the development of PD, especially, changes on enzyme activities due to genetic polymorphism. The results obtained from studies on this subject are controversial. In the present review, the impacts of polymorphic enzymes in folate metabolism, and Hcy and B12 vit on the development of PD was evaluated by reviewing recent studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, vitamin B12 eksikliği olan çocuklarda oksidatif stres belirteci olarak tiyol/disülfit dengesinin araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmaya vitamin B12 eksikliği olan 61 çocuk hasta ve 62 sağlıklı çocuk kontrol grubu olarak dahil edildi. Katılımcıların vitamin B12, homosistein, tam kan sayımı ve tiyol/disülfit dengesi parametreleri ölçüldü. Grupların klinik ve laboratuvar parametreleri karşılaştırıldı. Tiyol/disülfit dengesi parametreleri ile vitamin B12 ve homosistein arasındaki ilişki araştırıldı. Bulgular: Gruplar yaş ve cinsiyet dağılımı açısından benzerdi. Medyan vitamin B12 düzeyi hasta grubunda 179 (98-199) pg/ml, kontrol grubunda 298 (201-965) pg/ml idi. Hasta ve kontrol grubu arasında; homosistein, nativ tiyol, total tiyol, disülfit, disülfit/nativ tiyol oranı, disülfit/total tiyol oranı ve nativ tiyol/total tiyol oranı açısından anlamlı fark saptanmadı. Hasta ve kontrol grubunda, tiyol/disülfit dengesi parametreleri ile vitamin B12 ve homosistein düzeyleri arasında anlamlı korelasyon saptanmadı. Sonuç: Hasta grubumuzda vitamin B12 düzeyinin belirgin düşük olmaması nedeniyle homosistein düzeyinde anlamlı artış olmadığı düşünülmüştür. Homosisteini artırmayan bir vitamin B12 eksikliğinin, oksidatif stresi artırmayacağı, dolayısıyla antioksidan kapasiteyi de artırmayacağı öngörülebilir.

Copyright of Journal of Ankara University Faculty of Medicine / Ankara Üniversitesi Tip Fakültesi Mecmuasi is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: The evidences from experimental and epidemiological studies suggests that elevated serum homocysteine levels may lead to renal injury and may be a significant risk factor for the development of chronic kidney disease. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible relationship between serum homocysteine level and crescent formation in children with IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schonlein purpura nephritis. Material and Methods: A total of 31 patients diagnosed as biopsy proven IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schonlein purpura nephritis and idiopathic crescentic glomerulonephritis in three Pediatric Nephrology centers within the last five years and 25 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Results: Homocysteine levels of patients were higher than the upper limit of normal value and also higher than the controls (p=0.0001). There was no significant difference between the patients with or without crescent formation regarding homocysteine levels (p>0.05). Presence or severity of proteinuria was not related to homocysteine levels (p>0.05). Conclusion: Serum homocysteine levels are elevated in patients with IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schonlein purpura nephritis. Our results suggest that elevated serum homocysteine levels may be related to segmental glomerulosclerosis in these patient groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of MN Cardiology / MN Kardiyoloji is the property of Medical Network and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Cukurova Medical Journal / Çukurova Üniversitesi Tip Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Cukurova University, Faculty of Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: To determine homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folate levels in patients with Parkinson's disease and to investigate the effect of entacapone use on homocysteine levels. Materials and Methods: The records of patients who were followed up in our outpatient clinic between 2009 and 2010 were reviewed retrospectively. The demographic, clinical characteristics, and laboratory findings of the patients were recorded. The control group consisted of healthy subjects with similar demographic characteristics. The patients were divided into two groups according to the treatment they received. Results: The control group consisted of 22 healthy subjects (group 1), group 2 comprised 22 patients [entacapone (+)], and group 3 constitued 50 patients [entacapone (-)]. The homocysteine levels of the control group were significantly lower than the entacapone (-) and entacapone (+) groups. The vitamin B12 level of the control group was significantly higher than in the entacapone (-) group. The folate levels of the control group were significantly higher than those of the entacapone (-) group. There was no significant difference between the entacapone (-) and entacapone (+) groups in terms of homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folate levels. Conclusion: Levodopa treatment affects homocysteine levels in patients with Parkinson's disease. The effect of levodopa + entacapone on plasma homocysteine levels should be evaluated together with basal vitamin B12 and folate levels and genetic features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum homocysteine (HCY), and creatinine, urea, venous blood gas and electrolytes values in neonatal calves with diarrhea. The study was conducted on a total of 30 calves, 20 with diarrhea and 10 healthy (control), with diarrhea complaints, of different races, sexes and ages ranging from 2-24 days. According to the venous blood gas results, the pCO2 and base deficit values of calves with diarrhea were significantly higher (P<0.001) compared to the control group values, while pH, pO2 and HCO3 values were significantly lower (P<0.001). While serum Na+ and Cl- concentrations in diarrheic calves did not show any statistical change when compared to the control group (P>0.05), serum K+ concentrations were statistically higher (P<0.001). Serum HCY, folate and vitamin B12 concentration values of diarrheic calves were significantly higher (P<0.001) when compared to the control group. As a result; in neonatal calves with diarrhea, it has been concluded that homocystein excretion is disrupted by low renal excretion due to decrease in glomerular filtration rate that caused hyperhomocysteine. In addition, it is thought that this study will shed light on studies that will reveal the effect of hyperhomocysteinemia in the cardiovascular system in diarrheic calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaç: Vitamin B12 ve folik asit DNA sentezi, tamiri ve ekspresyonunda önemli görevler alırlar. Bu çalışmada çocukluk çağı kanserleri ile vitamin B12 ve folik asit düzeyleri arasındaki ilişki araştırıldı.Gereç ve Yöntem: Kasım 2013 ve Aralık 2015 arasında yeni tanı alan solid tümörlü 125, lenfoproliferatif/miyeloproliferatif malign hastalığı olan 113 hasta ve 63 kontrol çalışmaya dahil edildi. Vitamin B12 ve folik asit düzeyleri tanısal çalışmaların bir parçası olarak tanı anında ölçüldü.Bulgular: Vitamin B12 ve folik asit düzeyleri malign hastalığı olan çocuklarda kontrol grubuna oranla anlamlı olarak düşük bulundu. Homosistein düzeyleri ise kontrol grubuna göre istatistiksel olarak daha yüksekti. Folik asit düzeyleri lenfoproliferatif/miyeloproliferatif malign hastalığı olanlarda solid tümör grubuna oranla daha düşüktü.Sonuç: Düşük vitamin B12 ve folik asit düzeyleri kanser tanısında destekleyici belirteçler olarak kullanılabilir. Bu ilişkinin gelecekte daha geniş serilerle ortaya konması gerekmektedir.

Latar belakang. Leukemia merupakan 35% keganasan pada anak. Persentase terbanyak adalah Leukemia limfoblastik akut (LLA) yang mencapai 80%. Pedoman kemoterapi LLA berdasarkan Indonesian Childhood ALL-Protocol 2013 menggunakan metotreksat (MTX) intratekal dan intravena, bekerja menghambat enzim dihidrofolat reduktase (DHFR) menyebabkan peningkatan konsentrasi homosistein yang mempunyai efek neurotoksisitas. Vitamin B6 dan B12 adalah kofaktor enzim yang berperan pada remethylation dan transsulferation yang dapat menurunkan konsentrasi homosistein. Tujuan. Mengetahui pengaruh vitamin B6 dan B12 terhadap konsentrasi homosistein pada pasien LLA yang mendapat MTX intratekal (MTX IT) dan MTX intravena dosis tinggi (high dose/MTX HD). Metode. Penelitian case control study pre dan post control group design pada pasien LLA yang dirawat di bagian Anak RS Dr. M.Djamil Padang dari Januari-Juni 2017. Jumlah sampel kelompok kontrol dan perlakuan 10 orang. Kelompok perlakuan mendapat vitamin B6 20 mg/hari dan B12 0,5 mg/hari selama 6 minggu. Hasil. Konsentrasi homosistein awal kelompok kontrol 11,72±1,7067 µmol/L dan setelah 6 minggu 11,630±1,4765 µmol/L, tidak berbeda bermakna secara statistik (p>0,05). Kelompok perlakuan, konsentrasi awal 12,05±2,0919 µmol/L dan setelah 6 minggu 10,07±1,6526 µmol/L, berbeda bermakna secara statistik (p

maç: Bu çalışmada Down sendromlu çocuk sahibi olan hastalarda MTHFR (Metilentetrahidrofolat redüktaz) geni C677T ve A1298C polimorfizmleri allel frekansları ve genotip dağılımlarını belirlemek ve bu genotipler ile folat ve homosistein düzeyleri arasındaki ilişkiyi araştırmak amaçlanmıştır.Gereç ve Yöntem: MTHFR geninin iki yaygın varyantı C677T ve A1298C, Türkiye Çukurova Bölgesi’ nde Down Sendromu tanısı almış çocukların annelerinde (hasta grubu, n=67) ve sağlıklı çocuk sahibi annelerde (kontrol grubu, n=66) araştırılmıştır. MTHFR genotipleri PZR amplifiye ürünlerinin RFLP analizi ile belirlenmiştir. Bulgular: C677T polimorfizmi için genotip ve allel frekansları bakımından hasta ve kontrol grupları arasındaki fark istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bulunmuştur. Hasta grubunda T alleli frekansına ait oran (%53.7) yüksek iken kontrol grubunda C alleli frekansına ait oran (%62.9) yüksektir. Ayrıca A1298C polimorfizmi için genotip ve allel frekansları bakımından hasta ve kontrol grupları arasındaki fark istatistiksel olarak anlamlı değildir. Hasta grubunda C alleli frekansına ait oran (%40.8) yüksek iken kontrol grubunda A alleli frekansına ait oran (%70.3) yüksektir. Sonuç: C677T polimorfizmi Down sendromlu çocuk sahibi olma durumu ile ilişkili iken A1298C polimorfizmi ilişkili değildir. 1298C alleli ile 677T alleli Down sendromu riski ile yakın ilişkili olabilir.

