Sample records for idiopathic epiretinal membrane

  1. Surgical Outcomes of Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane: the Gülhane Experience.

    PubMed

    Akıncıoğlu, Dorukcan; Özge, Gökhan; Küçükevcilioğlu, Murat; Erdurman, Fazıl Cüneyt; Durukan, Ali Hakan

    2018-04-01

    We aimed to report our experiences and outcomes of vitreoretinal surgery in idiopathic epiretinal membrane. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent vitreoretinal surgery for idiopathic epiretinal membrane between January 2012 and 2014. The patients' pre- and postoperative visual acuity, slit-lamp examination findings, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) images were evaluated. Forty-five eyes of 45 patients (36% male, 64% female) were included (mean age, 69±8.2 years). Mean postoperative follow-up time was 7±4 (1-12) months. The mean preoperative logMAR best corrected visual acuity was 0.58±0.32 and postoperatively 0.40±0.31, 0.33±0.33, 0.28±0.34 respectively at 3, 6, and 12 months. All OCT parameters showed statistically significant anatomical improvement at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Correlation analysis showed that central macular thickness (r=0.69, p<0.05) and central macular volume (r=0.69, p<0.05) were the only parameters that had strong positive correlations with visual improvement. Epiretinal membrane causes heterogeneous anatomical changes in the macula for every patient. Therefore, a correlation between visual gain and changes in central macular thickness could not yet be demonstrated. We believe that central macular volume may be a better parameter for following these patients.

  2. Surgical Outcomes of Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane: the Gülhane Experience

    PubMed Central

    Akıncıoğlu, Dorukcan; Özge, Gökhan; Küçükevcilioğlu, Murat; Erdurman, Fazıl Cüneyt; Durukan, Ali Hakan

    2018-01-01

    Objectives: We aimed to report our experiences and outcomes of vitreoretinal surgery in idiopathic epiretinal membrane. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent vitreoretinal surgery for idiopathic epiretinal membrane between January 2012 and 2014. The patients’ pre- and postoperative visual acuity, slit-lamp examination findings, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) images were evaluated. Results: Forty-five eyes of 45 patients (36% male, 64% female) were included (mean age, 69±8.2 years). Mean postoperative follow-up time was 7±4 (1-12) months. The mean preoperative logMAR best corrected visual acuity was 0.58±0.32 and postoperatively 0.40±0.31, 0.33±0.33, 0.28±0.34 respectively at 3, 6, and 12 months. All OCT parameters showed statistically significant anatomical improvement at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Correlation analysis showed that central macular thickness (r=0.69, p<0.05) and central macular volume (r=0.69, p<0.05) were the only parameters that had strong positive correlations with visual improvement. Conclusion: Epiretinal membrane causes heterogeneous anatomical changes in the macula for every patient. Therefore, a correlation between visual gain and changes in central macular thickness could not yet be demonstrated. We believe that central macular volume may be a better parameter for following these patients. PMID:29755820

  3. A cell culture technique for human epiretinal membranes to describe cell behavior and membrane contraction in vitro.

    PubMed

    Wertheimer, Christian; Eibl-Lindner, Kirsten H; Compera, Denise; Kueres, Alexander; Wolf, Armin; Docheva, Denitsa; Priglinger, Siegfried G; Priglinger, Claudia; Schumann, Ricarda G

    2017-11-01

    To introduce a human cell culture technique for investigating in-vitro behavior of primary epiretinal cells and membrane contraction of fibrocellular tissue surgically removed from eyes with idiopathic macular pucker. Human epiretinal membranes were harvested from ten eyes with idiopathic macular pucker during standard vitrectomy. Specimens were fixed on cell culture plastic using small entomological pins to apply horizontal stress to the tissue, and then transferred to standard cell culture conditions. Cell behavior of 400 epiretinal cells from 10 epiretinal membranes was observed in time-lapse microscopy and analyzed in terms of cell migration, cell velocity, and membrane contraction. Immunocytochemistry was performed for cell type-specific antigens. Cell specific differences in migration behavior were observed comprising two phenotypes: (PT1) epiretinal cells moving fast, less directly, with small round phenotype and (PT2) epiretinal cells moving slowly, directly, with elongated large phenotype. No mitosis, no outgrowth and no migration onto the plastic were seen. Horizontal contraction measurements showed variation between specimens. Masses of epiretinal cells with a myofibroblast-like phenotype expressed cytoplasmatic α-SMA stress fibers and correlated with cell behavior characteristics (PT2). Fast moving epiretinal cells (PT1) were identified as microglia by immunostaining. This in-vitro technique using traction application allows for culturing surgically removed epiretinal membranes from eyes with idiopathic macular pucker, demonstrating cell behavior and membrane contraction of primary human epiretinal cells. Our findings emphasize the abundance of myofibroblasts, the presence of microglia and specific differences of cell behavior in these membranes. This technique has the potential to improve the understanding of pathologies at the vitreomacular interface and might be helpful in establishing anti-fibrotic treatment strategies.

  4. LONG-TERM INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE AFTER UNCOMPLICATED PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY FOR IDIOPATHIC EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE.

    PubMed

    Tognetto, Daniele; Pastore, Marco R; Cirigliano, Gabriella; DʼAloisio, Rossella; Borelli, Massimo; De Giacinto, Chiara

    2017-11-16

    To investigate long-term intraocular pressure trends after uncomplicated pars plana vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane. Three hundred and sixty-eight eyes of 368 consecutive patients were enrolled. Changes in intraocular pressure 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery and during the final follow-up visit were evaluated in vitrectomized eyes and nonvitrectomized fellow eyes. The median follow-up period was 36 months (range 12-92 months). Longitudinal data analysis evidenced a 2.5-mmHg (2.2 mmHg; 2.7 mmHg, 95% confidence interval) statistically significant difference in intraocular pressure 30 days after surgery between treated and fellow untreated eyes, gradually recovering to a not significant 0.2-mmHg (-0.1 mmHg; 0.4 mmHg, 95% confidence interval) difference within 26 months. The incidence of late-onset ocular hypertension was 5.7% (21 over 347, 2%; 12%, 95% confidence interval) without difference between the treated eyes and the group control. No significant difference in the incidence of late-onset ocular hypertension and sex, lens status, or gauge of vitrectomy instruments was detected. Only patient's age was significantly higher (mean difference 4.2 years; 0.1-8.0 years, Monte Carlo, 95% confidence interval) in those who developed late-onset ocular hypertension in the vitrectomized eye. Uncomplicated pars plana vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane seems not to increase the risk of late-onset ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma development.

  5. Photoreceptor change and visual outcome after idiopathic epiretinal membrane removal with or without additional internal limiting membrane peeling.

    PubMed

    Ahn, Seong Joon; Ahn, Jeeyun; Woo, Se Joon; Park, Kyu Hyung

    2014-01-01

    To compare the postoperative photoreceptor status and visual outcome after epiretinal membrane removal with or without additional internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. Medical records of 40 eyes from 37 patients undergoing epiretinal membrane removal with residual ILM peeling (additional ILM peeling group) and 69 eyes from 65 patients undergoing epiretinal membrane removal without additional ILM peeling (no additional peeling group) were reviewed. The length of defects in cone outer segment tips, inner segment/outer segment junction, and external limiting membrane line were measured using spectral domain optical coherence tomography images of the fovea before and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgery. Cone outer segment tips and inner segment/outer segment junction line defects were most severe at postoperative 1 month and gradually restored at 12 months postoperatively. The cone outer segment tips line defect in the additional ILM peeling group was significantly greater than that in the no additional peeling group at postoperative 1 month (P = 0.006), and best-corrected visual acuity was significantly worse in the former group at the same month (P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the defect size and best-corrected visual acuity at subsequent visits and recurrence rates between the two groups. Patients who received epiretinal membrane surgery without additional ILM peeling showed better visual and anatomical outcome than those with additional ILM peeling at postoperative 1 month. However, surgical outcomes were comparable between the two groups, thereafter. In terms of visual outcome and photoreceptor integrity, additional ILM peeling may not be an essential procedure.

  6. [Retinal whitening following vitrectomy for epiretinal macular membrane].

    PubMed

    Uemura, A

    1993-09-01

    To investigate the clinical pictures of retinal whitening following epiretinal membrane dissection. I studied retrospectively the records of 18 eyes which had undergone vitrectomy. Two types of retinal whitening were observed: cotton wool-like spots within the superficial retinal layers and a linear or dendritic pattern within the deep retinal layers. The spots were mainly noted in idiopathic cases and resolved completely in a few weeks, and the pattern was observed in macular pucker cases after retinal detachment surgery and persisted for a long time after vitrectomy.

  7. Vitrectomy with or without internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane: A meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Chang, Wei-Cheng; Lin, Chin; Lee, Cho-Hao; Sung, Tzu-Ling; Tung, Tao-Hsin; Liu, Jorn-Hon

    2017-01-01

    Studies on vitrectomy with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) have yielded uncertain results regarding clinical outcomes and recurrence rates. To compare the clinical outcomes of vitrectomy with and without ILM peeling for idiopathic ERM. Databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CNKI databases, FDA.gov, and ClinicalTrials.gov, published until July 2016, were searched to identify studies comparing the clinical outcomes following vitrectomy with ERM and ILM peeling and with only ERM peeling, for treating idiopathic ERM. Studies with sufficient data were selected. Pooled results were expressed as mean differences (MDs) and risk ratios (RRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for vitrectomy with and without ILM peeling with regard to postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and ERM recurrence rate. Eleven retrospective studies and one randomized controlled trial involving 756 eyes were identified. This demonstrated that the postoperative BCVA within 12 months was significantly better in the non-ILM peeling group (MD = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.00 to 0.08; P = 0.0460), but that the patients in the ILM peeling group had significantly better postoperative BCVA after 18 months (MD = -0.13, 95% CI: -0.23 to -0.04; P = 0.0049) than did those in the non-ILM peeling group. The non-ILM peeling group exhibited a higher reduction in postoperative CRT (MD = 51.55, 95% CI:-84.23 to -18.88; P = 0.0020) and a higher recurrence rate of ERM (RR = 0.34, 95% CI:0.16 to 0.72; P = 0.0048) than did the ILM peeling group. However, the improvement rates of BCVA (RR = 1.03, 95% CI:0.72 to 1.47; P = 0.8802) and postoperative CRTs (MD = 18.15, 95% CI:-2.29 to 38.60; P = 0.0818) were similar between the two groups. Vitrectomy with ILM peeling results in better visual improvement in long-term follow-ups and lower ERM recurrence rates, and vitrectomy with

  8. Vitrectomy with or without internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane: A meta-analysis

    PubMed Central

    Lin, Chin; Lee, Cho-Hao; Sung, Tzu-Ling; Tung, Tao-Hsin

    2017-01-01

    Background Studies on vitrectomy with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) have yielded uncertain results regarding clinical outcomes and recurrence rates. Objective To compare the clinical outcomes of vitrectomy with and without ILM peeling for idiopathic ERM. Methods Databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CNKI databases, FDA.gov, and ClinicalTrials.gov, published until July 2016, were searched to identify studies comparing the clinical outcomes following vitrectomy with ERM and ILM peeling and with only ERM peeling, for treating idiopathic ERM. Studies with sufficient data were selected. Pooled results were expressed as mean differences (MDs) and risk ratios (RRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for vitrectomy with and without ILM peeling with regard to postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and ERM recurrence rate. Results Eleven retrospective studies and one randomized controlled trial involving 756 eyes were identified. This demonstrated that the postoperative BCVA within 12 months was significantly better in the non-ILM peeling group (MD = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.00 to 0.08; P = 0.0460), but that the patients in the ILM peeling group had significantly better postoperative BCVA after 18 months (MD = −0.13, 95% CI: −0.23 to −0.04; P = 0.0049) than did those in the non-ILM peeling group. The non-ILM peeling group exhibited a higher reduction in postoperative CRT (MD = 51.55, 95% CI:−84.23 to −18.88; P = 0.0020) and a higher recurrence rate of ERM (RR = 0.34, 95% CI:0.16 to 0.72; P = 0.0048) than did the ILM peeling group. However, the improvement rates of BCVA (RR = 1.03, 95% CI:0.72 to 1.47; P = 0.8802) and postoperative CRTs (MD = 18.15, 95% CI:−2.29 to 38.60; P = 0.0818) were similar between the two groups. Conclusions Vitrectomy with ILM peeling results in better visual improvement in long

  9. EFFECTS OF INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING COMBINED WITH REMOVAL OF IDIOPATHIC EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE: A Systematic Review of Literature and Meta-Analysis.

    PubMed

    Azuma, Kunihiro; Ueta, Takashi; Eguchi, Shuichiro; Aihara, Makoto

    2017-10-01

    To evaluate the effects on postoperative prognosis of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in conjunction with removal of idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs). MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and EMBASE were systematically searched for studies that compared ILM peeling with no ILM peeling in surgery to remove idiopathic ERM. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity, central macular thickness, and ERM recurrence. Studies that compared ILM peeling with no ILM peeling for the treatment of idiopathic ERM were selected. Sixteen studies that included 1,286 eyes were selected. All the included studies were retrospective or prospective comparative studies; no randomized controlled study was identified. Baseline preoperative best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness were equal between ILM peeling and no ILM peeling groups. Postoperatively, there was no statistically significant difference in best-corrected visual acuity (mean difference 0.01 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [equivalent to 0.5 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letter]; 95% CI -0.05 to 0.07 [-3.5 to 2.5 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters]; P = 0.83) or central macular thickness (mean difference 13.13 μm; 95% CI -10.66 to 36.93; P = 0.28). However, the recurrence rate of ERM was significantly lower with ILM peeling than with no ILM peeling (odds ratio 0.25; 95% CI 0.12-0.49; P < 0.0001). Currently available evidence in the literature indicates that additional ILM peeling in vitrectomy for idiopathic ERM could result in a significantly lower ERM recurrence rate, but it does not significantly influence postoperative best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness.

  10. Displacement of the retina and its recovery after vitrectomy in idiopathic epiretinal membrane.

    PubMed

    Nitta, Eri; Shiraga, Fumio; Shiragami, Chieko; Fukuda, Kouki; Yamashita, Ayana; Fujiwara, Atsushi

    2013-06-01

    To study the displacement of the retina and its change after vitrectomy in idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM). Prospective, interventional case series. Fifty-six eyes of 53 consecutive patients with ERM underwent vitrectomy with ERM removal and internal limiting membrane peeling. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging was examined before and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after vitrectomy. Main outcome measures were the proportion of eyes with retinal displacement for ERM detected by FAF imaging and the recovery rate of retinal displacement after vitrectomy. Before surgery, FAF photography demonstrated hyperautofluorescent lines within the vascular arcade in 37 (66.1%) of the 56 eyes. The lines seemed to be consistent with the location of the retinal vessels before their displacement. These hyperautofluorescent lines appeared significantly more frequently among patients in whom the disease duration was 3 years or less. In 23 (62.2%) of these 37 eyes, within the first postoperative month, the hyperautofluorescent lines disappeared. The disappearance of the hyperautofluorescent line was thought to be the result of the return of the retinal vessel to its original position. Greater visual improvements (logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution, ≥0.3) were statistically significantly obtained in patients in whom the hyperautofluorescent lines had become indistinct at 1 month after surgery (P < .05). Hyperautofluorescent lines indicating retinal displacement were found by FAF in 66.1% of patients before surgery for ERM. In addition, retinal displacement was significantly more common among patients who had experienced subjective symptoms for 3 years or less. Fundus autofluorescence is useful for predicting postoperative visual acuity improvement. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. [Myelinated nerve fibers coexisted with epiretinal membrane in macula--case report].

    PubMed

    Swiech-Zubilewicz, Anna; Bieliński, Paweł; Dolar-Szczasny, Joanna; Zarnowski, Tomasz

    2012-01-01

    We describe a case of peripapillary myelinated retinal nerve fibers complicated by epiretinal membrane in region of macula. 72 years old man was refered to our Clinic with suspicion of retinal detachment of right eye. Visual acuity of right eye was based to 0.05, in left eye was 0.5. IOP was normal in both eyes. In biomcroscopic evaluation the slight cortical cataract was observed in both eyes. Stereoscopic evaluation of right eye revealed the presence of massive peripapillary myelinated retinal nerve fibers and epiretinal membrane in the macula. In the left eye the less intense peripapillary myelinated retinal nerve fibers were noticed as well and the macular region was unchanged. With the use of OCT examination of the retina the presence of epiretinal membrane in the right eye was confirmed. OCT in the fellow eye presented an undisturbed foveal profile without any epiretinal abnormalities. Myelinated retinal nerve fibers can be complicated by epiretinal membrane. Probably the presence of macular pathologies depends on the extensions of nerve fibers. OCT examination is very helpful to give a proper diagnosis.

  12. Epiretinal membrane negative staining and double peeling in a single block with Brilliant Blue G.

    PubMed

    Martins, David; Neves, Pedro

    2018-01-01

    To describe a surgical technique for combined peeling of epiretinal and internal limiting membranes. The authors present their procedure of choice for epiretinal membrane surgery: negative staining effect using Brilliant Blue G and single block removal of the epiretinal and internal limiting membranes in a single step. A total of 26 eyes were operated with the described technique. In all cases, the peeling was performed successfully and with no complications. Minimum postoperative follow-up was 12 months. There were no recurrences of epiretinal membranes. The ideal surgical approach for epiretinal membranes should attempt to reduce mechanical trauma, light exposure, and dye toxicity.

  13. Identification of ganglion cell neurites in human subretinal and epiretinal membranes

    PubMed Central

    Lewis, Geoffrey P; Betts, Kellen E; Sethi, Charanjit S; Charteris, David G; Lesnik‐Oberstein, Sarit Y; Avery, Robert L; Fisher, Steven K

    2007-01-01

    Aim To determine whether neural elements are present in subretinal and epiretinal proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) membranes as well as in diabetic, fibrovascular membranes removed from patients during vitrectomy surgery. Methods Human subretinal and epiretinal membranes of varying durations were immunolabelled with different combinations of antibodies to glial fibrillary acidic protein, vimentin, neurofilament protein and laminin. Results Anti‐neurofilament‐labelled neurites from presumptive ganglion cells were frequently found in epiretinal membranes and occasionally found in subretinal membranes. In addition, the neurites were only observed in regions that also contained glial processes. Conclusions These data demonstrate that neuronal processes are commonly found in human peri‐retinal cellular membranes similar to that demonstrated in animal models. These data also suggest that glial cells growing out of the neural retina form a permissive substrate for neurite growth and thus may hold clues to factors that support this growth. PMID:17108012

  14. Epiretinal membrane: a treatable cause of visual disability in myotonic dystrophy type 1.

    PubMed

    Kersten, Hannah M; Roxburgh, Richard H; Child, Nicholas; Polkinghorne, Philip J; Frampton, Chris; Danesh-Meyer, Helen V

    2014-01-01

    A wide range of ocular abnormalities have been documented to occur in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1. The objectives of this study were to investigate the macular and optic nerve morphology using optical coherence tomography in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1. A total of 30 myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients and 28 controls were recruited for participation. All participants underwent a thorough ophthalmologic examination, including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography of the macula and retinal nerve fibre layer. Images were reviewed by a retinal specialist ophthalmologist, masked to the diagnosis of the participants. Average macular thickness was significantly greater in the myotonic dystrophy group compared to controls [327.3 μm vs. 308.5 μm (p < 0.001)]. Macular thickness was significantly greater (p < 0.005) in five of the nine macular regions. The increase in macular thickness was due to the increased prevalence of epiretinal membranes in the myotonic dystrophy patient group (p = 0.0002): 48.2 % of myotonic dystrophy patient eyes had evidence of epiretinal membrane, compared with 12.5 % of control eyes. Examination revealed that 56.7 % of myotonic dystrophy patients had an epiretinal membrane in at least one eye. Visual acuity was reduced due to the presence of epiretinal membrane in six patient eyes and none of the control eyes. The presence of an epiretinal membrane was significantly correlated with increasing age in the patient group. We report an increased prevalence of epiretinal membrane in the myotonic dystrophy type 1 group. This may be a previously under-recognised form of visual impairment in this group. Epiretinal membranes can be treated surgically. We suggest that, in addition to a comprehensive clinical examination, optical coherence tomography examination is implemented as part of an ophthalmological assessment for the myotonic dystrophy type 1 patient with reduced visual acuity.

  15. Imaging polarimetry and retinal blood vessel quantification at the epiretinal membrane

    PubMed Central

    Miura, Masahiro; Elsner, Ann E.; Cheney, Michael C.; Usui, Masahiko; Iwasaki, Takuya

    2007-01-01

    We evaluated a polarimetry method to enhance retinal blood vessels masked by the epiretinal membrane. Depolarized light images were computed by removing the polarization retaining light reaching the instrument and were compared with parallel polarized light images, average reflectance images, and the corresponding images at 514 nm. Contrasts were computed for retinal vessel profiles for arteries and veins. Contrasts were higher in the 514 nm images in normal eyes but higher in the depolarized light image in the eyes with epiretinal membranes. Depolarized light images were useful for examining the retinal vasculature in the presence of retinal disease. PMID:17429490

  16. Risk factors for postoperative intraretinal cystoid changes after peeling of idiopathic epiretinal membranes among patients randomized for balanced salt solution and air-tamponade.

    PubMed

    Leisser, Christoph; Hirnschall, Nino; Hackl, Christoph; Döller, Birgit; Varsits, Ralph; Ullrich, Marlies; Kefer, Katharina; Karl, Rigal; Findl, Oliver

    2018-02-20

    Epiretinal membranes (ERM) are macular disorders leading to loss of vision and metamorphopsia. Vitrectomy with membrane peeling displays the gold standard of care. Aim of this study was to assess risk factors for postoperative intraretinal cystoid changes in a study population randomized for balanced salt solution and air-tamponade at the end of surgery. A prospective randomized study, including 69 eyes with idiopathic ERM. Standard 23-gauge three-port pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peeling, using intraoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT), was performed. Randomization for BSS and air-tamponade was performed prior to surgery. Best-corrected visual acuity improved from 32.9 letters to 45.1 letters 3 months after surgery. Presence of preoperative intraretinal cystoid changes was found to be the only risk factor for presence of postoperative intraretinal cystoid changes 3 months after surgery (p = 0.01; odds ratio: 8.0). Other possible risk factors such as combined phacoemulsification with 23G-ppv and membrane peeling (p = 0.16; odds ratio: 2.4), intraoperative subfoveal hyporeflective zones (p = 0.23; odds ratio: 2.6), age over 70 years (p = 0.29; odds ratio: 0.5) and air-tamponade (p = 0.59; odds ratio: 1.5) were not found to be significant. There is strong evidence that preoperative intraretinal cystoid changes lead to smaller benefit from surgery. © 2018 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  17. The role of internal limiting membrane peeling in epiretinal membrane surgery: a randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Tranos, Paris; Koukoula, Stavrenia; Charteris, Davic G; Perganda, Georgia; Vakalis, Athanasios; Asteriadis, Solon; Georgalas, Ilias; Petrou, Petros

    2017-06-01

    To compare the anatomical and functional outcomes after primary idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling with or without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. A two-centre randomised, controlled clinical trial with 12 months of follow-up. One hundred and two eyes of 102 patients were included in the analysis and were randomised into two groups (ILM peeling (P) and non-ILM peeling (NP) group). Inclusion criteria were: Idiopathic ERM confirmed on optical coherence tomography, age ≥18 years, binocular distortion, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ≤90 ETDRS letters, intraocular pressure ≤23 mm Hg and informed consent. The primary outcome measure was the mean change in the ETDRS distance BCVA at 12 months' follow-up for each group. The mean change in distance BCVA at 12 months was 0.30±0.24 logMAR (15 ETDRS letters) in the P group and 0.31±0.23 logMAR (14 ETDRS letters) in the NP group, a change that was not statistically significant (p=0.84). No statistically significant differences were observed when comparing the changes in distance BCVA, the changes in metamorphopsia (Amsler grid) and the changes in central retinal thickness between the two groups at any of the time points studied. Our analysis suggests that ILM peeling in idiopathic ERM surgery does not result in better visual improvement. The more frequent presence of an uninterrupted interdigitation zone in the P group did not result in a better functional outcome of our patients. No recurrent ERMs were noted in either group. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  18. [Optical coherence tomography and microperimetry after internal limiting membrane peeling for epiretinal membrane].

    PubMed

    Grimbert, P; Lebreton, O; Weber, M

    2014-06-01

    To evaluate the anatomical and functional consequences of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery. Retrospective single-center study including consecutive patients operated on for idiopathic ERM. The integrity of the ILM was assessed by ILM Blue® staining after removal of the ERM: either the peeling was spontaneous (group 1) or a complementary peeling was required (group 2). Pre- and post-operatively (1 and 6 months), all patients were analyzed using visual acuity, SD-OCT (Spectralis HRA OCT, Heidelberg, Germany) and microperimetry (OPKO/OTI, Miami, USA). Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients were included: 12 "active ILM peelings" and 9 "spontaneous peelings". In both groups, visual acuity increased significantly after surgery. Microperimetry revealed more microscotomata at 1 and 6 months for active peeling (P<0.05). Their location corresponded more often to the site where the ERM or ILM was grasped, based on surgical videos (P<0.05), and with the appearance of inner retinal defects using en face OCT. ILM peeling is frequently performed to reduce ERM recurrence. Despite lack of effect on visual acuity, active ILM peeling increases the incidence of microscotomas related to the site where the ERM or ILM is grasped. Active ILM peeling may be responsible for postoperative visual discomfort related to microscopic trauma during peeling. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  19. Recurrence rate and need for reoperation after surgery with or without internal limiting membrane removal for the treatment of the epiretinal membrane.

    PubMed

    De Novelli, Fernando José; Goldbaum, Mauro; Monteiro, Mario Luiz Ribeiro; Aggio, Fabio Bom; Nóbrega, Mario Junqueira; Takahashi, Walter Yukihiko

    2017-01-01

    To compare the recurrence rate and need for reoperation after epiretinal membrane surgery with and without removal of the internal limiting membrane. In this retrospective study, 125 patients operated for epiretinal membrane removal were evaluated, with a minimum 6-month follow-up. Removal of the epiretinal membrane (ERM) was performed in 78 patients, while 47 had removal of the epiretinal membrane associated with internal limiting membrane peeling (ERM + ILM). The mean age in the ERM group was 65.8 years old, ranging from 41 to 80 years old. In the ERM + ILM group, the mean age was 67.2 years old, ranging from 52 to 82 years old. The mean preoperative visual acuity in the ERM group was 20/80p, and in the ERM + ILM group, it was 20/80. The mean postoperative visual acuity in both groups was 20/30. The mean preoperative macular thickness in the ERM group was 467 µm ranging from 281 to 663 µm; in the ERM + ILM group, the preoperative macular thickness was 497 µm, ranging from 172 to 798 µm. After surgery, a reduction in macular thickness was observed in both groups. In the ERM group, the mean macular thickness reduction was 361 ± 101. µm, whereas in the ERM + ILM group, it was 367 ± 75.2 µm. Twenty-two patients presented with a recurrence of epiretinal membrane, of which 16 (20.5%) were from the ERM group and 6 (12.8%) were from the ERM + ILM group (p = 0.39); one patient (2%) was retreated in the ERM + ILM group, whereas 5 patients (6%) where retreated in the ERM group. We postulate that ILM peeling for the treatment of epiretinal membrane is not a relevant factor either for visual recovery or macular thickness reduction, but it may reduce the recurrence and reoperation rate.

  20. Successful surgical management of bilateral epiretinal membrane in a child with only café-au-lait spots.

    PubMed

    Philip, Swetha Sara; Kuriakose, Thomas; Chacko, Geeta

    2017-06-01

    A 6-year-old boy diagnosed as anisometropic amblyopia, with only café-au-lait spots and a family history of neurofibromatosis, presented with decrease in vision in the both eyes. Dilated fundus examination showed epiretinal membrane in both eyes over the macula. He underwent successful surgical management of the epiretinal membrane.

  1. Comparison of the Effectiveness of Pars Plana Vitrectomy with and without Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling for Idiopathic Retinal Membrane Removal: A Meta-Analysis

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Hanhan; Zuo, Shanru; Ding, Chun; Dai, Xunzhang; Zhu, Xiaohua

    2015-01-01

    We conducted a meta-analysis of published retrospective studies and compared the effectiveness of pars plana vitrectomy with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane (IERM). The results revealed that patients in the IERM+ILM peeling group had better BCVA after surgery within 12 months than those in IERM peeling group. But patients in the IERM peeling group showed better BCVA in the 18th month. More retrospective studies or randomized controlled trials are required to investigate and compare the long-term effect of IERM removal with and without ILM peeling. PMID:26693348

  2. Changes in Retinal Thickness after Vitrectomy for Epiretinal Membrane with and without Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling.

    PubMed

    Obata, Shumpei; Fujikawa, Masato; Iwasaki, Keisuke; Kakinoki, Masashi; Sawada, Osamu; Saishin, Yoshitsugu; Kawamura, Hajime; Ohji, Masahito

    2017-01-01

    To investigate anatomic changes in retinal thickness (RT) and functional changes after vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs) with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. The medical records of 100 eyes of 96 patients with ERM who underwent vitrectomy and ERM removal were reviewed retrospectively. The RT was measured by optical coherence tomography, and the area was divided into 9 sections. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), 9 RT areas, and incidence rates of recurrent ERM were compared between the groups with and without ILM peeling before the operation and 12 months postoperatively. Thirty-nine eyes that underwent vitrectomy with ILM peeling and 61 eyes that underwent vitrectomy without ILM peeling met the inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences between the groups in the BCVA and any of the RTs before the operation and 12 months postoperatively. The ERMs recurred in 8 (20.5%) of 39 eyes and 26 (42.6%) of 61 eyes in the groups with and without ILM peeling, respectively, with a difference that reached significance (p = 0.02) 12 months postoperatively. Vitrectomy for ERM affects the BCVA or the RTs 12 months postoperatively. Additional ILM peeling does not affect them, but it might reduce the ERM recurrence rate. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  3. THE ASSOCIATION OF EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE WITH MACULAR HOLE FORMATION AFTER RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT REPAIR.

    PubMed

    Khurana, Rahul N; Wykoff, Charles C; Bansal, Alok S; Akiyama, Kunihiko; Palmer, James D; Chen, Eric; Chang, Louis K; Major, James C; Wu, Chengqing; Wang, Rui; Croft, Daniel E; Wong, Tien P

    2017-06-01

    To describe the clinical and optical coherence tomography findings associated with the development of full-thickness macular holes after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair. Retrospective, interventional case series. All patients who developed full-thickness macular holes after successful RRD repair from 3 clinical practices were reviewed. All cases of combined/simultaneous full-thickness macular hole and RRD were excluded. The main outcome measure was the presence of an epiretinal membrane at time of diagnosis of macular hole. Twenty-five full-thickness macular holes were diagnosed after successful retinal detachment repair. Surgical approach to RRD repair included pneumatic retinopexy (6, 24%), scleral buckle alone (5, 20%), pars plana vitrectomy only (8, 32%), and combined scleral buckle and pars plana vitrectomy (6, 24%). The preceding RRD involved the macula in 19 patients (76%) before the formation of the macular hole. The median time to full-thickness macular hole diagnosis after RRD repair was 63 days (range, 4-4,080 days). An epiretinal membrane was present in all 25 (100%) macular holes. Two macular holes (8%) spontaneously closed, whereas the other 23 (92%) were successfully closed with a single surgical procedure. Mean visual acuity improved by approximately 5 lines to 20/72 (range, 20/20 to counting fingers at 1 foot) from 20/240 (range, 20/30 to hand motions) after macular hole repair (P < 0.0001). Full-thickness macular hole formation can occur after all types of RRD repair and is associated with an epiretinal membrane. The epiretinal membrane may play a role in the pathogenesis of secondary macular hole formation after RRD repair.

  4. THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF OPHTHALMOLOGISTS' NATIONAL OPHTHALMOLOGY DATABASE STUDY OF VITREORETINAL SURGERY: Report 4, Epiretinal Membrane.

    PubMed

    Jackson, Timothy L; Donachie, Paul H J; Williamson, Tom H; Sparrow, John M; Johnston, Robert L

    2015-08-01

    To report pragmatic outcomes from a database study of epiretinal membrane surgery. Prospective anonymized clinical audit data from electronic medical records were pooled over 10 years into a national database, from 1,131 primary epiretinal membrane operations, by 69 surgeons, in 16 U.K. vitreoretinal units. The median age of 1,131 patients was 71.6 years. A pars plana vitrectomy and epiretinal membrane peel were combined with internal limiting membrane peel in 17.0% of operations, and cataract surgery in 49.9%. Use of general anesthesia declined from 94.1% in 2001 to 28.9% in 2010. One or more intraoperative complication occurred in 9.8% (8.1% excluding cataract surgery complications). The median preoperative logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) visual acuity improved from 0.60 to 0.30 (Snellen 20/80-20/40) after a median follow-up of 7.0 months; 41.7% of eyes improved ≥0.30 logMAR units (approximately 2 Snellen's lines). The percentages of eyes undergoing subsequent surgery were 3.3%, 1.0%, 0.4%, and 0.8% for epiretinal membrane, retinal detachment, macular hole, and other vitreoretinal indications, respectively. Excluding pseudophakic eyes, 51.7%, 73.2%, and 76.2% of eyes underwent cataract surgery within 1 year, 2 year, and 3 years respectively. These results may help vitreoretinal surgeons to benchmark their surgical outcomes, and patients to assess the risks and benefits of surgery.

  5. The impact of macular surgery in different grades of epiretinal membrane.

    PubMed

    Batman, Cosar; Citirik, Mehmet

    2017-01-01

    To assess the impact of macular surgery on the functional and anatomic outcomes of the patients in different grades of epiretinal membrane (ERM). Seventy-one eyes of 71 patients who underwent 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless pars plana vitrectomy for primary isolated ERM were evaluated in this study. There were 38 females (53.5%) and 33 males (46.5%). The average age of the patients was 68.1y (range 42-89y). Mean follow up period was 14mo (range 6-26mo). The cases were divided into two subgroups of cellophane maculopathy (CM) and macular pucker (MP). An improvement was observed in the postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), as well as a decrement in central foveal thickness (CFT) in both groups (both of these being statistically significant; P =0.001). In comparison between two groups, it was found that there was a significant improvement on BCVA and CFT in CM group than MP group ( P =0.01). Furthermore, the postoperative fundus findings regarding RPE alterations and macular edema were significantly higher in MP group when compared to the CM group ( P =0.01). ERM and internal limiting membrane peeling surgery can lead to a significant reduction of CFT and visual improvements in idiopathic ERM. A long-term ERM persistence will cause unrecoverable retinal damage and visual loss.

  6. The impact of macular surgery in different grades of epiretinal membrane

    PubMed Central

    Batman, Cosar; Citirik, Mehmet

    2017-01-01

    AIM To assess the impact of macular surgery on the functional and anatomic outcomes of the patients in different grades of epiretinal membrane (ERM). METHODS Seventy-one eyes of 71 patients who underwent 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless pars plana vitrectomy for primary isolated ERM were evaluated in this study. RESULTS There were 38 females (53.5%) and 33 males (46.5%). The average age of the patients was 68.1y (range 42-89y). Mean follow up period was 14mo (range 6-26mo). The cases were divided into two subgroups of cellophane maculopathy (CM) and macular pucker (MP). An improvement was observed in the postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), as well as a decrement in central foveal thickness (CFT) in both groups (both of these being statistically significant; P=0.001). In comparison between two groups, it was found that there was a significant improvement on BCVA and CFT in CM group than MP group (P=0.01). Furthermore, the postoperative fundus findings regarding RPE alterations and macular edema were significantly higher in MP group when compared to the CM group (P=0.01). CONCLUSION ERM and internal limiting membrane peeling surgery can lead to a significant reduction of CFT and visual improvements in idiopathic ERM. A long-term ERM persistence will cause unrecoverable retinal damage and visual loss. PMID:29259907

  7. Improvement of horizontal macular contraction after surgical removal of epiretinal membranes.

    PubMed

    Yang, H K; Kim, S J; Jung, Y S; Kim, K G; Kim, J H; Yu, H G

    2011-06-01

    To determine whether horizontal macular contraction caused by epiretinal membranes (ERMs) improves after surgical removal. In this prospective, single-center, observational study, 63 consecutive patients with unilateral idiopathic ERM in one eye and no retinal disease in the fellow eye underwent pars plana vitrectomy. Fundus photography and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively. The area enclosed by superior and inferior major vessels from the optic disc to the fovea (area under major vessel (AUV)) and the macroscopic diverging angle (MDA) between superior and inferior major vessels were calculated using digital image analysis of fundus photographs and compared pre- and postoperatively. AUV was significantly smaller in the eyes with ERM compared with the normal fellow eyes (P<0.001). Significant postoperative change in AUV and MDA was demonstrated after ERM removal (P<0.001). However, postoperative AUV of grade 2 and 3 ERM eyes was still significantly smaller than that of normal fellow eyes. Macular thickness differences measured with stratus OCT were positively correlated with AUV differences. Retinal topographic changes caused by ERM improved in part after ERM removal. The improvement of topographic changes were correlated with tomographic changes detected with OCT.

  8. Postoperative restoration of foveal inner retinal configuration in patients with epiretinal membrane and abnormally thick inner retina.

    PubMed

    Yang, Hyun Seung; Kim, Jee Taek; Joe, Soo Geun; Lee, Joo Yong; Yoon, Young Hee

    2015-01-01

    To investigate foveal inner retinal layer (IRL) restoration and its relationship with functional visual outcomes after membrane peeling in eyes with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) with foveal central thick IRL. Consecutive eyes (n = 57) with a thick foveal IRL that underwent 25-gauge vitrectomy for ERM treatment were included. Complete ophthalmic and spectral domain optical coherence tomography examinations were performed before and 1 year after surgery. Before surgery, mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/48 (logMAR, 0.38); central foveal thickness, 515.0 ± 90.9 μm; and central IRL thickness (CIRLT) at the fovea, 167.7 ± 80.1 μm. One year after ERM peeling, mean BCVA improved to 20/30 (logMAR, 0.18), central foveal thickness to 404.1 ± 96.4 μm, and CIRLT to 76.8 ± 68.0 μm. In multivariate analysis, initial BCVA and CIRLT at baseline correlated well with final BCVA and BCVA improvement at 12 months. In comparison with Group B eyes (persistently thick foveal IRL at 12 months), Group A eyes (restored foveal IRL at 12 months) had thinner CIRLT at baseline and showed a significant post-surgical improvement in BCVA and metamorphopsia. In eyes with idiopathic ERM and decreased vision due to abnormally thick IRL in the foveal center, postoperative visual outcomes correlated well with preoperative CIRLT and postoperative restoration of IRL configuration after ERM peeling.

  9. Eccentric Macular Hole after Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Epiretinal Membrane Without Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling: A Case Report.

    PubMed

    Garnavou-Xirou, Christina; Xirou, Tina; Kabanarou, Stamatina; Gkizis, Ilias; Velissaris, Stavros; Chatziralli, Irini

    2017-12-01

    Postoperative eccentric macular hole formation is an uncommon complication after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for the treatment of epiretinal membrane (ERM). We present a case of eccentric macular hole formation after PPV for ERM without ILM peeling. A 68-year-old male patient presented with ERM and visual acuity of 6/24 in his left eye. He underwent 23-gauge PPV without ILM peeling for treatment of ERM. One week postoperatively the retina was attached and the epiretinal membrane was successfully removed, while visual acuity was 6/9. One month after PPV, a single eccentric retinal hole below the macula was detected using fundoscopy and subsequently confirmed by optical coherence tomography. At this time the visual acuity was 6/9 and the patient reported no symptoms. No further intervention was attempted and at the 9-month follow-up, the visual acuity and the size of the eccentric macular hole remained stable. Eccentric macular holes can be developed after PPV even without ILM peeling and are usually managed conservatively by observation.

  10. A value-based medicine cost-utility analysis of idiopathic epiretinal membrane surgery.

    PubMed

    Gupta, Omesh P; Brown, Gary C; Brown, Melissa M

    2008-05-01

    To perform a reference case, cost-utility analysis of epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery using current literature on outcomes and complications. Computer-based, value-based medicine analysis. Decision analyses were performed under two scenarios: ERM surgery in better-seeing eye and ERM surgery in worse-seeing eye. The models applied long-term published data primarily from the Blue Mountains Eye Study and the Beaver Dam Eye Study. Visual acuity and major complications were derived from 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy studies. Patient-based, time trade-off utility values, Markov modeling, sensitivity analysis, and net present value adjustments were used in the design and calculation of results. Main outcome measures included the number of discounted quality-adjusted-life-years (QALYs) gained and dollars spent per QALY gained. ERM surgery in the better-seeing eye compared with observation resulted in a mean gain of 0.755 discounted QALYs (3% annual rate) per patient treated. This model resulted in $4,680 per QALY for this procedure. When sensitivity analysis was performed, utility values varied from $6,245 to $3,746/QALY gained, medical costs varied from $3,510 to $5,850/QALY gained, and ERM recurrence rate increased to $5,524/QALY. ERM surgery in the worse-seeing eye compared with observation resulted in a mean gain of 0.27 discounted QALYs per patient treated. The $/QALY was $16,146 with a range of $20,183 to $12,110 based on sensitivity analyses. Utility values ranged from $21,520 to $12,916/QALY and ERM recurrence rate increased to $16,846/QALY based on sensitivity analysis. ERM surgery is a very cost-effective procedure when compared with other interventions across medical subspecialties.