Objective: To investigate the relationship between high maternal homocysteine levels and early pregnancy losses. Methods: Seventy patients diagnosed with miscarriage (missed, incomplete and threatened) between 5 and 12 weeks of gestation and 54 pregnant women without any problem during their follow-up were compared in terms of homocysteine levels during pregnancy. Results: The highest mean serum homocysteine level among the miscarriage groups was in the threatened miscarriage group (8.9+3.9 nmol/i), followed by 7.8+2.5 and 8.7+4.2 nmol/1 in the missed and incomplete miscarriage groups, respectively. The mean serum homocysteine level in the control group was 4.8±0.9 nmol/1. The homocysteine levels of the control group were significantly lower than all three miscarriage groups (p<0.01). On the other hand, there was no significant difference between the homocysteine levels of the miscarriage groups (p>0.05). When compared to the control group, the most significant difference among the serum homocysteine levels was found in the missed miscarriage (p<0.01). Conclusion: High homocysteine levels detected during early weeks of gestation can be a warning about the miscarriage risk, and also may provide insight about the obstetric complications that may develop in the further weeks of gestation such as preeclampsia, ablatio placentae and intrauterine growth restriction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic significance of irisin and homocysteine (Hcy) levels in the serum of patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (SH). Methods: In the study, 80 individuals were evaluated. The patient group included 40 subjects diagnosed with SH and the control group 40 healthy individuals. Blood specimens were collected and serum irisin and Hcy levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4) levels were measured by chemiluminescent method using Cobas e 601 autoanalyzer Results: Irisin, Hcy and TSH levels in SH patients were significantly higher compared with the control group (p=0.0001, p=0.0001, p=0.0001, respectively). Also, irisin and hcy levels were closely sensitive and specific even TSH levels. The best cut-off points for irisin were >14.43 ng/mL, hcy were >13.53 nmol/mL, TSH >4.11µUI/mL for SH. Conclusion: Irisin and Hcy may be used as a diagnostic biomarker for SH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Homocysteine is a sulfur containing amino acid that is formed during methionine metabolism. Patients under long-term antiepileptic drug treatment often have hyperhomocysteinemia. These patients have low levels of serum folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6, all of which are associated with homocysteine metabolism. We have investigated the effects of valproic acid and new generation antiepileptic drugs (lamotrigine and levetiracetam) on plasma levels of homocysteine and aminothiols as well as serum vitamin B12 and folic acid. Materials and methods: Forty-seven idiopathic epileptic patients on antiepileptic drugs were compared with 38 age-matched healthy controls. Commercial immunoassay methods were used for vitamin B12 and folic acid analyses. Homocysteine, cysteine, cysteinylglycine and glutathione levels were determined by high performance liquid chromatography. Results: There was no significant difference in patient and control values in terms of vitamin B12, folic acid and homocysteine. Valproic acid and lamotrigine seemed to effect aminothiol redox status. Glutathione levels of epileptic patients receiving valproic acid and lamotrigine were higher than controls. Conclusion: Our results suggest that redox homeostasis may be impaired and glutathione synthesis increased in response to the oxidative stress caused by antiepileptic drug use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Online Turkish Journal of Health Sciences (OTJHS) / Online Türk Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Oguz KARABAY and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between obesity and cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women. Methods: The study included 43 postmenopausal women who were admitted to Dicle University Medical School Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic. Body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumferences, body fat mass and percentage, 24-hour arterial tension measurements, homocysteine (Hcy), lipid and vitamin B12 levels, and Framingham risk score (FRS) were compared between obese (BMI≥30 kg/m²) and non-obese (BMI<30 kg/m²) patients. Results: The patients included 25 (58.1%) obese and 18 (41.9%) non-obese patients. Abdominal obesity was seen in 29 (67.4%) and truncal obesity in 18 (41.9%) participants. Family history of cardiac disease was seen in 25 (58.1%) women, most of whom were obese. Based on FRS, moderate cardiovascular risk was assessed in 21.6%, but none of the participants were at high risk. FRS was positively correlated with Hcy and waist/hip ratio. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that age- and gender-dependent differences must be taken into consideration for cardiovascular risk assessments and postmenopausal women should be informed about obesity and hypertension in order to improve their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folic acid parameters in cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Methods: In the thoracic cardiovascular surgery department, a study group was formed by taking 4 gel-free scales from pre-operative, pump (heart lung machine), after cross-clamp and protamine administration from patients who underwent surgery with CPB surgery for various reasons. Serum vitamin B12 level and serum Folic acid level were measured by chemiluminescence method and serum homocysteine level by Colorimetric method. Results: Vitamin B12, pg / mL value; Preoperatively 206.30 ± 64.76, Pump Entry 108.03 ± 35.75, Post Cross Clamp 128.53 ± 38.43, Post Protamine 141.33 ± 39.21, p <0.001. Folic Acid, ng / ml value respectively; 10.04 ± 2.89, 6.53 ± 1.84, 6.53 ± 1.95, 9.02 ± 2.83 and p <0.001 respectively. Homocysteine, ìmol / L values were found to be 14.40 ± 4.48, 7.63 ± 2.30, 9.44 ± 2.62, 9.15 ± 2.55 and p <0.001 respectively. Conclusions: While homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folic acid levels were decreased by prime solution in the pump, there was a significant increase in homocysteine from the pump inlet to the end of the cross clamp, no increase in folic acid level, and no increase in vitamin B12 as homocysteine. This showed a negative correlation between Vitamin B12 and Folic acid level and serum homocysteine concentration. Although there was a decrease in homocysteine levels after the crosstalk after protamine, there was a rise in vitamin B12 and folic acid levels. This elevation supports the negative association of homocyte with Vitamin B12 and folic acid. Increased duration of perfusion resulted in increased inflammatory response and changes in homocysteine levels with drugs used, but these interactions were not statistically related to homocysteine, Vitamin B12 and folic acid levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective; Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme is an important enzyme in folate metabolism. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism has an effect on plasma homocysteine levels in patients with alcohol use disorder (AD). Recent studies show that homocysteine has toxic effects on dopaminergic neurons. Although there are many studies investigating the relationship between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and AD, the results are contradictory. To the best of our knowledge, the relationship between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and the risk of AD was not investigated in the Turkish population, so this study aimed to investigate the relationship between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and AD in the Turkish population. Method; The MTHFR C677T polymorphism was determined using the TaqMan® 5 ′ nuclease assay method in 51 patients who were hospitalized in the psychiatry clinic due to AD and 81 healthy individuals without any chronic and psychiatric diseases. Results; MTHFR C677T polymorphism T allele frequency was found 32.4% in the patient group and 32.7% in the control group. Genotype frequencies were found to be at similar frequencies in both groups, and no statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of genotype and allele frequencies. Conclusion; In conclusion, considering that MTHFR C677T polymorphism may be an ethnicity factor in the progression of AD, in our study we found that MTHFR gene polymorphism is not a risk factor for AD in the Turkish Population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In our country, the prevalence of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) has been increasing and becoming one of the most important health problems. GATED SPECT myocardial perfusion scintigraphy is a non-invasive, simple and easy technique used in diagnosis and predicting prognosis of CAD. The aim of this study was to compare the level of Homocysteine (HCY) with stress defect scores which obtained from GATED Myocardial Perfusion SPECT study. Methods: Between November 2012 and March 2013, 166 patients referred to our department for MPS with a suspected CAD were included in our study. The mean age was 56 ± 11.6 and 70 were male. HCY level was measured by ELISA method from blood samples. Ischemia positivity was interpreted through MPS images. The numerical parameters of the left ventricle were obtained automatically by the software quantitative gated SPECT (QGS). Results: According to the scintigraphy results, 60 (57.1%) patients were normal and 45 (42.9%) were ischemia positive; the level of HCY was 16.36 ± 9.7 μmol/L in the normal group and 16.6 ± 8.5 μmol/L in the ischemic group (p = 0.895). Conclusion: We found no significant correlation between HCY levels and risk parameters obtained from GATED myocardial perfusion SPECT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cukurova Medical Journal / Çukurova Üniversitesi Tip Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Cukurova University, Faculty of Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Renal infarction is a condition induced by renal artery occlusion and causes renal parenchymal damage. The most common cause of renal infarction is atheroembolic cardiac diseases. Other causes are trauma, autoimmune diseases and hypercoagulability. Homocysteine is a vasculotoxic substance, and mutations in the Methyltetrahyrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) enzyme may result in an increase in serum homocysteine levels. In this report, we present a 35-year-old case with bilateral renal infarction, for which we hold the MTHFR C677T mutation and hyperhomocysteinemia responsible, because of its rarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study is to detect serum homocysteine increase (Hcy) and paraoxonase decrease together with methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) gene polymorphisms in Alzheimer's patients and to evaluate the correlation with clinic in these patients. Material and Methods: In our study; total 103 individuals were included and 51 of them had Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis clinically according to DSM-IV criteria and 52 of them did not have AD. In patient and control group; Hcy levels and paraoxonase activity, MTHFR C677T -- A1298C and PON1 L55M - Q192R gene polymorphisms were investigated. Results: Average age of the patients in our study was found as 73.67±7.91 years. In patient group; Hcy level was significantly high (p:0,024) and paraoxonase activity was found low in patient group (p:0,047). In patients with MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphism, Hcy levels were high but there was no significant difference between groups (p>0,05). In PON1 L55M polymorphism PON levels were low (p<0,009). In patients with Q192R polymorphism PON levels were significantly high especially in heterozygote group (p:0,024). Conclusion: It was seen that Hcy levels were high and PON activity was low in Alzheimer's disease. MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphism could not be associated with AD but it was observed that the polymorphism could increase Hcy levels. As a result; PON 1 L55M polymorphism was thought to be a risk factor in AD and on the other hand Q192R polymorphism was thought to be a protective factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized with air flow limitation. Cognitive problems can appear in advanced stage of COPD. There is relationship between COPD and levels of homocystein (hcy) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). There is also relationship between cognitive dysfunction and levels of hcy and TAC. We aimed evaluation of cognitive functions in patients with COPD, and demonstration of the relationship between cognitive function and hcy and TAC. Methods: Twenty-eight hypoxic (group 1), 28 non-hypoxic COPD patients (group 2) and 25 healthy people (control group, group 3) were included to study. Hcy and TAC levels were measured in all subjects. Cognitive functions were evaluated in all subjects with standardized mini mental test (SMMT), clock drawing test (CDT), Blessed orientation memory concentration test (BOMCT), Benton's facial recognition test (BFRT) and clinical dementia rating scale (CDRS). Results: Hcy levels were high in group 1 (p=0.004), TAC levels were high in group 1 and 2 (p=0.04). SMMT (p=0.000) and CDT values were low in group1 (p=0.000), CDRS values were high in group1 and 2 (p=0.000), BFRT values were low in group1 and 2 (p=0.000), BOMCT values were high in group1 (p=0.000). There were a correlation between TAC and SMMT (r=0.582, p=0.001) and CDRS (r= -0.384, p=0.044). Conclusions: We demonstrated presence of cognitive dysfunction in COPD patients. Patients with hypoxic had more profound cognitive dysfunction. In addition, we demonstrated a relationship between TAC and cognitive dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cukurova Medical Journal / Çukurova Üniversitesi Tip Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Cukurova University, Faculty of Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: Methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder that results in increased homocysteine levels in the body. Hyperhomocysteinemia causes a predisposition to venous and arterial thrombosis and ischaemic insults. The incidence of the deficiency is around 40% in some countries. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of anaesthetic agents in children with MTHFR deficiency. Methods: Twelve paediatric patients with an MTHFR enzyme deficiency who underwent surgery in a ten-month period in a single centre were retrospectively evaluated. Demographic data, homocysteine levels before and after surgery, anaesthesia management and postoperative complications were recorded. Results: In four patients, propofol was used both for anaesthesia induction and total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA). Eight patients received sevoflurane for both induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. Nitrous oxide (N2O) was not used in any patients.There was not a significant difference between the preoperative and postoperative homocysteine levels (p>0.05). Twenty-four hours after the surgery, the homocysteine levels were within normal limits. No complications were observed. Conclusion: Sevoflurane and propofol have no deleterious effects on homocysteine levels in patients with MTHFR deficiency. Avoidance of N2O is the key point for anaesthetic consideration regarding these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), a methylated