  11. FOVEAL AVASCULAR ZONE AREA AFTER INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING FOR EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE AND MACULAR HOLE COMPARED WITH THAT OF FELLOW EYES AND HEALTHY CONTROLS.

    PubMed

    Kumagai, Kazuyuki; Furukawa, Mariko; Suetsugu, Tetsuyuki; Ogino, Nobuchika

    2017-08-01

    To measure the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area after internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and to determine the factors significantly correlated with the FAZ area. This was a retrospective, observational, and cross-sectional study. The affected and normal fellow eyes of 102 patients with unilateral macular diseases and 169 healthy subjects were studied. The patients underwent successful vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling for an epiretinal membrane (n = 56) or a macular hole (n = 46). The superficial FAZ area and average foveal (within 1 mm) thickness were measured. The main outcome measures were the en face FAZ area measured in the optical coherence tomography angiographic images. The FAZ area in the epiretinal membrane group (0.148 ± 0.094 mm) and in the macular hole group (0.255 ± 0.111 mm) were significantly smaller than that in the healthy control group (0.358 ± 0.118 mm; all, P < 0.0001). Multiple regression analysis showed that a thicker fovea was significantly correlated with a smaller FAZ area in the epiretinal membrane group (r = -0.799, P < 0.0001), macular hole group (r = -0.473, P = 0.0042), and control group (r = -0.612, P < 0.0001). The FAZ area after internal limiting membrane peeling was smaller than that of the controls. A smaller FAZ area was correlated with a thicker fovea both in internal limiting membrane-peeled eyes and normal eyes.

  12. Surgical outcomes after epiretinal membrane peeling combined with cataract surgery.

    PubMed

    Yiu, Glenn; Marra, Kyle V; Wagley, Sushant; Krishnan, Sheela; Sandhu, Harpal; Kovacs, Kyle; Kuperwaser, Mark; Arroyo, Jorge G

    2013-09-01

    To compare functional and anatomical outcomes after idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation versus ERM peeling alone. A retrospective, non-randomised comparative case series study was conducted of 81 eyes from 79 patients who underwent ERM peeling at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center between 2001 and 2010. Eyes that underwent combined surgery for ERM and cataracts (group 1) were compared with those that had ERM peeling alone (group 2) with respect to best-corrected visual acuity at 6 months and 1 year after surgery, postoperative central macular thickness (CMT) as measured on optical coherence tomography, and rates of complications, including elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), ERM recurrence and need for reoperation. Mean logMAR visual acuity improved significantly in both groups at 6 months (p<0.001) and 1 year (p<0.001) after surgery. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in visual acuity improvement at 6 months (p=0.108) or 1 year (p=0.094). Mean CMT of both groups also significantly decreased after surgery (p=0.002), with no statistical difference in CMT reduction between the two groups, but a trend toward less CMT reduction in group 1 (p=0.061). The rates of complications, including IOP elevation, ERM recurrence and frequency of reoperation, were similar in the two groups, with non-statistical trends toward greater ERM recurrence (p=0.084) and need for reoperation (p=0.096) in those that had combined surgery. Combined surgery for ERMs and cataracts may potentially be as effective as membrane peeling alone with respect to visual and anatomical outcomes. Further studies are necessary to determine if there may be greater ERM recurrence or need for reoperation after combined surgery.

  13. Epithelial Membrane Protein-2 in Human Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy and Epiretinal Membranes.

    PubMed

    Telander, David G; Yu, Alfred K; Forward, Krisztina I; Morales, Shawn A; Morse, Lawrence S; Park, Susanna S; Gordon, Lynn K

    2016-06-01

    To determine the level of epithelial membrane protein-2 (EMP2) expression in preretinal membranes from surgical patients with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) or epiretinal membranes (ERMs). EMP2, an integrin regulator, is expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium and understanding EMP2 expression in human retinal disease may help determine whether EMP2 is a potential therapeutic target. Preretinal membranes were collected during surgical vitrectomies after obtaining consents. The membranes were fixed, processed, sectioned, and protein expression of EMP2 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The staining intensity (SI) and percentage of positive cells (PP) in membranes were compared by masked observers. Membranes were categorized by their cause and type including inflammatory and traumatic. All of the membranes stained positive for EMP2. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy-induced membranes (all causes) showed greater expression of EMP2 than ERMs with higher SI (1.81 vs. 1.38; P = 0.07) and PP (2.08 vs. 1.54; P = 0.09). However all the PVR subgroups had similar levels of EMP2 expression without statistically significant differences by Kruskal-Wallis test. Inflammatory PVR had higher expression of EMP2 than ERMs (SI of 2.58 vs. 1.38); however, this was not statistically significant. No correlation was found between duration of PVR membrane and EMP2 expression. EMP2 was detected by RT-PCR in all samples (n = 6) tested. All studied ERMs and PVR membranes express EMP2. Levels of EMP2 trended higher in all PVR subgroups than in ERMs, especially in inflammatory and traumatic PVR. Future studies are needed to determine the role of EMP2 in the pathogenesis and treatment of various retinal conditions including PVR.

  14. Microperimetric Assessment after Epiretinal Membrane Surgery: 4-Year Follow-Up

    PubMed Central

    Dal Vecchio, Marco; Lavia, Carlo; Nassisi, Marco; Grignolo, Federico M.; Fea, Antonio M.

    2016-01-01

    Purpose. To investigate retinal function using microperimetry in patients affected by idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) and cataract who underwent combined surgery: 4-year follow-up. Design. Prospective, interventional case series. Methods. 30 eyes of 30 consecutive patients with iERM and age-related cataract underwent 25-gauge vitrectomy and cataract surgery. At baseline, 90 and 180 days, and 1 and 4 years, we examined retinal mean sensitivity (MS), retinal mean defect (MD), fixation stability, and frequency of microscotomas using MP1 microperimetry. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) using a spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were also performed. Results. All patients completed 1-year follow-up, while 23 patients reached last follow-up. Baseline MS and MD (10.48 ± 4.17 and −9.18 ± 4.40 dB) significantly changed at one year (12.33 ± 3.66 and −7.49 ± 3.31 dB, p < 0.01), at four years (14.18 ± 3.46 and −4.66 ± 2.85, p < 0.01), and between one and four years (p < 0.01) after surgery. Compared to baseline, CRT and BCVA significantly changed at one year and remained stable at four years. No variations were observed in fixation stability and frequency of microscotomas compared to baseline. Conclusions. Long-term follow-up using microperimetry seems useful to evaluate patients after iERM surgery: retinal sensitivity changes even when BCVA and CRT remain stable. PMID:27088008

  15. Vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane in adult-onset Coats' disease.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Pradeep; Kumar, Vinod

    2017-10-01

    Coats' disease is characterized by retinal vascular telangiectasia and subretinal and intraretinal exudation. A relatively benign form of the disease that occurs in adults is referred to as adult-onset Coats' disease. Involvement of macula in the form of macular edema and exudation are the common presenting features in both forms of the disease. We describe a rare case of adult-onset Coats' disease that presented with epiretinal membrane (ERM). Laser photocoagulation of retinal vascular telangiectasia resulted in worsening of patient's symptoms and ERM. Early pars plana vitrectomy resulted in resolution of the patient's symptoms. Utility of ultra-wide-field imaging and rationale of early vitrectomy in such cases are discussed.

  16. Possible role for fundus autofluorescence as a predictive factor for visual acuity recovery after epiretinal membrane surgery.

    PubMed

    Brito, Pedro N; Gomes, Nuno L; Vieira, Marco P; Faria, Pedro A; Fernandes, Augusto V; Rocha-Sousa, Amândio; Falcão-Reis, Fernando

    2014-02-01

    To study the potential association between fundus autofluorescence, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, and visual acuity in patients undergoing surgery because of epiretinal membranes. Prospective, interventional case series including 26 patients submitted to vitrectomy because of symptomatic epiretinal membranes. Preoperative evaluation consisted of a complete ophthalmologic examination, autofluorescence, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Studied variables included foveal autofluorescence (fov.AF), photoreceptor inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) junction line integrity, external limiting membrane integrity, central foveal thickness, and foveal morphology. All examinations were repeated at the first, third, and sixth postoperative months. The main outcome measures were logarithm of minimal angle resolution visual acuity, fov.AF integrity, and IS/OS integrity. All cases showing a continuous IS/OS line had an intact fov.AF, whereas patients with IS/OS disruption could have either an increased area of foveal hypoautofluorescence or an intact fov.AF, with the latter being associated with IS/OS integrity recovery in follow-up spectral-domain optical coherence tomography imaging. The only preoperative variables presenting a significant correlation with final visual acuity were baseline visual acuity (P = 0.047) and fov.AF grade (P = 0.023). Recovery of IS/OS line integrity after surgery, in patients with preoperative IS/OS disruption and normal fov.AF, can be explained by the presence of a functional retinal pigment epithelium-photoreceptor complex, supporting normal photoreceptor activity. Autofluorescence imaging provides a functional component to the study of epiretinal membranes, complementing the structural information obtained with optical coherence tomography.

  17. 20 g PPV with indocyanine green-assisted ILM peeling versus 23 g PPV with brilliant blue G-assisted ILM peeling for epiretinal membrane.

    PubMed

    Manousaridis, Kleanthis; Peter, Silvia; Mennel, Stefan

    2016-06-01

    To compare the anatomical and visual outcomes of 20 gauge (g) pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with indocyanine green (ICG)-assisted internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and 23 g PPV with brilliant blue G (BBG)-assisted ILM peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM). 38 eyes of 38 patients with idiopathic ERM were included. They were divided in two groups: group 1 (18 eyes) underwent 20 g PPV with ICG-assisted ILM peeling and group 2 (20 eyes) 23 g PPV with BBG-assisted ILM peeling. Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) were compared. Average BCVA in group 1 improved significantly from 0.60 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (log MAR) at baseline to 0.3 log MAR postoperatively. Average BCVA in group 2 improved significantly from 0.60 log MAR at baseline to 0.3 log MAR postoperatively. Mean CMT reduced significantly from 473 to 375 μm in group 1 and from 486 to 396 μm in group 2. There were no significant differences in the BCVA and CMT between the groups. Both surgical methods appeared to be safe and provided similar anatomical and visual outcomes.

  18. Vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane in adult-onset Coats’ disease

    PubMed Central

    Kumar, Pradeep; Kumar, Vinod

    2017-01-01

    Coats’ disease is characterized by retinal vascular telangiectasia and subretinal and intraretinal exudation. A relatively benign form of the disease that occurs in adults is referred to as adult-onset Coats’ disease. Involvement of macula in the form of macular edema and exudation are the common presenting features in both forms of the disease. We describe a rare case of adult-onset Coats’ disease that presented with epiretinal membrane (ERM). Laser photocoagulation of retinal vascular telangiectasia resulted in worsening of patient's symptoms and ERM. Early pars plana vitrectomy resulted in resolution of the patient's symptoms. Utility of ultra-wide-field imaging and rationale of early vitrectomy in such cases are discussed. PMID:29044085

  19. Human Eye Phantom for Developing Computer and Robot-Assisted Epiretinal Membrane Peeling*

    PubMed Central

    Gupta, Amrita; Gonenc, Berk; Balicki, Marcin; Olds, Kevin; Handa, James; Gehlbach, Peter; Taylor, Russell H.; Iordachita, Iulian

    2014-01-01

    A number of technologies are being developed to facilitate key intraoperative actions in vitreoretinal microsurgery. There is a need for cost-effective, reusable benchtop eye phantoms to enable frequent evaluation of these developments. In this study, we describe an artificial eye phantom for developing intraocular imaging and force-sensing tools. We test four candidate materials for simulating epiretinal membranes using a handheld tremor-canceling micromanipulator with force-sensing micro-forceps tip and demonstrate peeling forces comparable to those encountered in clinical practice. PMID:25571573

  20. [Vitrectomy for idiopathic and secondary preretinal macular membrane].

    PubMed

    Oficjalska-Młyńczak, Jolanta; Jamrozy-Witkowska, Agnieszka

    2004-01-01

    To evaluate the results of pars plana vitrectomy and membrane stripping for idiopathic and secondary preretinal macular membrane (PMM). Twenty one consecutive subjects (21 eyes) ranging in age from 40 to 78 (mean 66.9) with PMM underwent vitrectomy and membrane peeling. 17 cases had membranes that were considered idiopathic, and 4 cases were associated with other disorders: 3 occurred after successful retinal reattachment surgery, 1--after laserotherapy in the course of diabetic retinopathy. Visual acuity (VA), Amsler grid, and postoperative complications were assessed. The follow-up was 1 to 22 months, mean 5.7. Visual acuity improved postoperatively in 15 eyes (71.4%), at least two lines on the Snellen chart in 8 eyes (38.1%), entirely in patients with idiopathic PMM. It remained unchanged in 3 eyes (14.3%) and deteriorated in 3 eyes (14.3%). Eyes with transparent membrane showed greater visual improvement than opaque ones. The preoperative Amsler test was positive in 15 patients (71.4%), postoperatively--in 4 cases (19%). 2 idiopathic cases with VA of 0.7 showed postoperatively VA of 1.0. Complications included retinal detachment in 2 eyes (1 in idiopathic and 1 in secondary PMM), and development of nuclear sclerotic cataract in 2 eyes. At 6 months of follow-up, a residual membrane formation in 1 cases appeared. Macular pseudohole was observed in 1 eye with no impact on visual results. 1. Vitrectomy with membrane peeling for preretinal macular membrane provides improvement in visual acuity and reduces metamorphopsia 2. Thin, cellophane-like appearance of the membrane gives a better prognosis of visual function improvement.

  1. CHARACTERISTICS OF EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE REMNANT EDGE BY OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY AFTER PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY.

    PubMed

    Gaber, Raouf; You, Qi Sheng; Muftuoglu, Ilkay Kilic; Alam, Mostafa; Tsai, Frank F; Mendoza, Nadia; Freeman, William R

    2017-11-01

    To evaluate the incidence, characteristics, and the progression of epiretinal membrane (ERM) remnant edge seen by optical coherence tomography after ERM peeling. A retrospective chart review was conducted for 86 eyes of 85 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with ERM and underwent pars plana vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane peeling between 2013 and 2014. Data collected and analyzed included age, gender, preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, use of indocyanine green dye to stain internal limiting membrane, tamponade used after vitrectomy, ERM edge boundaries, presence of cystoid macular edema, and central foveal thickness. An ERM remnant edge was detected in 33/86 study eyes (38.4%) at the first postoperative optical coherence tomography scan. Compared with those without an ERM remnant, patients with an ERM remnant after surgery were significantly older at baseline and had a higher incidence of ERM recurrence at their last visit. They were not significantly different in terms of gender, preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, reduction of central foveal thickness from baseline, proportion of eyes with preoperative ERM elevation on optical coherence tomography, presence of macular edema before surgery, intraoperative use of indocyanine green staining for ILM peeling, or tamponade used. Based on the edge morphology, we classified the ERM remnant into three types: Type 1 was flat and blended with the retina (14/33 eyes, 42.4%), Type 2 was flat but stepped (17/33 eyes, 51.5%), and Type 3 was elevated (2/33 eyes, 6.0%). A significantly higher risk of ERM recurrence was seen in Type 2 and Type 3 ERM remnants (75% and 100%, respectively) than Type 1 ERM remnants (10%). An ERM remnant edge was detected by optical coherence tomography after ERM peeling in 38.4% of eyes. The presence of a postoperative ERM edge was associated with a higher risk of ERM recurrence, particularly in Type 2 and Type 3 ERM remnants.

  2. Three-Dimensional Analysis of Peeled Internal Limiting Membrane Using Focused Ion Beam/Scanning Electron Microscopy

    PubMed Central

    Murata, Kazuhisa; Hayashi, Ken; Nakamura, Kei-ichiro

    2018-01-01

    Purpose To reevaluate the effect of internal limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy on the Müller cell damage, we examined the ultrastructure of the internal limiting membrane by using focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM). Methods A total of 12 internal limiting membranes obtained during surgery in both the macular hole and the idiopathic epiretinal membrane groups were processed for observation by FIB/SEM. Three-dimensional structures of the internal limiting membrane were analyzed. Results The number of cell fragments in the macular hole group was 5.07 ± 1.03 per unit area of internal limiting membrane (100 μm2). The total volume of cell fragments was 3.54 ± 1.24 μm3/100 μm2. In contrast, the number of cell fragments in the epiretinal membrane group was 12.85 ± 3.45/100 μm2, and the total volume of cell fragments was 10.45 ± 2.77 μm3/100 μm2. Data for both values were significantly higher than those observed in the macular hole group (P = 0.0024 and P = 0.0022, respectively, Mann-Whitney U test). No statistical difference was found for the mean volume of the cell fragment between the two groups. Conclusions All of the internal limiting membrane examined in this study showed cell fragments on the retinal surface of the internal limiting membrane. As compared with macular hole, epiretinal membrane exhibited a higher number and total volume of cell fragments, indicating that internal limiting membrane peeling for epiretinal membrane might have a higher risk of causing inner retinal damage. Translational Relevance FIB/SEM was a useful tool for three-dimensional quantitative analysis of the internal limiting membrane. PMID:29423341

  3. Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling to Prevent Post-vitrectomy Epiretinal Membrane Development in Retinal Detachment.

    PubMed

    Akiyama, Kunihiko; Fujinami, Kaoru; Watanabe, Ken; Tsunoda, Kazushige; Noda, Toru

    2016-11-01

    To determine the efficacy of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling during vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) regarding post-vitrectomy epiretinal membrane (ERM) development and visual outcomes. Retrospective, interventional, comparative case series. Setting: Institutional. One hundred and two consecutive eyes with RRD treated with vitrectomy and followed for at least 6 months. ILM was peeled without using dye such as indocyanine green (ICG). Observational Procedures: Patients were divided into 2 groups based on postoperative ERM development: Group 1, 81 eyes without ERM formation; Group 2, 21 eyes with ERM development. Patients also were divided into 2 subgroups: those with and without ILM peeling (58 and 44 eyes, respectively). Statistical analyses were performed between the 2 groups with/without ERM formation and between the 2 subgroups with/without ILM peeling for 5 preoperative factors including foveal involvement of the RRD, 4 intraoperative factors including ILM peeling, baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and final BCVA. An association of ILM peeling with ERM prevention and the influence of ILM peeling on visual outcomes. ILM peeling was significantly (P < .001) associated with ERM prevention. There was no significant difference in the final BCVA between subgroups with and without ILM peeling. ILM peeling without ICG staining during the initial vitrectomy for RRDs may prevent postoperative ERM formation with favorable visual outcomes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Retinal thickness after vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peeling for macular hole and epiretinal membrane

    PubMed Central

    Kumagai, Kazuyuki; Ogino, Nobuchika; Furukawa, Mariko; Hangai, Masanori; Kazama, Shigeyasu; Nishigaki, Shirou; Larson, Eric

    2012-01-01

    Purpose To determine the retinal thickness (RT), after vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling, for an idiopathic macular hole (MH) or an epiretinal membrane (ERM). Also, to investigate the effect of a dissociated optic nerve fiber layer (DONFL) appearance on RT. Methods A non-randomized, retrospective chart review was performed for 159 patients who had successful closure of a MH, with (n = 148), or without (n = 11), ILM peeling. Also studied were 117 patients who had successful removal of an ERM, with (n = 104), or without (n = 13), ILM peeling. The RT of the nine Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study areas was measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). In the MH-with-ILM peeling and ERM-with-ILM peeling groups, the RT of the operated eyes was compared to the corresponding areas of normal fellow eyes. The inner temporal/inner nasal ratio (TNR) was used to assess the effect of ILM peeling on RT. The effects of DONFL appearance on RT were evaluated in only the MH-with-ILM peeling group. Results In the MH-with-ILM peeling group, the central, inner nasal, and outer nasal areas of the retina of operated eyes were significantly thicker than the corresponding areas of normal fellow eyes. In addition, the inner temporal, outer temporal, and inner superior retina was significantly thinner than in the corresponding areas of normal fellow eyes. Similar findings were observed regardless of the presence of a DONFL appearance. In the ERM-with-ILM peeling group, the retina of operated eyes was significantly thicker in all areas, except the inner and outer temporal areas. In the MH-with-ILM peeling group, the TNR was 0.86 in operated eyes, and 0.96 in fellow eyes (P < 0.001). In the ERM-with-ILM peeling group, the TNR was 0.84 in operated eyes, and 0.95 in fellow eyes (P < 0.001). TNR in operated eyes of the MH-without-ILM peeling group was 0.98, which was significantly greater than that of the MH-with-ILM peeling group (P < 0

  5. VITRECTOMY FOR MACULAR DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH LAMELLAR MACULAR HOLE EPIRETINAL PROLIFERATION.

    PubMed

    Choi, Won Seok; Merlau, Daniel J; Chang, Stanley

    2018-04-01

    To compare the surgical outcome of a lamellar macular hole (LMH) depending on lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP) and full-thickness macular hole. This is a retrospective chart review. Thirty-three patients were enrolled for this study. The patients were divided into three groups depending on the type of macular hole and presence of LHEP. Group 1 had epiretinal membranes with LMH without LHEP, Group 2 had LMH with LHEP, and Group 3 had full-thickness macular hole with LHEP. The best-corrected visual acuity was recorded and optical coherence tomography scans were obtained. Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity showed no significant difference between groups (P = 0.968). Final visual acuity of Group 1 was better than that of Group 2 (P = 0.009). Group 1 showed less postoperative ellipsoid zone disruption compared with Group 2 (P = 0.010), and the duration of LHEP to surgery had no significant correlation with postoperative visual acuity (P = 0.629). Lamellar macular hole with LHEP showed poorer visual outcomes compared with those with highly reflective epiretinal membranes. Lamellar macular hole with LHEP showed a greater chance of ellipsoid zone disruption. These findings may explain the wide variability of visual outcomes previously reported after vitrectomy for LMH.

  6. Five-Year Outcomes of Surgically Treated Symptomatic Epiretinal Membranes With and Without Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling.

    PubMed

    Sultan, Harris; Wykoff, Charles C; Shah, Ankoor R

    2018-05-01

    The authors evaluated long-term postoperative visual outcomes and recurrence rates following surgery for symptomatic epiretinal membrane (ERM) ± internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. This was a retrospective, consecutive case series of 78 patients undergoing vitrectomy for symptomatic ERM between 1/2010 and 4/2012 with follow-up through at least postoperative year 5 (POY5). Outcomes included visual acuity (VA) (Snellen VA converted to logMAR), central retinal thickness (CRT; μm), and ERM recurrence. Subgroup analysis evaluated outcomes related to ILM peeling. Subgroup analysis based on ILM peeling did not find VA (20/50 [0.430 logMAR ± 0.061 logMAR; mean ± SD] vs. 20/60 [0.518 logMAR ± 0.128 logMAR] for ILM vs. non-ILM peeling respectively; P = .513) nor macular thickness (355 μm ± 13 μm vs. 360 μm ± 42 μm; P = .410) to be significantly different at POY5. Recurrence requiring surgery with and without ILM peeling was not statistically significantly different at POY5 (1.6% and 11.8%; P = .118). Vitrectomy for symptomatic ERM led to improved visual and anatomic outcomes with sustained benefit through 5 years. ILM peeling was was associated with reduced ERM recurrence, but this benefit was not statistically significant at POY5. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2018;49:296-302.]. Copyright 2018, SLACK Incorporated.

  7. Effects of internal limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for macula-off primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

    PubMed

    Blanco-Teijeiro, María José; Bande Rodriguez, Manuel; Mansilla Cuñarro, Raquel; Paniagua Fernández, Laura; Ruiz-Oliva Ruiz, Francisco; Piñeiro Ces, Antonio

    2018-03-01

    To determine the effectiveness of internal limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for macula-off primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in the prevention of postoperative epiretinal membrane formation and achievement of good visual outcomes and to identify preoperative and intraoperative risk factors for epiretinal membrane formation. We retrospectively analyzed data from 62 eyes of 62 consecutive patients with macula-off primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment who underwent vitrectomy with (n = 30) or without (n = 32) internal limiting membrane peeling between January 2014 and March 2016 and were followed up for at least 12 months. The effects of internal limiting membrane peeling on visual outcomes and postoperative recovery of the macular structure were determined. We subsequently divided patients into an epiretinal membrane group and a non-epiretinal membrane group and assessed the effects of various preoperative and intraoperative factors on postoperative epiretinal membrane formation. Postoperative epiretinal membrane developed in 10 patients in the no internal limiting membrane peeling group and three patients in the internal limiting membrane peeling group. Postoperative visual acuity significantly improved in both groups. Epiretinal membrane formation was found to be correlated with a higher number of retinal breaks. Our results suggest that internal limiting membrane peeling during macula-off primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment surgery can reduce the occurrence of postoperative epiretinal membrane, is safe, and results in favorable visual outcomes.

  8. Comparison of Efficacy and Safety between Transconjunctival 23-Gauge and Conventional 20-Gauge Vitrectomy Systems in Macular Surgery

    PubMed Central

    Gurelik, Gokhan; Hasanreisoglu, Berati

    2012-01-01

    Purpose To compare the efficacy and safety of 23-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy with the conventional 20-gauge method in idiopathic epiretinal membrane and macular hole surgery. Methods Sixty-one consecutive patients undergoing vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane and macular hole were recruited to either 20- or 23-gauge vitrectomy groups and prospectively evaluated. Surgical success rates, operating time, surgery-related complications, long-term visual outcomes, and postoperative ocular surface problems are compared in the two groups. Results There were 31 eyes in the 20-gauge group and 33 eyes in the 23-gauge group. The macular hole closure rate after the first surgery was 83% and 90.9% in the 20-gauge and 23-gauge groups, respectively, with no significant difference between groups (p = 0.59). The success rate for idiopathic epiretinal membranes cases was 100% in both groups. There was no statistically significant difference between overall surgical times (p = 0.90). None of the patients in either group experienced postoperative complications of severe postoperative hypotony, vitreous hemorrhage or endophthalmitis, except one eye in the 20-gauge group, which was found to have retinal detachment. In both groups, statistically significant improvement in visual acuity was achieved 1-month postoperatively (p = 0.002) and thereafter at all postoperative visits (p < 0.05). The mean ocular surface scores were significantly lower in the 23-gauge group at all postoperative visits compared with the 20-gauge group scores (p = 0.001). Conclusions Transconjunctival 23-gauge vitrectomy appears to be as effective and safe as conventional 20-gauge vitrectomy in idiopathic epiretinal membrane and macular hole surgeries. PMID:23060720

  9. Effect of internal limiting membrane peeling on the development of epiretinal membrane after pars plana vitrectomy for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

    PubMed

    Nam, Ki Yup; Kim, Jung Yeul

    2015-05-01

    To investigate the difference in the occurrence of postoperative epiretinal membranes (ERMs) in vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with and without peeling of the internal limiting membrane (ILM). The medical records of the 135 patients, who underwent vitrectomy for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment from November 2007 to August 2011, were analyzed retrospectively. Of the subjects, 70 patients underwent ILM peeling during the surgery and 65 did not. The best-corrected visual acuity, fundus photograph, and optical coherence tomography were collected 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The relationship between ILM peeling and the preoperative findings of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and development of a postoperative ERM was analyzed. No ERM occurred in the ILM peeling group, whereas an ERM occurred in 14 of 65 patients who underwent vitrectomy without ILM peeling (21.5%). This difference was significant (P < 0.001). The occurrence of a postoperative ERM was not significantly correlated with other preoperative factors. In the macular-on group, the overall mean best-corrected visual acuity was better in the ILM peeling group and was significantly higher 12 months postoperatively (P = 0.03). Internal limiting membrane peeling seems to prevent the occurrence of a postoperative ERM in patients with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

  10. Thrombospondin Type-1 Domain-Containing 7A in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy

    PubMed Central

    Meyer-Schwesinger, Catherine; Seitz-Polski, Barbara; Ma, Hong; Zahner, Gunther; Dolla, Guillaume; Hoxha, Elion; Helmchen, Udo; Dabert-Gay, Anne-Sophie; Debayle, Delphine; Merchant, Michael; Klein, Jon; Salant, David J.; Stahl, Rolf A.K.; Lambeau, Gérard

    2014-01-01

    BACKGROUND Idiopathic membranous nephropathy is an autoimmune disease. In approximately 70% of patients, it is associated with autoantibodies against the phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R1). Antigenic targets in the remaining patients are unknown. METHODS Using Western blotting, we screened serum samples from patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy, patients with other glomerular diseases, and healthy controls for antibodies against human native glomerular proteins. We partially purified a putative new antigen, identified this protein by means of mass spectrometry of digested peptides, and validated the results by analysis of recombinant protein expression, immunoprecipitation, and immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS Serum samples from 6 of 44 patients in a European cohort and 9 of 110 patients in a Boston cohort with anti-PLA2R1–negative idiopathic membranous nephropathy recognized a glomerular protein that was 250 kD in size. None of the serum samples from the 74 patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy who were sero-positive for anti-PLA2R1 antibodies, from the 76 patients with other glomerular diseases, and from the 44 healthy controls reacted against this antigen. Although this newly identified antigen is clearly different from PLA2R1, it shares some biochemical features, such as N-glycosylation, membranous location, and reactivity with serum only under nonreducing conditions. Mass spectrometry identified this antigen as thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A). All reactive serum samples recognized recombinant THSD7A and immunoprecipitated THSD7A from glomerular lysates. Moreover, immunohistochemical analyses of biopsy samples from patients revealed localization of THSD7A to podocytes, and IgG eluted from one of these samples was specific for THSD7A. CONCLUSIONS In our cohort, 15 of 154 patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy had circulating autoantibodies to THSD7A but not to PLA2R1, a finding that suggests a distinct

  11. Corneal endothelial cell loss and corneal biomechanical characteristics after two-step sequential or combined phaco-vitrectomy surgery for idiopathic epiretinal membrane.

    PubMed

    Hamoudi, Hassan; Christensen, Ulrik Correll; La Cour, Morten

    2017-08-01

    To assess the impact of sequential and combined surgery [cataract surgery and 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with peeling] on corneal endothelium cell density (CED) and corneal biomechanical characteristics. Phakic eyes with epiretinal membrane (ERM) were prospectively allocated to (i) cataract surgery and subsequent PPV (CAT group), (ii) PPV and subsequent cataract surgery (VIT group) or (iii) phacovitrectomy (COMBI group). Eyes were examined at baseline, 1 month after each surgery, and at 3 and 12 months follow-up. Corneal endothelium cell density (CED) was assessed with non-contact specular microscopy. Pachymetry [central cornea thickness (CCT)], keratometry and cornea volume (CV) were measured with Pentacam Scheimpflug camera. Primary outcome was change in CED after 12 months; secondary outcomes were changes in CCT and CV after 12 months. Sixty-two eyes were enrolled and allocated to the three groups. The mean preoperative CED was 2776, 2794 and 2653 cells/mm 2, which decreased significantly at 12 months by 15.3, 20.0 and 19.3% in the CAT, VIT and COMBI group. There was no significant difference in percentage cell loss between the groups at final follow-up. The CED decreased significantly after cataract surgery, but was unaffected by PPV. Central cornea thickness (CCT) increased by 10 μm (p = 0.005) and CV by 1.38 mm 3 (2.3%, p < 0.001) in the COMBI group. There were no significant differences in CCT or CV between the groups at final follow-up. Combined and sequential surgery in ERM leads to a small decrease in CED. Performing cataract surgery before, after or in combination with vitrectomy did not make any significant difference with respect to final CED, CCT or CV. © 2017 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  12. Propionibacterium acnes as a possible pathogen of granuloma in patients with ocular sarcoidosis.

    PubMed

    Goto, Hiroshi; Usui, Yoshihiko; Umazume, Akihiko; Uchida, Keisuke; Eishi, Yoshinobu

    2017-11-01

    To detect Propionibacterium acnes from intraocular granuloma in patients with ocular sarcoidosis. Ten patients (10 eyes) with uveitis associated with sarcoidosis, who underwent vitrectomy to remove the epiretinal membrane were analysed. The patients were 70.4±7.6 (mean±SD) years of age, and the observation period from diagnosis of sarcoidosis until vitrectomy was 27.6±15.1 months. Histopathological examination of paraffin-embedded sections of the excised epiretinal membranes was conducted by H&E staining and immunohistochemical staining using PAB antibody, which is a monoclonal antibody against P. acnes . Four patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane and four patients with epiretinal membrane caused by chronic uveitis other than sarcoidosis were included as control. Granuloma in the epiretinal membrane was observed in 4 of 10 patients with sarcoidosis, and all the granulomas were positive for PAB. In one patient without granuloma in the epiretinal membrane, PAB immunoreactivity was found in inflammatory cells, presumably macrophages. No granuloma and no PAB immunoreactivity were detected in all control patients, except one with chronic uveitis in whom faint PAB immunoreactivity was detected in inflammatory cells. P. acnes was detected from granulomas formed in the epiretinal membrane of patients with sarcoidosis. The significance of P. acnes in the pathogenesis of uveitis associated with sarcoidosis remains to be determined. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  13. Internal limiting membrane peeling or not: a systematic review and meta-analysis of idiopathic macular pucker surgery.

    PubMed

    Fang, Xiao-Ling; Tong, Yao; Zhou, Ya-Li; Zhao, Pei-Quan; Wang, Zhao-Yang

    2017-11-01

    To determine whether internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling improves anatomical and functional outcomes in idiopathic macular pucker (IMP)/epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery in this systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched the PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane, Ovid MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov and CNKI databases for studies published before 15 September 2016. The eligibility criteria included studies comparing ILM peeling versus no-peeling for IMP surgery. Thirteen articles (10 retrospective cohort studies, 1 prospective cohort study and 2 randomised controlled trials (RCTs)) were included in the review. Primary outcomes: no differences were observed in the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) or central macular thickness (CMT) at 12 months; however, lower ERM recurrence (OR, 0.13; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.41; p=0.0004) and reoperation rates (OR, 0.10; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.49; p=0.004) that favoured ILM peeling were observed at the final follow-up. no difference was observed in BCVA at 3, 6 months, the final follow-up or in CMT at 3, 6 months, the final follow-up. Significantly increased CMT, which favoured ILM peeling, was observed at the final follow-up (p=0.002) in the RCTs. ILM peeling yielded greater anatomical success, but no improvement in functional outcomes as the treatment of choice for patients undergoing IMP surgery. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  14. Efficacy of vitrectomy and epiretinal membrane peeling in eyes with dry age-related macular degeneration.

    PubMed

    Mason, John O; Patel, Shyam A

    2015-01-01

    To study the efficacy of epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling in eyes with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We retrospectively analyzed patient charts on 17 eyes (16 patients) that underwent ERM peeling with a concurrent diagnosis of dry AMD. Eyes with concurrent dry AMD and with a good preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (better than or equal to 20/50) had a statistically significant mean BCVA improvement at 6 months after ERM peeling. There was a statistical increase in mean BCVA from 20/95 to 20/56 in dry AMD eyes, and no eyes showed worsening in BCVA at 6 months or at most recent follow-up. Five/seventeen (29.4%) eyes had cataract formation or progression. There were no other complications, reoperations, or reoccurrences. ERM peeling in eyes with dry AMD may show significant improvement, especially in eyes with good preoperative BCVA. The procedure is relatively safe with low complications and reoccurrences.

  15. Epiretinal Proliferation Associated with Macular Hole and Intraoperative Perifoveal Crown Phenomenon.

    PubMed

    Son, Gisung; Lee, Ji Shin; Lee, Suchan; Sohn, Joonhong

    2016-12-01

    To discuss the unique morphology and origin of epiretinal proliferation associated with macular hole (EPMH) occasionally observed in full-thickness macular hole (FT-MH) or lamellar hole (LH) and to introduce the perifoveal crown phenomenon encountered when removing this unusual proliferative tissue. Sixteen patients showing EPMH in spectral domain-optical coherence tomography were selected from 212 patients diagnosed with MH, LH, FT-MH, impending MH, macular pseudohole, or epiretinal membrane between January 2013 and December 2014. Of the 212 patients included for clinical analysis, 33, 23, 11, 7, and 190 exhibited LH, FT-MH, impending MH, macular pseudohole, and epiretinal membrane, respectively. We reviewed visual acuity, macular morphology, and clinical course. Surgical specimens were analyzed histologically. EPMH presented as an amorphous proliferation starting from the defective inner/outer segment (IS/OS) junction covering the inner macula surface. Among the 16 patients with EPMH, 11 underwent vitrectomy, and all exhibited the intraoperative perifoveal crown phenomenon. EPMH tissue was sampled in three patients, one of whom had more tissue removed than intended and showed delayed recovery in visual acuity. Despite hole closure, IS/OS junction integrity was not successfully restored in four of 11 patients. Five patients were followed-up without surgical intervention. Visual acuity slightly decreased in three patients and did not change in one patient, while the remaining patient was lost during follow-up. Among the three perifoveal crown tissues obtained, two were successfully analyzed histologically. Neither tissue showed positivity to synaptophysin or S-100 protein, but one showed positivity to cytokeratin protein immunohistochemical staining. EPMH exhibited a distinct but common configuration in spectral domain-optical coherence tomography. An epithelial proliferation origin is plausible based on its configuration and histological analysis. Perifoveal crown

  16. DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS OF ACTIVE INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING DURING EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE SURGERY: Microperimetric Analysis.

    PubMed

    Deltour, Jean-Baptiste; Grimbert, Pierre; Masse, Helene; Lebreton, Olivier; Weber, Michel

    2017-03-01

    The aim of the study was to assess the microperimetric consequences of active internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling during idiopathic epimacular membrane (IEMM) surgery. This retrospective monocentric study included 32 eyes of 31 consecutive patients who underwent IEMM surgery. Internal limiting membrane integrity was assessed by ILM Blue staining after IEMM removal: peeling was spontaneous (Group S) or active (Group A). Preprocedure and postprocedure (1 and 6 months) examinations were performed using visual acuity determination, spectral domain optical coherence tomography and microperimetry. Twenty-two eyes had an "active ILM peeling" and 10 a "spontaneous ILM peeling." Both groups had comparable and significant improvements in visual acuity 6 months after surgery (+1.82 lines [+9 letters] [Group A] and +1.51 lines [+8 letters] [Group S], P < 0.01) associated with a significant reduction in optical coherence tomography central thickness (-99.9 μm [Group A], P < 0.01 and -62.2 μm [Group S], P = 0.05). Six months after surgery, the microperimetry showed more numerous and deeper microscotomas in the Group A than in the Group S (change in the number of microscotomas: 2.09 vs. -0.10, P = 0.06; change in deficit severity score: 13.18 dB vs. -2 dB, P < 0.01 for Group A and S, respectively). The number of microscotomas and also severity were increased in 63.6% of Group A patients and in only 20% of Group S patients. Microscotomas were most frequently located in IEMM and/or ILM areas. Internal limiting membrane peeling has progressively become generalized in IEMM surgery to reduce recurrences. This additional procedure does not change the postoperative visual acuity but increases the development of deeper microscotomas. The real impact on the quality of vision remains unclear. Active ILM peeling in IEMM surgery may be responsible for visual impairment related to its microtraumatic effects.

  17. Cancer Risk after Cyclophosphamide Treatment in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy

    PubMed Central

    van Dijk, Peter R.; Hofstra, Julia M.; Wetzels, Jack F.M.

    2014-01-01

    Background and objectives Cyclophosphamide treatment improves renal survival in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. However, use of cyclophosphamide is associated with cancer. The incidence of malignancies in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy was evaluated, and the cancer risk associated with cyclophosphamide use was estimated. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Patients who attended the clinic were included prospectively from 1995 on. A crude incidence ratio for the occurrence of malignancy was calculated. Incidence ratios were subsequently standardized to potential confounders. Latency between cyclophosphamide therapy and the occurrence of cancer was estimated by stratifying for time since the start of treatment. Finally, Poisson regression was used to obtain a multiple adjusted incidence ratio and investigate the dose–response relationship between cyclophosphamide and cancer. Results Data were available for 272 patients; the mean age was 51 years, and 70% of the patients were men. Median follow-up was 6.0 years (interquartile range=3.6–9.5), and 127 patients were treated with cyclophosphamide. Cancer incidence was 21.2 per 1000 person-years in treated patients compared with 4.6 per 1000 person-years in patients who did not receive cyclophosphamide, resulting in crude and adjusted incidence ratios of 4.6 (95% confidence interval, 1.5 to 18.8) and 3.2 (95% confidence interval, 1.0 to 9.5), respectively. Conclusion Cyclophosphamide therapy in idiopathic membranous nephropathy gives a threefold increase in cancer risk. For the average patient, this finding translates into an increase in annual risk from approximately 0.3% to 1.0%. The increased risk of malignancy must be balanced against the improved renal survival. PMID:24855280

  18. Spontaneous Remission of Nephrotic Syndrome in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy

    PubMed Central

    Polanco, Natalia; Gutiérrez, Elena; Covarsí, Adelardo; Ariza, Francisco; Carreño, Agustín; Vigil, Ana; Baltar, José; Fernández-Fresnedo, Gema; Martín, Carmen; Pons, Salvador; Lorenzo, Dolores; Bernis, Carmen; Arrizabalaga, Pilar; Fernández-Juárez, Gema; Barrio, Vicente; Sierra, Milagros; Castellanos, Ines; Espinosa, Mario; Rivera, Francisco; Oliet, Aniana; Fernández-Vega, Francisco

    2010-01-01

    Spontaneous remission is a well known characteristic of idiopathic membranous nephropathy, but contemporary studies describing predictors of remission and long-term outcomes are lacking. We conducted a retrospective, multicenter cohort study of 328 patients with nephrotic syndrome resulting from idiopathic membranous nephropathy that initially received conservative therapy. Spontaneous remission occurred in 104 (32%) patients: proteinuria progressively declined after diagnosis until remission of disease at 14.7 ± 11.4 months. Although spontaneous remission was more frequent with lower levels of baseline proteinuria, it also frequently occurred in patients with massive proteinuria: 26% among those with baseline proteinuria 8 to 12 g/24 h and 22% among those with proteinuria >12 g/24 h. Baseline serum creatinine and proteinuria, treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor antagonists, and a >50% decline of proteinuria from baseline during the first year of follow-up were significant independent predictors for spontaneous remission. Only six patients (5.7%) experienced a relapse of nephrotic syndrome. The incidence of death and ESRD were significantly lower among patients with spontaneous remission. In conclusion, spontaneous remission is common among patients with nephrotic syndrome resulting from membranous nephropathy and carries a favorable long-term outcome with a low incidence of relapse. A decrease in proteinuria >50% from baseline during the first year predicts spontaneous remission. PMID:20110379

  19. Progression of lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation and retinal changes during long-term follow-up.

    PubMed

    Compera, Denise; Schumann, Ricarda G; Cereda, Matteo G; Acquistapace, Alessandra; Lita, Viviane; Priglinger, Siegfried G; Staurenghi, Giovanni; Bottoni, Ferdinando

    2018-01-01

    To report on progression of lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP) in eyes with lamellar macular holes (LMH) using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and to correlate with intraretinal changes and visual function. From a retrospectively reviewed series of 167 eyes with non-full-thickness macular holes, we exclusively included a subgroup of 34 eyes with LMH and LHEP by SD-OCT evaluation. In these eyes, area of LHEP, intraretinal changes of defect diameter, central retinal thickness, defects of the ellipsoid zone and occurrence of a contractive epiretinal membrane were analysed. Additionally, clinical data were documented. Area of LHEP significantly increased during a mean follow-up period of 40.5 months (median 52 months). Analysing intraretinal changes, a significant enlargement of minimum and maximum horizontal lamellar hole diameter was found that correlated with the area of LHEP. Defects of the ellipsoid zone were seen in 65% of the eyes at baseline and in 85% at the end of follow-up. Increase of maximum horizontal hole diameter and ellipsoid zone defects correlated with a decline of visual acuity. Fifty per cent of patients with LMH and LHEP also demonstrated extrafoveal typical contractive epiretinal membranes with retinal folds. Long-term follow-up revealed an increase of the area of LHEP in eyes with LMH that correlated with the enlargement of lamellar hole diameter and ellipsoid zone defects. Our data delineate the progression of intraretinal changes in association with a decline of visual function in this subgroup of LMH eyes. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  20. Macular microcirculation in patients with epiretinal membrane before and after surgery.

    PubMed

    Yagi, Tomoko; Sakata, Kumi; Funatsu, Hideharu; Noma, Hidetaka; Yamamoto, Kaori; Hori, Sadao

    2012-06-01

    To investigate blood flow velocity (BFV) in the perifoveal capillaries before and after vitreous surgery for patients with epiretinal membrane (ERM). Twenty-one eyes in patients with ERM and 16 eyes in healthy subjects were involved in this study. Fluorescein angiography was performed using a scanning laser ophthalmoscope and BFV was analyzed by the tracing method. Foveal thickness (FT) was measured by optical coherence tomography. BFV was significantly slower in the ERM patients (1.04 ± 0.10 mm/s) than in the healthy subjects (1.49 ± 0.11 mm/s ) (p = 0.0010). BFV in the ERM patients 6 months after vitreous surgery (6 M) (1.21 ± 0.02 mm/s) significantly increased compared with BFV before surgery (0 M) (1.04 ± 0.10 mm/s) (p = 0.0061). BFV 1 year after vitreous surgery (1 Y) significantly increased (1.38 ± 0.02 mm/s) compared with BFV(6 M) (1.21 ± 0.02 mm/s) (p = 0.0235). FT was significantly greater in the ERM patients (351.7 ± 87.1 μm) than in the healthy subjects (158.9 ± 16.9 μm) (p = 0.0011). FT (6 M) significantly decreased (285.3 ± 36.9 μm) compared with FT before surgery (0 M) (351.7 ± 87.1 μm) (p = 0.0212). FT did not show significant differences between (6 M) and (1 Y). No significant correlation was found between BFV and FT before surgery. Perifoveal capillary BFV in patients with ERM was slower than that in the healthy subjects, and significantly improved after vitreous surgery as time progressed. It can be said that perifoveal capillary BFV is related to the development and improvement of ERM in the long term.

  1. Simultaneous recording of mouse retinal ganglion cells during epiretinal or subretinal stimulation

    PubMed Central

    Sim, S.L.; Szalewski, R.J.; Johnson, L.J.; Akah, L.E.; Shoemaker, L.E.; Thoreson, W.B.; Margalit, E.

    2015-01-01

    We compared response patterns and electrical receptive fields (ERF) of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) during epiretinal and subretinal electrical stimulation of isolated mouse retina. Retinas were stimulated with an array of 3200 independently controllable electrodes. Four response patterns were observed: a burst of activity immediately after stimulation (Type I cells, Vision Research (2008), 48, 1562–1568), delayed bursts beginning >25 ms after stimulation (Type II), a combination of both (Type III), and inhibition of ongoing spike activity. Type I responses were produced more often by epiretinal than subretinal stimulation whereas delayed and inhibitory responses were evoked more frequently by subretinal stimulation. Response latencies were significantly shorter with epiretinal than subretinal stimulation. These data suggest that subretinal stimulation is more effective at activating intraretinal circuits than epiretinal stimulation. There was no significant difference in charge threshold between subretinal and epiretinal configurations. ERFs were defined by the stimulating array surface area that successfully stimulated spikes in an RGC. ERFs were complex in shape, similar to receptive fields mapped with light. ERF areas were significantly smaller with subretinal than epiretinal stimulation. This may reflect the greater distance between stimulating electrodes and RGCs in the subretinal configuration. ERFs for immediate and delayed responses mapped within the same Type III cells differed in shape and size, consistent with different sites and mechanisms for generating these two response types. PMID:24863584

  2. Long-Term Outcomes in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy Using a Restrictive Treatment Strategy

    PubMed Central

    van Dijk, Peter R.; Hofstra, Julia M.; Wetzels, Jack F.M.

    2014-01-01

    Recently published Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines recommend limiting the use of immunosuppressive drugs in idiopathic membranous nephropathy to patients at the highest risk of kidney failure. However, recommendations are based on natural history rather than direct assessment of a restrictive treatment strategy. Here, we describe the long-term outcomes of treating a large cohort of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy according to a restrictive treatment policy. We analyzed data for 254 patients who visited our outpatient clinic between 1995 and 2009. All patients were treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers. Immunosuppressive therapy was recommended in cases of deteriorating renal function or untreatable nephrotic syndrome. Primary outcomes for the present study were renal replacement therapy and death. Secondary outcomes included adverse events during follow-up and remission of proteinuria. In total, 124 patients (49%) received immunosuppressive therapy, which predominantly consisted of cyclophosphamide combined with steroids. Ten-year cumulative incidence rates were 3% for renal replacement therapy and 10% for death. Partial remission rates were 39%, 70%, and 83% after 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively; complete remission rates were 5%, 24%, and 38% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. A serious adverse event occurred in 23% of all patients. The most notable complications were infections (17%), leukopenia (18%), cardiovascular events (13%), and malignancies (8%). In conclusion, the use of a restrictive treatment strategy in this cohort of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy yielded favorable outcomes while limiting the number of patients exposed to toxic drugs. These results support current KDIGO guidelines. PMID:24029426

  3. Idiopathic membranous nephropathy: outline and rationale of a treatment strategy.

    PubMed

    du Buf-Vereijken, Peggy W G; Branten, Amanda J W; Wetzels, Jack F M

    2005-12-01

    Idiopathic membranous nephropathy is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome. The treatment of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy is heavily debated. Based on literature data and our own experience, we propose a rational treatment strategy. Patients with renal insufficiency (serum creatinine level > 1.5 mg/dL [> 135 micromol/L]) are at greatest risk for the development of end-stage renal disease and should receive immunosuppressive therapy. In patients with normal renal function (serum creatinine level < 1.5 mg/dL [< 135 micromol/L]), risk for developing end-stage renal disease can be estimated by measuring urinary excretion of beta2-microglobulin or alpha1-microglobulin and immunoglobulin G. For low-risk patients, a wait-and-see policy is advised. High-risk patients likely benefit from immunosuppressive therapy. Currently, combinations of steroids with chlorambucil or cyclophosphamide are the best studied. We prefer cyclophosphamide in view of its fewer side effects. Cyclosporine may be an alternative option in patients with well-preserved renal function, although long-term data are lacking. Other immunosuppressive agents, such as mycophenolate mofetil or rituximab, currently are under study; however, data are insufficient to support their routine use.

  4. A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial of Rituximab versus Cyclosporine in the Treatment of Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy (MENTOR).

    PubMed

    Fervenza, Fernando C; Canetta, Pietro A; Barbour, Sean J; Lafayette, Richard A; Rovin, Brad H; Aslam, Nabeel; Hladunewich, Michelle A; Irazabal, Maria V; Sethi, Sanjeev; Gipson, Debbie S; Reich, Heather N; Brenchley, Paul; Kretzler, Matthias; Radhakrishnan, Jai; Hebert, Lee A; Gipson, Patrick E; Thomas, Leslie F; McCarthy, Ellen T; Appel, Gerald B; Jefferson, J Ashley; Eirin, Alfonso; Lieske, John C; Hogan, Marie C; Greene, Eddie L; Dillon, John J; Leung, Nelson; Sedor, John R; Rizk, Dana V; Blumenthal, Samuel S; Lasic, Lada B; Juncos, Luis A; Green, Dollie F; Simon, James; Sussman, Amy N; Philibert, David; Cattran, Daniel C

    2015-01-01

    Idiopathic membranous nephropathy remains the leading cause of nephrotic syndrome in Caucasian adults. Immunosuppressive therapy with cyclosporine (CSA) is often successful in reducing proteinuria, but its use is associated with a high relapse rate. Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets CD20 on the surface of B-cells, is effective in achieving a complete remission of proteinuria in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. However, whether rituximab is as effective as CSA in inducing and maintaining complete or partial remission of proteinuria in these patients is unknown. The membranous nephropathy trial of rituximab (MENTOR) hypothesizes that B-cell targeting with rituximab is non-inferior to CSA in inducing long-term remission of proteinuria. Patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy, proteinuria ≥5 g/24 h, and a minimum of 3 months of Angiotensin-II blockade will be randomized into a 12-month treatment period with i.v. rituximab, 1,000 mg (2 infusions, 14 days apart; repeated at 6 months if a substantial reduction in proteinuria (equal to or >25%) is seen at 6 months) or oral CSA 3.5-5 mg/kg/day for 6 months (continued for another 6 months if a substantial reduction in proteinuria (equal to or >25%) is seen at 6 months). The efficacy of treatment will be assessed by the remission status (based on changes in proteinuria) at 24 months from randomization. Patient safety will be assessed via collection of adverse event data and evaluation of pre- and posttreatment laboratory data. At the 6-month post-randomization visit, patients who have been randomized to either CSA or rituximab but who do not have a reduction in proteinuria ≥25% (confirmed on repeat measurements within 2 weeks) will be considered treatment failures and exit the study. This study will test for the first time whether treatment with rituximab is non-inferior to CSA in inducing long-term remission (complete or partial) of proteinuria in patients with idiopathic

  5. The Prevalence and Incidence of Epiretinal Membranes in Eyes With Inactive Extramacular CMV Retinitis

    PubMed Central

    Kozak, Igor; Vaidya, Vijay; Van Natta, Mark L.; Pak, Jeong W.; May, K. Patrick; Thorne, Jennifer E.

    2014-01-01

    Purpose. To determine the prevalence and incidence of epiretinal membranes (ERM) in eyes with inactive extramacular cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Methods. A case–control report from a longitudinal multicenter observational study by the Studies of the Ocular Complications of AIDS (SOCA) Research Group. A total of 357 eyes of 270 patients with inactive CMV retinitis and 1084 eyes of 552 patients with no ocular opportunistic infection (OOI) were studied. Stereoscopic views of the posterior pole from fundus photographs were assessed at baseline and year 5 visits for the presence of macular ERM. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) logistic regression was used to compare the prevalence and 5-year incidence of ERM in eyes with and without CMV retinitis at enrollment. Crude and adjusted logistic regression was performed adjusting for possible confounders. Main outcome measures included the prevalence, incidence, estimated prevalence, and incidence odds ratios. Results. The prevalence of ERM at enrollment was 14.8% (53/357) in eyes with CMV retinitis versus 1.8% (19/1084) in eyes with no OOI. The incidence of ERM at 5 years was 18.6% (16/86) in eyes with CMV retinitis versus 2.4% (6/253) in eyes with no OOI. The crude odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval, CI) for prevalence was 9.8 (5.5–17.5) (P < 0.01). The crude OR (95% CI) for incidence was 9.4 (3.2–27.9) (P < 0.01). Conclusions. A history of extramacular CMV retinitis is associated with increased prevalence and incidence of ERM formation compared to what is seen in eyes without ocular opportunistic infections in AIDS patients. PMID:24925880

  6. Changes in macular pigment optical density after membrane peeling.

    PubMed

    Romano, Mario R; Cennamo, Gilda; Grassi, Piergiacomo; Sparnelli, Federica; Allegrini, Davide; Cennamo, Giovanni

    2018-01-01

    To highlight the differences in macular pigment optical density (MPOD) between eyes with vitreoretinal interface syndrome and healthy control eyes, to assess the changes in MPOD in eyes treated with macular peeling, to investigate the relationships between MPOD changes and measures of retinal sensitivity such as best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and microperimetry. In this cross-sectional comparative study, 30 eyes affected by idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM, 15eyes) or full-thickness macular hole (FTMH, 15eyes) were compared with 60 eyes from 30 healthy age-matched patients. MPOD values (mean MPOD, maximum MPOD, MPOD area, and MPOD volume) were measured in a range of 4°-7° of eccentricity around the fovea, using the one-wavelength reflectometry method (Visucam 200, Carl-Zeiss Meditec). Patients affected by iERM and FTMH were treated with vitrectomy and epiretinal membrane-inner limiting membrane (ERM-ILM) peeling, with follow-up examinations performed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. The main outcome measures were the differences in MPOD between eyes with vitreoretinal interface syndrome and healthy eyes, changes in MPOD after ERM-ILM peeling, and relationships between MPOD and functional changes. Mean MPOD differed significantly between control eyes and those with iERM (P = .0001) or FTMH (P = .0006). The max MPOD and MPOD area increased, but not significantly. After peeling, the only significant change in MPOD was in MPOD volume (P = .01). In the ERM group, postoperative mean MPOD correlated significantly with best-corrected visual acuity (r = .739, P = .002). MPOD was reduced in patients with iERM or FTMH compared with healthy eyes. We found a significant correlation between the mean postoperative MPOD and postoperative BCVA, hypothesizing that the postoperative increase in mean MPOD could be due to a change in distribution for unfolding and expansion of the fovea after the peeling. MOPD may be considered as a prognostic factor associated

  7. Development of a micromachined epiretinal vision prosthesis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stieglitz, Thomas

    2009-12-01

    Microsystems engineering offers the tools to develop highly sophisticated miniaturized implants to interface with the nervous system. One challenging application field is the development of neural prostheses to restore vision in persons that have become blind by photoreceptor degeneration due to retinitis pigmentosa. The fundamental work that has been done in one approach is presented here. An epiretinal vision prosthesis has been developed that allows hybrid integration of electronics on one part of a thin and flexible substrate. Polyimide as a substrate material is proven to be non-cytotoxic. Non-hermetic encapsulation with parylene C was stable for at least 3 months in vivo. Chronic animal experiments proved spatially selective cortical activation after epiretinal stimulation with a 25-channel implant. Research results have been transferred successfully to companies that currently work on the medical device approval of these retinal vision prostheses in Europe and in the USA.

  8. Long-term Low-density Lipoprotein Apheresis in a Patient with Refractory Idiopathic Membranous Glomerulonephritis.

    PubMed

    Yabuuchi, Junko; Suwabe, Tatsuya; Mizuno, Hiroki; Ueno, Toshiharu; Hoshino, Junichi; Sekine, Akinari; Kawada, Masahiro; Yamanouchi, Masayuki; Hayami, Noriko; Hiramatsu, Rikako; Hasegawa, Eiko; Sawa, Naoki; Takaichi, Kenmei; Fujii, Takeshi; Ohashi, Kenichi; Ubara, Yoshifumi

    2017-01-01

    A 61-year-old Japanese man developed nephrotic syndrome (NS) due to idiopathic membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN). He received immunosuppressive therapy for two years, including prednisolone, cyclophosphamide, and cyclosporine A, but the NS persisted. Low-density lipoprotein apheresis (LDL-A) was initiated at a frequency of twice a month and continued for 9 years (203 sessions in total). His proteinuria reduced to less than 1 g daily after 9 years. LDL-A was stopped, and the NS has not relapsed for five years. This case suggests that long-term LDL-A therapy may be a treatment option for idiopathic MGN refractory to immunosuppressive therapy or short-term LDL-A.

  9. Lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension on intraoperative and postoperatively prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation provides optimally controlled reperfusion and excellent outcome.

    PubMed

    Moser, Bernhard; Jaksch, Peter; Taghavi, Shahrokh; Muraközy, Gabriella; Lang, Georg; Hager, Helmut; Krenn, Claus; Roth, Georg; Faybik, Peter; Bacher, Andreas; Aigner, Clemens; Matilla, José R; Hoetzenecker, Konrad; Hacker, Philipp; Lang, Irene; Klepetko, Walter

    2018-01-01

    Lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension has the highest reported postoperative mortality of all indications. Reasons lie in the complexity of treatment of these patients and the frequent occurrence of postoperative left ventricular failure. Transplantation on intraoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support instead of cardiopulmonary bypass and even more the prolongation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation into the postoperative period helps to overcome these problems. We reviewed our experience with this concept. All patients undergoing bilateral lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension on intraoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with or without prophylactic extracorporeal membrane oxygenation prolongation into the postoperative period between January 2000 and December 2014 were retrospectively analysed. Forty-one patients entered the study. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support was prolonged into the postoperative period for a median of 2.5 days (range 1-40). Ninety-day, 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates for the patient collective were 92.7%, 90.2%, 87.4% and 87.4%, respectively. When compared with 31 patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension transplanted in the same period of time without prolongation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation into the postoperative period, the results compared favourably (83.9%, 77.4%, 77.4%, and 77.4%; P = 0.189). Furthermore, these results are among the best results ever reported for this particularly difficult patient population. Bilateral lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension with intraoperative venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support seems to provide superior outcome compared with the results reported about the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. Prophylactic prolongation of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation into the early postoperative period provides

  10. Lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension on intraoperative and postoperatively prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation provides optimally controlled reperfusion and excellent outcome

    PubMed Central

    Moser, Bernhard; Jaksch, Peter; Taghavi, Shahrokh; Muraközy, Gabriella; Lang, Georg; Hager, Helmut; Krenn, Claus; Roth, Georg; Faybik, Peter; Bacher, Andreas; Aigner, Clemens; Matilla, José R; Hoetzenecker, Konrad; Hacker, Philipp; Lang, Irene; Klepetko, Walter

    2018-01-01

    Abstract OBJECTIVES Lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension has the highest reported postoperative mortality of all indications. Reasons lie in the complexity of treatment of these patients and the frequent occurrence of postoperative left ventricular failure. Transplantation on intraoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support instead of cardiopulmonary bypass and even more the prolongation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation into the postoperative period helps to overcome these problems. We reviewed our experience with this concept. METHODS All patients undergoing bilateral lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension on intraoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with or without prophylactic extracorporeal membrane oxygenation prolongation into the postoperative period between January 2000 and December 2014 were retrospectively analysed. RESULTS Forty-one patients entered the study. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support was prolonged into the postoperative period for a median of 2.5 days (range 1–40). Ninety-day, 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates for the patient collective were 92.7%, 90.2%, 87.4% and 87.4%, respectively. When compared with 31 patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension transplanted in the same period of time without prolongation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation into the postoperative period, the results compared favourably (83.9%, 77.4%, 77.4%, and 77.4%; P = 0.189). Furthermore, these results are among the best results ever reported for this particularly difficult patient population. CONCLUSIONS Bilateral lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension with intraoperative venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support seems to provide superior outcome compared with the results reported about the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. Prophylactic prolongation of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

  11. MEMS-based system and image processing strategy for epiretinal prosthesis.

    PubMed

    Xia, Peng; Hu, Jie; Qi, Jin; Gu, Chaochen; Peng, Yinghong

    2015-01-01

    Retinal prostheses have the potential to restore some level of visual function to the patients suffering from retinal degeneration. In this paper, an epiretinal approach with active stimulation devices is presented. The MEMS-based processing system consists of an external micro-camera, an information processor, an implanted electrical stimulator and a microelectrode array. The image processing strategy combining image clustering and enhancement techniques was proposed and evaluated by psychophysical experiments. The results indicated that the image processing strategy improved the visual performance compared with direct merging pixels to low resolution. The image processing methods assist epiretinal prosthesis for vision restoration.

  12. Combination therapy with rituximab, low-dose cyclophosphamide, and prednisone for idiopathic membranous nephropathy: a case series.

    PubMed

    Cortazar, Frank B; Leaf, David E; Owens, Charles T; Laliberte, Karen; Pendergraft, William F; Niles, John L

    2017-02-01

    Membranous nephropathy is a common cause of the nephrotic syndrome. Treatment with standard regimens fails to induce complete remission in most patients. We evaluated the efficacy of combination therapy with rituximab, low-dose, oral cyclophosphamide, and an accelerated prednisone taper (RCP) for the treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy. We analyzed 15 consecutive patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy treated with RCP at Massachusetts General Hospital. Seven patients (47%) received RCP as initial therapy, and the other eight patients (53%) received RCP for relapsing or refractory disease. All patients had at least 1 year of follow-up. The co-primary outcomes were attainment of partial and complete remission. Partial remission was defined as a urinary protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) < 3 g/g and a 50% reduction from baseline. Complete remission was defined as a UPCR < 0.3 g/g. Secondary outcomes were serious adverse events and the change in proteinuria, serum creatinine, serum albumin, cholesterol, triglycerides, and immunoglobulin G levels after 1 year of treatment. Over a median follow-up time of 37 (IQR, 34-44) months, 100% of patients achieved partial remission and 93% of patients achieved complete remission at a median time of 2 and 13 months, respectively. After 1 year of treatment, median (IQR) UPCR declined from 8.2 (6.6-11.1) to 0.3 (0.2-0.7) g/g (P < 0.001). Three serious adverse events occurred over 51 patient years. No patients died or progressed to ESKD. Treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy with RCP resulted in high rates of complete remission. Larger studies evaluating this regimen are warranted.

  13. The prevalence and incidence of epiretinal membranes in eyes with inactive extramacular CMV retinitis.

    PubMed

    Kozak, Igor; Vaidya, Vijay; Van Natta, Mark L; Pak, Jeong W; May, K Patrick; Thorne, Jennifer E

    2014-06-12

    To determine the prevalence and incidence of epiretinal membranes (ERM) in eyes with inactive extramacular cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). A case-control report from a longitudinal multicenter observational study by the Studies of the Ocular Complications of AIDS (SOCA) Research Group. A total of 357 eyes of 270 patients with inactive CMV retinitis and 1084 eyes of 552 patients with no ocular opportunistic infection (OOI) were studied. Stereoscopic views of the posterior pole from fundus photographs were assessed at baseline and year 5 visits for the presence of macular ERM. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) logistic regression was used to compare the prevalence and 5-year incidence of ERM in eyes with and without CMV retinitis at enrollment. Crude and adjusted logistic regression was performed adjusting for possible confounders. Main outcome measures included the prevalence, incidence, estimated prevalence, and incidence odds ratios. The prevalence of ERM at enrollment was 14.8% (53/357) in eyes with CMV retinitis versus 1.8% (19/1084) in eyes with no OOI. The incidence of ERM at 5 years was 18.6% (16/86) in eyes with CMV retinitis versus 2.4% (6/253) in eyes with no OOI. The crude odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval, CI) for prevalence was 9.8 (5.5-17.5) (P < 0.01). The crude OR (95% CI) for incidence was 9.4 (3.2-27.9) (P < 0.01). A history of extramacular CMV retinitis is associated with increased prevalence and incidence of ERM formation compared to what is seen in eyes without ocular opportunistic infections in AIDS patients. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

  14. Postoperative eccentric macular holes after vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peeling.

    PubMed

    Brouzas, Dimitrios; Dettoraki, Maria; Lavaris, Anastasios; Kourvetaris, Dimitrios; Nomikarios, Nikolaos; Moschos, Marilita M

    2017-06-01

    The purpose of this study was to describe the incidence, clinical characteristics, and outcome of eccentric macular holes presenting after vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for the treatment of macular pathology and discuss the pathogenesis of holes formation. A retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case-series study of five patients who developed eccentric macular holes postoperatively following vitrectomy in 198 consecutive patients who underwent ILM peeling for idiopathic macular hole and epiretinal membrane formation between 2008 and 2015. Five patients (2.5 %) developed full-thickness eccentric macular holes postoperatively. Three patients presented with a single eccentric macular hole, one patient had an eccentric hole after a failed idiopathic macular hole surgery and one patient developed four eccentric macular holes. The mean diameter of the holes was 584 μm (range 206-1317 μm) and the average time of holes formation after vitrectomy was 27.7 weeks (range 1-140 weeks). Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity ranged from "counting fingers" to 20/25. The eyes with the holes distant from the fovea had the best final visual acuity. No further intervention was attempted and no complications occurred. The mean follow-up time was 26.8 months. The postoperative macular holes after vitrectomy and ILM peeling were variable in number, size, and time of appearance but remained stable and were not associated with any complications. The pathogenesis of macular holes is most consistent with contraction of the residual ILM or secondary epimacular proliferation probably stimulated by ILM peeling.

  15. Inner retinal thinning after Brilliant Blue G-assisted internal limiting membrane peeling for vitreoretinal interface disorders.

    PubMed

    Ambiya, Vikas; Goud, Abhilash; Khodani, Mitali; Chhablani, Jay

    2017-04-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate ganglion cell layer and nerve fiber layer thickness after Brilliant Blue G (BBG)-assisted internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for vitreomacular disorders. Retrospective analysis of spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) of 42 eyes of 42 patients, who underwent pars plana vitrectomy with BBG-assisted ILM peeling, was performed. Inclusion criteria were idiopathic macular hole, idiopathic vitreomacular traction, and idiopathic epiretinal membrane. Key exclusion criteria were vitreoretinal interface abnormalities secondary to any other diseases, follow-up period of less than 3 months, and any other associated retinal pathology. Average, minimum, and sectoral ganglion cell, and inner plexiform layers (GCIPL) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) parameters were collected. Changes in these parameters from baseline to 3- and 6-month visits after surgery were analyzed. At 3 months after surgery, we found a statistically significant reduction in the average GCIPL thickness (P = 0.031) and also in the superior sectors (P < 0.05) compared to the baseline values. A similar reduction was observed in the minimum RNFL thickness (P = 0.028) as well as in the superior sectoral RNFL thickness (P < 0.05). In 14 eyes with 6 months of follow-up, a similar statistically significant thinning of the GCIPL and RNFL was observed. However, the difference between the 3-month and 6-month values was not statistically significant (P = 0.679). BBG-assisted ILM peeling for vitreomacular interface disorders leads to thinning of the inner retina including GCIPL and RNFL. These structural changes should be correlated with retinal function tests to explore the pros and cons of this surgical step.

  16. MEMS technologies for epiretinal stimulation of the retina

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mokwa, W.

    2004-09-01

    It has been shown that electrical stimulation of retinal ganglion cells yields visual sensations. Therefore, a retina implant for blind humans suffering from retinitis pigmentosa based on this concept seems to be feasible. In Germany, there are two projects funded by the government working on different approaches namely the subretinal and the epiretinal approaches. This paper describes the epiretinal approach for such a system. The extraocular part of this system records visual images. The images are transformed by a neural net into corresponding signals for stimulation of the retinal ganglion cells. These signals are transmitted to a receiver unit of an intraocular implant, the retina stimulator. Integrated circuitry of this unit decodes the signals and transfers the data to a stimulation circuitry that selects stimulation electrodes placed onto the retina and generates current pulses to the electrodes. By this, action potentials in retinal ganglion cells are evoked, causing a visual sensation. This paper concentrates on the MEMS part of this implant.

  17. Clinical features, course and prognosis of idiopathic membranous nephropathy depending on the presence of antibodies against M-type phospholipase A2 receptor.

    PubMed

    Jatem Escalante, Elías; Segarra Medrano, Alfons; Carnicer Cáceres, Clara; Martín-Gómez, M Adoración; Salcedo Allende, María Teresa; Ostos Roldan, Helena; Agraz Pamplona, Irene

    2015-01-01

    In membranous nephropathy, the presence of antibodies against M-type phospholipase A2 receptor is considered highly specific for idiopathic forms. However, no specific association to a particular clinical profile has been found for such antibodies. To assess potential differences in initial clinical profile, course and prognosis of idiopathic membranous nephropathy depending on the presence of anti-PLA2R antibodies. Eighty-five patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy were included (55 anti-PLA2R-positive and 30 anti-PLA2R-negative). Clinical, biochemical and pathological variables were recorded at the time of diagnosis. Frequency of spontaneous remission, incidence of response to first-line therapy, frequency and number of recurrences, survival of renal function free from renal replacement therapy, survival of renal function free from chronic renal insufficiency and frequency of occurrence of malignant, infectious or autoimmune diseases during follow-up were recorded. At the time of diagnosis, anti-PLA2R-negative patients were significantly older and had a higher frequency of spontaneous remission. No differences were noted in the response to first-line treatment, frequency and number of recurrences, survival of renal function free from renal replacement therapy, or survival of renal function free from chronic renal insufficiency. Anti-PLA2R-negative patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy were older and experienced spontaneous remission more often than anti-PLA2R-positive patients. No differences in terms of treatment response, recurrences, and final prognosis were observed between both groups of patients. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  18. Matrix metalloproteinases and their natural inhibitors in fibrovascular membranes of proliferative diabetic retinopathy

    PubMed Central

    Salzmann, J.; Limb, G; Khaw, P.; Gregor, Z.; Webster, L.; Chignell, A.; Charteris, D.

    2000-01-01

    AIM—To examine epiretinal membranes of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) for the presence of selective matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their natural inhibitors (TIMPs), in order to determine whether neovascularisation and fibrosis, characteristic of this complication of diabetes mellitus, are associated with specific anomalies of MMP or TIMP expression.
METHODS—The presence of selected MMPs and TIMPs was investigated in 24 fibrovascular epiretinal membranes of PDR, and the findings compared with that observed in 21 avascular epiretinal membranes of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) and five normal retinas. Specimens were examined for deposition of interstitial collagenase (MMP-1), stromelysin-1 (MMP-3), gelatinase A (MMP-2), gelatinase B (MMP-9), and three tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and TIMP-3).
RESULTS—The results showed that unlike normal retina, which constitutively expresses MMP-1 and TIMP-2, a large proportion of PDR membranes (> 62%) stained for MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and TIMP-3. There were no differences in the expression of these molecules when compared with PVR membranes. A characteristic staining for MMP-9 was observed within the perivascular matrix of PDR membranes, and there was a significant increase in TIMP-2 expression by PDR membranes (p= 0.036) when compared with PVR membranes.
CONCLUSIONS—The findings that MMPs involved in degradation of fibrovascular tissue matrix, as well as TIMP-1 and TIMP-2, are found in a large proportion of PDR membranes, and that their expression does not differ from that of PVR membranes, suggest the existence of common pathways of extracellular matrix degradation in pathological processes leading to retinal neovascularisation and fibrosis.

 PMID:11004090

  19. A proteomic approach to understanding the pathogenesis of idiopathic macular hole formation.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Pingbo; Zhu, Min; Zhao, Yuming; Qian, Jiang; Dufresne, Craig; Turner, Randi; Semba, Richard D; Solomon, Sharon D

    2017-01-01

    Idiopathic macular holes (IMH) are full-thickness defects of retinal tissue that cause severe vision loss due to disruption of the anatomic fovea. Abnormal vitreous traction is involved in the formation of macular holes. Both glial cells and hyalocytes contribute to epiretinal membrane formation in IMH. In order to gain further insight into the pathophysiology of IMH, we conducted a discovery phase investigation of the vitreous proteome in four patients with macular holes and six controls using one-dimensional gel fractionation and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analyses on an Orbitrap Elite mass spectrometer. Of a total of 5912 vitreous proteins, 32 proteins had increased and 39 proteins had decreased expression in IMH compared with controls, using a false discovery rate approach with p value < 0.001 and q value < 0.05. IMH was associated with increased expression of proteins in the complement pathway, α-2-macroglobulin, a major inducer of Müller glial cell migration, fibrinogen, and extracellular matrix proteins, and decreased expression of proteins involved in protein folding and actin filament binding. A proteomic approach revealed proteins and biological pathways that may be involved in the pathogenesis of IMH and could be targeted for future studies.

  20. Vitreoretinal Interface Characteristics in Eyes with Idiopathic Macular Holes: Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis.

    PubMed

    Seyhan Karatepe, Arzu; Menteş, Jale; Erakgün, E Tansu; Afrashi, Filiz; Nalçacı, Serhad; Akkın, Cezmi; Ateş, Yeşim

    2018-04-01

    To determine the qualitative and quantitative vitreoretinal interface characteristics with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in eyes with macular hole (MH) and investigate their relation with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and MH duration. Sixty-one eyes of 46 consecutive patients diagnosed with idiopathic MH were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 66.7±7.5 (51-79) years. Complete ophthalmologic examination and SD-OCT examination were performed in all eyes and MH stages were determined according to SD-OCT findings. Qualitative characteristics of the vitreoretinal interface were investigated, including vitreomacular traction, vitreopapillary traction, maculopapillary traction, vitreoschisis, intraretinal cyst, presence of epiretinal membrane, and the integrity of the photoreceptor inner segment-outer segment junction (IS/OS) and external limiting membrane (ELM). In addition, MH diameter, MH base diameter (MHBD), ELM defect diameter, IS/OS defect diameter, and MH height were quantitatively measured and the MH index was calculated. Out of 61 eyes, 9.8% were classified as stage 1a, 19.7% as stage 1b, 18% as stage 2, 23% as stage 3, and 29.5% as stage 4. Mean BCVA was 0.28±0.24 (1 mps-1.0) Snellen and MH duration was 10.08±18.6 (1-108) months. The most common interface characteristics associated with MH were determined as intraretinal cyst (91.8%), IS/OS defect (78.7%) and ELM defect (63.9%). Duration and stage of MH were inversely proportional to BCVA but directly proportional to the presence and diameter of IS/OS and ELM defects. BCVA was significantly lower in eyes with IS/OS and ELM defects (p<0.0001; p<0.0001 Mann-Whitney U test). We determined that the most important factors affecting BCVA in cases with idiopathic MH were MH stage, MH duration, MHBD, and the presence and diameter of IS/OS and ELM defects, which suggests that these parameters should be considered while making decisions about prognosis and treatment.

  1. LONG-TERM RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF VISUAL ACUITY AND OPTICAL COHERENCE TOPOGRAPHIC CHANGES AFTER SINGLE VERSUS DOUBLE PEELING DURING VITRECTOMY FOR MACULAR EPIRETINAL MEMBRANES.

    PubMed

    Jung, Jesse J; Hoang, Quan V; Ridley-Lane, Megan L; Sebrow, Dov B; Dhrami-Gavazi, Elona; Chang, Stanley

    2016-11-01

    To determine the long-term effect of internal limiting membrane with associated epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling versus single peeling alone in terms of best-corrected visual acuity and anatomical outcomes on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. This retrospective comparative cohort study of patients who had follow-up of >1 year and underwent surgery for ERM by a single surgeon (S.C.) from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2012 compared cases in which the internal limiting membrane was stained with brilliant blue G to facilitate double peeling (n = 42) and single peeling (n = 43) of the ERM alone for up to 3 years of follow-up. For continuous variables, an independent two-tailed t-test was performed. For binary variables, the Fisher's exact test was performed. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05. Eighty-five of 142 patients fit the inclusion criteria. At the last follow-up, the single-peeling group were more likely to have ERM remaining in the central fovea postoperatively (P = 0.0020, becoming significant by postoperative Year 1, P = 0.022) and less likely to develop inner retinal dimpling (P = 0.000, becoming significant by postoperative Month 3, P = 0.015). At 3 years, central foveal thickness had decreased in the single-peeling group by -136.9 µm and by -84.1 μm in the double-peeling group, which was not significantly different (P = 0.08). Mean best-corrected visual acuity improved in both the groups at all time points. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups at 3 years (P = 0.44; single-peeling group, 0.32 ± 0.42, Snellen 20/42; double-peeling group, 0.23 ± 0.27, Snellen 20/34). Brilliant blue G-assisted internal limiting membrane peeling for ERM results in a more thorough removal of residual ERM around the paracentral fovea. However, there is no difference in long-term best-corrected visual acuity at 3 years and a greater likelihood of inner retinal dimpling.

  2. Establishing a Surgical Procedure for Rhesus Epiretinal Scaffold Implantation with HiPSC-Derived Retinal Progenitors

    PubMed Central

    Luo, Ziming; Li, Kang; Li, Kaijing; Xian, Bikun; Liu, Ying; Yang, Sijing; Xu, Chaochao; Lu, Shoutao; Zhang, Haijun

    2018-01-01

    Background To develop an effective surgical procedure for cellular scaffold epiretinal implantation in rhesus, facilitating subsequent epiretinal stem cell transplantation. Methods Retinal progenitors were seeded onto a poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) scaffold. First, the cellular scaffolds were delivered by 18G catheter or retinal forceps into rabbit epiretinal space (n = 50). Then, the cell survival rate was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Second, three methods of scaffold fixation, including adhesion after gas-liquid exchange (n = 1), tamponade by hydrogel (n = 1), and fixation by retinal tacks (n = 4), were performed in rhesus monkeys. After one month, fundus photography and SD-OCT were performed to assess the outcomes, and histological examination was performed to evaluate proliferation. Results The cell survival rate was significantly higher in the catheter group. Follow-up examination showed that retinal tack fixation was the only method to maintain the scaffolds attached to host retina for at least 3 weeks, which is the minimal time required for cell integration. Histological staining demonstrated slight glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) accumulation in the retinal tack insertion area. Conclusions The established surgical procedure offers a new insight into research of epiretinal cell replacement therapy in rhesus eyes. The successful delivery and long-term fixation provide a prerequisite for cell migration and integration. PMID:29760741

  3. Direct cost of pars plana vitrectomy for the treatment of macular hole, epiretinal membrane and vitreomacular traction: a bottom-up approach.

    PubMed

    Nicod, Elena; Jackson, Timothy L; Grimaccia, Federico; Angelis, Aris; Costen, Marc; Haynes, Richard; Hughes, Edward; Pringle, Edward; Zambarakji, Hadi; Kanavos, Panos

    2016-11-01

    The direct cost to the National Health Service (NHS) in England of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) is unknown since a bottom-up costing exercise has not been undertaken. Healthcare resource group (HRG) costing relies on a top-down approach. We aimed to quantify the direct cost of intermediate complexity PPV. Five NHS vitreoretinal units prospectively recorded all consumables, equipment and staff salaries during PPV undertaken for vitreomacular traction, epiretinal membrane and macular hole. Out-of-surgery costs between admission and discharge were estimated using a representative accounting method. The average patient time in theatre for 57 PPVs was 72 min. The average in-surgery cost for staff was £297, consumables £619, and equipment £82 (total £997). The average out-of-surgery costs were £260, including nursing and medical staff, other consumables, eye drops and hospitalisation. The total cost was therefore £1634, including 30 % overheads. This cost estimate was an under-estimate because it did not include out-of-theatre consumables or equipment. The average reimbursed HRG tariff was £1701. The cost of undertaking PPV of intermediate complexity is likely to be higher than the reimbursed tariff, except for hospitals with high throughput, where amortisation costs benefit from economies of scale. Although this research was set in England, the methodology may provide a useful template for other countries.