L-arginine analog, is a major endogenous competitive inhibitor of Nitric oxide (NO). NO is an important critical vasoactive mediator synthesized by the vascular endothelium, previously referred to as endothelium-derived relaxing factor. ADMA is a novel risk factor and a novel statement of endothelial dysfunction. ADMA levels are clinically increased in several clinical conditions such as diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, insulin resistance syndrome, dyslipidemia. Material and Methods: Thirty-one healthy children and 39 patients with Type 1 DM diagnosis, routinely followed by Keçiören Training and Research Hospital Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic between 2011 and 2013 were included in the study. Gender, age, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar values and diabetes duration were obtained from patient files. Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglyceride, ADMA, HbA1c, folate and homocysteine levels were compared between the two groups. Results: There were no significant differences between the Type 1 DM group and the control group with respect to age, gender, body mass index (BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Average ADMA level in the Type 1 DM patient group (0.7±0.4 pmol/L) was significantly higher than the control group (0.6±0.1 pmol/L) (p=0.004). The homocysteine and folate levels for the two groups were similar and the differences were not significant (p=0.368 and 0.887, respectively). Conclusion: The relation between endothelium damage and ADMA may lead to follow up ADMA measurement values being used as a pre marker for vascular damage in type 1 diabetes, and in turn help in preventing vascular complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Design: Homocysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, is known to be related with autoimmunity-inflammation, cardiovascular disease and DNA methylation. In this case-control study, we aimed to determine plasma homocysteine, folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 levels in patients with psoriasis. Materials and Methods: Smoking, alcohol and coffee consumption habits were recorded in adult patients with plaque-type psoriasis and age- and sex-matched controls. Height and weight measurements were performed and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores were calculated. Fasting venous blood samples were collected to determine homocysteine, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein (HDL), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Results: There was no significant difference between psoriasis patients (n=43) and controls (n=47) in body mass index and alcohol and coffee consumption. Smoking rate was significantly high in psoriasis patients. The median PASI score was 10.0 (8.3-12.8). Plasma homocysteine, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, total cholesterol, triglyseride, ESR and CRP values were not significantly different between patients and the controls. HDL level was low in psoriasis patients (p=0.001). Plasma homocysteine level was higher in males than in females. There was no relationship of homocysteine levels with patient's age, PASI scores, ESR, CRP values and lipids. Homocysteine levels were inversely related with folic acid and vitamin B12 (p=0.000, r=-0.436, p=0.047, r=-0.204, respectively). We did not find any relationship between homocysteine and vitamin B6 levels. Conclusion: There was no increase in plasma homocysteine levels in psoriasis patients we followed up. Homocysteine level increases in inflammatory disorders and this increase is accepted as a cardiovascular disease marker. Homocysteine homeostasis may be balanced in our patients because of the genetic background and/or nutritional habits in this population [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaç: Koroner arter hastalığında (KAH) Lipoprotein (Lp) (a), homosistein (Hcy), yüksek duyarlıklı C-reaktif protein (hs-CRP) ve fibrinojen gibi majör ve diğer risk faktörlerinin tanısal değerini araştırmak amaçlanmıştır. Metotlar: Çalışmaya koroner anjiyografi sonucuna gore 118"i KAH ve 105"i KAH olmadığı belirlenen toplam 223 kişi dahil edildi. Lipoprotein (a), Hcy, hs-CRP ve fibrinojen düzeyleri sırasıyla, immünoturbidometrik, flöresan polarizasyon immünoassay ve nefelometrik yöntemlerle ölçüm yapıldı. Açlık glukoz ve düşük dansiteli lipoprotein kolesterol (LDL-K) dışındaki lipid parametrelerine enzimatik kolorimetrik yöntemlerle bakılmış olup, LDL-K düzeyleri Fridewald formülüne göre hesaplanmıştır. Bulgular: Lojistik regresyon modelinde biyokimyasal değişkenlerden en önemlileri göre Lp (a), Hcy, hs-CRP ve fibrinojen olarak belirlenmiştir. Lipoprotein (a), Hcy, hs-CRP ve fibrinojenin herbir ünitesinin sırasıyla, 1.029, 1.177, 1.027 ve 1.013 kat KAH riskini artırdığı gösterilmiştir. Bu parametrelerden KAH için öngörüsü en hassas ve etkili olanın fibrinojen olduğu gösterilmiştir. Sonuç: Lipoprotein (a), Hcy, hs-CRP ve fibrinojen KAH için bağımsız risk faktörleri olması yanında bunların arasında en önemlisinin fibrinojen olduğu belirlenmiştir. Fibrinojen, klinik uygulamada KAH için güvenilir bir risk factör olarak kullanılabilir.