  4. Microvascular changes after vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling: an optical coherence tomography angiography study.

    PubMed

    Mastropasqua, Leonardo; Borrelli, Enrico; Carpineto, Paolo; Toto, Lisa; Di Antonio, Luca; Mattei, Peter A; Mastropasqua, Rodolfo

    2017-06-19

    To evaluate superficial capillary plexus (SCP) changes occurring after internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for the treatment of idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM). A total of 15 eyes of 15 patients affected by idiopathic ERM (eight males and seven females; mean age 59.8 ± 9.6 years) were enrolled in the study. Patients were treated with pars plana vitrectomy followed by ERM and ILM peeling. Subjects were evaluated at baseline and at the week-1 and month-1 follow-up visits. At each visit, patients were evaluated with a complete ophthalmologic evaluation, which included imaging with optical coherence tomography angiography. Overall, the SCP vessel density was 43.0 ± 3.0% at baseline and was stable throughout the follow-up (40.0 ± 4.0% at week-1 and 41.0 ± 4.0% at month-1 follow-up visits; p = 0.087 and p = 0.426, respectively). Nevertheless, the SCP vessel density was reduced at week-1 visit in both the superior and inferior sectors. In these sectors, the superficial vessel density was still reduced at the month-1 follow-up visit. We observed a reduction in the SCP vessel density occurring after pars plana vitrectomy with ILM peeling. The reduction is referred to those areas where other changes (e.g., swelling of the arcuate nerve fiber layer) have been already described. In theory, superficial vessel density modifications may be due to the direct surgical trauma to the inner retina, where the superficial plexus is contained, during the ILM grasping.

  5. Prognostic Value of Risk Score and Urinary Markers in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy

    PubMed Central

    Hofstra, Julia M.; Wetzels, Jack F.M.

    2012-01-01

    Summary Background and objectives Accurate prediction of prognosis may improve management of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. This study compared the Toronto Risk Score and urinary low-molecular weight proteins. Design, setting, participants, & measurements One hundred four patients with biopsy-proven idiopathic membranous nephropathy who presented between 1995 and 2008 with a well-preserved kidney function and nephrotic range proteinuria were included. Urinary β2-microglobulin and α1-microglobulin measurements were obtained by timed standardized measurements, and the Toronto Risk Score was calculated using data obtained from medical records. The endpoint was progression, which was defined as an increase in serum creatinine>50% or >25% with a concentration>135 μmol/L. Results Forty-nine patients showed progression. The area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve was 0.78 (95% confidence interval=0.69–0.88) for the risk score versus 0.80 (0.71–0.89) and 0.79 (0.71–0.88) for urinary β2- and α1-microglobulin, respectively. Differences were not significant. Persistent proteinuria did not add accuracy to the Toronto Risk Score. Conversely, its accuracy was not reduced when data from the first 6 months of follow-up were used. Furthermore, a score based on GFR estimated with the six-variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation, calculated in the first 6 months of follow-up, gave an area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve of 0.83 (0.74–0.92), which was not statistically different from other markers. Conclusions The prognostic accuracies of the Toronto Risk Score and urinary low-molecular weight proteins were not significantly different. The risk score can be calculated within 6 months of diagnosis, and a simplified risk score using estimated GFR–Modification of Diet in Renal Disease may be sufficient. PMID:22595828

  6. Change in refraction after lens-sparing vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and epiretinal membrane.

    PubMed

    Iwase, Takeshi; Yamamoto, Kentaro; Yanagida, Kosei; Kobayashi, Misato; Ra, Eimei; Murotani, Kenta; Terasaki, Hiroko

    2016-08-01

    The aim of this study was to compare changes in refraction following lens-sparing vitrectomy between patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and epiretinal membrane (ERM) and to investigate factors associated with the change in refraction.We reviewed medical records of 49 eyes of 49 patients with RRD (53.6 ± 7.8 years, mean ± standard deviation) and 24 eyes of 24 patients with ERM (50.9 ± 15.7 years) who underwent lens-sparing vitrectomy. Spherical equivalent refractive power was evaluated before and up to 18 months after surgery. The relationship between the change in refraction and several parameters was evaluated.A significant progressive myopic shift in refractive power was observed after vitrectomy in operated RRD and ERM eyes (P < 0.001, P = 0.016, respectively), with no significant difference in fellow eyes. The refraction values observed at ≥3 and ≥12 months following vitrectomy were significantly different as compared with those observed at baseline in the RRD group (P < 0.001) and the ERM group (P < 0.05), respectively. The change in refraction between the RRD and ERM groups was significant (P = 0.030). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that only age was significantly correlated with the change in refraction in RRD (P = 0.018) and ERM (P < 0.001) groups. The change in refraction was significantly and positively correlated with age in RRD (r = -0.461, P = 0.001) and ERM (r = -0.687, P < 0.001) groups. Following lens-sparing vitrectomy, cataract surgery was performed on 30 eyes after 0.89 ± 0.26 years in the RRD group and on 10 eyes after 1.11 ± 0.14 years in the ERM group; there was a significant difference in time to cataract surgery between the groups (P = 0.007). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that there was a significant difference in the rate of cataract surgeries between the RRD and ERM groups (P = 0.022).Following lens

  7. Change in refraction after lens-sparing vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and epiretinal membrane

    PubMed Central

    Iwase, Takeshi; Yamamoto, Kentaro; Yanagida, Kosei; Kobayashi, Misato; Ra, Eimei; Murotani, Kenta; Terasaki, Hiroko

    2016-01-01

    Abstract The aim of this study was to compare changes in refraction following lens-sparing vitrectomy between patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and epiretinal membrane (ERM) and to investigate factors associated with the change in refraction. We reviewed medical records of 49 eyes of 49 patients with RRD (53.6 ± 7.8 years, mean ± standard deviation) and 24 eyes of 24 patients with ERM (50.9 ± 15.7 years) who underwent lens-sparing vitrectomy. Spherical equivalent refractive power was evaluated before and up to 18 months after surgery. The relationship between the change in refraction and several parameters was evaluated. A significant progressive myopic shift in refractive power was observed after vitrectomy in operated RRD and ERM eyes (P < 0.001, P = 0.016, respectively), with no significant difference in fellow eyes. The refraction values observed at ≥3 and ≥12 months following vitrectomy were significantly different as compared with those observed at baseline in the RRD group (P < 0.001) and the ERM group (P < 0.05), respectively. The change in refraction between the RRD and ERM groups was significant (P = 0.030). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that only age was significantly correlated with the change in refraction in RRD (P = 0.018) and ERM (P < 0.001) groups. The change in refraction was significantly and positively correlated with age in RRD (r = −0.461, P = 0.001) and ERM (r = −0.687, P < 0.001) groups. Following lens-sparing vitrectomy, cataract surgery was performed on 30 eyes after 0.89 ± 0.26 years in the RRD group and on 10 eyes after 1.11 ± 0.14 years in the ERM group; there was a significant difference in time to cataract surgery between the groups (P = 0.007). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis demonstrated that there was a significant difference in the rate of cataract surgeries between the RRD and ERM groups (P = 0

  8. [Long-term outcome of vitrectomy combined with internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic macular holes].

    PubMed

    Yamamoto, Kaori; Hori, Sadao

    2011-01-01

    To elucidate the long-term outcome of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling on visual function during vitrectomy for idiopathic macular holes using scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) microperimetry. Prospective uncontrolled study. We studied 31 eyes (29 patients) with idiopathic macular holes. All patients underwent vitrectomy with ILM peeling. The SLO microperimetry was performed preoperatively, and once a year for 3 years postoperatively to detect scotomas in and around the macular holes, and both within and in close vicinity to the areas of ILM peeling. Closure of macular holes after one surgery was confirmed in all cases except for 2 with second surgery. The visual acuity by logarithmic minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) averaged 0.71 +/- 0.36 before surgery, 0.23 +/- 0.31 one year, 0.14 +/- 0.27 two years and 0.12 +/- 0.26 three years after surgery. There was significant improvement up to 2 years after the surgery. All scotomas detected before surgery in the holes, and 77.4% of those detected around the holes decreased gradually. No scotomas were detected in or around the area of ILM peeling either before or after surgery. ILM peeling in vitrectomy for idiopathic macular holes successfully improved visual acuity and did not influence retinal sensitivity in and around the area of ILM peeling. The scotomas detected in and around the holes before surgery gradually reduced or disappeared.

  9. Visualizing Macular Structures During Membrane Peeling Surgery With an Intraoperative Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Device.

    PubMed

    Leisser, Christoph; Hackl, Christoph; Hirnschall, Nino; Luft, Nikolaus; Döller, Birgit; Draschl, Petra; Rigal, Karl; Findl, Oliver

    2016-04-01

    The aim of this study was to examine the quality of intraoperative visualization of the posterior hyaloid, epiretinal membrane (ERM), inner limiting membrane (ILM), and hyporeflective subfoveal zone with a commercially available, microscope-integrated spectral-domain OCT setup (mi-SD-OCT) (Rescan 700; Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Germany). Twenty patients prospectively scheduled for pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peeling due to an idiopathic ERM were included. Standard 23-gauge, three-port pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peeling and staining of the ERM with a trypan blue-based chromovitrectomy dye was performed in all cases. Intraoperative SD-OCT was performed before and after peeling and visualization of the posterior hyaloid, ERM, ILM, and presence of subfoveal hyporeflective zones were examined. OCT follow-ups were performed 2 days and 3 months after surgery. The study was approved by the local ethics committee of the city of Vienna. Successful intraoperative visualization of ERM by mi-SD-OCT was possible in all cases. The posterior hyaloid and ILM could not be seen in the mi-SD-OCT scans, whereas an intraoperative subfoveal hyporeflective zone presented in 35% of cases. In 12.5% an independent subfoveal hyporeflective zone presented postoperatively. Visual acuity improved in 93.8% of patients after surgery. mi-SD-OCT appears to be a valuable tool for intraoperative visualization of the ERM and offers immediate visualization of retinal anatomy during peeling. Therefore, it adds to the understanding of intraoperative traumatic changes due to the peeling procedure. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

  10. Early postoperative changes of the foveal surface in epiretinal membranes: comparison of 23-gauge macular surgery with air vs. balanced salt solution.

    PubMed

    Leitritz, Martin A; Ziemssen, Focke; Voykov, Bogomil; Dimopoulos, Spyridon; Zobor, Ditta; Bartz-Schmidt, Karl U; Gelisken, Faik

    2014-08-01

    To analyze the foveal surface using binary image analysis after spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) following 23-gauge macular surgery in epiretinal membranes (ERM) using either air tamponade (AIR) or balanced salt solution (BSS). One hundred twenty-four eyes (124 patients) with ERM that had undergone membrane peeling with installation of air or BSS were analyzed retrospectively. Ophthalmic examination was performed at baseline and 3 months. The foveal area and surface symmetry, area matched thickness, area matched contour, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). The OCT images were analyzed after binary conversion with ImageJ software. Eighty eyes (80 patients) of 124 screened patients were included (AIR group: 39 patients, BSS group: 41 patients). Median follow-up time was 14 weeks (range, 9-19 weeks). Three months after surgery, the median horizontal area decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.0001). At follow-up, the foveal surface symmetry values for the BSS group (median, 22.73 μm, range, 0-153) were significantly lower than for the AIR group (median, 23.95 μm, range, 0-160.43) (p < 0.0001). The area-matched thickness increased significantly in both groups (p < 0.001). The AIR group showed a significant increase of the area matched contour for the nasal located measurement-areas N1 (p < 0.0003), N2 (p < 0.0079), N3 (p < 0.007). The BSS group showed a significant increase of the area-matched contour for the measurement areas N1 (p < 0.019), N2 (p < 0.0014), and N4 (p < 0.022). After surgery, median BCVA for both groups increased significantly to 0.3 logMAR. The analysis of early contour changes after ERM surgery was technically possible. Long-term data have to be looked at before the clinical impact of this methodology can be estimated. Although there were no big differences between both groups (AIR vs. BSS), this could change within a longer and more representative follow-up.

  11. Membrane-bound mucins and mucin terminal glycans expression in idiopathic or Helicobacter pylori, NSAID associated peptic ulcers

    PubMed Central

    Niv, Yaron; Boltin, Doron; Halpern, Marisa; Cohen, Miriam; Levi, Zohar; Vilkin, Alex; Morgenstern, Sara; Manugian, Vahig; St Lawrence, Erica; Gagneux, Pascal; Kaur, Sukhwinder; Sharma, Poonam; Batra, Surinder K; Ho, Samuel B

    2014-01-01

    AIM: To determine the expression of membrane-bound mucins and glycan side chain sialic acids in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-associated, non-steroidal inflammatory drug (NSAID)-associated and idiopathic-gastric ulcers. METHODS: We studied a cohort of randomly selected patients with H. pylori (group 1, n = 30), NSAID (group 2, n = 18), combined H. pylori and NSAID associated gastric ulcers (group 3, n = 24), and patients with idiopathic gastric ulcers (group 4, n = 20). Immunohistochemistry for MUC1, MUC4, MUC17, and staining for Erythrina cristagalli agglutinin and Sambucus nigra agglutinin (SNA) lectins was performed on sections from the ulcer margins. RESULTS: Staining intensity of MUC17 was higher in H. pylori ulcers (group 1) than in idiopathic ulcers (group 4), 11.05 ± 3.67 vs 6.93 ± 4.00 for foveola cells, and 10.29 ± 4.67 vs 8.00 ± 3.48 for gland cells, respectively (P < 0.0001). In contrast, MUC1 expression was higher in group 4 compared group 1, 9.89 ± 4.17 vs 2.93 ± 5.13 in foveola cells and 7.63 ± 4.60 vs 2.57± 4.50 for glands, respectively (P < 0.0001). SNA lectin staining was increased in group 4, in parallel to elevated MUC1 expression, indicating more abundant α2-6 sialylation in that group. CONCLUSION: Cytoplasmic MUC17 staining was significantly decreased in the cases with idiopathic ulcer. The opposite was observed for both MUC1 and SNA lectin. This observation may reflect important pathogenic mechanisms, since different mucins with altered sialylation patterns may differ in their protection efficiency against acid and pepsin. PMID:25356051

  12. Bilateral versus single lung transplant for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Lehmann, Sven; Uhlemann, Madlen; Leontyev, Sergey; Seeburger, Joerg; Garbade, Jens; Merk, Denis R; Bittner, Hartmuth B; Mohr, Friedrich W

    2014-10-01

    It is unknown if uni- or bilateral lung transplant is best for treatment of usual idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We reviewed our single-center experience comparing both treatments. Between 2002 and 2011, one hundred thirty-eight patients at our institution underwent a lung transplant. Of these, 58 patients presented with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (56.9%) and were the focus of this study. Thirty-nine patients received a single lung transplant and 19 patients a bilateral sequential lung transplant. The mean patient age was 54 ± 10 years, and 69% were male. The intraoperative course was uneventful, save for 7 patients who needed extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Three patients had respiratory failure before the lung transplant that required mechanical ventilation and was supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Elevated pulmonary artery pressure > 40 mm Hg was identified as an independent predictor of early mortality by uni- and multivariate analysis (P = .01; OR 9.7). Using a Cox regression analysis, postoperative extracorporeal membrane oxyge-nation therapy (P = .01; OR 10.2) and the need for > 10 red blood cell concentrate during the first 72 hours after lung transplant (P = .01; OR 5.6) were independent predictors of long-term survival. Actuarial survival at 1 and 5 years was 65.6% and 55.3%, with no significant between-group differences (70.6% and 54.3%). Lung transplant is a safe and curative treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. According to our results, unilateral lung transplant for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an alternative to bilateral lung transplant and may affect the allocation process.

  13. [Clinical features and expression of PLA(2)R in renal tissue with idiopathic membranous nephropathy in children].

    PubMed

    Dong, Y F; Sun, L W; Zhang, B; Kuang, X Y; Niu, X L; Kang, Y L; Hao, S; Wang, P; Li, Z; Zhu, G H; Huang, W Y; Wu, Y

    2018-03-02

    Objective: To explore the clinical features and expression of PLA(2)R in renal tissue of children with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Methods: Retrospective study was performed in patients with membranous nephropathy diagnosed through renal biopsy and the follow-up time was at least half a year in Shanghai Children ' s Hospital from January 2010 to February 2017. We compared their clinicopathological and pathological findings of IMN. Indirect immunofluorescence assay was used to detect glomerular PLA(2)R expression. We analyzed the differences of clinical features between the PLA(2)R negative and positive groups. T test, rank-sum test and Fisher exact test were used. Results: Eleven cases had hematuria and proteinuria, 9 cases presented with nephrotic syndrome, and 2 cases showed isolated proteinuria. Of the 22 cases of children with IMN, 16 patients had complete remission (complete remission rate was 72.8%), and 22 patients had partial remission. The renal function of all cases was normal and in all cases the estimated glomerular filtration rate was > 90 ml/(min·1.73m(2)). Of 22 cases with IMN, 7 cases were PLA(2)R-positive in renal tissue and 15 cases were PLA(2)R-negative. The age of positive group (10 years old) was older than the negative group (6 years old)( Z= -2.483, P< 0.05) and the time of positive group (6 months) for urine protein to return to negative was longer than the negative group (2.5 months) through treatment. These differences were significantly different ( Z= -2.072, P< 0.05). Conclusions: Hematuria and proteinuria can be found in most children with idiopathic primary membranous nephropathy. Prednisone combined with immunosuppressant was effective. The positive rate of PLA(2)R in renal tissue of children with IMN was about 32%. The age of PLA(2)R positive group was older than the negative group. And the time of urine protein turning to negative in positive group was longer than that in the negative group.

  14. Functional and Morphological Correlations before and after Video-Documented 23-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy with Membrane and ILM Peeling in Patients with Macular Pucker.

    PubMed

    Mayer, Wolfgang J; Fazekas, Clara; Schumann, Ricarda; Wolf, Armin; Compera, Denise; Kampik, Anselm; Haritoglou, Christos

    2015-01-01

    Purpose. To assess functional and morphological alterations following video-documented surgery for epiretinal membranes. Methods. Forty-two patients underwent video-documented 23-gauge vitrectomy with peeling of epiretinal (ERM) and inner limiting membrane (ILM). Patient assessment was performed before and 3 and 6 months including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), slit lamp biomicroscopy, SD-OCT, and central 2° and 18° microperimetry. In addition, all video-documented areas of peeling on the retinal surface were evaluated postoperatively using an additional focal 2° microperimetry. Retinal sensitivity and BCVA were correlated with morphological changes (EZ and ELM) in the foveal region and in regions of membrane peeling. Results. Overall, BCVA increased from 0.6 (±0.2) to 0.2 (±0.2) logMAR after 6 months with an increase in retinal sensitivity (17.9 ± 2.7 dB to 26.8 ± 3.1 dB, p < 0.01). We observed a significant correlation between the integrity of the EZ but not of the ELM and the retinal sensitivity, overall and in peeling areas (p < 0.05). However, no significant correlation between alterations in the area of peeling and overall retinal sensitivity regarding visual acuity gain could be observed after 6 months (p > 0.05). In contrast, overall postoperative retinal sensitivity was significantly decreased in patients with a visual acuity gain lower than 2 lines (p < 0.05) correlating with EZ defects seen in OCT. Conclusions. Mechanical trauma of epiretinal membrane and ILM peeling due to the use of intraocular forceps may affect the outer retinal structure. Nevertheless, these changes seem to have no significant impact on postoperative functional outcome.

  15. Visual Outcomes of Pars Plana Vitrectomy with Epiretinal Membrane Peeling in Patients with Asteroid Hyalosis: A Matched Cohort Study.

    PubMed

    Mouna, Ali; Berrod, Jean-Paul; Conart, Jean-Baptiste

    2017-01-01

    The study aimed to evaluate outcomes of epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling in patients with asteroid hyalosis (AH) and to compare them with those from controls without AH. This is a retrospective matched cohort study of 1,104 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for ERM between January 2004 and February 2014. Patients with AH were included in the study group and were matched for preoperative visual acuity, age, gender, date of surgery, and axial length with control patients without AH selected from the same cohort. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) on optical coherence tomography were measured at baseline and postoperatively with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. A total of 44 patients were included in the AH group and 44 in the control group. The mean initial BCVA was 0.53 ± 0.21 LogMAR for the AH group vs. 0.49 ± 0.20 LogMAR for the control group, and the mean initial CMT was 419 ± 74 vs. 423 ± 75 µm, respectively. During the follow-up, no significant difference was found regarding the final BCVA at 6 months (0.23 ± 0.14 vs. 0.24 ± 0.17) LogMAR (p = 0.87) and 12 months (0.16 ± 0.09 vs. 0.17 ± 0.12) LogMAR (p = 0.92), despite a tendency toward slower visual recovery for the AH group at 1 month, with a mean BCVA of 0.36 ± 0.12 vs. 0.28 ± 0.18 LogMAR (p = 0.08). No difference was found regarding the progression of CMT at 1.6 and 12 months with a mean CMT of 396 ± 47 vs. 378 ± 55 µm (p = 0.39), 356 ± 39 vs. 365 ± 41 µm (p = 0.48), and 349 ± 68 vs. 352 ± 53 µm (p = 0.87), respectively. Vitrectomy with ERM peeling in patients with AH was beneficial and showed similar functional and anatomical outcomes in both groups. AH does not seem to affect visual improvement or the complication rate after ERM peeling. Therefore, the indications for vitrectomy in case of ERM should not be prompted by the presence of AH. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  16. Critical evaluation of round window membrane sealing in the treatment of idiopathic sudden unilateral hearing loss.

    PubMed

    Hoch, Stephan; Vomhof, Thomas; Teymoortash, Afshin

    2015-03-01

    Rupture of the round window membrane with consecutive development of a perilymphatic fistula (PLF) is still a matter of controversial debate in the pathogenesis of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL). Until now no consensus exists about whether these patients benefit from performing an exploratory tympanotomy with sealing of the round window. The aim of the present study was to analyze critically the effectiveness of sealing the round window membrane in patients with SSHL. The clinical data of 51 patients with SSHL and a mean hearing decline of at least 60 dB over 5 frequencies who were treated with tympanotomy and sealing of the round window membrane were retrospectively analyzed. The results have been compared to the current state of the literature. Intraoperatively a round window membrane rupture or fluid leak was observed in none of the patients. After performing tympanotomy the mean improvement of hearing level was 32.7 dB. Twenty of 51 examined patients (39.2%) showed a mean improvement of the hearing level of more than 30 dB and a complete remission could be detected in 12 patients (23.5%). Reviewing the literature revealed no standard guidelines for definition or treatment of SSHL as well as for evaluation of hearing loss and its recovery. The results of the present study and the literature should be discussed critically. It is unclear whether tympanotomy and sealing of the round window membrane may be a meaningful treatment for SSHL. Therefore this procedure should be discussed as a therapeutic option only in selected patients with sudden deafness or profound hearing loss in which PLF is strongly suspicious or conservative treatment failed.

  17. Vascular Displacement in Idiopathic Macular Hole after Single-layered Inverted Internal Limiting Membrane Flap Surgery.

    PubMed

    Lee, Jae Jung; Lee, In Ho; Park, Keun Heung; Pak, Kang Yeun; Park, Sung Who; Byon, Ik Soo; Lee, Ji Eun

    2017-08-01

    To compare vascular displacement in the macula after surgical closure of idiopathic macular hole (MH) after single-layered inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique and conventional ILM removal. This retrospective study included patients who underwent either vitrectomy and ILM removal only or vitrectomy with single-layered inverted ILM flap for idiopathic MH larger than 400 μm from 2012 to 2015. A customized program compared the positions of the retinal vessels in the macula between preoperative and postoperative photographs. En face images of 6 × 6 mm optical coherence tomography volume scans were registered to calculate the scale. Retinal vessel displacement was measured as a vector value by comparing its location in 16 sectors of a grid partitioned into eight sectors in two rings (inner, 2 to 4 mm; outer, 4 to 6 mm). The distance and angle of displacement were calculated as an average vector and were compared between the two groups for whole sectors, inner ring, outer ring, and for each sector. Twenty patients were included in the ILM flap group and 22 in the ILM removal group. There were no statistical differences between the groups for baseline characteristics. The average displacement in the ILM flap group and the ILM removal group was 56.6 μm at -3.4° and 64.9 μm at -2.7°, respectively, for the whole sectors (p = 0.900), 76.1 μm at -1.1° and 87.3 μm at -0.9° for the inner ring (p = 0.980), and 37.4 μm at -8.2° and 42.7 μm at -6.3° for the outer ring (p = 0.314). There was no statistical difference in the displacement of each of the sectors. Postoperative topographic changes showed no significant differences between the ILM flap and the ILM removal group for idiopathic MH. The single-layered ILM flap technique did not appear to cause additional displacement of the retinal vessels in the macula. © 2017 The Korean Ophthalmological Society

  18. LAMELLAR HOLE-ASSOCIATED EPIRETINAL PROLIFERATION IN LAMELLAR MACULAR HOLE AND FULL-THICKNESS MACULAR HOLE IN HIGH MYOPIA.

    PubMed

    Lai, Tso-Ting; Yang, Chung-May

    2017-05-18

    To report findings and surgical outcomes of lamellar macular hole (LMH) or full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) accompanied by lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP) in eyes with high myopia (HM). Consecutive cases of HM with LMH or FTMH containing LHEP were retrospectively reviewed (study group, 43 cases). Cases of HM without LHEP (22) and those of non-HM with LHEP (30) served as Control A and B. The study group showed larger (928.7 ± 381.9 μm) and deeper (remained base thickness: 79.7 ± 23.7 μm) LMH retinal defect than that in Control A (466.2 ± 179.1 and 99.9 ± 24.9) and B (647.1 ± 346.7 and 99.1 ± 38.1). Lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation in the study group had a higher rate of wide extension (42.3%) and growing along the posterior hyaloid (PH, 53.8%). Patients with LMH who underwent surgery in the study group and Control A showed limited best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement (0-1 and 1-2 ETDRS lines, respectively), while Control B had significant improvement (4-5 lines). For full-thickness macular holes, the study group was the youngest (50.0 ± 11.4) and LHEP was more likely to grow on the posterior hyaloid (23.5%); the postoperative best corrected visual acuity, however, was similar to that in Control A (20/63-20/80). Lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation in HM tended to be more widespread and adherent to the posterior hyaloid than in eyes without HM. Visual outcomes after LMH repair in eyes with LHEP and HM are less favorable than eyes with LHEP and without HM, but similar to eyes with HM and without LHEP.

  19. Long-term stimulation by active epiretinal implants in normal and RCD1 dogs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Güven, Dilek; Weiland, James D.; Fujii, Gildo; Mech, Brian V.; Mahadevappa, Manjunatha; Greenberg, Robert; Roizenblatt, Roberto; Qiu, Guanting; La Bree, Laurie; Wang, Xiaopeng; Hinton, David; Humayun, Mark S.

    2005-03-01

    An epiretinal prosthesis, consisting of an extraocular microelectronic stimulator and an intraocular electrode array, was implanted in one eye of three blind and three sighted dogs. Three dogs (2 blind, 1 normal) were stimulated for 120 days, and two dogs (both normal) for 60 and 103 days respectively for 8-10 h/day at levels of 0.1 mC cm-2 and 0.05 mC cm-2, with each stimulus level presented to half of the array. One blind dog was kept as an inactive implant control. During the study period, electroretinograms (ERG) and fundus photographs were recorded. At the end of the study period, the dogs were sacrificed and histological and morphometric evaluation was made of the retina. No inflammatory reaction, neovascularization or hemorrhage was observed during the follow-up examinations. ERGs were unchanged. Stimulus levels used were of sufficient amplitude to elicit cortical evoked potentials. Histological evaluation showed no inflammatory infiltrates or changes in retina morphometry related to electrical stimulation when compared to the unstimulated control eye. Morphometric analysis revealed no consistent differences relating to electrical stimulation. In summary, chronic electrical stimulation of the dog retina at up to 0.1 mC cm-2 with an epiretinal prosthesis does not appear to adversely affect the retina. This study is supported by The Fletcher Jones Foundation, National Eye Institute Grants 1R24EY12893 and EY03040, the Whitaker Foundation and Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.

  20. [Treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Is the anti-CD20 antibody rituximab a reasonable option?].

    PubMed

    Busch, Martin; Gerth, Jens; Ott, Undine; Schip, Andre; Haufe, Christoph C; Gröne, Hermann-Josef; Wolf, Gunter

    2008-07-15

    Membranous nephropathy (MN) is characterized by proteinuria and other symptoms of the nephrotic syndrome. In many cases, the etiology is unknown. Whether and how to treat MN is still a controversial question. Despite the use of corticosteroids and alkylating agents, up to 40% of patients still progress to end-stage renal failure. A 40-year-old male patient with biopsy-proven idiopathic MN was initially treated with prednisolone and chlorambucil because of a proteinuria of 22 g/d. Treatment with cyclosporine was started because the nephrotic syndrome failed to improve. Proteinuria was reduced to a minimum of 4 g/d. Cyclosporine was stopped after 17 months leading to a fast relapse. Therapy with an ACE inhibitor and AT(1) receptor antagonist and retreatment with cyclosporine improved proteinuria. Cyclosporine was terminated after a total of 24 months. 5 months later, relapse occurred with a high proteinuria of 34 g/d. The monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody rituximab (375 mg/m(2)) was given four times every 4 weeks. 4 weeks and 4 months after the end of treatment, proteinuria decreased to 780 mg/d and <150 mg/d, but renal function remained impaired (creatinine clearance 65 ml/min, stage 2 according to K/DOQI). Now, remission of proteinuria (<150 mg/d) has been stable for almost 2 years. However, renal insufficiency progressed further (creatinine clearance 45 ml/min, stage 3 according to K/DOQI). Rituximab offers the possibility for a targeted treatment of idiopathic MN. Based on the existing evidence and experience from this case, rituximab can be recommended as a new treatment option for MN, possibly before starting any treatment with cytotoxic agents and high-dose prednisolone carrying the risk of severe side effects. However, long-term results of this treatment are still lacking.

  1. Idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia: two topographic facial pain syndromes.

    PubMed

    Pareja, Juan A; Cuadrado, María L; Porta-Etessam, Jesús; Fernández-de-las-Peñas, César; Gili, Pablo; Caminero, Ana B; Cebrián, José L

    2010-09-01

    To describe 2 topographic facial pain conditions with the pain clearly localized in the eye (idiopathic ophthalmodynia) or in the nose (idiopathic rhinalgia), and to propose their distinction from persistent idiopathic facial pain. Persistent idiopathic facial pain, burning mouth syndrome, atypical odontalgia, and facial arthromyalgia are idiopathic facial pain syndromes that have been separated according to topographical criteria. Still, some other facial pain syndromes might have been veiled under the broad term of persistent idiopathic facial pain. Through a 10-year period we have studied all patients referred to our neurological clinic because of facial pain of unknown etiology that might deviate from all well-characterized facial pain syndromes. In a group of patients we have identified 2 consistent clinical pictures with pain precisely located either in the eye (n=11) or in the nose (n=7). Clinical features resembled those of other localized idiopathic facial syndromes, the key differences relying on the topographic distribution of the pain. Both idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia seem specific pain syndromes with a distinctive location, and may deserve a nosologic status just as other focal pain syndromes of the face. Whether all such focal syndromes are topographic variants of persistent idiopathic facial pain or independent disorders remains a controversial issue.

  2. Clinical outcomes of double staining and additional ILM peeling during ERM surgery.

    PubMed

    Oh, Ha Na; Lee, Joo Eun; Kim, Hyun Woong; Yun, Il Han

    2013-08-01

    To assess the clinical outcomes in idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) patients after vitrectomy and ERM removal with or without additional indocyanine green (ICG)-assisted internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. The medical records of 43 patients with an idiopathic ERM that underwent vitrectomy and ERM removal between July 2007 and April 2010 were reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: triamcinolone-assisted simple ERM peeling only (group A, n = 23) and triamcinolone-assisted ERM peeling followed by ICG staining and peeling of the remaining internal ILM (group B, n = 20). No difference was found between the two groups in terms of visual acuity, macular thickness, P1 amplitude or implicit time on multifocal-electroretinogram (mfERG) at six and 12 months postoperatively. In group B, ICG staining after ERM peeling demonstrated that the ILM had been removed together with the ERM in 12 eyes (60%), and all 12 eyes showed punctate retinal hemorrhages during ERM peeling. There was no recurrence of an ERM in either group. Additional procedures involving ICG staining and ILM peeling during ERM surgery do not appear to have an additive effect on the clinical outcomes in terms of visual acuity, retinal function based on mfERG, or recurrence rate.

  3. COMPARISON OF RETINAL PATHOLOGY VISUALIZATION IN MULTISPECTRAL SCANNING LASER IMAGING.

    PubMed

    Meshi, Amit; Lin, Tiezhu; Dans, Kunny; Chen, Kevin C; Amador, Manuel; Hasenstab, Kyle; Muftuoglu, Ilkay Kilic; Nudleman, Eric; Chao, Daniel; Bartsch, Dirk-Uwe; Freeman, William R

    2018-03-16

    To compare retinal pathology visualization in multispectral scanning laser ophthalmoscope imaging between the Spectralis and Optos devices. This retrospective cross-sectional study included 42 eyes from 30 patients with age-related macular degeneration (19 eyes), diabetic retinopathy (10 eyes), and epiretinal membrane (13 eyes). All patients underwent retinal imaging with a color fundus camera (broad-spectrum white light), the Spectralis HRA-2 system (3-color monochromatic lasers), and the Optos P200 system (2-color monochromatic lasers). The Optos image was cropped to a similar size as the Spectralis image. Seven masked graders marked retinal pathologies in each image within a 5 × 5 grid that included the macula. The average area with detected retinal pathology in all eyes was larger in the Spectralis images compared with Optos images (32.4% larger, P < 0.0001), mainly because of better visualization of epiretinal membrane and retinal hemorrhage. The average detection rate of age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy pathologies was similar across the three modalities, whereas epiretinal membrane detection rate was significantly higher in the Spectralis images. Spectralis tricolor multispectral scanning laser ophthalmoscope imaging had higher rate of pathology detection primarily because of better epiretinal membrane and retinal hemorrhage visualization compared with Optos bicolor multispectral scanning laser ophthalmoscope imaging.

  4. Idiopathic anaphylaxis.

    PubMed

    Fenny, Nana; Grammer, Leslie C

    2015-05-01

    Idiopathic anaphylaxis is a diagnosis of exclusion after other causes have been thoroughly evaluated and excluded. The pathogenesis of idiopathic anaphylaxis remains uncertain, although increased numbers of activated lymphocytes and circulating histamine-releasing factors have been implicated. Signs and symptoms of patients diagnosed with idiopathic anaphylaxis are indistinguishable from the manifestations of other forms of anaphylaxis. Treatment regimens are implemented based on the frequency and severity of patient symptoms and generally include the use of epinephrine autoinjectors, antihistamines, and steroids. The prognosis of idiopathic anaphylaxis is generally favorable with well-established treatment regimens and effective patient education. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Unusual Presentation of Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

    PubMed Central

    Madhusudhanan, M.; Yusuff, Ali M.

    2008-01-01

    A snakebite victim presented with normal clotting profile and a low platelet count. A routine CBC in his past records (February 2004) showed a platelet count of 20,000/microlitre, but the patient was not symptomatic. We report a case of chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, incidentally found in a patient presenting with snakebite. The patient also has acquired primary testicular failure. After the diagnosis the patient was on regular follow up. He caused trauma to the right external auditory canal and perforated his tympanic membrane. His left tympanic membrane was also scarred and retracted. Establishing a diagnosis of an ITP early is important so that the patient can take precaution to avoid undue trauma and monitor proper follow up. PMID:22567212

  6. Additive Effect of Oral Steroid with Topical Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug for Preventing Cystoid Macular Edema after Cataract Surgery in Patients with Epiretinal Membrane

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Seonghwan; Wee, Won Ryang

    2017-01-01

    Purpose To investigate the additive effect of oral steroid with topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) on cystoid macular edema (CME) in patients with epiretinal membrane (ERM) after cataract surgery. Methods Medical records of subjects who underwent uneventful cataract surgery (n = 1,349) were retrospectively reviewed; among these patients, those with pre-existing ERM (n = 81) were included. Patients were divided into two groups: one group had postoperative administration of oral steroid for 1 week (n = 45) and the other group did not have oral steroid administration (n = 36). Changes in macular thickness and incidence of CME were compared in both groups. Topical NSAIDs were administered in both groups for 1 month postoperatively. Definite CME and probable CME were defined by changes in retinal contour with or without cystoid changes. Change in central macular thickness of more than three standard deviations (≥90.17 µm) was defined as possible CME. Macular thickness was measured at 1 month after the operation by optical coherence tomography. Results The incidence of definite, probable, and possible CME were 2.22%, 4.44%, and 8.89% with the use of steroid and 2.78%, 5.56%, and 8.33% without steroid, respectively (p = 0.694, p = 0.603, and p = 0.625), and regardless of treatment group, the incidences in these patients were higher compared to incidences in whole subjects (1.26%, 2.30%, and 4.32%; p = 0.048, p = 0.032, and p = 0.038, respectively). The differences in macular thickness were not statistically different between the two groups. Average changes of central foveal thickness in 3 mm and 6 mm zone were 29.29 µm, 35.93 µm, and 38.02 µm with the use of steroid and 32.25 µm, 44.08 µm, and 45.39 µm without steroid (p = 0.747, p = 0.148, and p = 0.077, respectively). Conclusions This study suggests that administration of oral steroid may not have a synergistic effect in reduction of CME and retinal thickness in patients with pre-existing ERM

  7. Annexin A2 in Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-10-01

    cells , leading to formation of an epiretinal membrane, retinal detachment, and loss of vision. At present, there are no reliable means of...type versus annexin A2- deficient mice, [2] define the role of A2 in the function of activated macrophages and RPE cells in PVR, and [3] examine the...expression is needed in both macrophages and RPE cells , and that A2 is extensively expressed within cells of epiretinal membranes in human PVR. Our

  8. Treatment of renal failure in idiopathic membranous nephropathy with azathioprine and prednisolone.

    PubMed

    Brown, J H; Douglas, A F; Murphy, B G; Hill, C M; McNamee, P T; Nelson, W E; Doherty, C C

    1998-02-01

    Progressive deterioration in renal function occurs in 20-50% of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). Several treatment regimens have been used to reverse this with varying effect and toxicity. Thirteen patients (10 males, 3 females, median age 56 years) with IMN and progressive renal failure were treated with oral prednisolone 20-60 mg/day and azathioprine 1.3-2.7 mg/kgBW/day. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 2 years with a median follow-up of 73 months (range 24-103 months). Ten patients responded to treatment with a fall in serum creatinine and renal function stabilized in the remainder. Two patients relapsed, one of whom responded to an increase in immunosuppression, the other is now on dialysis. Proteinuria has significantly reduced in 10 patients, and only four patients still have nephrotic-range proteinuria. Mean (+/- SE) peak pretreatment serum creatinine of 229 (+/- 161) mumol/l and urinary protein of 11.8 (+/- 1.8) g/24 have fallen to 163 (+/- 65) mumol/l and 3.25 (+/- 1.0) g/24 h after 12 months treatment (P < 0.005, Wilcoxon matched pairs test). Immunosuppressive treatment has been successfully withdrawn in four patients after intervals ranging from 12 to 60 months. Adverse effects, which occurred in 10 patients, have been mild and have not led to treatment withdrawal though dose reductions have been necessary in some patients. Oral prednisolone and low-dose azathioprine is an effective therapy for progressing renal failure due to IMN, and induces remission of nephrotic syndrome. Side-effects are less than other immunosuppressive regimens.

  9. Idiopathic Ophthalmodynia and Idiopathic Rhinalgia: A Prospective Series of 16 New Cases.

    PubMed

    Pareja, Juan A; Montojo, Teresa; Guerrero, Ángel L; Álvarez, Mónica; Porta-Etessam, Jesús; Cuadrado, María L

    2015-01-01

    Idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia were described a few years ago. These conditions seem specific pain syndromes with a distinctive location in the eye or in the nose. We aimed to present a new prospective series in order to verify the consistency of these syndromes. We performed a descriptive study of all patients referred to our regional neurologic clinics from 2010 to 2014 because of facial pain exclusively felt in the eye or in the nose fulfilling the proposed diagnostic criteria for idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia. There were 9 patients with idiopathic ophthalmodynia and 7 patients with idiopathic rhinalgia, with a clear female preponderance, and a mean age at onset in the fifth decade. The pain was usually moderate and the temporal pattern was generally chronic. Only one patient reported accompaniments (hypersensitivity to the light and to the flow of air in the symptomatic eye). Preventive treatment with amitriptyline, pregabalin, or gabapentin was partially or totally effective. The clinical features of this new series parallels those of the original description, thus indicating that both idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia have clear-cut clinical pictures with excellent consistency both inter- and intra-individually. © 2015 American Headache Society.

  10. Fibrous membranes in diabetic retinopathy and bevacizumab.

    PubMed

    Pattwell, David M; Stappler, Theodor; Sheridan, Carl; Heimann, Heinrich; Gibran, Syed K; Wong, David; Hiscott, Paul

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the histopathologic characteristics of bevacizumab-treated human proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) membranes with particular regard to membrane vasculature as a step toward addressing the effects of the drug on PDR membranes. Intravitreous injection of bevacizumab, an antivascular endothelial growth factor monoclonal antibody, has recently been advocated as an adjunct in surgery for PDR. In this context, a clinically observed decrease in PDR epiretinal membrane vascularity (vascular regression) occurs from 24 hours to 48 hours after injection, but the exact mechanisms of drug action are unknown. A consecutive series of seven PDR membrane specimens that had been removed sequentially from seven bevacizumab-treated patients were studied retrospectively. The membrane specimens were examined using light microscopic methods, including immunohistochemistry. Five of the seven membranes were clinically avascular (one contained "ghost" vessels) and did not hemorrhage during excision. Of these 5 specimens, which included 1 removed 7 days after a total of 6 intravitreous injections of 1.25 mg bevacizumab, 4 contained histologically detectable capillaries (1 did not). These blood vessels were lined by endothelial cells as determined by immunohistochemistry for the endothelial markers CD31 and CD34. The two remaining membranes were clinically and histologically still vascularized despite bevacizumab treatment. All the specimens also contained smooth muscle actin-containing fibroblastic cells within the collagenous stroma. The findings do not support the concept that the clinical phenomenon of vascular regression in PDR membranes after bevacizumab injection in the vitreous is resulting from obliteration of the membrane blood vessels. Another mechanism appears to be involved in at least some patients, possibly a vasoconstrictive response. Such a mechanism might explain reversal of the effects of bevacizumab that has been reported

  11. [Membranous glomerulonephritis. Experience at the Instituto Nacional de la Nutrición Salvador Zubirán].

    PubMed

    Correa-Rotter, R; Gamba, G; Ochoa, C; Onuma, L; Reyes, E; Tamayo, J A; Peña, J C

    1990-01-01

    The purpose of this retrospective study was to study the incidence of idiopathic and secondary forms of membranous nephropathy in our institution, its clinical course and progression to chronic renal failure, and the risk factors associated with it. Two hundred fourteen (16%) of the 1,287 renal biopsies obtained between 1962 and 1988 were primary glomerular diseases and 28 of this 214 (13%) were idiopathic membranous nephropathy. On the other hand 59 of 1,287 biopsies were membranous nephropathy of whom 28 were idiopathic, 27 secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus, 2 due to drugs, one associated with rheumatoid arthritis, and one more with breast cancer. The clinical picture was: nephrotic syndrome in 84%, hypertension in 15%, non-nephrotic proteinuria in 14%, chronic renal failure in 8.4%, and renal vein thrombosis in 6.3%. In the idiopathic group 75% of the patients were male while in the lupus group 85% were female. For the analysis of progression to chronic renal failure we excluded 5 patients with renal failure when the biopsy was taken, 2 because the nephropathy was due to drugs, one associated with breast cancer, and nine were within the first year of follow-up. Thus, for this analysis the group consisted of 22 patients with idiopathic form and 20 with systemic lupus erythematosus. The idiopathic and lupus groups were similar except for a lower serum albumin in the former. The progression to renal failure was seen in 9 patients: six in the idiopathic group and the other 3 in the lupus group; this difference was not significant.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

  12. Vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling versus no peeling for idiopathic full-thickness macular hole.

    PubMed

    Spiteri Cornish, Kurt; Lois, Noemi; Scott, Neil W; Burr, Jennifer; Cook, Jonathan; Boachie, Charles; Tadayoni, Ramin; la Cour, Morten; Christensen, Ulrik; Kwok, Alvin K H

    2014-03-01

    To determine whether internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling improves anatomic and functional outcomes of full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) surgery when compared with the no-peeling technique. Systematic review and individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis undertaken under the auspices of the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Patients with idiopathic stage 2, 3, and 4 FTMH undergoing vitrectomy with or without ILM peeling. Macular hole surgery, including vitrectomy and gas endotamponade with or without ILM peeling. Primary outcome was best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCdVA) at 6 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were BCdVA at 3 and 12 months; best-corrected near visual acuity (BCnVA) at 3, 6, and 12 months; primary (after a single surgery) and final (after >1 surgery) macular hole closure; need for additional surgical interventions; intraoperative and postoperative complications; patient-reported outcomes (PROs) (EuroQol-5D and Vision Function Questionnaire-25 scores at 6 months); and cost-effectiveness. Four RCTs were identified and included in the review. All RCTs were included in the meta-analysis; IPD were obtained from 3 of the 4 RCTs. No evidence of a difference in BCdVA at 6 months was detected (mean difference, -0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.12 to 0.03; P=0.27); however, there was evidence of a difference in BCdVA at 3 months favoring ILM peeling (mean difference, -0.09; 95% CI, -0.17 to-0.02; P=0.02). There was evidence of an effect favoring ILM peeling with regard to primary (odds ratio [OR], 9.27; 95% CI, 4.98-17.24; P<0.00001) and final macular hole closure (OR, 3.99; 95% CI, 1.63-9.75; P=0.02) and less requirement for additional surgery (OR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.05-0.23; P<0.00001), with no evidence of a difference between groups with regard to intraoperative or postoperative complications or PROs. The ILM peeling was found to be highly cost-effective. Available evidence

  13. Surgical outcomes of lamellar macular holes with and without lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation.

    PubMed

    Ko, Jaesang; Kim, Gyu Ah; Lee, Sung Chul; Lee, Jihwan; Koh, Hyoung Jun; Kim, Sung Soo; Byeon, Suk Ho; Lee, Christopher Seungkyu

    2017-05-01

    To report the clinical findings and surgical outcomes of lamellar macular holes (LMHs) with and without lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP). A retrospective review was performed of 73 eyes of 73 patients who underwent vitrectomy for LMH. Patients were grouped according to the presence of LHEP on preoperative spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and OCT features were compared between LMH patients with and without LHEP. Lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP) was found in 15 of 73 eyes with LMHs (20.5%). The mean age was 65.0 years. The mean follow-up duration was 21.5 months. Preoperatively, eyes with LHEP were characterized by a greater hole diameter (p = 0.007), thinner fovea (p = 0.002) and greater incidence of outer retinal disruption (p < 0.001). Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) significantly improved after surgery in eyes without LHEP (p < 0.001), but showed no change in eyes with LHEP (p = 0.185). Initial BCVA was not different between the two groups; however, final BCVA was better in eyes without LHEP (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA, 0.10 ± 0.10 versus 0.33 ± 0.40, p = 0.003). OCT evaluations of postoperative foveal configurations showed no difference between the two groups (p = 0.171). No case developed a full-thickness macular hole after surgery. There was no visual benefit after surgery in LMH patients with LHEP. Different surgical indications for LMHs may be warranted based on the presence of LHEP-associated pathology. © 2016 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  14. INDUCTION OF MACULAR DETACHMENT FOR THE TREATMENT OF PERSISTENT OR RECURRENT IDIOPATHIC MACULAR HOLES.

    PubMed

    Szigiato, Andrei-Alexandru; Gilani, Fatimah; Walsh, Mark K; Mandelcorn, Efrem D; Muni, Rajeev H

    2016-09-01

    To analyze the efficacy of induced macular detachment for the treatment of persistent or recurrent idiopathic macular holes after treatment with one or more standard pars plana vitrectomies (PPVs) with internal limiting membrane peeling. This study is a retrospective consecutive case series of 10 patients who underwent a PPV with subretinal balanced salt solution injection from 2011 to 2014 to treat persistent or recurrent idiopathic macular holes. All patients had previously undergone PPV with internal limiting membrane peeling. Visual acuity, ocular examination findings, and optical coherence tomographic images were reviewed preoperatively and postoperatively to assess the anatomical and visual outcomes of this procedure. Nine of the 10 patients who underwent the procedure had closure of their macular holes postoperatively (90%) and remained closed 6 months postoperatively. Most patients reported a subjective visual improvement. A mean objective visual improvement of 16 letters (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study, 0.324 logMAR) was seen between preoperative and 6-month postoperative assessments of all patients (pre = 1.490, post = 1.166; P = 0.022). Subgroup analysis of patients with successful closure revealed 20 letters of improvement (0.398 logMAR) in visual acuity (pre = 1.491, post = 1.093; P = 0.004). There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. In eyes with persistent or recurrent idiopathic macular holes after standard PPV with internal limiting membrane peeling, repeat PPV with subretinal balanced salt solution injection to create a macular detachment may be a viable surgical treatment option. Our results show improved anatomical and visual outcomes postoperatively that compare favorably to other case series describing various surgical treatments for these challenging cases.

  15. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

    MedlinePlus

    ... Is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis the same as Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis? Yes, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a new ... of chronic inflammatory diseases that affect children. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) is the older term that was used ...

  16. Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (Pseudotumor Cerebri)

    MedlinePlus

    ... Asked Questions Español Condiciones Chinese Conditions Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (Pseudotumor Cerebri) En Español Read in Chinese What is idiopathic intracranial hypertension? Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disorder that ...

  17. Treatment of idiopathic FSGS with adrenocorticotropic hormone gel.

    PubMed

    Hogan, Jonathan; Bomback, Andrew S; Mehta, Kshama; Canetta, Pietro A; Rao, Maya K; Appel, Gerald B; Radhakrishnan, Jai; Lafayette, Richard A

    2013-12-01

    Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) has shown efficacy as primary and secondary therapy for nephrotic syndrome due to membranous nephropathy. The data on using ACTH to treat idiopathic FSGS are limited. This report describes our experience using ACTH for nephrotic syndrome due to idiopathic FSGS in the United States. Twenty-four patients with nephrotic syndrome from idiopathic FSGS were treated with ACTH gel at two academic medical centers between 2009 and 2012, either as part of investigator-initiated pilot studies (n=16) or by prescription for treatment-resistant FSGS (n=8). The primary outcome was remission of proteinuria. The median dose of ACTH was 80 units injected subcutaneously twice weekly. Treatment durations were not uniform. Twenty-two patients had received immunosuppression (mean, 2.2 medications) before ACTH therapy. Six patients had steroid-dependent and 15 had steroid-resistant FSGS. At the time of ACTH initiation, the median serum creatinine (interquartile range) was 2.0 (1.1-2.7) mg/dl, estimated GFR was 36 (28-78) ml/min per 1.73 m(2), and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio was 4595 (2200-8020) mg/g. At the end of ACTH therapy, 7 of 24 patients (29%) experienced remission (n=2 complete remissions, n=5 partial remissions). All remitters had steroid-resistant (n=5) or steroid-dependent (n=2) FSGS. Two responders relapsed during the follow-up period (mean ± SD, 70±31 weeks). Adverse events occurred in 21 of 24 patients, including one episode of new-onset diabetes that resolved after stopping ACTH and two episodes of AKI. Response to ACTH treatment among steroid-resistant or steroid-dependent patients with FSGS is low, but ACTH gel may be a viable treatment option for some patients with resistant nephrotic syndrome due to idiopathic FSGS. Further research is necessary to determine which patients will respond to therapy.

  18. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

    PubMed

    Boros, Christina; Whitehead, Ben

    2010-09-01

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common rheumatic disease in childhood, occurring in approximately 1:500 children. Despite a recent expansion in treatment options and improvement of outcomes, significant morbidity still occurs. This article outlines the clinical manifestations, assessment, detection of complications, treatment options and monitoring requirements, with the aid of guidelines recently published by The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, which provide practical support for general practitioners to ensure best practice care and to prevent lifelong disability in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. General practice plays an important role in the early detection, initial management and ongoing monitoring of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Early detection involves understanding the classification framework for subtypes of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and being aware of the clinical manifestations and how to look for them, through history, examination and appropriate investigation. The major extra-articular manifestations of juvenile idiopathic arthritis are uveitis and growth disturbance. Treatment options include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, methotrexate, biologic agents, and corticosteroids. Management using a multidisciplinary approach can prevent long term sequelae. Unfortunately, approximately 50% of children will have active disease as adults.

  19. Vocal cord paralysis: What matters between idiopathic and non-idiopathic cases?

    PubMed

    Özbal Koç, Ayça Eltaf; Türkoğlu, Seda Babakurban; Erol, Ozan; Erbek, Selim

    2016-01-01

    This study aims to evaluate the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with idiopathic and non-idiopathic vocal cord paralysis (VCP). This retrospective cohort was performed on data extracted from medical files of 92 consecutive patients (43 males, 49 females; median age 52.1±23.1 years; min. 1 - max. 87) with VCP diagnosed in the otorhinolaryngology department between April 2012 and December 2015. Diagnoses associated with VCP, side of involvement (right, left or bilateral) and previous medical histories were noted and compared between patients with idiopathic and non-idiopathic VCP. Vocal cord paralysis occurred on the left side (n=56, 60.9%), right side (n=28, 30.4%) or bilaterally (n=8, 8.7%). A clinical entity related with VCP was identified in 63 patients (68.5%), while 29 (31.5%) patients had idiopathic VCP. Most common etiologies for VCP were thyroid surgery (n=32, 34.8%), cardiovascular surgery (n=9, 9.8%), lung cancer (n=6, 6.5%) and cardiac anomalies (n=4, 4.3%), respectively. Patients with idiopathic VCP were significantly older (p<0.001), while gender distribution (p=0.121) and side of involvement (p=0.340) did not differ between two groups. Vocal cord paralysis is a relatively common clinical entity with substantial rate of morbidity. Identification of the underlying etiology and awareness on the clinical characteristics are keystones for foreseeing complications and determining the appropriate therapeutic modality.

  20. Idiopathic hypersomnia.

    PubMed

    Billiard, Michel; Sonka, Karel

    2016-10-01

    Idiopathic hypersomnia continues to evolve from the concept of "sleep drunkenness" introduced by Bedrich Roth in Prague in 1956 and the description of idiopathic hypersomnia with two forms, polysymptomatic and monosymptomatic, by the same Bedrich Roth in 1976. The diagnostic criteria of idiopathic hypersomnia have varied with the successive revisions of the International classifications of sleep disorders, including the recent 3rd edition. No epidemiological studies have been conducted so far. Disease onset occurs most often during adolescence or young adulthood. A familial background is often present but rigorous studies are still lacking. The key manifestation is hypersomnolence. It is often accompanied by sleep of long duration and debilitating sleep inertia. Polysomnography (PSG) followed by a multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) is mandatory, as well as a 24 h PSG or a 2-wk actigraphy in association with a sleep log to ensure a total 24-h sleep time longer than or equal to 66O minutes, when the mean sleep latency on the MSLT is longer than 8 min. Yet, MSLT is neither sensitive nor specific and the polysomnographic diagnostic criteria require continuous readjustment and biologic markers are still lacking. Idiopathic hypersomnia is most often a chronic condition though spontaneous remission may occur. The condition is disabling, sometimes even more so than narcolepsy type 1 or 2. Based on neurochemical, genetic and immunological analyses as well as on exploration of the homeostatic and circadian processes of sleep, various pathophysiological hypotheses have been proposed. Differential diagnosis involves a number of diseases and it is not yet clear whether idiopathic hypersomnia and narcolepsy type 2 are not the same condition. Until now, the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia has mirrored that of the sleepiness of narcolepsy type 1 or 2. The first randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of modafinil have just been published, as well as a double

  1. Design and validation of a foldable and photovoltaic wide-field epiretinal prosthesis.

    PubMed

    Ferlauto, Laura; Airaghi Leccardi, Marta Jole Ildelfonsa; Chenais, Naïg Aurelia Ludmilla; Gilliéron, Samuel Charles Antoine; Vagni, Paola; Bevilacqua, Michele; Wolfensberger, Thomas J; Sivula, Kevin; Ghezzi, Diego

    2018-03-08

    Retinal prostheses have been developed to fight blindness in people affected by outer retinal layer dystrophies. To date, few hundred patients have received a retinal implant. Inspired by intraocular lenses, we have designed a foldable and photovoltaic wide-field epiretinal prosthesis (named POLYRETINA) capable of stimulating wireless retinal ganglion cells. Here we show that within a visual angle of 46.3 degrees, POLYRETINA embeds 2215 stimulating pixels, of which 967 are in the central area of 5 mm, it is foldable to allow implantation through a small scleral incision, and it has a hemispherical shape to match the curvature of the eye. We demonstrate that it is not cytotoxic and respects optical and thermal safety standards; accelerated ageing shows a lifetime of at least 2 years. POLYRETINA represents significant progress towards the improvement of both visual acuity and visual field with the same device, a current challenging issue in the field.

  2. 3D finite element modeling of epiretinal stimulation: Impact of prosthetic electrode size and distance from the retina.

    PubMed

    Sui, Xiaohong; Huang, Yu; Feng, Fuchen; Huang, Chenhui; Chan, Leanne Lai Hang; Wang, Guoxing

    2015-05-01

    A novel 3-dimensional (3D) finite element model was established to systematically investigate the impact of the diameter (Φ) of disc electrodes and the electrode-to-retina distance on the effectiveness of stimulation. The 3D finite element model was established based on a disc platinum stimulating electrode and a 6-layered retinal structure. The ground electrode was placed in the extraocular space in direct attachment with sclera and treated as a distant return electrode. An established criterion of electric-field strength of 1000 Vm-1 was adopted as the activation threshold for RGCs. The threshold current (TC) increased linearly with increasing Φ and electrode-to-retina distance and remained almost unchanged with further increases in diameter. However, the threshold charge density (TCD) increased dramatically with decreasing electrode diameter. TCD exceeded the electrode safety limit for an electrode diameter of 50 µm at an electrode-to-retina distance of 50 to 200 μm. The electric field distributions illustrated that smaller electrode diameters and shorter electrode-to-retina distances were preferred due to more localized excitation of RGC area under stimulation of different threshold currents in terms of varied electrode size and electrode-to-retina distances. Under the condition of same-amplitude current stimulation, a large electrode exhibited an improved potential spatial selectivity at large electrode-to-retina distances. Modeling results were consistent with those reported in animal electrophysiological experiments and clinical trials, validating the 3D finite element model of epiretinal stimulation. The computational model proved to be useful in optimizing the design of an epiretinal stimulating electrode for prosthesis.

  3. Comparison of the influence of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor lisinopril and angiotensin II receptor antagonist losartan in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy and nephrotic syndrome.

    PubMed

    Kosmadakis, George; Filiopoulos, Vasileios; Georgoulias, Christodoulos; Tentolouris, Nicolaos; Michail, Spiridon

    2010-09-01

    In this prospective study, the effects of an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor [lisinopril (LIS)] and an angiotensin II receptor antagonist [losartan (LOS)] were compared in nephrotic patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Twenty-seven patients (13 males, mean age +/- SD 51.3 +/- 15.4 years) were treated with LIS (13 patients, six males, mean age 52.1 +/- 15.3 years) or LOS (14 patients, seven males, mean age 50.5 +/- 15.5 years) for 12 months. At baseline and after the treatment period, serum albumin, total cholesterol, estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR), 24 h proteinuria and mean arterial pressure were determined. Proteinuria (g/24 h) was significantly reduced in both groups (LIS from 4.82 +/- 1.26 to 1.75 +/- 0.64, p < 0.0001; LOS from 4.55 +/- 1.09 to 2.54 +/- 1.94, p = 0.002) (all results +/- SD). Serum albumin levels (g/dl) increased significantly in both groups (LIS 2.27 +/- 0.41 to 3.17 +/- 0.63, p < 0.0001; LOS 2.93 +/- 0.40 to 3.55 +/- 0.44, p < 0.0001). GFR (ml/min x 1.73 m(2)) did not change significantly in either group (LIS 55 +/- 17 to 56 +/- 17, p = 0.65; LOS 64 +/- 18 to 59 +/- 16, p = 0.13). Total cholesterol (mg/dl) was significantly reduced only in the lisinopril group (LIS 347 +/- 81 to 266 +/- 64, p < 0.0001; LOS 306 +/- 58 to 263 +/- 77, p = 0.138). Mean arterial pressure (mmHg) was reduced in both groups (LIS 107 +/- 12 to 95 +/- 6, p < 0.0001; LOS 104 +/- 10 to 96 +/- 5, p = 0.003). In the comparison between the two groups, serum albumin levels were higher in the losartan group at baseline (p < 0.0001) and after 12 months (p = 0.029). There were no significant differences between the baseline and end-of-study values for the rest of the studied parameters. Treatment with lisinopril and losartan in nephrotic patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy results in similar (and significant) effects on renal function, hypoalbuminaemia, proteinuria and blood pressure.

  4. Multiple extrafoveal macular holes following internal limiting membrane peeling.

    PubMed

    Hussain, Nazimul; Mitra, Sandip

    2018-01-01

    Internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling has been the standard of treatment for macular holes. Besides, causing retinal nerve fiber layer surface abnormality, postoperative extrafoveal multiple retinal holes is a rare phenomenon following ILM peeling. We report an unusual complication of eight extrafoveal macular holes occurring following ILM peeling. A 60-year-old male presented with complaints of decreased and distorted vision in the right eye. He was diagnosed as having epiretinal membrane with lamellar macular hole. He underwent 23G pars plana vitrectomy, brilliant blue assisted ILM peeling and fluid gas exchange. Intraoperatively, ILM was found to be adherent to the underlying neurosensory retina. One month after cataract surgery, he underwent YAG capsulotomy in the right eye. He complained of visual distortion. His fundus evaluation in the right eye showed multiple (eight) extrafoveal retinal holes temporal to the macula clustered together. This case demonstrated that peeling of ILM, especially when it is adherent to the underlying neurosensory retina, may cause unwanted mechanical trauma to the inner retina. Glial apoptosis and neuronal degeneration may presumably play a role in delayed appearance of multiple (eight) extrafoveal macular holes, which has not been reported earlier.

  5. Multiple extrafoveal macular holes following internal limiting membrane peeling

    PubMed Central

    Hussain, Nazimul; Mitra, Sandip

    2018-01-01

    Objective Internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling has been the standard of treatment for macular holes. Besides, causing retinal nerve fiber layer surface abnormality, postoperative extrafoveal multiple retinal holes is a rare phenomenon following ILM peeling. We report an unusual complication of eight extrafoveal macular holes occurring following ILM peeling. Case presentation A 60-year-old male presented with complaints of decreased and distorted vision in the right eye. He was diagnosed as having epiretinal membrane with lamellar macular hole. He underwent 23G pars plana vitrectomy, brilliant blue assisted ILM peeling and fluid gas exchange. Intraoperatively, ILM was found to be adherent to the underlying neurosensory retina. One month after cataract surgery, he underwent YAG capsulotomy in the right eye. He complained of visual distortion. His fundus evaluation in the right eye showed multiple (eight) extrafoveal retinal holes temporal to the macula clustered together. Conclusion This case demonstrated that peeling of ILM, especially when it is adherent to the underlying neurosensory retina, may cause unwanted mechanical trauma to the inner retina. Glial apoptosis and neuronal degeneration may presumably play a role in delayed appearance of multiple (eight) extrafoveal macular holes, which has not been reported earlier. PMID:29760571

  6. Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies

    PubMed Central

    Dimachkie, Mazen M.; Barohn, Richard J.

    2012-01-01

    The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies are a group of rare disorders including polymyositis (PM), dermatomyositis (DM), and autoimmune necrotizing myopathies (NMs). The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies share many similarities. They present acutely, subacutely, or chronically with marked proximal and symmetric muscle weakness, except for associated distal and asymmetric weakness in inclusion body myositis. The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies also share a variable degree of creatine kinase (CK) elevation and a nonspecifically abnormal electromyogram demonstrating an irritative myopathy. The muscle pathology demonstrates inflammatory exudates of variable distribution within the muscle fascicle. Despite these similarities, the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies are a heterogeneous group. The overlap syndrome (OS) refers to the association of PM, DM, or NM with connective tissue disease, such as scleroderma or systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition to elevated antinuclear antibodies (ANA), patients with OS may be weaker in the proximal arms than the legs mimicking the pattern seen in some muscular dystrophies. In this review, we focus on DM, PM, and NM and examine current and promising therapies. PMID:23117947

  7. Treatment of Idiopathic FSGS with Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Gel

    PubMed Central

    Bomback, Andrew S.; Mehta, Kshama; Canetta, Pietro A.; Rao, Maya K.; Appel, Gerald B.; Radhakrishnan, Jai; Lafayette, Richard A.

    2013-01-01

    Summary Background and objectives Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) has shown efficacy as primary and secondary therapy for nephrotic syndrome due to membranous nephropathy. The data on using ACTH to treat idiopathic FSGS are limited. This report describes our experience using ACTH for nephrotic syndrome due to idiopathic FSGS in the United States. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Twenty-four patients with nephrotic syndrome from idiopathic FSGS were treated with ACTH gel at two academic medical centers between 2009 and 2012, either as part of investigator-initiated pilot studies (n=16) or by prescription for treatment-resistant FSGS (n=8). The primary outcome was remission of proteinuria. The median dose of ACTH was 80 units injected subcutaneously twice weekly. Treatment durations were not uniform. Results Twenty-two patients had received immunosuppression (mean, 2.2 medications) before ACTH therapy. Six patients had steroid-dependent and 15 had steroid-resistant FSGS. At the time of ACTH initiation, the median serum creatinine (interquartile range) was 2.0 (1.1–2.7) mg/dl, estimated GFR was 36 (28–78) ml/min per 1.73 m2, and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio was 4595 (2200–8020) mg/g. At the end of ACTH therapy, 7 of 24 patients (29%) experienced remission (n=2 complete remissions, n=5 partial remissions). All remitters had steroid-resistant (n=5) or steroid-dependent (n=2) FSGS. Two responders relapsed during the follow-up period (mean ± SD, 70±31 weeks). Adverse events occurred in 21 of 24 patients, including one episode of new-onset diabetes that resolved after stopping ACTH and two episodes of AKI. Conclusions Response to ACTH treatment among steroid-resistant or steroid-dependent patients with FSGS is low, but ACTH gel may be a viable treatment option for some patients with resistant nephrotic syndrome due to idiopathic FSGS. Further research is necessary to determine which patients will respond to therapy. PMID:24009220

  8. Comparison of monocyte gene expression among patients with neurocysticercosis-associated epilepsy, Idiopathic Epilepsy and idiopathic headaches in India.

    PubMed

    Prabhakaran, Vasudevan; Drevets, Douglas A; Ramajayam, Govindan; Manoj, Josephine J; Anderson, Michael P; Hanas, Jay S; Rajshekhar, Vedantam; Oommen, Anna; Carabin, Hélène

    2017-06-01

    Neurocysticercosis (NCC), a neglected tropical disease, inflicts substantial health and economic costs on people living in endemic areas such as India. Nevertheless, accurate diagnosis using brain imaging remains poorly accessible and too costly in endemic countries. The goal of this study was to test if blood monocyte gene expression could distinguish patients with NCC-associated epilepsy, from NCC-negative imaging lesion-free patients presenting with idiopathic epilepsy or idiopathic headaches. Patients aged 18 to 51 were recruited from the Department of Neurological Sciences, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, India, between January 2013 and October 2014. mRNA from CD14+ blood monocytes was isolated from 76 patients with NCC, 10 Recovered NCC (RNCC), 29 idiopathic epilepsy and 17 idiopathic headaches patients. A preliminary microarray analysis was performed on six NCC, six idiopathic epilepsy and four idiopathic headaches patients to identify genes differentially expressed in NCC-associated epilepsy compared with other groups. This analysis identified 1411 upregulated and 733 downregulated genes in patients with NCC compared to Idiopathic Epilepsy. Fifteen genes up-regulated in NCC patients compared with other groups were selected based on possible relevance to NCC, and analyzed by qPCR in all patients' samples. Differential gene expression among patients was assessed using linear regression models. qPCR analysis of 15 selected genes showed generally higher gene expression among NCC patients, followed by RNCC, idiopathic headaches and Idiopathic Epilepsy. Gene expression was also generally higher among NCC patients with single cyst granulomas, followed by mixed lesions and single calcifications. Expression of certain genes in blood monocytes can distinguish patients with NCC-related epilepsy from patients with active Idiopathic Epilepsy and idiopathic headaches. These findings are significant because they may lead to the development of new tools to

  9. Evaluation of the Precision of the Microperimetry Function of the Spectral OCT/SLO

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-04-03

    Age-Related Macular Degeneration; Geographic Atrophy; Diabetic Retinopathy; Macular Edema; Retinal Vein Occlusion; Central Serous Retinopathy; Pattern Dystrophy of Macula; Epiretinal Membrane; Macular Hole

  10. Perioperative Management of Pregnant Women With Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: An Observational Case Series Study From China.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jinglan; Lu, Jiakai; Zhou, Xiaorui; Xu, Xuefeng; Ye, Qing; Ou, Qitan; Li, Yanna; Huang, Jiapeng

    2018-03-07

    The mortality of pregnant women with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is very high. There are limited data on the management of idiopathic PAH during pregnancy. The authors aimed to examine systematically the characteristics of parturient women with idiopathic PAH, to explore the adverse effects of idiopathic PAH on pregnancy outcomes, and to report the multidisciplinary perioperative management strategy from the largest comprehensive cardiac hospital in China. Observational case series study. Tertiary referral acute care hospital in Beijing, China. The cases of 17 consecutive pregnant idiopathic PAH patients undergoing abortion or parturition at Anzhen Hospital were reviewed retrospectively. Preoperative characteristics, anesthesia method, intensive care management, PAH-specific therapy, and maternal and neonatal outcomes were analyzed in this case series study. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were the main measures. The mean ages of the 17 parturient women with idiopathic PAH were 28.3 ± 5.4 years, and the mean systolic pulmonary arterial pressure was 97.9 ± 18.6 mmHg. Fifteen patients (88.2%) received PAH-specific therapy before delivery, including sildenafil, iloprost, and treprostinil. All except 1 parturient received epidural anesthesia for surgery due to an emergency Caesarean section. Three patients experienced pulmonary hypertension crisis that necessitated conversion to general anesthesia. Ten parturients underwent Caesarean delivery at a median gestational age of 31 weeks. Three patients developed acute pulmonary hypertensive crisis intraoperatively. Two patients underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. The maternal mortality was 17.6% (3/17). Of the 10 delivered neonates, 9 (90.0%) survived. The maternal mortality of the idiopathic PAH parturient was high in this case series from China. The authors applied epidural anesthesia, early management with multidisciplinary approaches, PAH

  11. [Surgery for age-related macular degeneration. Still an option in the age of pharmacotherapy?].

    PubMed

    Joussen, A M; Kirchhof, B

    2014-09-01

    This review assesses the relevance of surgical approaches for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with respect to the pathophysiology of AMD and the current pharmacological possibilities. We discuss the different surgical approaches such as subretinal membrane excision, cell transplantation (IPE and RPE) and transplantation of retina and choroid (PATCH), as well as translocation surgery. Peeling of epiretinal membranes in patients with drusen as well as vitrectomy before epiretinal brachytherapy (VIDEON system) are the final topics. While overall pharmacotherapy has displaced surgical approaches, surgery is worthy of consideration in selected cases. For these patients surgical options need to be maintained in the armamentarium of retinal surgeons. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  12. Acute interstitial pneumonia (Hamman-Rich syndrome) in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and bronchoalveolar carcinoma: a case report.

    PubMed

    Plasek, Jiri; Dvorackova, Jana; Jahoda, Jan; Trulikova, Kristina; Mokosova, Radka; Danek, Tomas; Hrabovsky, Vladimir; Martinek, Arnost

    2011-12-01

    Acute interstitial pneumonia is characterized by rapid progressive dyspnoea degenerating into respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. Acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) are separate clinic/pathological entities although overlap may be present. It is well-known that patients with IPF have increased risk of lung carcinoma; Adenocarcinoma in connection with IPF is less common. Moreover the subtype of adenocarcinoma, diffuse bronchoalveolar carcinoma has not yet been described. We report the case of 45 yr old former hockey player with increased bilateral reticular shadowing on chest radiograph, dyspnoea, velcro-like crackles, restrictive respiratory disease and mixed high-resolution computed tomography finding. During brief in-patient treatment the patient developed acute respiratory failure accompanied by multiorgan failure and disseminated coagulopathy. Deterioration of the microcirculation was followed by loss of peripheral vascular resistance, which was irreversible even with normalization of the blood gases achieved by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. At autopsy, bronchoalveolar carcinoma in usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) combined with areas of alveolar damage with hyaline membranes was found. This case alerts clinicians to unusual idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis manifestations and its complications. Close collaboration between clinicians, pathologists and laboratory physicians is highly recommended for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

  13. Late Closure of a Stage III Idiopathic Macular Hole after Pars Plana Vitrectomy.

    PubMed

    Afrashi, Filiz; Öztaş, Zafer; Nalçacı, Serhad

    2015-12-01

    A 57-year-old female presented to our hospital with decreased vision in her right eye. Detailed ocular examination was performed, and a macular hole was detected in the right eye. The presence of a full-thickness stage III macular hole was confirmed with optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging. Pars plana vitrectomy followed by long-acting gas tamponade (C3F8) was performed as treatment. One month after surgery, clinical examination revealed a persistent macular hole, confirmed by an OCT scan. Although the patient was scheduled for reoperation, the surgery was postponed due to personal reasons of the patient. Surprisingly, after five months, a closure pattern with accompanying epiretinal membrane was observed in the macular hole area. The closure of the macular hole was completed without any further intervention 8 months post-surgery. In cases of unclosed macular hole after the first surgery, if a second surgery cannot be performed, follow-up with OCT recommended due to the possibility of spontaneous closure. However, spontaneous closure of a persistent macular hole following PPV is rare, so early diagnosis and surgical repair of unclosed macular holes must remain the primary goal.

  14. M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) glomerular staining in pediatric idiopathic membranous nephropathy.

    PubMed

    Kanda, Shoichiro; Horita, Shigeru; Yanagihara, Takeshi; Shimizu, Akira; Hattori, Motoshi

    2017-04-01

    Identifying M-type phospholipase A 2 receptor (PLA 2 R) is a landmark breakthrough for understanding adult idiopathic membranous nephropathy (iMN). However, potential roles for PLA 2 R in pediatric iMN have not been well investigated. A total of 34 pediatric iMN patients who underwent kidney biopsy between 1972 and 2015 were enrolled in this study. The study cohort consisted of 15 children aged from 3 to 9 years and 19 aged from 10 to 15 years. In all cases, secondary causes of MN, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and others, were ruled out. We examined PLA 2 R glomerular staining in stored, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded kidney biopsy samples. Kidney biopsy specimens obtained from an adult patient with iMN and an adult patient with lupus-associated MN were also examined to assess our PLA 2 R staining procedure. Granular staining of PLA 2 R along glomerular capillary loops was present in two patients: an 11-year-old girl and 12-year-old boy identified during a school urine screening test and who presented with mild proteinuria at the time of biopsy. Interestingly, the intensity of PLA 2 R glomerular staining in these patients was weaker than that of a PLA 2 R-positive adult iMN patient. There were no PLA 2 R-positive patients among our cohort of children younger than 10 years. This preliminary study suggests PLA 2 R may play a role in some adolescent and preteen iMN patients but may be less frequently associated with iMN during childhood.

  15. Double Internal Limiting Membrane Insertion for Macular Hole-Associated Retinal Detachment

    PubMed Central

    Chen, San-Ni

    2017-01-01

    Purpose To describe a modified technique of internal limiting membrane (ILM) insertion for macular hole- (MH-) associated retinal detachment (RD) in highly myopic eyes. Methods Nine eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy, cortical vitreous removal, and fovea-sparing ILM peeling. Double ILM insertion into the hole was performed with inverted perifoveal ILM and a free ILM flap followed by air-fluid exchange. Results Two of the 9 eyes had perifoveal ILM partially torn after cortical vitreous or epiretinal removal. All eyes had the ILM plug stabilized within the MH after double ILM insertion. Postoperatively, MH was sealed with the retina reattached in all the eyes. Conclusion Double ILM insertion may further secure the ILM flap in place in the eyes with MH-associated RD, especially in cases in which insufficient perifoveal ILM was left. This trial is registered with the clinical registration number Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03174639. PMID:28845304

  16. Natural history of idiopathic diabetes insipidus.

    PubMed

    Richards, Gail E; Thomsett, Michael J; Boston, Bruce A; DiMeglio, Linda A; Shulman, Dorothy I; Draznin, Martin

    2011-10-01

    To determine what percentage of diabetes insipidus (DI) in childhood is idiopathic and to assess the natural history of idiopathic DI. We conducted a retrospective chart review of 105 patients with DI who were born or had DI diagnosed between 1980-1989 at 3 medical centers. A second cohort of 30 patients from 6 medical centers in whom idiopathic DI was diagnosed after 1990 was evaluated retrospectively for subsequent etiologic diagnoses and additional hypothalamic/pituitary deficiencies and prospectively for quality of life. In the first cohort, 11% of patients had idiopathic DI. In the second cohort, additional hypothalamic/pituitary hormone deficiencies developed in 33%, and 37% received an etiologic diagnosis for DI. Health-related quality of life for all the patients with idiopathic DI was comparable with the healthy reference population. Only a small percentage of patients with DI will remain idiopathic after first examination. Other hormone deficiencies will develop later in one-third of those patients, and slightly more than one-third of those patients will have an etiology for the DI diagnosed. Long-term surveillance is important because tumors have been diagnosed as long as 21 years after the onset of DI. Quality of life for these patients is as good as the reference population. Copyright © 2011 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Vitamin D deficiency in chronic idiopathic urticaria.

    PubMed

    Movahedi, Masoud; Tavakol, Marzieh; Hirbod-Mobarakeh, Armin; Gharagozlou, Mohammad; Aghamohammadi, Asghar; Tavakol, Zahra; Momenzadeh, Kaveh; Nabavi, Mohammad; Dabbaghzade, Abbas; Mosallanejad, Asieh; Rezaei, Nima

    2015-04-01

    Chronic urticaria is the most common skin diseases, characterized by chronic cutaneous lesions which severely debilitates patients in several aspects of their everyday life. Vitamin D is known to exert several actions in the immune system and to influence function and differentiation of mast cells, central role players in the pathogenesis of chronic idiopathic urticaria. This study was performed to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D levels and susceptibility to chronic idiopathic urticaria. One hundred and fourteen patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria were recruited in this study along with one hundred and eighty seven sex-matched and age-matched healthy volunteers as the control group. For each patient, urticaria activity score was calculated and autologous serum skin test was done. Vitamin D metabolic statue was measured in serum as 25 hydroxyvitamin D using enzyme immunoassay method. Patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria significantly showed lower levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with increased susceptibility to chronic idiopathic urticaria. There was a significant positive correlation between vitamin D levels and urticaria activity score. This study showed that patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria had reduced levels of vitamin D, while vitamin D deficiency could increase susceptibility to chronic idiopathic urticaria.

  18. Idiopathic ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation.

    PubMed

    Belhassen, B; Viskin, S

    1993-06-01

    Important data have recently been added to our understanding of sustained ventricular tachyarrhythmias occurring in the absence of demonstrable heart disease. Idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (VT) is usually of monomorphic configuration and can be classified according to its site of origin as either right monomorphic (70% of all idiopathic VTs) or left monomorphic VT. Several physiopathological types of monomorphic VT can be presently individualized, according to their mode of presentation, their relationship to adrenergic stress, or their response to various drugs. The long-term prognosis is usually good. Idiopathic polymorphic VT is a much rarer type of arrhythmia with a less favorable prognosis. Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation may represent an underestimated cause of sudden cardiac death in ostensibly healty patients. A high incidence of inducibility of sustained polymorphic VT with programmed ventricular stimulation has been found by our group, but not by others. Long-term prognosis on Class IA antiarrhythmic medications that are highly effective at electrophysiologic study appears excellent.

  19. Relation between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and morphologic somatotypes.

    PubMed

    LeBlanc, R; Labelle, H; Rivard, C H; Poitras, B

    1997-11-01

    A prospective and controlled comparative study. To verify the difference in morphologic appearance between a group of adolescents with progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and a control group of normal adolescents. In a previous retrospective study, the possibility of a relation between progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and specific morphotypes was demonstrated. Fifty-two adolescent girls with progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were compared with an age-matched control group of 62 unaffected girls using a classification technique based on morphologic somatotypes. Morphotypes were evaluated with standardized pre-established criteria based on Sheldon's technique. Patients with progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis showed significantly less mesomorphism (mean value of 0.88 +/- 0.51) than control girls (mean value of 1.72 +/- 0.52). Adolescent girls with progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis have a morphologic somatotype that is different from the normal adolescent population. Subjects with progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis are significantly less mesomorphic than control girls. This observation may be of value as a predictive factor for early identification of subjects with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis at greater risk of progression.

  20. Brilliant Blue G double staining enhances successful internal limiting membrane peeling with minimal adverse effect by low cellular permeability into live cells.