Objective: To investigate homocysteine and related factors in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients taking oral antidiabetic medication. Material-Method: The study included type 2 diabetic patients who were taking oral antidiabetic medication and presented to Diabetes and Family Medicine outpatient clinic of MoH Ankara Training and Research Hospital in Sept. 2008 and Jan. 2009. Demographic and clinical data of patients were recorded. Weight, height, waist circumference were measured and body mass index (BMIs) were calculated. Glucose, urea, creatinine, uric acid, ALT, AST, lipid profiles, sodium, potassium, HbA1c, homocysteine, insulin, vitamin B-12, folic acid and urinary microalbumin were measured. HOMA-IR values were calculated. Results: The mean age of patients was 50.1±9.5; 32.7% (n=18) was men and 67.3% (n=37) was women. While there was no significant difference between homocysteine and gender (p=0,162), menopausal state in women (p=0,103) and smoking (p=0,499); positive correlation between homocysteine and age, creatinine and uric acid, in women positive correlation between homocysteine and age, creatinine and uric acid, in premenopausal women positive correlation between homocysteine and age and negative correlation between homocysteine and ALT, in postmenopausal women positive correlation between homocysteine and age, BMI and uric acid were found. There was positive correlation between homocysteine and age and postprandial blood glucose in smokers. When set point of homocysteine was determined as 12 μmol/L, uric acid levels were close to be significantly higher in homocysteine ͵12 μmol/L group (p=0.053). Conclusion: Homocysteine which is accepted as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease is seen important in diabetes which is especially a kind of cardiovascular disease itself. Considering the multiple factors that influence homocysteine, multi-center, large-scale, prospective studies are needed with correction of all factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which assessed the correlation between reductase (MTHFR) C677T (rs1801133) polymorphism and homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folate levels, and DNA fragmentation in patients with ovarian cancer. Topics covered include findings which showed that there is no association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and ovarian cancer, and that patients with ovarian cancer had increased DNA fragmentation.

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate levels of homocysteine (Hcy), folate, vitamin B12, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and to assess relationship between Hcy levels and inflammatory mediators including IL-6 and TNF-α in untreated patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: The study included 55 women including 30 newly diagnosed and untreated female RA patients and 25 agematched healthy individuals as controls. Results: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESH), C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6 and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in RA patients than controls (p<0.05). Homocysteine levels were higher in RA group when compared to controls; however, folate and vitamin B12 levels were not different between groups (p>0.05). There were no significant correlations between Hcy levels and acute phase reactants or inflammatory mediators (p>0.05). Conclusion: Both mediators such as IL-6 and TNF-α and hyper-homocysteinemia are associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. There was no significant correlation between Hcy levels and inflammatory mediators, although levels of these molecules were elevated in RA. Both inflammatory mediators and Hcy may cause an increase in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disorders through diverse pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the parameters of endothelial function and platelet activation in children with familial hypercholesterolemia by measuring plasma homocysteine, asymmetrical dimethyl arginine (ADMA), nitrotyrosine and P-selectin levels. Methods: Thirty-five heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemic patients on statin therapy, 10 homozygous familial hypercholesterolemic patients treated by LDL apheresis and lipid-lowering drugs, and 25 healthy children, all aged between 2 to 16 years were enrolled in this study. Echocardiography was performed and intima-media thickness (IMT), and endothelium-dependent vasodilation parameters were evaluated. LDL apheresis was performed by adsorption method using double-membrane filtration technique. Plasma nitrotyrosine, homocysteine, P-selectin and ADMA levels were determined with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using a commercial kit. Results: Plasma homocysteine (p=0.000), ADMA (p=0.005), nitrotyrosine (p=0.808), p-selectin (p=0.466) levels were lowest in the LDL apheresis group. A positive correlation was detected between homocysteine and intima/media thickness (r=0.334, p=0.043). Showed that LDL apheresis therapy might decrease plasma levels of homocysteine, ADMA, and nitrotyrosine, and might eventually play an important role in the improvement of endothelial dysfunction and platelet