    PubMed

    Hisatomi, Toshio; Notomi, Shoji; Tachibana, Takashi; Oishi, Seiichiro; Asato, Ryo; Yamashita, Takehiro; Murakami, Yusuke; Ikeda, Yasuhiro; Enaida, Hiroshi; Sakamoto, Taiji; Ishibashi, Tatsuro

    2015-02-01

    Brilliant Blue G is used as a surgical adjuvant for retinal surgery. Although BBG double or multiple staining was reported, the effectiveness and safety of repeated staining is still elusive. To further examine the effectiveness and safety, we examined BBG in clinical cases in vivo, primary cell culture in vitro, and surgically resected specimen ex vivo. A retrospective interventional case series with in vitro and ex vivo studies were performed. Vitrectomy was performed in 28 cases of epiretinal membrane with BBG single to multiple staining. The surgically resected membranes were stained by BBG with or without cellular fixation. Primary cell cultures were examined with BBG and live/death cell markers, such as Calcein AM and TUNEL. Single staining provided satisfactory staining in seven cases. Double or multiple staining substantially visualized internal limiting membrane (21 cases), especially the edges of remaining internal limiting membrane (11 cases). Adverse retinal staining was not noted and the final visual acuity showed no difference with multiple staining. The live cells barely stained with BBG, while some dead cells were stained. Brilliant Blue G multiple staining substantially enhanced the visualization of internal limiting membrane. The absence of abnormal staining supports the safety of repeated BBG staining.

  1. Perspective: Update on Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Bruce, Beau B.; Biousse, Valérie; Newman, Nancy J.

    2011-01-01

    Purpose Provide an update on various features of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Design Perspective. Methods Selected articles on the epidemiology, clinical and imaging features, natural history, pathophysiology, and treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension were reviewed and interpreted in the context of the authors’ clinical and research experience. Results Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is primarily a disease of obese women of childbearing age, but it can affect patients of any weight, sex, and age. Although a relatively rare disorder, idiopathic intracranial hypertension’s associated costs in the U.S. entail hundreds of millions of dollars. Even following treatment, headaches are frequently persistent and may require the continued involvement of a neurologist. Quality of life reductions and depression are common among idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients. However, visual dysfunction, especially visual field abnormalities, represents the major morbidity of this disorder, and serial automated perimetry remains the primary mode of patient monitoring. Patients who are men, black, very obese, or anemic are at higher risk of visual loss. Vitamin A metabolism, adipose tissue as an actively secreting endocrine tissue, and cerebral venous abnormalities are areas of active study regarding idiopathic intracranial hypertension’s pathophysiology. Treatment studies show that lumbar puncture is a valuable treatment (in addition to its crucial diagnostic role) and that weight management is critical. However, open questions remain regarding the efficacy of acetazolamide, CSF diversion procedures, and cerebral venous stenting. Conclusions Many questions remain unanswered about idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Ongoing studies, especially an ongoing NIH-funded clinical trial of acetazolamide, should provide more insight into this important, yet poorly understood syndrome of isolated intracranial hypertension. PMID:21696699

  2. Retinal displacement toward optic disc after internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic macular hole.

    PubMed

    Ishida, Masahiro; Ichikawa, Yoshikazu; Higashida, Rieko; Tsutsumi, Yorihisa; Ishikawa, Atsushi; Imamura, Yutaka

    2014-05-01

    To examine the retinal displacement following successful macular hole (MH) surgery with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and gas tamponade, and to determine the correlation between the extent of displacement and the basal MH size. Retrospective, interventional, observational case series. The medical records of consecutive patients with an idiopathic MH that had undergone vitrectomy with ILM peeling and gas tamponade were studied. The distances between the optic disc and the intersection of 2 retinal vessels located nasal or temporal to the fovea were measured manually preoperatively (A), and 2 weeks and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively (B), on the fundus autofluorescence or near-infrared images. The basal and minimum diameters of the MHs were measured in the spectral-domain optical coherence tomographic images. The correlations between the ratio of the retinal displacement (A - B/A) and basal diameters of the MHs were determined. Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients (9 men, mean age: 64.6 ± 8.4 years) were studied. Ten eyes (47.6%) had stage 2 MH, 9 eyes (42.9%) had stage 3 MH, and 2 eyes (9.5%) had stage 4 MH. The temporal retinal vessels were displaced 260.8 ± 145.8 μm toward the optic disc at 2 weeks postoperatively, which was significantly greater than the 91.1 ± 89.7 μm of the nasal retinal vessels (paired t test, P < .001). The ratio of retinal displacement in the temporal field at 2 weeks was significantly correlated with the basal diameter of the MH (Spearman's rank correlation coeffieient = -0.476, P = .033. The greater displacement of the temporal retina than the nasal retina toward the optic disc postoperatively suggests that the temporal retina is more flexible and can be retracted toward the optic disc during the MH closure. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. The Natural History of Idiopathic Scoliosis During Growth: A Meta-Analysis.

    PubMed

    Di Felice, Francesca; Zaina, Fabio; Donzelli, Sabrina; Negrini, Stefano

    2018-05-01

    The aim of the study was to provide a meta-analysis of current literature concerning the natural history of idiopathic scoliosis during growth. A comprehensive search of Medline, Embase, And Scopus databases was conducted up to November 2016. Eligible works were prospective or retrospective studies that enrolled patients with infantile idiopathic scoliosis, juvenile idiopathic scoliosis, or adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, followed up without any treatment from the time of detection. A meta-analysis for proportion was performed. The following studies were grouped per diagnosis: infantile idiopathic scoliosis, juvenile idiopathic scoliosis, and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Of the 1797 citations screened, we assessed 61 full-text articles and included 13 of these (2301 participants). Three studies included infantile idiopathic scoliosis patients (347 participants), five studies included a mixed population of juvenile idiopathic scoliosis and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (1330 participants), and five studies included adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients only (624 participants). The random pooled estimated progression rate was 49% (95% confidence interval = 1%-97%) for infantile idiopathic scoliosis, 49% in a mixed group of patients affected by juvenile idiopathic scoliosis or adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (95% confidence interval = 19%-79%), and 42% in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (95% confidence interval = 11%-73%). During growth, idiopathic scoliosis tends to progress in a high percentage of cases. The progression rate varies according to the age at diagnosis, with infantile scoliosis being the most unpredictable. There are many confounders, such as age, Risser sign and baseline Cobb angles that were not consistent among studies, making the data very heterogeneous.

  4. Philadelphia Telemedicine Glaucoma Detection and Follow-Up Study

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-05-02

    Glaucoma; Glaucoma Suspect; Diabetic Retinopathy; Ocular Hypertension; Cataract; Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion; Branch Retinal Arterial Occlusion; Central Retinal Vein Occlusion; Central Retinal Artery Occlusion; Epi-retinal Membrane; Macular Degeneration; Drusen; Loss of Vision

  5. Idiopathic Hypersomnia: A Study of 77 Cases

    PubMed Central

    Anderson, Kirstie N.; Pilsworth, Samantha; Sharples, Linda D.; Smith, Ian E.; Shneerson, John M.

    2007-01-01

    Study Objectives: To review the clinical and polysomnographic characteristics of idiopathic hypersomnia as well as the long-term response to treatment. Setting: The Respiratory Support and Sleep Centre at Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, UK. Patients and Design: A large database of more than 6000 patients with sleep disorders was reviewed. A retrospective study of the clinical and polysomnographic characteristics of 77 patients with idiopathic hypersomnia was performed. Comparison with a similar group of patients with narcolepsy was performed. The response to drug treatment was assessed in 61 patients over a mean follow-up of 3.8 years. Measurements and Results: Idiopathic hypersomnia was 60% as prevalent as narcolepsy. Comparison with a similar group of patients with narcolepsy showed that those with idiopathic hypersomnia were more likely to have prolonged unrefreshing daytime naps, a positive family history, increased slow-wave sleep, and a longer sleep latency on the Multiple Sleep Latency Test. The results of the Multiple Sleep Latency Test were not helpful in predicting disease severity or treatment response. The clinical features were heterogeneous and of variable severity. The majority of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia had symptoms that remained stable over many years, but 11% had spontaneous remission, which was never seen in narcolepsy. Two thirds of patients with idiopathic hypersomnolence had a sustained improvement in daytime somnolence with medication, although a third needed high doses or combinations of drugs. Conclusions: Idiopathic hypersomnolence has characteristic clinical and polysomnographic features but the prolonged latency on the Multiple Sleep Latency Test raises doubt about the validity of this test within the current diagnostic criteria. The disease often responds well to treatment and a substantial minority of patients appear to spontaneously improve. Citation: Anderson KN; Pilsworth S; Sharples LD; Smith IE; Shneerson JM. Idiopathic

  6. Aetiology of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis.

    PubMed

    Altintoprak, Fatih; Kivilcim, Taner; Ozkan, Orhan Veli

    2014-12-16

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is a rare chronic inflammatory lesion of the breast that can clinically and radiographically mimic breast carcinoma. The most common clinical presentation is an unilateral, discrete breast mass, nipple retraction and even a sinus formation often associated with an inflammation of the overlying skin. The etiology of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is still obscure. Its treatment remains controversial. The cause may be the autoimmune process, infection, a chemical reaction associated with oral contraceptive pills, or even lactation. Various factors, including hormonal imbalance, autoimmunity, unknown microbiological agents, smoking and α 1-antitrypsin deficiency have been suggested to play a role in disease aetiology. In this review, causing factors in the aetiology of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis are reviewed in detail.

  7. Aetiology of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis

    PubMed Central

    Altintoprak, Fatih; Kivilcim, Taner; Ozkan, Orhan Veli

    2014-01-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is a rare chronic inflammatory lesion of the breast that can clinically and radiographically mimic breast carcinoma. The most common clinical presentation is an unilateral, discrete breast mass, nipple retraction and even a sinus formation often associated with an inflammation of the overlying skin. The etiology of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is still obscure. Its treatment remains controversial. The cause may be the autoimmune process, infection, a chemical reaction associated with oral contraceptive pills, or even lactation. Various factors, including hormonal imbalance, autoimmunity, unknown microbiological agents, smoking and α 1-antitrypsin deficiency have been suggested to play a role in disease aetiology. In this review, causing factors in the aetiology of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis are reviewed in detail. PMID:25516860

  8. Acute Idiopathic Scrotal Edema: Systematic Literature Review.

    PubMed

    Santi, Maristella; Lava, Sebastiano A G; Simonetti, Giacomo D; Bianchetti, Mario G; Milani, Gregorio P

    2018-06-01

     Existing information on acute idiopathic scrotal edema relies on small case series and textbooks.  We searched reports with no date limits on acute idiopathic scrotal edema.  Thirty-seven studies were included. Sixteen case series addressed the prevalence of acute idiopathic scrotal edema among males with acute scrotum: among 3,403 cases, the diagnosis of acute idiopathic scrotal edema was made in 413 cases (12%). Twenty-four reports addressed history, findings, management, and course of acute idiopathic scrotal edema in 311 patients. The patients mostly ranged in age from 5 to 8 years, presented with acute scrotal redness and swelling, associated or not with mild pain. Ninety percent or more of the cases developed in patients without atopic diathesis and were not preceded by inguinoscrotal surgery, acute febrile illnesses, or trauma. They were afebrile; in good general condition; and presented without pruritus, nausea or vomiting, or abdominal pain. The lesions were bilateral in two-thirds and unilateral in one-third of the cases. The condition resolved spontaneously within 2 to 3 days without sequelae. Approximately 10% of the cases experienced a recurrence.  Acute idiopathic scrotal edema is a self-limiting condition that accounts for ≥ 10% of cases of acute scrotum in children and adolescents. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  9. Idiopathic hypersomnia: a study of 77 cases.

    PubMed

    Anderson, Kirstie N; Pilsworth, Samantha; Sharples, Linda D; Smith, Ian E; Shneerson, John M

    2007-10-01

    To review the clinical and polysomnographic characteristics of idiopathic hypersomnia as well as the long-term response to treatment. The Respiratory Support and Sleep Centre at Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, UK. A large database of more than 6000 patients with sleep disorders was reviewed. A retrospective study of the clinical and polysomnographic characteristics of 77 patients with idiopathic hypersomnia was performed. Comparison with a similar group of patients with narcolepsy was performed. The response to drug treatment was assessed in 61 patients over a mean follow-up of 3.8 years. Idiopathic hypersomnia was 60% as prevalent as narcolepsy. Comparison with a similar group of patients with narcolepsy showed that those with idiopathic hypersomnia were more likely to have prolonged unrefreshing daytime naps, a positive family history, increased slow-wave sleep, and a longer sleep latency on the Multiple Sleep Latency Test. The results of the Multiple Sleep Latency Test were not helpful in predicting disease severity or treatment response. The clinical features were heterogeneous and of variable severity. The majority of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia had symptoms that remained stable over many years, but 11% had spontaneous remission, which was never seen in narcolepsy. Two thirds of patients with idiopathic hypersomnolence had a sustained improvement in daytime somnolence with medication, although a third needed high doses or combinations of drugs. Idiopathic hypersomnolence has characteristic clinical and polysomnographic features but the prolonged latency on the Multiple Sleep Latency Test raises doubt about the validity of this test within the current diagnostic criteria. The disease often responds well to treatment and a substantial minority of patients appear to spontaneously improve.

  10. [Idiopathic facial paralysis in children].

    PubMed

    Achour, I; Chakroun, A; Ayedi, S; Ben Rhaiem, Z; Mnejja, M; Charfeddine, I; Hammami, B; Ghorbel, A

    2015-05-01

    Idiopathic facial palsy is the most common cause of facial nerve palsy in children. Controversy exists regarding treatment options. The objectives of this study were to review the epidemiological and clinical characteristics as well as the outcome of idiopathic facial palsy in children to suggest appropriate treatment. A retrospective study was conducted on children with a diagnosis of idiopathic facial palsy from 2007 to 2012. A total of 37 cases (13 males, 24 females) with a mean age of 13.9 years were included in this analysis. The mean duration between onset of Bell's palsy and consultation was 3 days. Of these patients, 78.3% had moderately severe (grade IV) or severe paralysis (grade V on the House and Brackmann grading). Twenty-seven patients were treated in an outpatient context, three patients were hospitalized, and seven patients were treated as outpatients and subsequently hospitalized. All patients received corticosteroids. Eight of them also received antiviral treatment. The complete recovery rate was 94.6% (35/37). The duration of complete recovery was 7.4 weeks. Children with idiopathic facial palsy have a very good prognosis. The complete recovery rate exceeds 90%. However, controversy exists regarding treatment options. High-quality studies have been conducted on adult populations. Medical treatment based on corticosteroids alone or combined with antiviral treatment is certainly effective in improving facial function outcomes in adults. In children, the recommendation for prescription of steroids and antiviral drugs based on adult treatment appears to be justified. Randomized controlled trials in the pediatric population are recommended to define a strategy for management of idiopathic facial paralysis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  11. Evaluation of secondary surgery to enlarge the peeling of the internal limiting membrane following the failed surgery of idiopathic macular holes.

    PubMed

    Che, Xin; He, Fanglin; Lu, Linna; Zhu, Dongqing; Xu, Xiaofang; Song, Xin; Fan, Xianqun; Wang, Zhiliang

    2014-03-01

    The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical results of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) combined with the surgical enlargement of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in patients who had previously undergone failed idiopathic macular hole (IMH) surgery. In the study, 134 eyes from 130 IMH patients who had received PPV combined with ILM peeling surgery (2 disk diameters) were analyzed. Within this cohort, 14 eyes had IMHs that were not closed, of which 13 eyes underwent a second surgery involving enlargement of the ILM peeling. The extent of the ILM peeling was increased to the vascular arcades of the posterior fundus in the secondary surgery. Of the 13 eyes that underwent secondary surgery, five were in stage III and nine were in stage IV. The second surgery successfully achieved IMH closure in 61.5% (8/13) of the eyes. The IMH was completely closed following surgery and the logMAR vision increased from 0.98 to 0.84 (P=0.013) in the 8 successfully treated cases. The surgical enlargement of ILM peeling closed the IMHs and improved vision in the majority of patients. In addition, the procedures were safe. Therefore, the results of the present study indicate that enlargement of ILM peeling may be an effective therapy for patients who have previously undergone the failed surgical correction of an IMH.

  12. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

    MedlinePlus

    ... www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21452260 . Long AR, Rouster-Stevens KA. The role of exercise therapy ... nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21131338 . Wu EY, Bryan AR, Rabinovich CE. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In: Kliegman RM, ...

  13. [The temporomandibular joint in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: what radiologists need to look for on magnetic resonance imaging].

    PubMed

    De La Hoz Polo, M; Navallas, M

    2014-01-01

    The term "juvenile idiopathic arthritis" (JIA) encompasses a group of arthritis of unknown cause with onset before the age of 16 years that last for at least 6 weeks. The prevalence of temporomandibular joint involvement in published series ranges from 17% to 87%. Temporomandibular joint involvement is difficult to detect clinically, so imaging plays a key role in diagnosis and monitoring treatment. MRI is the technique of choice for the study of arthritis of the temporomandibular joint because it is the most sensitive technique for detecting acute synovitis and bone edema. Power Doppler ultrasonography can also detect active synovitis by showing the hypervascularization of the inflamed synovial membrane, but it cannot identify bone edema. This article describes the MRI technique for evaluating the temporomandibular joint in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, defines the parameters to look for, and illustrates the main findings. Copyright © 2013 SERAM. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  14. Intraspinal anomalies in early-onset idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Pereira, E A C; Oxenham, M; Lam, K S

    2017-06-01

    In the United Kingdom, lower incidences of intraspinal abnormalities in patients with early onset idiopathic scoliosis have been observed than in studies in other countries. We aimed to determine the rates of these abnormalities in United Kingdom patients diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis before the age of 11 years. This retrospective study of patients attending an urban scoliosis clinic identified 71 patients satisfying a criteria of: clinical diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis; age of onset ten years and 11 months or less; MRI screening for intraspinal abnormalities. United Kingdom census data combined with patient referral data was used to calculate incidence. Mean age at diagnosis was six years with 39 right-sided and 32 left-sided curves. Four patients (5.6%) were found to have intraspinal abnormalities on MRI. These consisted of: two combined Arnold-Chiari type 1 malformations with syrinx; one syrinx with a low lying conus; and one isolated syrinx. Overall annual incidence of early onset idiopathic scoliosis was one out of 182 000 (0.0006%). This study reports the lowest rates to date of intraspinal anomalies in patients with early onset idiopathic scoliosis, adding to knowledge regarding current incidences of these abnormalities as well as any geographical variation in the nature of the disease. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:829-33. ©2017 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

  15. Angiopoietin-2 polymorphism in women with idiopathic recurrent miscarriage.

    PubMed

    Pietrowski, Detlef; Tempfer, Clemens; Bettendorf, Hertha; Bürkle, Bernd; Nagele, Fritz; Unfried, Gertrud; Keck, Christoph

    2003-10-01

    To investigate the relationship between idiopathic recurrent miscarriage and a polymorphism of the gene encoding for angiopoietin-2 (ANGPT2), an autochthonous modulator of angiogenesis during pregnancy. Prospective case control study. Academic research institution. One hundred thirty-one women with a history of three or more consecutive pregnancy losses before 20 weeks' gestation, and 125 healthy, postmenopausal controls with at least two live births and no history of pregnancy loss. Peripheral venous puncture. Polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis were performed to identify the different ANGPT2 alleles. No association between mutant (mt) allele and the occurrence of idiopathic recurrent miscarriage was found. Between women with primary and secondary idiopathic recurrent miscarriage, no statistically significant differences with respect to allele frequencies were observed. This is the first report on the ANGPT2 gene polymorphism in women with idiopathic recurrent miscarriage, demonstrating that the investigated polymorphism is not associated with idiopathic recurrent miscarriage in a white population.

  16. [Drusen characteristics after internal limiting membrane peeling].

    PubMed

    Lehmann, F; Jenisch, T; Helbig, H; Gamulescu, M A

    2015-05-01

    There are some reports showing isolated cases of drusen regression after pars plana vitrectomy (ppV) with peeling of the internal limiting membrane (iLM). Drusen characteristics after iLM peeling was investigated in this study. The data of 527 patients who had received iLM peeling between 2004 and 2012 were retrospectively collected and those patients with retinal drusen were selected for the study. Fundus photographs before and after vitrectomy due to a macular hole or epiretinal gliosis were compared and drusen arrangement in the peeling site was analyzed. The aim of the study was to show whether there was drusen regression 2-5 months after surgery. Out of the 527 patients 11 showed central macular drusen, 4 with confluent large drusen (> 63 µm diameter) and 7 with small hard drusen (≤ 63 µm diameter). One patient showed drusen regression after iLM peeling without any changes in the other eye and all other patients showed no differences in the drusen findings (n = 6) or even some additional drusen (n = 4) without drusen alterations in the other eye. The results of this study could not confirm some reports showing drusen regression after iLM peeling in the peeling site in general and there was only one single case of central drusen regression.

  17. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RETINAL REATTACHMENT SURGERY WITH OR WITHOUT INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING TO PREVENT POSTOPERATIVE MACULAR PUCKER.

    PubMed

    Forlini, Matteo; Date, Purva; Ferrari, Luisa Micelli; Lorusso, Massimo; Lecce, Gabriella; Verdina, Tommaso; Neri, Giovanni; Benatti, Caterina; Rossini, Paolo; Bratu, Adriana; DʼEliseo, Domenico; Ferrari, Tommaso Micelli; Cavallini, Gian Maria

    2017-07-18

    To determine whether internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling during pars plana vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment reduces the incidence of epiretinal membrane (ERM) formation. In this retrospective study, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data from all eyes undergoing pars plana vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment between January 2007 and December 2013 was analyzed. All cases with at least 1-year of follow-up were included. Data collection included vision, intraoperative complications, occurrence of ERM, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography characteristics. The OCTs were retrieved for all eyes and were graded by a single masked grader. Out of 159 eyes recruited, ILM peeling was done in 78 eyes (49%). Overall occurrence of ERM was 20%. Seven eyes (9%) in ILM peeling group and 25 eyes in the non-ILM peeling group (31%) showed ERM (P = 0.001). Postoperative vision was significantly better in eyes that had ILM peeling (0.48 ± 0.4 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [20/63] vs. 0.77 ± 0.6 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [20/125], P = 0.003). In multivariable models adjusting for type of tamponade, ILM peeling reduced the likelihood of ERM formation by 75% (P = 0.01). Internal limiting membrane peeling during pars plana vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment significantly reduces ERM formation in the postoperative period and is associated with better visual and anatomical outcomes.

  18. HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 Polymorphisms and Risk of Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy

    PubMed Central

    Bullich, Gemma; Ballarín, José; Oliver, Artur; Ayasreh, Nadia; Silva, Irene; Santín, Sheila; Díaz-Encarnación, Montserrat M.; Torra, Roser

    2014-01-01

    Summary Background and objectives Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within HLA complex class II HLA-DQ α-chain 1 (HLA-DQA1) and M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R1) genes were identified as strong risk factors for idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) development in a recent genome-wide association study. Copy number variants (CNVs) within the Fc gamma receptor III (FCGR3) locus have been associated with several autoimmune diseases, but their role in IMN has not been studied. This study aimed to validate the association of HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 risk alleles with IMN in a Spanish cohort, test the putative association of FCGR3A and FCGR3B CNVs with IMN, and assess the use of these genetic factors to predict the clinical outcome of the disease. Design, settings, participants, & measurements A Spanish cohort of 89 IMN patients and 286 matched controls without nephropathy was recruited between October of 2009 and July of 2012. Case-control studies for SNPs within HLA-DQA1 (rs2187668) and PLA2R1 (rs4664308) genes and CNVs for FCGR3A and FCGR3B genes were performed. The contribution of these polymorphisms to predict clinical outcome and renal function decline was analyzed. Results This study validated the association of these HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 SNPs with IMN in a Spanish cohort and its increased risk when combining both risk genotypes. No significant association was found between FCGR3 CNVs and IMN. These results revealed that HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 genotype combination adjusted for baseline proteinuria strongly predicted response to immunosuppressive therapy. HLA-DQA1 genotype adjusted for proteinuria was also linked with renal function decline. Conclusion This study confirms that HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 genotypes are risk factors for IMN, whereas no association was identified for FCGR3 CNVs. This study provides, for the first time, evidence of the contribution of these HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 polymorphisms in predicting IMN response to immunosuppressors and disease

  19. HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 polymorphisms and risk of idiopathic membranous nephropathy.

    PubMed

    Bullich, Gemma; Ballarín, José; Oliver, Artur; Ayasreh, Nadia; Silva, Irene; Santín, Sheila; Díaz-Encarnación, Montserrat M; Torra, Roser; Ars, Elisabet

    2014-02-01

    Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within HLA complex class II HLA-DQ α-chain 1 (HLA-DQA1) and M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R1) genes were identified as strong risk factors for idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) development in a recent genome-wide association study. Copy number variants (CNVs) within the Fc gamma receptor III (FCGR3) locus have been associated with several autoimmune diseases, but their role in IMN has not been studied. This study aimed to validate the association of HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 risk alleles with IMN in a Spanish cohort, test the putative association of FCGR3A and FCGR3B CNVs with IMN, and assess the use of these genetic factors to predict the clinical outcome of the disease. A Spanish cohort of 89 IMN patients and 286 matched controls without nephropathy was recruited between October of 2009 and July of 2012. Case-control studies for SNPs within HLA-DQA1 (rs2187668) and PLA2R1 (rs4664308) genes and CNVs for FCGR3A and FCGR3B genes were performed. The contribution of these polymorphisms to predict clinical outcome and renal function decline was analyzed. This study validated the association of these HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 SNPs with IMN in a Spanish cohort and its increased risk when combining both risk genotypes. No significant association was found between FCGR3 CNVs and IMN. These results revealed that HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 genotype combination adjusted for baseline proteinuria strongly predicted response to immunosuppressive therapy. HLA-DQA1 genotype adjusted for proteinuria was also linked with renal function decline. This study confirms that HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 genotypes are risk factors for IMN, whereas no association was identified for FCGR3 CNVs. This study provides, for the first time, evidence of the contribution of these HLA-DQA1 and PLA2R1 polymorphisms in predicting IMN response to immunosuppressors and disease progression. Future studies are needed to validate and identify prognostic markers.

  20. Comparison of CSF Distribution between Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus and Alzheimer Disease.

    PubMed

    Yamada, S; Ishikawa, M; Yamamoto, K

    2016-07-01

    CSF volumes in the basal cistern and Sylvian fissure are increased in both idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and Alzheimer disease, though the differences in these volumes in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and Alzheimer disease have not been well-described. Using CSF segmentation and volume quantification, we compared the distribution of CSF in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and Alzheimer disease. CSF volumes were extracted from T2-weighted 3D spin-echo sequences on 3T MR imaging and quantified semi-automatically. We compared the volumes and ratios of the ventricles and subarachnoid spaces after classification in 30 patients diagnosed with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, 10 with concurrent idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and Alzheimer disease, 18 with Alzheimer disease, and 26 control subjects 60 years of age or older. Brain to ventricle ratios at the anterior and posterior commissure levels and 3D volumetric convexity cistern to ventricle ratios were useful indices for the differential diagnosis of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus or idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus with Alzheimer disease from Alzheimer disease, similar to the z-Evans index and callosal angle. The most distinctive characteristics of the CSF distribution in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus were small convexity subarachnoid spaces and the large volume of the basal cistern and Sylvian fissure. The distribution of the subarachnoid spaces in the idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus with Alzheimer disease group was the most deformed among these 3 groups, though the mean ventricular volume of the idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus with Alzheimer disease group was intermediate between that of the idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and Alzheimer disease groups. The z-axial expansion of the lateral ventricle and compression of the brain just above the ventricle were the common findings in the parameters for differentiating

  1. Intestinal Volvulus in Idiopathic Steatorrhea

    PubMed Central

    Warner, H. A.; Kinnear, D. G.; Cameron, D. G.

    1963-01-01

    Volvulus of the intestine has recently been observed in three patients with idiopathic steatorrhea in relapse. Two patients gave a history of intermittent abdominal pain, distension and obstipation. Radiographic studies during these attacks revealed obstruction at the level of the sigmoid colon. Reduction under proctoscopic control was achieved in one instance, spontaneous resolution occurring in the other. The third patient presented as a surgical emergency and underwent operative reduction of a small intestinal volvulus. Persistence of diarrhea and weight loss postoperatively led to further investigation and a diagnosis of idiopathic steatorrhea. In all cases, treatment resulted in clinical remission with a coincident disappearance of obstructive intestinal symptoms. The pathogenesis of volvulus in sprue is poorly understood. Atonicity and dilatation of the bowel and stretching of the mesentery likely represent important factors. The symptoms of recurrent abdominal pain and distension in idiopathic steatorrhea necessitate an increased awareness of intestinal volvulus as a complication of this disease. ImagesFig. 1Fig. 2Fig. 3Figs. 4 and 5Fig. 6 PMID:13998948

  2. Nonsurgical Management of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Gomez, Jaime A; Hresko, M Timothy; Glotzbecker, Michael P

    2016-08-01

    Pediatric patient visits for spinal deformity are common. Most of these visits are for nonsurgical management of scoliosis, with approximately 600,000 visits for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) annually. Appropriate management of scoliotic curves that do not meet surgical indication parameters is essential. Renewed enthusiasm for nonsurgical management of AIS (eg, bracing, physical therapy) exists in part because of the results of the Bracing in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Trial, which is the only randomized controlled trial available on the use of bracing for AIS. Bracing is appropriate for idiopathic curves between 20° and 40°, with successful control of these curves reported in >70% of patients. Patient adherence to the prescribed duration of wear is essential to maximize the effectiveness of the brace. The choice of brace type must be individualized according to the deformity and the patient's personality as well as the practice setting and brace availability.

  3. Occurrence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis during immunosuppressive treatment: a case report.

    PubMed

    Cerri, Stefania; Sgalla, Giacomo; Richeldi, Luca; Luppi, Fabrizio

    2016-05-25

    Immunosuppressive therapy has been-until the recent release of new guidelines on diagnosis and management-the recommended treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, its efficacy in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis has always been a matter of debate. We report the occurrence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in a white man receiving chronic immunosuppressive treatment following a heart transplant. This case report suggests that the immune mechanisms targeted by azathioprine and cyclosporine do not play a role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

  4. IgG abnormality in narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia.

    PubMed

    Tanaka, Susumu; Honda, Makoto

    2010-03-05

    A close association between narcolepsy and the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-DQB1*0602 allele suggests the involvement of the immune system, or possibly an autoimmune process. We investigated serum IgG levels in narcolepsy. We measured the serum total IgG levels in 159 Japanese narcolepsy-cataplexy patients positive for the HLA-DQB1*0602 allele, 28 idiopathic hypersomnia patients with long sleep time, and 123 healthy controls (the HLA-DQB1*0602 allele present in 45 subjects). The serum levels of each IgG subclass were subsequently measured. The distribution of serum IgG was significantly different among healthy controls negative for the HLA-DQB1*0602 allele (11.66+/-3.55 mg/ml), healthy controls positive for the HLA-DQB1*0602 allele (11.45+/-3.43), narcolepsy patients (9.67+/-3.38), and idiopathic hypersomnia patients (13.81+/-3.80). None of the following clinical variables, age, disease duration, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, smoking habit and BMI at the time of blood sampling, were associated with IgG levels in narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia. Furthermore we found the decrease in IgG1 and IgG2 levels, stable expression of IgG3, and the increase in the proportion of IgG4 in narcolepsy patients with abnormally low IgG levels. The increase in the proportion of IgG4 levels was also found in narcolepsy patients with normal serum total IgG levels. Idiopathic hypersomnia patients showed a different pattern of IgG subclass distribution with high IgG3 and IgG4 level, low IgG2 level, and IgG1/IgG2 imbalance. Our study is the first to determine IgG abnormalities in narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia by measuring the serum IgG levels in a large number of hypersomnia patients. The observed IgG abnormalities indicate humoral immune alterations in narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. Different IgG profiles suggest immunological differences between narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia.

  5. Pathology of idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension.

    PubMed

    Guido, Maria; Sarcognato, Samantha; Sacchi, Diana; Colloredo, Guido

    2018-04-12

    Idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension is an under-recognized vascular liver disease of unknown etiology, characterized by clinical signs of portal hypertension in the absence of cirrhosis. By definition, any disorder known to cause portal hypertension in the absence of cirrhosis and any cause of chronic liver disease must be excluded to make a diagnosis of idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension. However, the diagnosis is often difficult because the disease resembles cirrhosis and there is no gold standard test. Liver biopsy is an essential tool: it is able to exclude cirrhosis and other causes of portal hypertension and it allows the identification of the characteristic lesions. Nonetheless, the histological diagnosis of idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension is not always straightforward, in particular by needle biopsy samples, because there is no pathognomonic lesion, but rather a variety of vascular changes which are unevenly distributed, very subtle, and not all necessarily identified in a single specimen. Pathologists should be able to recognize several patterns of injury, involving portal/periportal areas as well as parenchymal structures.The histological features of idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension are described in this review, focusing on their interpretation in needle biopsy specimens.

  6. [Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis].

    PubMed

    2016-12-01

    Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a 3D spinal deformity in frontal, sagittal and axial planes, with high relevance in the pediatric population especially in adolescents and females between 10 years of age and the end of growth spurt and skeletal maturity. The radiographic manifestation is a curve greater than 10° measured by Cobb method associated with vertebral rotation. "Idiopathic" diagnosis has to be done after neuroanatomical anomalies of the posterior cerebral fosa and spinal canal have been ruled out. The physical finding of a thoracic or lumbar hump is the clinical manifestation of vertebral rotation seen in a forward bending test (Adam's Test). It is recommended that all curves with a magnitude greater than 20° have to be controlled and treated by a spinal surgeon being observation, bracing and surgery the different treatment options based on the extent, progression of deformity and basically the clinical condition of the patient. Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría.

  7. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Xaubet, Antoni; Ancochea, Julio; Molina-Molina, María

    2017-02-23

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a fibrosing interstitial pneumonia associated with the radiological and/or histological pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia. Its aetiology is unknown, but probably comprises the action of endogenous and exogenous micro-environmental factors in subjects with genetic predisposition. Its diagnosis is based on the presence of characteristic findings of high-resolution computed tomography scans and pulmonary biopsies in absence of interstitial lung diseases of other aetiologies. Its clinical evolution is variable, although the mean survival rate is 2-5 years as of its clinical presentation. Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis may present complications and comorbidities which modify the disease's clinical course and prognosis. In the mild-moderate disease, the treatment consists of the administration of anti-fibrotic drugs. In severe disease, the best therapeutic option is pulmonary transplantation. In this paper we review the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of the disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  8. Idiopathic toe walking.

    PubMed

    Oetgen, Matthew E; Peden, Sean

    2012-05-01

    Toe walking is a bilateral gait abnormality in which a normal heel strike is absent and most weight bearing occurs through the forefoot. This abnormality may not be pathologic in patients aged <2 years, but it is a common reason for referral to an orthopaedic surgeon. Toe walking can be caused by several neurologic and developmental abnormalities and may be the first sign of a global developmental problem. Cases that lack a definitive etiology are categorized as idiopathic. A detailed history, with careful documentation of the developmental history, and a thorough physical examination are required in the child with a primary report of toe walking. Treatment is based on age and the severity of the abnormality. Management includes observation, stretching, casting, bracing, chemodenervation, and surgical lengthening of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex and/or Achilles tendon. An understanding of idiopathic toe walking as well as treatment options and their outcomes can help the physician individualize treatment to achieve optimal results.

  9. CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF IDIOPATHIC FOVEOMACULAR RETINOSCHISIS.

    PubMed

    Maruko, Ichiro; Morizane, Yuki; Kimura, Shuhei; Shiode, Yusuke; Hosokawa, Mio; Sekiryu, Tetsuju; Iida, Tomohiro; Shiraga, Fumio

    2016-08-01

    To describe the clinical features of idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis not in association with myopia, glaucoma, optic disk pit, or juvenile retinoschisis. Retrospective observational case series. Five eyes of five patients with idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis were included. The patients were 2 men and 3 women (average age, 75.2 years; range, 71-78 years). The average spherical equivalent was +2.40 diopters (range, +0.88 to +5.75 diopters), and the average axial length was 22.0 mm (range, 21.1-23.1 mm). All patients had retinoschisis from the macula to the optic disk in the affected eye. No patients had retinoschisis in the fellow eye. The average best-corrected visual acuity was 20/44 (68 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letter score). Idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis is not inherited or associated with myopia, vitreomacular traction syndrome, optic pit, or glaucoma but is associated with older age, unilaterality, hyperopia with short axial length, complete posterior vitreous detachment, and weak leakage from the optic disk on fluorescein angiography.

  10. Optimal management of idiopathic scoliosis in adolescence

    PubMed Central

    Kotwicki, Tomasz; Chowanska, Joanna; Kinel, Edyta; Czaprowski, Dariusz; Tomaszewski, Marek; Janusz, Piotr

    2013-01-01

    Idiopathic scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity of the growing spine, affecting 2%–3% of adolescents. Although benign in the majority of patients, the natural course of the disease may result in significant disturbance of body morphology, reduced thoracic volume, impaired respiration, increased rates of back pain, and serious esthetic concerns. Risk of deterioration is highest during the pubertal growth spurt and increases the risk of pathologic spinal curvature, increasing angular value, trunk imbalance, and thoracic deformity. Early clinical detection of scoliosis relies on careful examination of trunk shape and is subject to screening programs in some regions. Treatment options are physiotherapy, corrective bracing, or surgery for mild, moderate, or severe scoliosis, respectively, with both the actual degree of deformity and prognosis being taken into account. Physiotherapy used in mild idiopathic scoliosis comprises general training of the trunk musculature and physical capacity, while specific physiotherapeutic techniques aim to address the spinal curvature itself, attempting to achieve self-correction with active trunk movements developed in a three-dimensional space by an instructed adolescent under visual and proprioceptive control. Moderate but progressive idiopathic scoliosis in skeletally immature adolescents can be successfully halted using a corrective brace which has to be worn full time for several months or until skeletal maturity, and is able to prevent more severe deformity and avoid the need for surgical treatment. Surgery is the treatment of choice for severe idiopathic scoliosis which is rapidly progressive, with early onset, late diagnosis, and neglected or failed conservative treatment. The psychologic impact of idiopathic scoliosis, a chronic disease occurring in the psychologically fragile period of adolescence, is important because of its body distorting character and the onerous treatment required, either conservative or surgical

  11. Treatment of the idiopathic scoliosis with brace and physiotherapy.

    PubMed

    Hundozi-Hysenaj, Hajrije; Dallku, Iliriana Boshnjaku; Murtezani, Ardiana; Rrecaj, Shkurte

    2009-01-01

    Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformation of the spine with a lateral curvature or deviation greater than 10 degrees and associated with vertebral rotation. Many conservative treatments are available for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis, but the evidence for their effectiveness is still questioned. The objective of this study was to define the effectiveness of braces and individual physiotherapy for the comprehensive treatment of idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents. A retrospective study of 57 children with idiopathic thoracic dextroscoliosis with the magnitude of the thoracic curve between 20 degrees-35 degrees, treated in Orthopedic and Physiatrist Clinic as well as National Ortho-prosthetic Center within University Clinical Center of Kosova in Prishtina, during the period of 2003-2006. Inclusion of kinesitherapy in the comprehensive management of idiopathic scoliosis varied in the improvement of the muscle strength (satisfied and moderate) in almost 80% of the children while the correction of the curve was small in approximately 42.1% of cases. For children with idiopathic scoliosis, who require braces, an exercise program helps chest mobility, muscle strength, proper breathing flexibility in the spine, correct posture and keeps muscles in tone so that the transition period after brace removal is easier.

  12. Correlations between M-CHARTS and PHP findings and subjective perception of metamorphopsia in patients with macular diseases.

    PubMed

    Arimura, Eiko; Matsumoto, Chota; Nomoto, Hiroki; Hashimoto, Shigeki; Takada, Sonoko; Okuyama, Sachiko; Shimomura, Yoshikazu

    2011-01-05

    To assess the correlations between a patient's subjective perception of metamorphopsia and the clinical measurements of metamorphopsia by M-CHARTS and PreView PHP (PHP). The authors designed a 10-item questionnaire focusing on the symptoms of metamorphopsia and verified its validity with a Rasch analysis. M-CHARTS measured the minimum visual angle of a dotted line needed to detect metamorphopsia, and PHP used the hyperacuity function for detection. Subjects were 39 patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM), 22 patients with idiopathic macular hole (M-hole), 19 patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and 51 healthy controls. Rasch analysis suggested the elimination of one question. The nine-item questionnaire score significantly correlated to the M-CHARTS score in ERM (r = 0.59; P = 0.0004) but not in M-hole and to the PHP result in AMD (r = -0.29; P = 0.04) but not in ERM. Eighty percent of ERM patients with greater horizontal M-CHARTS score subjectively perceived horizontal metamorphopsia more often. M-CHARTS showed better sensitivities than PHP in both ERM (89% vs. 42%) and AMD (74% vs. 68%) and better specificity (100% vs. 71%) in healthy controls. Rasch analysis indicated that the present form of the questionnaire is better suited for moderate to severe cases of metamorphopsia than for mild cases. The questionnaire appears to be a valid assessment of patient subjective perception of metamorphopsia and can be used to supplement the clinical measurements of metamorphopsia by M-CHARTS and PHP in patients with macular diseases.

  13. Acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis triggered by Aspergillus empyema.

    PubMed

    Suzuki, Atsushi; Kimura, Tomoki; Kataoka, Kensuke; Matsuda, Toshiaki; Yokoyama, Toshiki; Mori, Yuta; Kondoh, Yasuhiro

    2018-01-01

    Acute exacerbation (AE) is a severe and life-threatening complication of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In 2016, the definition and diagnostic criteria for AE-IPF were updated by an international working group. The new definition includes any acute, clinically significant respiratory deterioration (both idiopathic and triggered events) characterized by evidence of new widespread alveolar abnormality in patients with IPF. There are no currently proven beneficial management strategies for idiopathic and triggered AE-IPF. This is the first report describing AE-IPF triggered by Aspergillus empyema, which was improved by a combination of corticosteroid, systemic antifungal therapy, local antifungal therapy, and additional pharmacological therapies. Future research may reveal optimal strategies for both idiopathic and triggered AE-IPF.

  14. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension and sickle cell disease: two case reports.

    PubMed

    Segal, Laura; Discepola, Marino

    2005-12-01

    Two patients with sickle cell disease presented with headaches and visual disturbances, typical complaints of this disorder. However, prompt diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension and initiation of medical therapy lead to improved symptoms and restored vision. Ophthalmologists should consider sickle cell disease to be an independent risk factor for idiopathic intracranial hypertension when a patient is being assessed for visual disturbances. Although a rare condition, idiopathic intracranial hypertension has several key signs useful in establishing a diagnosis. It is critical to recognize the warning signs and symptoms to prevent devastating ophthalmologic complications. We report the first cases of idiopathic intracranial hypertension in patients with the novel Quebec-Chori beta-chain variant of sickle cell disease.

  15. Guidelines for the medical treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Xaubet, Antoni; Molina-Molina, María; Acosta, Orlando; Bollo, Elena; Castillo, Diego; Fernández-Fabrellas, Estrella; Rodríguez-Portal, José Antonio; Valenzuela, Claudia; Ancochea, Julio

    2017-05-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is defined as chronic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia limited to the lung, with poor prognosis. The incidence has been rising in recent years probably due to improved diagnostic methods and increased life expectancy. In 2013, the SEPAR guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis were published. Since then, clinical trials and meta-analyses have shown strong scientific evidence for the use of pirfenidone and nintedanib in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In 2015, the international consensus of 2011 was updated and new therapeutic recommendations were established, prompting us to update our recommendation for the medical treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis accordingly. Diagnostic aspects and non-pharmacological treatment will not be discussed as no relevant developments have emerged since the 2013 guidelines. Copyright © 2017 SEPAR. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  16. Twelve-month short-term safety and visual-acuity results from a multicentre prospective study of epiretinal strontium-90 brachytherapy with bevacizumab for the treatment of subfoveal choroidal neovascularisation secondary to age-related macular degeneration.

    PubMed

    Avila, M P; Farah, M E; Santos, A; Duprat, J P; Woodward, B W; Nau, J

    2009-03-01

    This study evaluated the short-term safety and feasibility of epiretinal strontium-90 brachytherapy delivered concomitantly with intravitreal bevacizumab for the treatment of subfoveal CNV due to AMD for 12 months. A 3-year follow-up is planned. In this prospective, non-randomised, multicentre study, 34 treatment-naïve patients with predominantly classic, minimally classic and occult subfoveal CNV lesions received a single treatment with 24 Gy beta radiation (strontium-90) and two injections of the anti-VEGF antibody bevacizumab. Adverse events were observed. BCVA was measured using standard ETDRS vision charts. Twelve months after treatment, no radiation-associated adverse events were observed. In the intent-to-treat (ITT) population, 91% of patients lost <3 lines (15 ETDRS letters) of vision at 12 months, 68% improved or maintained their BCVA at 12 months, and 38% gained >/=3 lines. The mean change in BCVA observed at month 12 was a gain of 8.9 letters. The safety and efficacy of intraocular, epiretinal brachytherapy delivered concomitantly with anti-VEGF therapy for the treatment of subfoveal CNV secondary to AMD were promising in this small study population. Long-term safety will be assessed for 3 years. This regimen is being evaluated in a large, multicentre, phase III study.

  17. Maternal asthma and idiopathic preterm labor.

    PubMed

    Kramer, M S; Coates, A L; Michoud, M C; Dagenais, S; Moshonas, D; Davis, G M; Hamilton, E F; Nuwayhid, B; Joshi, A K; Papageorgiou, A

    1995-11-15

    Previous studies suggest that women with asthma are at increased risk of preterm birth. Moreover, drugs (especially beta-agonists) used to treat asthma are also used to treat preterm labor. The authors carried out a case-control study of 555 women from three hospital centers with idiopathic preterm labor (< 37 weeks), including two overlapping (i.e., non-mutually exclusive) subsamples: cases with early idiopathic preterm labor (< 34 weeks) and cases with idiopathic recurrent preterm labor (< 37 weeks plus a previous history of preterm delivery or second-trimester miscarriage). Controls were matched to cases according to race and smoking history prior to and during pregnancy. All subjects responded in person to questions about atopic, respiratory, obstetric, and sociodemographic histories. Subjects in the early and recurrent preterm labor subsamples were also asked to undergo spirometric testing with methacholine challenge 6-12 weeks after delivery. Cases were significantly more likely to report histories of asthma symptoms and physician-diagnosed asthma (matched odds ratios of 2-3) than controls, particularly those cases with recurrent preterm labor. No significant associations were observed, however, with methacholine responsiveness. These results could not be explained by residual confounding by smoking or other variables, nor by selective recall of asthma symptoms and histories by cases. Women with asthma are at increased risk of idiopathic preterm labor. The fact that no such association was seen with methacholine responsiveness suggests that nonatopic, noncholinergic mechanisms may link bronchial and uterine smooth muscle lability.

  18. Altered Regional Cerebral Blood Flow in Idiopathic Hypersomnia.

    PubMed

    Boucetta, Soufiane; Montplaisir, Jacques; Zadra, Antonio; Lachapelle, Francis; Soucy, Jean-Paul; Gravel, Paul; Dang-Vu, Thien Thanh

    2017-10-01

    Idiopathic hypersomnia is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, despite normal or long sleep time. Its pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. This pilot study aims at characterizing the neural correlates of idiopathic hypersomnia using single photon emission computed tomography. Thirteen participants with idiopathic hypersomnia and 16 healthy controls were scanned during resting wakefulness using a high-resolution single photon emission computed tomography scanner with 99mTc-ethyl cysteinate dimer to assess cerebral blood flow. The main analysis compared regional cerebral blood flow distribution between the two groups. Exploratory correlations between regional cerebral blood flow and clinical characteristics evaluated the functional correlates of those brain perfusion patterns. Significance was set at p < .05 after correction for multiple comparisons. Participants with idiopathic hypersomnia showed regional cerebral blood flow decreases in medial prefrontal cortex and posterior cingulate cortex and putamen, as well as increases in amygdala and temporo-occipital cortices. Lower regional cerebral blood flow in the medial prefrontal cortex was associated with higher daytime sleepiness. These preliminary findings suggest that idiopathic hypersomnia is characterized by functional alterations in brain areas involved in the modulation of vigilance states, which may contribute to the daytime symptoms of this condition. The distribution of regional cerebral blood flow changes was reminiscent of the patterns associated with normal non-rapid-eye-movement sleep, suggesting the possible presence of incomplete sleep-wake transitions. These abnormalities were strikingly distinct from those induced by acute sleep deprivation, suggesting that the patterns seen here might reflect a trait associated with idiopathic hypersomnia rather than a non-specific state of sleepiness. © Sleep Research Society 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Sleep

  19. Idiopathic Hypersomnia: Clinical Features and Response to Treatment

    PubMed Central

    Ali, Mohsin; Auger, R. Robert; Slocumb, Nancy L.; Morgenthaler, Timothy I.

    2009-01-01

    Objective: A recent American Academy of Sleep Medicine publication identified a need for research regarding idiopathic hypersomnia. We describe various clinical and polysomnographic features of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia, with an emphasis on response to pharmacotherapy. Methods: A retrospective review of our database initially identified 997 patients, utilizing “idiopathic hypersomnia,” “hypersomnia NOS,” and “primary hypersomnia” as keywords. The charts of eligible patients were examined in detail, and data were abstracted and analyzed. Response to treatment was graded utilizing an internally developed scale. Results: Eighty-five patients were ultimately identified (65% female). Median (interquartile range) ages of onset and diagnosis were 19.6 (15.5) and 33.7 (15.5), respectively. During a median follow-up duration of 2.4 (4.7) years, 65% of patients demonstrated a “complete response” to pharmacotherapy as assessed by the authors' grading schema. Methylphenidate was most commonly used as a first-line agent prior to December 1998, but subsequently, modafinil became the most common first drug. At the last recorded follow-up visit, 92% of patients were on monotherapy, with greater representation of methylphenidate versus modafinil (51% vs. 32%). Among these patients, methylphenidate produced a higher percentage of “complete” or “partial” responses than modafinil, although statistical significance was not reached (38/40 [ 95%] vs 22/25 [88%], respectively, p = 0.291). Conclusions: The majority of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia respond well to treatment. Methylphenidate is chosen more often than modafinil as final monotherapy in the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia, despite the fact that it is less commonly used initially. Further prospective comparisons of medications should be explored. Citation: Ali M; Auger RR; Slocumb NL; Morgenthaler TI. Idiopathic hypersomnia: clinical features and response to treatment. J Clin Sleep

  20. Treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis with losartan: a pilot project.

    PubMed

    Couluris, Marisa; Kinder, Brent W; Xu, Ping; Gross-King, Margaret; Krischer, Jeffrey; Panos, Ralph J

    2012-10-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive interstitial lung disease with no current effective therapies. Treatment has focused on antifibrotic agents to stop proliferation of fibroblasts and collagen deposition in the lung. We present the first clinical trial data on the use of losartan, an antifibrotic agent, to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The primary objective was to evaluate the effect of losartan on progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis measured by the change in percentage of predicted forced vital capacity (%FVC) after 12 months. Secondary outcomes included the change in forced expiratory volume at 1 second, diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide, 6-minute walk test distance, and baseline/transition dyspnea index. Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and a baseline %FVC of ≥50 % were treated with losartan 50 mg by mouth daily for 12 months. Pulmonary function testing, 6-minute walk, and breathlessness indices were measured every 3 months. Twenty participants with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis were enrolled and 17 patients were evaluable for response. Twelve patients had a stable or improved %FVC at study month 12. Similar findings were observed in secondary end-point measures, including 58, 71, and 65 % of patients with stable or improved forced expiratory volume at 1 second, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, and 6-minute walk test distance, respectively. No treatment-related adverse events that resulted in early study discontinuation were reported. Losartan stabilized lung function in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis over 12 months. Losartan is a promising agent for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and has a low toxicity profile.

  1. Brain MRI findings in patients with idiopathic hypersomnia.

    PubMed

    Trotti, Lynn Marie; Bliwise, Donald L

    2017-06-01

    Proper diagnosis of idiopathic hypersomnia necessitates the exclusion of neurologic or medical causes of sleepiness that better explain the clinical syndrome. However, there are no formal guidelines regarding the use of neuroimaging to identify such secondary causes of symptoms. We sought to characterize brain MRI findings in a series of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia. We reviewed medical records on a consecutive series of 61 patients diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnia to determine the frequency and results of brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). One-third of patients had undergone brain MRI, with focal neurologic signs or symptoms being the most common indication for neuroimaging. Although seven patients had an identifiable finding on neuroimaging (e.g., chronic microvascular ischemic changes), clinical management was changed as a result of imaging in only three cases. In all three, the imaging finding was predated by clear clinical abnormalities. Neuroimaging may be a complementary part of an idiopathic hypersomnia evaluation, but the decision to pursue imaging should be made on a case-by-case basis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: an institutional experience

    PubMed Central

    Prasad, Seetharam; Jaiprakash, Padmapriya; Dave, Aniket; Pai, Deepti

    2017-01-01

    Objective To study idiopathic granulomatous mastitis with respect to its various clinical features, etiologic factors, treatment modalities and complications. Material and methods Retrospective study of all patients who were diagnosed with idiopathic granulomatous mastitis from 1st January 2006 to 31st December 2014 at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, India (a tertiary care referral centre). The research was performed according to the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki. Informed consent was taken from the patient before invasive procedures including surgery. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 16.0 wherever appropriate. Results 73 patients diagnosed with idiopathic granulomatous mastitis during the time period were included. One patient was a male (1.37%), rest were all females (98.63%). The mean age of presentation was 32.67 years (range 23 to 66 years). 70 patients (95.89%) were parous females. Average duration since last childbirth was 4.6 years (range: 3 months to 33 years). 8 patients (10.95%) were lactating. History of oral contraceptive pill use was present in 40 patients (54.79%). The right breast was affected in 44 patients (60.27%), and the left breast in 29 patients (39.73%). None of the patients had bilateral disease. The most common symptom was a painless lump (61.64%). Rest of the patients (38.36%) presented with features of a breast abscess. 19 out of 39 FNACs done (48.72%) were positive for granulomatous mastitis. 59 were primarily managed surgically (lumpectomy/wide excision-33, incision & drainage-26). One patient was treated primarily with prednisolone. 13 patients did not receive specific treatment, and were only kept on regular follow-up. Patients managed with lumpectomy/wide excision had the least rate of complications & recurrence (18.18%). Conclusion Patients with idiopathic granulomatous mastitis can present with a wide variety of symptoms which mimic other more common conditions. Surgical

  3. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: a diagnostic dilemma for the breast radiologist.

    PubMed

    Sripathi, Smiti; Ayachit, Anurag; Bala, Archana; Kadavigere, Rajagopal; Kumar, Sandeep

    2016-08-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the breast, which is often difficult to differentiate both clinically and radiologically from infectious aetiologies such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, and also from malignancy, thus posing a diagnostic dilemma. We present a pictorial review of the commonly encountered imaging findings in idiopathic granulomatous mastitis on mammography and ultrasound. Mammographic and ultrasound findings of histopathologically proven cases of granulomatous mastitis are discussed. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis has varied and non-specific appearances on ultrasound and mammography. Histopathology is essential to establish diagnosis. • Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis often poses a diagnostic dilemma for the radiologist by mimicking malignancy. • It has varied and non-specific appearances on mammography and ultrasound. • Histopathology is mandatory to establish the diagnosis and decide management.

  4. [Importance of the new biologicals and cytokine antagonists in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)].

    PubMed

    Horneff, G

    2005-06-01

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is group of diseases of unknown aetiology characterised by the occurrence of chronic arthritis during childhood. Compared to adult onset rheumatoid arthritis, its course is more variable. Increasing knowledge of the inflammatory process as well as in molecular genetics and biotechnology has enable the production of new drugs, the biologicals. These are able to specifically block mechanisms of immune activation and thereby interfere with the inflammatory process. An increasing number of biologicals have been tried in clinical studies in adults suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis or psoriasis arthritis and a couple of them were already licensed for treatment. Treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis by blockade of tumournecrosis-factor (TNF) using the soluble receptor Etanercept or the monoclonal antibodies Infliximab and Adalimumab showed comparable clinical efficacy. Blockade of TNF therefore already reached a certain place in the therapeutic algorythm for treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Currently, only Etanercept is licensed for treatment of active juvenile polyarthritis refractory to methotrexate. Studies using Infliximab and Adalimumab will be completed in the near future. However, antibodies blocking TNF may already be used in patients suffering from active uncontrolled chronic uveitis in whom visual impairment is threatening. TNF blockers may also be indicated in juvenile ankylosing spondylitis. The use of further biologicals, the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist Anakinra, Atlizumab (MRA) blocking the receptor for interleukin-6 or Abatacept, an inhibitory ligand of the co-stimulatory T cell membrane molecule CD28, remain experimental and should be preserved for clinical studies.

  5. Idiopathic scrotal elephantiasis.

    PubMed

    Hornberger, Brad J; Elmore, James M; Roehrborn, Claus G

    2005-02-01

    Scrotal lymphedema (scrotal elephantiasis) is a condition that has historically been described in areas endemic to filariasis. We present a unique case of a 22-year-old man with idiopathic lymphedema isolated to the scrotum. After acquired causes of lymphedema were ruled out, the patient was treated with scrotectomy and scrotal reconstruction.

  6. Idiopathic diaphragmatic paralysis: Bell's palsy of the diaphragm?

    PubMed

    Crausman, Robert S; Summerhill, Eleanor M; McCool, F Dennis

    2009-01-01

    Idiopathic diaphragm paralysis is probably more common and responsible for more morbidity than generally appreciated. Bell's palsy, or idiopathic paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve, may be seen as an analogous condition. The roles of zoster sine herpete and herpes simplex have increasingly been recognized in Bell's palsy, and there are some data to suggest that antiviral therapy is a useful adjunct to steroid therapy. Thus, we postulated that antiviral therapy might have a positive impact on the course of acute idiopathic diaphragm paralysis which is likely related to viral infection. Three consecutive patients with subacute onset of symptomatic idiopathic hemidiaphragm paralysis were empirically treated with valacyclovir, 1,000 mg twice daily for 1 week. Prior to therapy, diaphragmatic function was assessed via pulmonary function testing and two-dimensional B-mode ultrasound, with testing repeated 1 month later. Diaphragmatic function pre- and post-treatment was compared to that of a historical control group of 16 untreated patients. All three subjects demonstrated ultrasound recovery of diaphragm function 4-6 weeks following treatment with valacyclovir. This recovery was accompanied by improvements in maximum inspiratory pressure (PI(max)) and vital capacity (VC). In contrast, in the untreated cohort, diaphragm recovery occurred in only 11 subjects, taking an average of 14.9 +/- 6.1 months (mean +/- SD). The results of this small, preliminary study suggest that antiviral therapy with valacyclovir may be helpful in the treatment of idiopathic diaphragm paralysis induced by a viral infection.

  7. [Physical therapy for idiopathic scoliosis].

    PubMed

    Steffan, K

    2015-11-01

    The objective is the description and summary of the current state of idiopathic scoliosis treatment with physical therapy based on new scientific knowledge and concluded from more than 15 years of experience as a leading physician in two well-known clinics specializing in the conservative treatment of scoliosis. Based on current scientific publications on physical therapy in scoliosis treatment and resulting from the considerable personal experience gained working with conservative treatment and consulting scoliosis patients (as inpatients and outpatients), the current methods of physical therapy have been compared and evaluated. Physical therapy according to Schroth and Vojta therapy are at present the most common and effective methods in the physical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. These methods can be applied during inpatient or outpatient treatment or intensified in the practice of specialized therapists. As there are only a few scientific studies on this subject, the author's findings are based mainly on his own experiences of the conservative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. Athough these experiences are the results of over 15 years of working in the field of therapy, and the Schroth method in combination with corrective bracing presents highly promising results, it would nevertheless be desirable to conduct detailed scientific studies to verify the effectiveness of conservative treatment.

  8. Idiopathic linear IgA bullous dermatosis: prognostic factors based on a case series of 72 adults.

    PubMed

    Gottlieb, J; Ingen-Housz-Oro, S; Alexandre, M; Grootenboer-Mignot, S; Aucouturier, F; Sbidian, E; Tancrede, E; Schneider, P; Regnier, E; Picard-Dahan, C; Begon, E; Pauwels, C; Cury, K; Hüe, S; Bernardeschi, C; Ortonne, N; Caux, F; Wolkenstein, P; Chosidow, O; Prost-Squarcioni, C

    2017-07-01

    Linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) is a clinically and immunologically heterogeneous, subepidermal, autoimmune bullous disease (AIBD), for which the long-term evolution is poorly described. To investigate the clinical and immunological characteristics, follow-up and prognostic factors of adult idiopathic LABD. This retrospective study, conducted in our AIBD referral centre, included adults, diagnosed between 1995 and 2012, with idiopathic LABD, defined as pure or predominant IgA deposits by direct immunofluorescence. Clinical, histological and immunological findings were collected from charts. Standard histology was systematically reviewed, and indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) on salt-split skin (SSS) and immunoblots (IBs) on amniotic membrane extracts using anti-IgA secondary antibodies were performed, when biopsies and sera obtained at diagnosis were available. Prognostic factors for complete remission (CR) were identified using univariate and multivariate analyses. Of the 72 patients included (median age 54 years), 60% had mucous membrane (MM) involvement. IgA IIF on SSS was positive for 21 of 35 patients tested; 15 had epidermal and dermal labellings. Immunoelectron microscopy performed on the biopsies of 31 patients labelled lamina lucida (LL) (26%), lamina densa (23%), anchoring-fibril zone (AFz) (19%) and LL+AFz (23%). Of the 34 IgA IBs, 22 were positive, mostly for LAD-1/LABD97 (44%) and full-length BP180 (33%). The median follow-up was 39 months. Overall, 24 patients (36%) achieved sustained CR, 19 (29%) relapsed and 35% had chronic disease. CR was significantly associated with age > 70 years or no MM involvement. No prognostic immunological factor was identified. Patients with LABD who are < 70 years old and have MM involvement are at risk for chronic evolution. © 2017 British Association of Dermatologists.

  9. Idiopathic hypersomnia: clinical features and response to treatment.

    PubMed

    Ali, Mohsin; Auger, R Robert; Slocumb, Nancy L; Morgenthaler, Timothy I

    2009-12-15

    A recent American Academy of Sleep Medicine publication identified a need for research regarding idiopathic hypersomnia. We describe various clinical and polysomnographic features of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia, with an emphasis on response to pharmacotherapy. A retrospective review of our database initially identified 997 patients, utilizing "idiopathic hypersomnia", "hypersomnia NOS", and "primary hypersomnia" as keywords. The charts of eligible patients were examined in detail, and data were abstracted and analyzed. Response to treatment was graded utilizing an internally developed scale. Eighty-five patients were ultimately identified (65% female). Median (interquartile range) ages of onset and diagnosis were 19.6 (15.5) and 33.7 (15.5), respectively. During a median follow-up duration of 2.4 (4.7) years, 65% of patients demonstrated a "complete response" to pharmacotherapy as assessed by the authors' grading schema. Methylphenidate was most commonly used as a first-line agent prior to December 1998, but subsequently, modafinil became the most common first drug. At the last recorded follow-up visit, 92% of patients were on monotherapy, with greater representation of methylphenidate versus modafinil (51% vs. 32%). Among these patients, methylphenidate produced a higher percentage of "complete" or "partial" responses than modafinil, although statistical significance was not reached (38/40 [95%] vs. 22/25 [88%], respectively, p = 0.291). The majority of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia respond well to treatment. Methylphenidate is chosen more often than modafinil as final monotherapy in the treatment of idiopathic hypersomnia, despite the fact that it is less commonly used initially. Further prospective comparisons of medications should be explored.

  10. Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies overlapping with systemic diseases

    PubMed Central

    Lepreux, Sébastien; Hainfellner, Johannes A.; Vital, Anne

    2018-01-01

    A muscle biopsy is currently requested to assess the diagnosis of an idiopathic inflammatory myopathy overlapping with a systemic disease. During the past few years, the classification of inflammatory myopathy subtypes has been revisited progressively on the basis of correlations between clinical phenotypes, autoantibodies and histological data. Several syndromic entities are now more clearly defined, and the aim of the present review is to clarify the contribution of muscle biopsy in a setting of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies overlapping with systemic diseases. PMID:29154752

  11. Leptin Receptor Metabolism Disorder in Primary Chondrocytes from Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Girls.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yun-Jia; Yu, Hong-Gui; Zhou, Zhen-Hai; Guo, Qiang; Wang, Long-Jie; Zhang, Hong-Qi

    2016-07-20

    To investigate the underlying mechanisms of low metabolic activity of primary chondrocytes obtained from girls with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS); AIS is a spine-deforming disease that often occurs in girls. AIS is associated with a lower bone mass than that of healthy individuals and osteopenia. Leptin was shown to play an important role in bone growth. It can also regulate the function of chondrocytes. Changes in leptin and Ob-R levels in AIS patients have been reported in several studies. The underlying mechanisms between the dysfunction of peripheral leptin signaling and abnormal chondrocytes remain unclear; The following parameters were evaluated in AIS patients and the control groups: total serum leptin levels; Ob-R expression in the plasma membrane of primary chondrocytes; JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation status. Then, we inhibited the lysosome and proteasome and knocked down clathrin heavy chain (CHC) expression in primary chondrocytes isolated from girls with AIS and evaluated Ob-R expression. We investigated the effects of leptin combined with a lysosome inhibitor or CHC knockdown in primary chondrocytes obtained from AIS patients; Compared with the controls, AIS patients showed similar total serum leptin levels, reduced JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation, and decreased cartilage matrix synthesis in the facet joint. Lower metabolic activity and lower membrane expression of Ob-R were observed in primary chondrocytes from the AIS group than in the controls. Lysosome inhibition increased the total Ob-R content but had no effect on the membrane expression of Ob-R or leptin's effects on AIS primary chondrocytes. CHC knockdown upregulated the membrane Ob-R levels and enhanced leptin's effects on AIS primary chondrocytes; The underlying mechanism of chondrocytes that are hyposensitive to leptin in some girls with AIS is low plasma membrane Ob-R expression that results from an imbalance between the rate of receptor endocytosis and the insertion of newly

  12. Obesity is a significant susceptibility factor for idiopathic AA amyloidosis.

    PubMed

    Blank, Norbert; Hegenbart, Ute; Dietrich, Sascha; Brune, Maik; Beimler, Jörg; Röcken, Christoph; Müller-Tidow, Carsten; Lorenz, Hanns-Martin; Schönland, Stefan O

    2018-03-01

    To investigate obesity as susceptibility factor in patients with idiopathic AA amyloidosis. Clinical, biochemical and genetic data were obtained from 146 patients with AA amyloidosis. Control groups comprised 40 patients with long-standing inflammatory diseases without AA amyloidosis and 56 controls without any inflammatory disease. Patients with AA amyloidosis had either familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) or long-standing rheumatic diseases as underlying inflammatory disease (n = 111, median age 46 years). However, in a significant proportion of patients with AA amyloidosis no primary disease was identified (idiopathic AA; n = 37, median age 60 years). Patients with idiopathic AA amyloidosis were more obese and older than patients with AA amyloidosis secondary to FMF or rheumatic diseases. Serum leptin levels correlated with the body mass index (BMI) in all types of AA amyloidosis. Elevated leptin levels of more than 30 µg/l were detected in 18% of FMF/rheumatic + AA amyloidosis and in 40% of patients with idiopathic AA amyloidosis (p = .018). Finally, the SAA1 polymorphism was confirmed as a susceptibility factor for AA amyloidosis irrespective of the type of the disease. Obesity, age and the SAA1 polymorphism are susceptibility factors for idiopathic AA amyloidosis. Recent advances in treatment of FMF and rheumatic disorders will decrease the incidence of AA amyloidosis due to these diseases. Idiopathic AA, however, might be an emerging problem in the ageing and increasingly obese population.

  13. Placental villous hypermaturation is associated with idiopathic preterm birth

    PubMed Central

    Morgan, Terry K.; Tolosa, Jorge E.; Mele, Lisa; Wapner, Ronald J.; Spong, Catherine Y.; Sorokin, Yoram; Dudley, Donald J.; Peaceman, Alan M.; Mercer, Brian M.; Thorp, John M.; O’Sullivan, Mary Jo; Ramin, Susan M.; Rouse, Dwight J.; Sibai, Baha

    2014-01-01

    Objective Pregnancy complications such as intra-amniotic infection, preeclampsia, and fetal intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) account for most cases of preterm birth (PTB), but many spontaneous PTB cases do not have a clear etiology. We hypothesize that placental insufficiency may be a potential cause of idiopathic PTB. Methods Secondary analysis of 82 placental samples from women with PTB obtained from a multicenter trial of repeat versus single antenatal corticosteroids. Samples were centrally reviewed by a single placental pathologist masked to clinical outcomes. The histopathologic criterion for infection was the presence of acute chorioamnionitis defined as neutrophils marginating into the chorionic plate. Placental villous hypermaturation (PVH) was defined as a predominance of terminal villi (similar to term placenta) with extensive syncytial knotting. Idiopathic PTB comprised a group without another known etiology such as preeclampsia, IUGR or infection. Results Acute chorioamnionitis was observed in 33/82 (40%) cases. Other known causes of PTB were reported in 18/82 (22%). The remaining 31/82 (38%) were idiopathic. The frequency of PVH in idiopathic PTB (26/31=84%) was similar to cases with IUGR or preeclampsia (16/ 18=89%), but significantly more common than PVH in the group with acute chorioamnionitis (10/33=30%) (p<0.001). Conclusions PVH, which is a histologic marker of relative placental insufficiency, is a common finding in idiopathic PTB. PMID:23130816

  14. Allelic variation of the FRMD7 gene in congenital idiopathic nystagmus.

    PubMed

    Self, James E; Shawkat, Fatima; Malpas, Crispin T; Thomas, N Simon; Harris, Christopher M; Hodgkins, Peter R; Chen, Xiaoli; Trump, Dorothy; Lotery, Andrew J

    2007-09-01

    To perform a genotype-phenotype correlation study in an X-linked congenital idiopathic nystagmus pedigree (pedigree 1) and to assess the allelic variance of the FRMD7 gene in congenital idiopathic nystagmus. Subjects from pedigree 1 underwent detailed clinical examination including nystagmology. Screening of FRMD7 was undertaken in pedigree 1 and in 37 other congenital idiopathic nystagmus probands and controls. Direct sequencing confirmed sequence changes. X-inactivation studies were performed in pedigree 1. The nystagmus phenotype was extremely variable in pedigree 1. We identified 2 FRMD7 mutations. However, 80% of X-linked families and 96% of simplex cases showed no mutations. X-inactivation studies demonstrated no clear causal link between skewing and variable penetrance. We confirm profound phenotypic variation in X-linked congenital idiopathic nystagmus pedigrees. We demonstrate that other congenital nystagmus genes exist besides FRMD7. We show that the role of X inactivation in variable penetrance is unclear in congenital idiopathic nystagmus. Clinical Relevance We demonstrate that phenotypic variation of nystagmus occurs in families with FRMD7 mutations. While FRMD7 mutations may be found in some cases of X-linked congenital idiopathic nystagmus, the diagnostic yield is low. X-inactivation assays are unhelpful as a test for carrier status for this disease.

  15. Study on Treatment with Respect to Idiopathic Scoliosis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Takeuchi, Kenzen; Azegami, Hideyuki; Murachi, Shunji; Kitoh, Junzoh; Ishida, Yoshito; Kawakami, Noriaki; Makino, Mitsunori

    A hypothesis that the thoracic idiopathic scoliosis is buckling phenomenon of the fourth mode induced by the growth of thoracic vertebral bodies was presented in the previous work by the authors using numerical simulations with finite element model of the spine. If the hypothesis is acceptable, sensitivity function with respect to the critical growth of thoracic vertebrae on the maximization problem of buckling load with the fourth buckling mode gives us useful information to improve and develop treatments for the idiopathic scoliosis. The numerical results analyzed by the finite element method demonstrated that the sensitivity function is high at the articular capsules of the intervertebral joints, the intervertebral disks, the costotransverse joints and the constovertebral joints around the apex of the curvature in the case of the thoracic idiopathic scoliosis.

  16. Epiretinal proliferation in lamellar macular holes and full-thickness macular holes: clinical and surgical findings.

    PubMed

    Lai, Tso-Ting; Chen, San-Ni; Yang, Chung-May

    2016-04-01

    To report the clinical findings and surgical outcomes of lamellar macular holes (LMH) with or without lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP), and those of full-thickness macular holes (FTMH) presenting with LHEP. From 2009 to 2013, consecutive cases of surgically treated LMH, and all FTMH cases with LHEP were reviewed, given a follow-up time over 1 year. In the LMH group (43 cases), those with LHEP (19 cases) had significantly thinner bases and larger openings than those without (24 cases). The rate of disrupted IS/OS line was higher in the LHEP subgroup preoperatively (68.4 % vs 37.5 %), but similar between subgroups postoperatively (36.8 % and 33.3 %). The preoperative and postoperative visual acuity showed no significant difference between two subgroups. In the FTMH group (13 cases), the average hole size was 219.2 ± 92.1 μm. Permanent or transient spontaneous hole closure was noted in 69.2 % of cases. An intact IS-OS line was found in only 23 % of cases at the final follow-up. In the LMH group, LHEP was associated with a more severe defect but didn't affect surgical outcomes. In the FTMH group, spontaneous hole closure was frequently noted. Despite small holes, disruption of IS-OS line was common after hole closure.

  17. Idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease successfully treated with rituximab.

    PubMed

    Schafranski, Marcelo Derbli

    2009-02-01

    We report a case of a 66-year-old Caucasian female with a diagnosis of idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease (OID) refractory to azathioprine therapy. The coexistence of diabetes mellitus represented a relative contraindication to chronic prednisone use. After two infusions of rituximab, a chimeric anti-CD20+ antibody, ophthalmic signs and symptoms remarkably improved. To our knowledge, this is the first case of idiopathic OID successfully treated with rituximab.

  18. Pathogenesis, Newly Recognized Etiologies, and Management of Idiopathic Anaphylaxis

    PubMed Central

    Kuhlen, James L.; Virkud, Yamini V.

    2018-01-01

    Idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA) is a life-threatening allergic disease and the most common diagnosis given to patients following an anaphylactic event. The inability of the healthcare provider and the patient to identify the trigger for anaphylaxis makes standard allergen avoidance measures ineffectual. IA is diagnosed after other causes of anaphylaxis have been excluded. Mast cell activation syndromes (MCAS), mastocytosis, IgE to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (α-gal), and certain medications have recently been recognized as causes of anaphylaxis that were previously labeled idiopathic. This review will describe the epidemiology and proposed theories of pathogenesis for IA, its diagnostic approach, its clinical management, and examine newly recognized disorders that were previously labeled as idiopathic anaphylaxis. PMID:25725228

  19. Retinal thinning after internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic macular hole.

    PubMed

    Imamura, Yutaka; Ishida, Masahiro

    2018-03-01

    To determine the changes in retinal thickness and whether they correlate with the size of the macular hole (MH) after vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling. Retrospective, interventional case series METHODS: Consecutive patients with an MH and undergoing pars plana vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling were studied. The retinal thicknesses in the inner 4 sectors as defined by the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study were measured using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) before and at 2 weeks and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgery. The basal and minimum diameters of the MHs were measured. The correlations between the retinal thicknesses and the size of the MH were determined. Thirty-three eyes of 32 consecutive patients (18 women; mean age, 64.2 ± 8.8 years) with an MH were studied. Thirteen eyes had a stage-2 MH; 12 eyes, a stage-3 MH; and 8 eyes, a stage-4 MH. The mean retinal thickness in the temporal sector was 362.8 ± 29.9 µm preoperatively, 337.9 ± 20.6 µm at 2 weeks postoperatively, and 307.6 ± 20.2 µm at 12 months postoperatively (P < .001 for both, paired t tests). The respective mean thicknesses in the superior, inferior, and nasal sectors were 373.9 ± 34.9, 367 ± 28.7, and 385.5 ± 35.9 µm preoperatively; 361.6 ± 22.7, 359.4 ± 20.6, and 383.4 ± 29.0 µm at 2 weeks postoperatively (P = .0087, P = .049, P = .635); and 339.4 ± 18.9, 331.6 ± 21.4, and 371.3 ± 23.2 µm at 12 months postoperatively (P < .001, P < .001, P = .033). The changes in the retinal thickness at 2 weeks and 12 months in all 4 sectors were significantly correlated with the basal and minimum diameters of the MH. Retinal thinning was observed soon after the MH surgery mainly in the temporal sector but also in the superior and inferior sectors. The thinning was greater in eyes with a larger MH, indicating that retinal structures dynamically change after internal limiting membrane peeling.

  20. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Takada, Michiya; Ban, Yoshiyuki, E-mail: yshyban@yahoo.co.jp; Yamamoto, Gou

    Research highlights: {yields} In proliferative membrane and epiretinal membrane specimens, the numbers of proteins are 225 and 154, respectively, and 123 proteins are common to both. {yields} Periostin and thrombospondin-1 proteins are unique to the proliferative membrane specimens. {yields} The expression of periostin is significantly up-regulated in proliferative membrane specimens. -- Abstract: Diabetes can lead to serious microvascular complications including proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), the leading cause of blindness in adults. Recent studies using gene array technology have attempted to apply a hypothesis-generating approach to elucidate the pathogenesis of PDR, but these studies rely on mRNA differences, which may ormore » may not be related to significant biological processes. To better understand the basic mechanisms of PDR and to identify potential new biomarkers, we performed shotgun liquid chromatography (LC)/tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) analysis on pooled protein extracts from neovascular membranes obtained from PDR specimens and compared the results with those from non-vascular epiretinal membrane (ERM) specimens. We detected 226 distinct proteins in neovascular membranes and 154 in ERM. Among these proteins, 102 were specific to neovascular membranes and 30 were specific to ERM. We identified a candidate marker, periostin, as well as several known PDR markers such as pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). We then performed RT-PCR using these markers. The expression of periostin was significantly up-regulated in proliferative membrane specimens. Periostin induces cell attachment and spreading and plays a role in cell adhesion. Proteomic analysis by LC/MS/MS, which permits accurate quantitative comparison, was useful in identifying new candidates such as periostin potentially involved in the pathogenesis of PDR.« less

  1. MR venography in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: unappreciated and misunderstood

    PubMed Central

    Higgins, J; Gillard, J; Owler, B; Harkness, K; Pickard, J

    2004-01-01

    Background: Venous sinus disease must be excluded before diagnosing idiopathic intracranial hypertension but is found only rarely in typical cases. Magnetic resonance venography (MRV) is the technique of choice for investigating this, and provides images that are diagnostic and easy to interpret. However, recent work using more invasive techniques has documented pressure gradients and stenoses in the lateral venous sinuses in many cases of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Objective: To examine the reason for this discrepancy and to establish whether there are characteristic appearances on MRV in idiopathic intracranial hypertension that are routinely overlooked in clinical practice. Methods: MRVs from 20 patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension were reviewed, unblinded, by two neuroradiologists, and their appearances rated for focal narrowings and signal gaps. A control group of 40 asymptomatic volunteers, matched for age and sex with the patient group, was recruited prospectively for MRV, and their scans rated in the same way. Results: The lateral sinuses presented a range of appearances with quite different distributions in the two groups (p<0.001). Bilateral lateral sinus flow gaps were seen in 13 of 20 patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and in none of 40 controls. Conclusions: A historical failure to use normal healthy controls to establish the boundaries between imaging artefact, normal anatomical variant, and disease means that the pathological significance of the different appearances of the lateral sinuses on MRV has not so far been appreciated. PMID:15026510

  2. Idiopathic scrotal calcinosis.

    PubMed

    Celik, Orcun; Ipekci, Tumay; Kazimoglu, Hatem

    2013-12-01

    Idiopathic scrotal calcinosis is a rare scrotal benign disease. Its distinct features are painless, non-pruritic, semi-soft palpable calcific transdermal nodules. We report a 42-year-old-man with asymptomatic multiple calcified scrotal skin nodules for 10 years. Under spinal anesthesia, the affected scrotal skin was excised and the nodules removed. We aim to explain the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment modalities of this rare disease.

  3. A procedure to detect abnormal sensorimotor control in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Pialasse, Jean-Philippe; Mercier, Pierre; Descarreaux, Martin; Simoneau, Martin

    2017-09-01

    This work identifies, among adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis, those demonstrating impaired sensorimotor control through a classification procedure comparing the amplitude of their vestibular-evoked postural responses. The sensorimotor control of healthy adolescents (n=17) and adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (n=52) with either mild (Cobb angle≥15° and ≤30°) or severe (Cobb angle >30°) spine deformation was assessed through galvanic vestibular stimulation. A classification procedure sorted out adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis whether the amplitude of their vestibular-evoked postural response was dissimilar or similar to controls. Compared to controls, galvanic vestibular stimulation evoked larger postural response in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Nonetheless, the classification procedure revealed that only 42.5% of all patients showed impaired sensorimotor control. Consequently, identifying patients with sensorimotor control impairment would allow to apply personalized treatments, help clinicians to establish prognosis and hopefully improve the condition of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Idiopathic hemifacial spasm responsive to zonisamide: a case report.

    PubMed

    Siniscalchi, Antonio; Gallelli, Luca; Palleria, Caterina; De Sarro, Giovambattista

    2009-01-01

    We describe a patient with idiopathic hemifacial spasm (HFS) that was responsive to zonisamide treatment. A 65-year-old woman presented with a 4-year history of left-sided HFS developing gradually, starting from the upper facial muscles. After several analyses, the diagnosis of idiopathic HFS was made, and the clonazepam treatment (0.5 mg every 8 hours) was started, without a complete remission of symptoms. Therefore, zonisamide (150 mg twice a day for a 6-week period) was added, with a complete resolution. The rechallenge with zonisamide after its dechallenge confirmed its effectiveness. During follow-up, the patient remained symptom-free, with no adverse drug reactions. We suggest that zonisamide could represent a useful therapeutic option in the treatment of idiopathic HFS.