activity. Conclusion: Our data showed that at post-LDL apheresis status the homozygous hyperlipidemic children have lower levels of homocysteine, ADMA, and nitrotyrosine, compared with the heterozygous hyperlipidemic children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), which is one of the rheumatic diseases, is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by chronic and erosive synovitis that involves peripheral joints. In patients who had been diagnosed with JIA, increasing proinflammatory cytokines, metabolic abnormalities associated with systemic inflammation, may provoke vascular endothelial damage which can cause atherosclerosis. Homocysteine is another metabolite among the factors causing endothelial dysfunction. Homocysteine is an intermediate metabolite which is formed during the conversion of methionine to cysteine and high levels of homocysteine in blood can lead to vascular damage. Dietary folate and vitamin B12 deficiency can cause an increase in blood homocysteine levels. Vitamin B12 is essential for the transfer of methyl group and cell division in humans, but it is also important for the proliferation, maturation and regeneration of the nerve cells. In addition, “functional vitamin B12 deficiency” in which blood vitamin B12 level is in the normal range and without severe clinical symptoms like anemia has also been reported. Studies have showed that vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to oxidative stress without causing significant increase in homocysteine levels by its effects on cytokines, growth factors, nitric oxide metabolism, antioxidant enzymes and producing reactive oxygen species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cardiovascular disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with renal failure. Patients with chronic renal failure are significantly susceptible to atherosclerosis. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of elevated homocysteine on atherosclerosis and inflammation in continuos ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients. Methods: 56 patients undergoing CAPD and 27 healthy subjects was enrolled in the study. All patients total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, hs-CRP, homocysteine, intima-media thickness, arterial stiffness values were measured and statistically analyzed. Results: It is determined that the levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, homocysteine, intima-media thickness, arterial stiffness and hs-CRP was higher in patients compared to the control group (in order; p=0.03, p=0.0006, p=0.02). Conclusion: Carotid intima-media thickness being increased because of increased levels of homocysteine and inflammation in CAPD patients. Therefore, in case of atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia and inflammation more aggressive treatment protocol should be considered. Patients with elevated plasma homocysteine concentrations should be treated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Vitiligo is an acquired depigmenting disorder caused by the destruction of melanocytes. The exact etiopathogenesis and mechanisms of vitiligo are not fully understood. Several groups have shown the involvement of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of vitiligo. The aim of this study was to study for any association of vitili'go with serum homocysteine, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), vitamin A, vitamin E and malondialdehyde levels (MDA). Material and Method: This randomized case control study was performed on 50 subjects: 30 patients suffering from vitiligo and 20 healthy controls. Venous blood was collected from each subject to estimate the levels of vitamin A, E. MDA, ADMA and homocysteine. The serum levels of these parameters in both groups were measured using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Results: The levels of serum vitamin E were significantly decreased in vitiligo patients (p=0.004). while serum MDA. homocysteine and ADMA levels were significantly increased (p<0.0001). and the levels of vitamin A were almost the same in patients as in the control subjects (p>0.05). Conclusion: According to our results, we conclude that reduced vitamin E levels and increased levels of homocysteine, MDA and ADMA may constitute a distinctive feature in vitiligo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional vitamin B12 deficiency is a syndrome where a wide variety of symptoms in the presence of "normal" serum levels of the vitamin respond to vitamin B12 therapy. A series of patients with functional vitamin B12 deficiency are described whose presenting features were drenching night sweats and fatigue. Reliance on serum vitamin B12 levels as a diagnostic test would have obscured the cause of their symptoms. Serum homocysteine and/or methlymalonic acid levels should be done in all patients with suspected B12 deficiency. Normal levels of these metabolites do not exclude diagnosis and empirical treatment may be justifiable in certain cases. Author also argues that oral vitamin B12 treatment results in suboptimal clinical response in a vast majority of patients and intramuscular route should be preferred in most patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]