  5. Idiopathic central diabetes Insipidus.

    PubMed

    Grace, Mary; Balachandran, Venu; Menon, Sooraj

    2011-10-01

    Idiopathic central diabetes insipidus (CDI) is a rare disorder characterized clinically by polyuria and polydipsia, and an abnormal urinary concentration without any identified etiology. We report a case of central diabetes insipidus in a 60-year-old lady in the absence of secondary causes like trauma, infection, and infiltrative disorders of brain.

  6. Idiopathic thoracic transdural intravertebral spinal cord herniation

    PubMed Central

    Turel, Mazda K; Wewel, Joshua T; Kerolus, Mena G; O'Toole, John E

    2017-01-01

    Idiopathic spinal cord herniation is a rare and often missed cause of thoracic myelopathy. The clinical presentation and radiological appearance is inconsistent and commonly confused with a dorsal arachnoid cyst and often is a misdiagnosed entity. While ventral spinal cord herniation through a dural defect has been previously described, intravertebral herniation is a distinct entity and extremely rare. We present the case of a 70-year old man with idiopathic thoracic transdural intravertebral spinal cord herniation and discuss the clinico-radiological presentation, pathophysiology and operative management along with a review the literature of this unusual entity. PMID:29021685

  7. Multiple idiopathic external apical root resorption: report of four cases.

    PubMed

    Cholia, S S; Wilson, P H R; Makdissi, J

    2005-07-01

    Multiple idiopathic external root resorption is an unusual condition that may present in a cervical or an apical form. In this article, we review the published literature relating to multiple idiopathic external apical root resorption and present four clinical cases. We consider the aetiology of this condition and discuss the various treatment options.

  8. Internal limiting membrane peeling in macula-off retinal detachment complicated by grade B proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

    PubMed

    Foveau, Pauline; Leroy, Bertrand; Berrod, Jean-Paul; Conart, Jean-Baptiste

    2018-04-02

    To investigate the clinical benefit of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling as a surgical adjunct in the repair of primary retinal detachment (RD) complicated by grade B proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Retrospective, interventional, comparative case series. SETTING: Institutional. 75 consecutive patients who underwent vitrectomy for primary macula off RD complicated by grade B PVR. Patients were divided into an ILM peeling (group P) and a no ILM peeling (group NP). Anatomical success rate, best-corrected visual acuity, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) characteristics were collected at 1 and 6 months. In all, 37 eyes with ILM peeling were included in group P and 38 eyes without ILM peeling were included in group NP. The anatomical success rate after single surgery was higher in group P (89%) than in group NP (66%, p=0.03). Mean final visual acuity was 0.41 ±0.40 logMAR in group P versus 0.43 ±0.22 logMAR in group NP (p=0.82). We found no epiretinal membrane (ERM) formation in group P, whereas five cases of ERM (20%) were detected in group NP (p=0.012). The two groups did not differ in terms of cystoid macular edema occurrence, macular thickness, or photoreceptor damage. ILM peeling during vitrectomy in macula off RD complicated by grade B PVR reduces the need for a second surgery for re-detachment or macular pucker. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  9. Orthodontic treatment in patient with idiopathic root resorption: a case report.

    PubMed

    Rey, Diego; Smit, Rosana Martínez; Gamboa, Liliana

    2015-01-01

    Multiple idiopathic external root resorption is a rare pathological condition usually detected as an incidental radiographic finding. External root resorption of permanent teeth is a multifactorial process related to several local and systemic factors. If an etiological factor cannot be identified for root resorption, the term "idiopathic" is applied. This report presents a case of multiple idiopathic apical root resorption. The condition was found in a young female patient seeking orthodontic treatment due to malocclusion. This kind of resorption starts apically and progresses coronally, causing a gradual shortening and rounding of the remaining root. Patients with this condition are not the ideal candidates for orthodontic treatment; however, the aim of this report is to describe an unusual case of idiopathic root resorption involving the entire dentition, and to present the orthodontic treatment of this patient. It describes the progress and completion of orthodontic therapy with satisfactory end results.

  10. Disease of the year: juvenile idiopathic arthritis--differential diagnosis.

    PubMed

    Hu-Torres, Sandra; Foster, C Stephen

    2014-02-01

    The purpose of this review is to comprehensively explain the differential diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis. Web-based literature review. Main diagnostic decisions are made through a thorough anterior segment exam and a comprehensive exploration of past medical and family history. High clinical suspicion of other uveitic entities occurring in children is necessary and must be excluded by the practitioner before immediate diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis is made.

  11. [Coincidence of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and multiple sclerosis: case report].

    PubMed

    Puszczewicz, Mariusz J; Tuchocka-Piotrowska, Aleksandra; Majewski, Dominik; Kołczewska, Aleksandra

    2006-01-01

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a systemic pathology of connective tissue characterized by a chronic inflammatory process with an autoimmune background whereas multiple sclerosis is a demyelination disease with an important role of immune disorders in its pathogenesis. The etiology in both cases remains unknown. The coincidence of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and multiple sclerosis was described a just a few patients. We now report on a 31-year-old woman with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and multiple sclerosis. In the present case, the main problem was to find the right proper medication for a very, aggressive course of multiple sclerosis and for arthritis. Treatment with interferon-beta and methylprednisolone led to remission with just minor side-effects.

  12. Calcium Sensing Receptor Mutations Implicated in Pancreatitis and Idiopathic Epilepsy Syndrome Disrupt an Arginine-rich Retention Motif

    PubMed Central

    Stepanchick, Ann; McKenna, Jennifer; McGovern, Olivia; Huang, Ying; Breitwieser, Gerda E.

    2010-01-01

    Calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) mutations implicated in familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia, pancreatitis and idiopathic epilepsy syndrome map to an extended arginine-rich region in the proximal carboxyl terminus. Arginine-rich motifs mediate endoplasmic reticulum retention and/or retrieval of multisubunit proteins so we asked whether these mutations, R886P, R896H or R898Q, altered CaSR targeting to the plasma membrane. Targeting was enhanced by all three mutations, and Ca2+-stimulated ERK1/2 phosphorylation was increased for R896H and R898Q. To define the role of the extended arginine-rich region in CaSR trafficking, we independently determined the contributions of R890/R891 and/or R896/K897/R898 motifs by mutation to alanine. Disruption of the motif(s) significantly increased surface expression and function relative to wt CaSR. The arginine-rich region is flanked by phosphorylation sites at S892 (protein kinase C) and S899 (protein kinase A). The phosphorylation state of S899 regulated recognition of the arginine-rich region; S899D showed increased surface localization. CaSR assembles in the endoplasmic reticulum as a covalent disulfide-linked dimer and we determined whether retention requires the presence of arginine-rich regions in both subunits. A single arginine-rich region within the dimer was sufficient to confer intracellular retention comparable to wt CaSR. We have identified an extended arginine-rich region in the proximal carboxyl terminus of CaSR (residues R890 - R898) which fosters intracellular retention of CaSR and is regulated by phosphorylation. Mutation(s) identified in chronic pancreatitis and idiopathic epilepsy syndrome therefore increase plasma membrane targeting of CaSR, likely contributing to the altered Ca2+ signaling characteristic of these diseases. PMID:20798521

  13. Evidence for human leukocyte antigen-related susceptibility in idiopathic childhood ischemic stroke.

    PubMed

    Zou, Li-Ping; Guo, Yu-Hong; Fang, Fang; Jin, Hong; Wu, Hu-Sheng; Mix, Eilhard

    2002-01-01

    Stroke in children is a relatively uncommon condition and frequently associated with other diseases like cardiopathies, sickle cell disease and chronic smoking. In contrast to stroke in adults, it is rarely caused by atherosclerosis, hypertension or diabetes mellitus. Childhood stroke of unknown causes is called idiopathic stroke. The etiology of idiopathic stroke is unknown. However, several so-called idiopathic diseases develop on the basis of a genetic predisposition. As an approach to investigate this possibility in idiopathic childhood ischemic stroke, we studied the relationship between clinical and immunogenetic features in this disease. We demonstrate that the gene frequencies and relative risk of HLA-B51 were markedly increased in our patients compared with controls (p < 0.001). Thirteen of seventeen HLA-B51-positive patients had had a preceding respiratory infection, which was a higher proportion than in the control group (p < 0.05). In the patient group, the alleles HLA-DRB1*0802, -DRAI*0401 and -DQBI*0402 were also significantly increased, defining the haplotype DRB1*0802-DRA1*0401-DQB1*0402 as a high-risk haplotype for idiopathic childhood ischemic stroke. Transient viral or bacterial infections, which involve vasculitis and vascular occlusion in the brain, can trigger idiopathic childhood ischemic stroke on the basis of an genetic predisposition. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

  14. Milia-like idiopathic calcinosis cutis in a child with Down syndrome.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Piyush; Savant, Sushil S; Nimisha, Esther; Das, Anupam; Debbarman, Panchami

    2016-05-15

    Idiopathic calcinosis cutis refers to progressive deposition of crystals of calcium phosphate in the skin and other areas of the body, in the absence of any inciting factor. Idiopathic calcinosis cutis may sometimes take the form of small, milia-like lesions. Most commonly, such milia like lesions are seen in the setting of Down syndrome. Herein, we report a 5-year-old girl with multiple asymptomatic discrete milia-like firm papules distributed over the face and extremities. A diagnosis of milia-like idiopathic calcinosis cutis associated with Down Syndrome was provisionally made and was confirmed by histopathology and karyotyping.

  15. Bayesian comparative effectiveness study of four consensus treatment plans for initial management of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis: FiRst-Line Options for Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis Treatment (FROST).

    PubMed

    Nigrovic, Peter A; Beukelman, Timothy; Tomlinson, George; Feldman, Brian M; Schanberg, Laura E; Kimura, Yukiko

    2018-06-01

    Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a rare febrile arthritis of childhood characterized by a potentially severe course, including prolonged glucocorticoid exposure, growth failure, destructive arthritis, and life-threatening macrophage activation syndrome. Early cytokine-blocking biologic therapy may improve long-term outcomes, although some systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients respond well to non-biologic treatment, leaving optimal management undefined. Consequently, treatment of new-onset systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis by expert clinicians varies widely. To describe a pragmatic, observational comparative effectiveness study that takes advantage of diversity in the management of a rare disease: FiRst-Line Options for Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis Treatment (FROST), comparing non-biologic and biologic consensus treatment plans for new-onset systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis within the 60-center Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry (CARRA). FiRst-Line Options for Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis Treatment (FROST) is a multicenter, prospective, non-randomized study that compares four Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) consensus treatment plans for new-onset systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis: (1) glucocorticoids alone, (2) methotrexate, (3) interleukin-1 blockade, and (4) interleukin-6 blockade. Patients consenting to participation in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Registry are started on one of four Consensus Treatment Plans at the discretion of the treating physician. The outcome of primary interest is clinically inactive disease off glucocorticoids at 9 months, comparing non-biologic (Consensus Treatment Plans 1 + 2) versus biologic (Consensus Treatment Plans 3 + 4) strategies. Bayesian analytic methods will be employed to evaluate response rates, using propensity scoring to balance treatment groups for potential

  16. Idiopathic hypertrophic pachymeningitis presenting with occipital neuralgia.

    PubMed

    Auboire, Laurent; Boutemy, Jonathan; Constans, Jean Marc; Le Gallou, Thomas; Busson, Philippe; Bienvenu, Boris

    2015-03-01

    Although occipital neuralgia is usually caused by degenerative arthropathy, nearly 20 other aetiologies may lead to this condition. We present the first case report of hypertrophic pachymeningitis revealed by isolated occipital neuralgia. Idiopathic hypertrophic pachymeningitis is a plausible cause of occipital neuralgia and may present without cranial-nerve palsy. There is no consensus on the treatment for idiopathic hypertrophic pachymeningitis, but the usual approach is to start corticotherapy and then to add immunosuppressants. When occipital neuralgia is not clinically isolated or when a first-line treatment fails, another disease diagnosis should be considered. However, the cost effectiveness of extended investigations needs to be considered.

  17. Idiopathic Canalicular Inflammatory Disease: New Disease Description of Clinical Patterns, Investigations, Management, and Outcomes.

    PubMed

    Ali, Mohammad Javed

    2018-01-25

    The objective of this perspective is to present a separate disease description of "idiopathic canalicular inflammatory disease" and outline the diagnostic criteria and early experiences with its investigations and management. Retrospective case series of 44 canaliculi of 22 eyes of 11 patients presenting at a tertiary care Dacryology service over a period of 2 years with typical clinical patterns of inflammatory canaliculitis and its outcomes were studied. All the patients underwent microbiological work-up with culture and sensitivity, dacryoendoscopy imaging, serial Fourier domain ocular coherence tomography, and collagen vascular profiles. Stages in the evolution of the disease were studied. All patients were treated initially with topical steroids followed by punctal dilatation and placement of mini-monoka stents. Five patients in addition had a small biopsy from the inflamed portion of the vertical canaliculus. Stents were extubated at 6 weeks. Forty-four canaliculi were diagnosed to have idiopathic canalicular inflammatory disease during the study period. There was a female preponderance (81.8%, 9/11) and the mean age at presentation was 57 years. All patients presented with unilateral epiphora without any discharge, pain, or swelling. Collagen vascular profiles and screening for autoimmune diseases were negative. Clinical picture ranged from stages 1 to 5, consisting of edema, progressive centripetal vascularization, pouting of vascularized mucosa, membrane formation, and progressive scarring. The presentation begins in 1 eye and usually involves the other eye at a mean of 6 months. Ocular coherence tomography and dacryoendoscopy were of adjunctive value in the diagnosis. Histopathological examination was suggestive of a chronic inflammation. All patients had relentless progression to end-stage disease, although delayed significantly by steroids and monoka intubation. Idiopathic canalicular inflammatory disease has a distinct and typical clinical behavior and

  18. SURGICAL OUTCOMES IN PATIENTS WITH MACULAR PUCKER AND GOOD PREOPERATIVE VISUAL ACUITY AFTER VITRECTOMY WITH MEMBRANE PEELING.

    PubMed

    Reilly, Gayatri; Melamud, Alexander; Lipscomb, Peter; Toussaint, Brian

    2015-09-01

    To evaluate whether patients with macular pucker (epiretinal membrane [ERM]) and good preoperative visual acuity (20/50 or better) benefit from small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peeling. Retrospective chart review of eyes undergoing small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy for ERM. Inclusion criterion was impaired visual acuity (20/50 or better) due to ERM. Exclusion criteria were preoperative visual acuity of 20/60 or worse, previous surgery (other than uncomplicated cataract surgery), and any documented evidence of macular or corneal disease that would limit visual potential. The main outcome measure was final visual acuity. Secondary outcomes included the role of internal limiting membrane peeling, and the effect of preoperative cystoid macular edema and internal limiting membrane peeling on visual acuity. One hundred and forty eyes met inclusion criteria of which 94% underwent 25-gauge vitrectomy (remainder had 23-gauge). There was a statistically significant improvement in final vision with the mean preoperative visual acuity of 0.305 logMAR (20/40) and 1-year visual acuity of 0.250 logMAR (20/35) (P = 0.0167). Cataract formation in phakic patients had a significant effect on the final visual outcome. Fifty-six of 63 patients (89%) in the phakic cohort developed a visually significant cataract by study end. The mean time to recommendation of cataract surgery was 8.4 months. Thirty-eight eyes (27%) had preoperative cystoid macular edema. Fifty-nine eyes (42%) underwent internal limiting membrane peeling. Neither one of these secondary outcome measures had a significant effect on the final visual outcome. Pars plana vitrectomy is both efficacious and safe an option for patients with ERMs and good preoperative vision. Eyes with an ERM and vision 20/50 or better had a statistically significant improvement in the final visual outcome after small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy surgery. As with large-gauge vitrectomy, cataract formation occurred in most phakic

  19. From bad to worse: when lung cancer complicates idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Strock, Stephen B; Alder, Jonathan K; Kass, Daniel J

    2018-04-01

    Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis have a significantly increased risk for the development of lung cancer. The morbidity and mortality of this disease combination are substantial, and, unfortunately, there are currently few data to help guide clinicians in its diagnosis and treatment. In a recent issue of this journal, Hwang et al presented one of the first studies to evaluate lung cancer in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at the molecular level. They demonstrate variants in regulators of the cell cycle, which are known to be important in malignant transformation and may also be important in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Further understanding of the pathogenic overlap between lung cancer and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis could help point the direction to specific diagnostic modalities and targeted treatment of both conditions in the future. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  20. Management of severe idiopathic oligohydramnios: is antepartum transabdominal amnioinfusion really a treatment option?

    PubMed

    Kozinszky, Zoltan; Pásztor, Norbert; Vanya, Melinda; Sikovanyecz, János; Pál, Attila

    2013-03-01

    The aim of this study was an evaluation of the role of antepartum transabdominal amnioinfusion (APTA) in the management of severe idiopathic oligohydramnios with a view to improving the pregnancy outcome. The study comprised an analysis of 20 pregnant women with severe oligohydramnios who were treated with APTA in 2009 and 2012. The pregnancy outcomes and the complications of the procedure were analysed. The mean gestational age at first treatment was 22 weeks 3 days. The preprocedure amniotic fluid index of <5 cm was restored by the treatment to 8 cm. More than a half of the pregnancies (66.7%, 8/12) treated with APTA finished with spontaneous abortion in the second trimester, mostly due to rupture of the membranes (as a consequence of retroamniotic filling with saline in four cases). The later the oligohydramnios developed, the higher the probability of a significant prolongation of the gestation. Although APTA is a useful procedure in the management of severe oligohydramnios, it may be followed by a relatively high rate of rupture of the membranes, particularly in the second trimester. Paradoxically, a higher volume of infused saline into the amniotic cavity is associated with a significantly lower risk of rupture.

  1. Genetics Home Reference: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

    MedlinePlus

    ... structures at the ends of chromosomes known as telomeres . It is not well understood how defects in ... Collard HR, Wolters PJ, Garcia CK. Effect of telomere length on survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary ...

  2. Radiographic and MRI characteristics of lumbar disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis and spondylosis deformans in dogs.

    PubMed

    Togni, A; Kranenburg, H J C; Morgan, J P; Steffen, F

    2014-07-01

    To evaluate clinical signs, describe lesions and differences in the magnetic resonance imaging appearance of spinal new bone formations classified as disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis and/or spondylosis deformans on radiographs and compare degeneration status of the intervertebral discs using the Pfirrmann scale. Retrospective analysis of 18 dogs presented with spinal disorders using information from radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging examinations. All dogs were found to be affected with both disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis and spondylosis deformans. Neurological signs due to foraminal stenosis associated with disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis were found in two dogs. Spondylosis deformans was associated with foraminal stenosis and/or disc protrusion in 15 cases. The Pfirrmann score on magnetic resonance imaging was significantly higher in spondylosis deformans compared with disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis and signal intensity of new bone due to disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis was significantly higher compared to spondylosis deformans. Differences between disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis and spondylosis deformans found on magnetic resonance imaging contribute to an increased differentiation between the two entities. Clinically relevant lesions in association with disseminated idiopathic spinal hyperostosis were rare compared to those seen with spondylosis deformans. © 2014 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.

  3. Giant scrotal elephantiasis: an idiopathic case.

    PubMed

    Dianzani, C; Gaspardini, F; Persichetti, P; Brunetti, B; Pizzuti, A; Margiotti, K; Degener, A M

    2010-01-01

    Scrotal elephantiasis is very rare disease in industrialized countries, where it is mainly due to surgery, irradiation or malignancies. It can be defined as idiopathic only when the possible congenital, infectious and compressive causes are excluded. We report a case of massive scrotal lymphoedema in an adult Caucasian patient, in Italy. He presented an extremely voluminous scrotal mass measuring 50 x 47 x 13 cm (weight 18 kg), which extended below his knees, invalidating all his daily activities. The patient was hospitalized in order to undergo to surgical treatment. Although genetic causes were searched and the possible role of infectious agents and compressive factors was evaluated, no etiology was ascertained. Histopathologic examination showed non-specific chronic inflammation, confirming the diagnosis of idiopathic elephantiasis. One year after surgical treatment, the patient is healthy without recurrence signs.

  4. Idiopathic hypersomnia: a report of three adolescent-onset cases in a two-generation family.

    PubMed

    Janácková, Sona; Motte, Jacques; Bakchine, Serge; Sforza, Emilia

    2011-04-01

    Idiopathic hypersomnia is an uncommon sleep disorder characterized by prolonged sleep time and excessive daytime sleepiness without cataplexy. This study concerned a case of familial occurrence. The proband expressed an idiopathic hypersomnia with long sleep time at the age of 12 years. Clinical interview and ad libitum polysomnographic study did not reveal any symptoms of narcolepsy or other sleep disorders. Family history revealed that a 20-year-old sister had experienced symptoms of hypersomnia from the age of 16 and their mother had been diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnia previously. The diagnosis of idiopathic hypersomnia with long sleep time was confirmed in the sister by clinical interview and ad libitum polysomnography. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) did not reveal the DQB1-0602 phenotype in the proband and relatives. This report confirms the hypothesis of a genetic predisposition in idiopathic hypersomnia.

  5. Screening for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement.

    PubMed

    Grossman, David C; Curry, Susan J; Owens, Douglas K; Barry, Michael J; Davidson, Karina W; Doubeni, Chyke A; Epling, John W; Kemper, Alex R; Krist, Alex H; Kurth, Ann E; Landefeld, C Seth; Mangione, Carol M; Phipps, Maureen G; Silverstein, Michael; Simon, Melissa A; Tseng, Chien-Wen

    2018-01-09

    Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, a lateral curvature of the spine of unknown cause with a Cobb angle of at least 10°, occurs in children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 years. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form and usually worsens during adolescence before skeletal maturity. Severe spinal curvature may be associated with adverse long-term health outcomes (eg, pulmonary disorders, disability, back pain, psychological effects, cosmetic issues, and reduced quality of life). Early identification and effective treatment of mild scoliosis could slow or stop curvature progression before skeletal maturity, thereby improving long-term outcomes in adulthood. To update the 2004 US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation on screening for idiopathic scoliosis in asymptomatic adolescents. The USPSTF reviewed the evidence on the benefits and harms of screening for and treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The USPSTF found no direct evidence on screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and health outcomes and no evidence on the harms of screening. The USPSTF found inadequate evidence on treatment with exercise and surgery. It found adequate evidence that treatment with bracing may slow curvature progression in adolescents with mild or moderate curvature severity (Cobb angle <40° to 50°); however, evidence on the association between reduction in spinal curvature in adolescence and long-term health outcomes in adulthood is inadequate. The USPSTF found inadequate evidence on the harms of treatment. Therefore, the USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient and that the balance of benefits and harms of screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis cannot be determined. The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 years. (I statement).

  6. Electronic protocol of respiratory physical therapy in patients with idiopathic adolescent scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Cano, Danila Vieira Baldini; Malafaia, Osvaldo; Alves, Vera Lúcia dos Santos; Avanzi, Osmar; Pinto, José Simão de Paula

    2011-01-01

    To create a clinical database of respiratory function in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis; computerize and store this clinical data through the use of a software; incorporate this electronic protocol to the SINPE© (Integrated Electronic Protocols System) and analyze a pilot project with interpretation of results. From the literature review a computerized data bank of clinical data of postural deviations was set up (master protocol). Upon completion of the master protocol a specific protocol of respiratory function in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis was designed and a pilot project was conducted to collect and analyze data from ten patients. It was possible to create the master protocol of postural deviations and the specific protocol of respiratory function in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The data collected in the pilot project was processed by the SINPE ANALYZER©, generating charts and statistics. The establishment of the clinical database of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis was possible. Computerization and storage of clinical data using the software were viable. The electronic protocol of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis could be incorporated into the SINPE© and its use in the pilot project was successful.

  7. Periprosthetic Tissue Loss in Patients With Idiopathic Vitreous Inflammation After the Boston Keratoprosthesis.

    PubMed

    Grassi, Christina M; Cruzat, Andrea; Taniguchi, Elise V; Crnej, Alja; Colby, Kathryn A; Dohlman, Claes H; Chodosh, James

    2015-11-01

    Idiopathic vitritis is a poorly understood complication after Boston keratoprosthesis surgery with unclear etiology. We sought to determine whether an association exists between periprosthetic corneal tissue loss and the development of idiopathic vitritis in keratoprosthesis recipients. Thirteen Boston type I keratoprosthesis recipient eyes with a history of idiopathic vitritis and 34 type I keratoprosthesis recipient eyes with no history of idiopathic vitritis underwent anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) at a median time postoperatively of 2.4 years versus 1.9 years (range, 0.5-14.2 vs. 0.1-13.6 years), respectively. Areas of corneal graft tissue loss ("gaps") around the keratoprosthesis stem were identified and analyzed by 2 masked observers. The difference in the presence, number, and size of gaps was compared between cases and controls. A periprosthetic gap was identified more commonly in idiopathic vitritis cases than in controls on AS-OCT (11/13, 86% vs. 11/34, 33.3%, P < 0.001). The number of gaps between cases and controls was also significantly different (2.6 ± 1.6 vs. 0.5 ± 0.8, P < 0.001), but not the estimated gap area (0.056 ± 0.049 mm² vs. 0.039 ± 0.025 mm², P = 0.22). A significantly higher proportion of keratoprosthesis recipient eyes with idiopathic vitritis had corneal tissue loss around the keratoprosthesis stem than did controls. Tissue loss could serve as an entry point for debris or bacterial components, triggering idiopathic vitritis. Our study underscores the utility of AS-OCT imaging in the postoperative management of keratoprosthesis patients.

  8. Debate: idiopathic short stature should be treated with growth hormone.

    PubMed

    Ambler, Geoffrey R; Fairchild, Jan; Wilkinson, Dominic J C

    2013-03-01

    In this paper we outline the case for and against the treatment of idiopathic short stature with growth hormone. Drs Ambler and Fairchild argue that many of those with 'idiopathic' short stature are not 'short, normal children' and will ultimately receive molecular diagnoses. They also argue that there is a subset of children who suffer negative psychosocial consequences of their stature for whom growth hormone therapy is effective. Growth hormone has a very good safety record and is likely to be as cost-effective in idiopathic short-stature as in some other conditions that are currently funded. Dr Wilkinson counters that short stature is not associated with physical or psychological illness, and that there is no evidence that growth hormone improves psychological or physical wellbeing. Moreover, growth hormone for idiopathic short stature represents a form of enhancement rather than treatment, and is not a fair use of resources. Socially mediated disadvantage should be treated by attention to prejudice and not by hormone treatment. © 2012 The Authors. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health © 2012 Paediatrics and Child Health Division (Royal Australasian College of Physicians).

  9. Pelvic confined idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis mimicking a large tumor.

    PubMed

    Salemis, N S; Tsiambas, E; Tsohataridis, E

    2009-01-01

    Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis (IRF) entirely confined to the pelvic cavity is an extremely rare clinical entity. Herein, is described the case of a 36- year old male who presented with clinical and imaging manifestations of a large pelvic tumor. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a large mass in the right pelvis originating from the retroperitoneal space, displacing the right iliac vessels, the right ureter and the urinary bladder completely to the left. A laborious resection of the mass measuring 14 x 10cm was performed. Histopathological examination and detailed immunohistochemistry analysis were suggestive of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis with no evidence of malignancy. This is a very rare case regarding localization and clinical presentation of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis. We conclude that IRF should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with a pelvic mass even if there is no involvement of the typical para aortic area.

  10. Locomotor skills and balance strategies in adolescents idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Mallau, Sophie; Bollini, Gérard; Jouve, Jean-Luc; Assaiante, Christine

    2007-01-01

    Locomotor balance control assessment was performed to study the effect of idiopathic scoliosis on head-trunk coordination in 17 patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and 16 control subjects. The aim of this study was to explore the functional effects of structural spinal deformations like idiopathic scoliosis on the balance strategies used during locomotion. Up to now, the repercussion of the idiopathic scoliosis on head-trunk coordination and balance strategies during locomotion is relatively unknown. Seventeen patients with AIS (mean age 14 years 3 months, 10 degrees < Cobb angle > 30 degrees) and 16 control subjects (mean age 14 years 1 month) were tested during various locomotor tasks: walking on the ground, walking on a line, and walking on a beam. Balance control was examined in terms of rotation about the vertical axis (yaw) and on a frontal plane (roll). Kinematics of foot, pelvis, trunk, shoulder, and head rotations were measured with an automatic optical TV image processor in order to calculate angular dispersions and segmental stabilizations. Decreasing the walking speed is the main adaptive strategy used in response to balance problems in control subjects as well as patients with AIS. However, patients with AIS performed walking tasks more slowly than normal subjects (around 15%). Moreover, the pelvic stabilization is preserved, despite the structural changes affecting the spine. Lastly, the biomechanical defect resulting from idiopathic scoliosis mainly affects the yaw head stabilization during locomotion. Patients with AIS show substantial similarities with control subjects in adaptive strategies relative to locomotor velocity as well as balance control based on segmental stabilization. In contrast, the loss of the yaw head stabilization strategies, mainly based on the use of vestibular information, probably reflects the presence of vestibular deficits in the patients with AIS.

  11. Fluid Distribution Pattern in Adult-Onset Congenital, Idiopathic, and Secondary Normal-Pressure Hydrocephalus: Implications for Clinical Care.

    PubMed

    Yamada, Shigeki; Ishikawa, Masatsune; Yamamoto, Kazuo

    2017-01-01

    In spite of growing evidence of idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a viewpoint about clinical care for idiopathic NPH is still controversial. A continuous divergence of viewpoints might be due to confusing classifications of idiopathic and adult-onset congenital NPH. To elucidate the classification of NPH, we propose that adult-onset congenital NPH should be explicitly distinguished from idiopathic and secondary NPH. On the basis of conventional CT scan or MRI, idiopathic NPH was defined as narrow sulci at the high convexity in concurrent with enlargement of the ventricles, basal cistern and Sylvian fissure, whereas adult-onset congenital NPH was defined as huge ventricles without high-convexity tightness. We compared clinical characteristics and cerebrospinal fluid distribution among 85 patients diagnosed with idiopathic NPH, 17 patients with secondary NPH, and 7 patients with adult-onset congenital NPH. All patients underwent 3-T MRI examinations and tap-tests. The volumes of ventricles and subarachnoid spaces were measured using a 3D workstation based on T2-weighted 3D sequences. The mean intracranial volume for the patients with adult-onset congenital NPH was almost 100 mL larger than the volumes for patients with idiopathic and secondary NPH. Compared with the patients with idiopathic or secondary NPH, patients with adult-onset congenital NPH exhibited larger ventricles but normal sized subarachnoid spaces. The mean volume ratio of the high-convexity subarachnoid space was significantly less in idiopathic NPH than in adult-onset congenital NPH, whereas the mean volume ratio of the basal cistern and Sylvian fissure in idiopathic NPH was >2 times larger than that in adult-onset congenital NPH. The symptoms of gait disturbance, cognitive impairment, and urinary incontinence in patients with adult-onset congenital NPH tended to progress more slowly compared to their progress in patients with idiopathic NPH. Cerebrospinal fluid distributions and

  12. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: evolving concepts.

    PubMed

    Ryu, Jay H; Moua, Teng; Daniels, Craig E; Hartman, Thomas E; Yi, Eunhee S; Utz, James P; Limper, Andrew H

    2014-08-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) occurs predominantly in middle-aged and older adults and accounts for 20% to 30% of interstitial lung diseases. It is usually progressive, resulting in respiratory failure and death. Diagnostic criteria for IPF have evolved over the years, and IPF is currently defined as a disease characterized by the histopathologic pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia occurring in the absence of an identifiable cause of lung injury. Understanding of the pathogenesis of IPF has shifted away from chronic inflammation and toward dysregulated fibroproliferative repair in response to alveolar epithelial injury. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is likely a heterogeneous disorder caused by various interactions between genetic components and environmental exposures. High-resolution computed tomography can be diagnostic in the presence of typical findings such as bilateral reticular opacities associated with traction bronchiectasis/bronchiolectasis in a predominantly basal and subpleural distribution, along with subpleural honeycombing. In other circumstances, a surgical lung biopsy may be needed. The clinical course of IPF can be unpredictable and may be punctuated by acute deteriorations (acute exacerbation). Although progress continues in unraveling the mechanisms of IPF, effective therapy has remained elusive. Thus, clinicians and patients need to reach informed decisions regarding management options including lung transplant. The findings in this review were based on a literature search of PubMed using the search terms idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and usual interstitial pneumonia, limited to human studies in the English language published from January 1, 2000, through December 31, 2013, and supplemented by key references published before the year 2000. Copyright © 2014 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. [Physiopathology of idiopathic hypersomnia. Current studies and new orientations].

    PubMed

    Billiard, M; Rondouin, G; Espa, F; Dauvilliers, Y; Besset, A

    2001-11-01

    In 1976 Bedrich Roth coined the term "idiopathic hypersomnia" and described two forms of the disease, one monosymptomatic, manifested only by excessive daytime sleepiness, and one polysymptomatic, characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, nocturnal sleep of abnormally long duration and signs of "sleep drunkenness" on awakening. In comparison with that of narcolepsy, the pathophysiology of idiopathic hypersomnia remains poorly known. There are two main reasons for that: the absence of clinical and polysomnographic criteria pathognomonic or at least characteristic of the condition, as the cataplexies and the sleep onset REM periods of narcolepsy, and also the absence of a natural animal model comparable with the canine model of narcolepsy. The first investigations have stressed the frequent familial pattern of idiopathic hypersomnia. Later on biochemical assays have been performed in the CSF with results in favour of a dysfunction of noradrenergic systems. In the light of the two process model of sleep regulation in which sleep propensity is determined by a homeostatic process S and a circadian process C and of the later three-process model of regulation in which sleepiness/alertness are simulated by the combined action of a homeostatic process, a circadian process and sleep inertia, we suggest that idiopathic hypersomnia is not a pathological entity in itself, but rather the consequence of chronic sleep deprivation in very long sleepers.

  14. Microfabrication of an Implantable silicone Microelectrode array for an epiretinal prosthesis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Maghribi, Mariam Nader

    2003-06-10

    Millions of people suffering from diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration are legally blind due to the loss of photoreceptor function. Fortunately a large percentage of the neural cells connected to the photoreceptors remain viable, and electrical stimulation of these cells has been shown to result in visual perception. These findings have generated worldwide efforts to develop a retinal prosthesis device, with the hope of restoring vision. Advances in microfabrication, integrated circuits, and wireless technologies provide the means to reach this challenging goal. This dissertation describes the development of innovative silicone-based microfabrication techniques for producing an implantable microelectrodemore » array. The microelectrode array is a component of an epiretinal prosthesis being developed by a multi-laboratory consortium. This array will serve as the interface between an electronic imaging system and the human eye, directly stimulating retinal neurons via thin film conducting traces. Because the array is intended as a long-term implant, vital biological and physical design requirements must be met. A retinal implant poses difficult engineering challenges due to the size of the intraocular cavity and the delicate retina. Not only does it have to be biocompatible in terms of cytotoxicity and degradation, but it also has to be structurally biocompatible, with regard to smooth edges and high conformability; basically mimicking the biological tissue. This is vital to minimize stress and prevent physical damage to the retina. Also, the device must be robust to withstand the forces imposed on it during fabrication and implantation. In order to meet these biocompatibility needs, the use of non-conventional microfabrication materials such as silicone is required. This mandates the enhancement of currently available polymer-based fabrication techniques and the development of new microfabrication methods. Through an iterative process

  15. Interventional Radiologic Treatment for Idiopathic Portal Hypertension

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hirota, Shozo; Ichikawa, Satoshi; Matsumoto, Shinichi

    1999-07-15

    Purpose: To evaluate the usefulness of interventional radiological treatment for idiopathic portal hypertension. Methods: Between 1995 and 1998, we performed an interventional radiological treatment in five patients with idiopathic portal hypertension, four of whom had refused surgery and one of whom had undergone surgery. Three patients with gastroesophageal varices (GEV) were treated by partial splenic embolization (PSE), one patient with esophageal varices (EV) and massive ascites by transjugular intrahepatic portosytemic shunt (TIPS) and PSE, and one patient with GEV by percutaneous transhepatic obliteration (PTO). Midterm results were analyzed in terms of the effect on esophageal and/or gastric varices. Results: Inmore » one woman with severe GEV who underwent three sessions of PSE, there was endoscopic confirmation that the GEV had disappeared. In one man his EV shrunk markedly after two sessions of PSE. In two patients slight reduction of the EV was obtained with one application of PSE combined with endoscopic variceal ligation therapy. PTO for GV in one patient resulted in good control of the varices. All patients have survived for 16-42 months since the first interventional treatment, and varices are well controlled. Conclusion: Interventional radiological treatment is effective for patients with idiopathic portal hypertension, whether or not they have undergone surgery.« less

  16. Neurodevelopment in preschool idiopathic toe-walkers.

    PubMed

    Martín-Casas, P; Ballestero-Pérez, R; Meneses-Monroy, A; Beneit-Montesinos, J V; Atín-Arratibel, M A; Portellano-Pérez, J A

    2017-09-01

    Idiopathic toe walking, a differential diagnosis for neurological and orthopaedic disorders, has been associated with neurodevelopmental alterations. Neurodevelopmental assessment at early ages using specific tests may improve management and follow-up of these patients. The aim of our study is to analyse the neurodevelopmental characteristics of preschool idiopathic toe-walkers (ITW) by comparing them to a control group. Our descriptive cross-sectional study compared possible risk factors, neurodevelopmental characteristics, and scores on the Child Neuropsychological Maturity Questionnaire (CUMANIN) between a group of 56 ITWs aged 3 to 6 and a control group including 40 children. The proportion of males was significantly higher in the ITW group (P=.008). The percentage of patients with a family history (P=.000) and biological risk factors during the perinatal period (P=.032) was also higher in this group. According to the parents' reports, motor coordination in ITWs was significantly poorer (59%; P=.009). ITWs scored significantly lower on CUMANIN subscales of psychomotricity (=0,001) and memory (P=.001), as well as in verbal development (P=.000), non-verbal development (P=.026), and overall development (P=.004). Foot preference was less marked in the ITW group (P=.047). The neurodevelopmental characteristics of our sample suggest that idiopathic toe walking is a marker of neurodevelopmental impairment. However, further studies are necessary to confirm these findings. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Neurología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  17. Serum anti-PLA2R antibody as a diagnostic biomarker of idiopathic membranous nephropathy: The optimal cut-off value for Chinese patients.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yipeng; Li, Xuan; Ma, Chaoqun; Wang, Ping; Liu, Ju; Su, Hong; Zhuo, Hao; Kong, Xianglei; Xu, Dayu; Xu, Dongmei

    2018-01-01

    The M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) is a specific target autoantigen identified in idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). The autoantibody against PLA2R (anti-PLA2R) may be used to diagnose IMN. However, the appropriate diagnosis cut-off value for Chinese patients with IMN has not been established. In total, 119 patients who underwent renal biopsy (57 patients with IMN and 62 patients with non-IMN glomerulonephritis) and 22 healthy individuals were recruited for our observation study from Qianfoshan Hospital between September 2011 and March 2016. The serum concentration of anti-PLA2R was measured using a quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of anti-PLA2R in diagnosing IMN were analysed based on the ELISA detection. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of anti-PLA2R in the diagnosis of IMN in the Chinese patients were 82.5, 75, 69.1, and 86.3% for the 2RU/ml cut-off value; 78.9, 91.7, 86.5, and 86.5% for the 2.6RU/ml cut-off value; 59.6, 95.2, 89.5, and 77.7% for the 14RU/ml cut-off value; 50.9, 96.4, 90.6, and 74.3% for the 20RU/ml cut-off value; and 47.4, 97.6, 93.1, and 73.2% for the 40RU/ml cut-off value, respectively. The area under the ROC curve was 0.879. The cut-off value of 2.6RU/ml is recommended for the use of anti-PLA2R for the diagnosis of IMN in Chinese patients based on the ELISA. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  18. Idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension: current perspectives.

    PubMed

    Riggio, Oliviero; Gioia, Stefania; Pentassuglio, Ilaria; Nicoletti, Valeria; Valente, Michele; d'Amati, Giulia

    2016-01-01

    The term idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH) has been recently proposed to replace terms, such as hepatoportal sclerosis, idiopathic portal hypertension, incomplete septal cirrhosis, and nodular regenerative hyperplasia, used to describe patients with a hepatic presinusoidal cause of portal hypertension of unknown etiology, characterized by features of portal hypertension (esophageal varices, nonmalignant ascites, porto-venous collaterals), splenomegaly, patent portal, and hepatic veins and no clinical and histological signs of cirrhosis. Physicians should learn to look for this condition in a number of clinical settings, including cryptogenic cirrhosis, a disease known to be associated with INCPH, drug administration, and even chronic alterations in liver function tests. Once INCPH is clinically suspected, liver histology becomes mandatory for the correct diagnosis. However, pathologists should be familiar with the histological features of INCPH, especially in cases in which histology is not only requested to exclude liver cirrhosis.

  19. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A rare cause of scintigraphic ventilation-perfusion mismatch

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pochis, W.T.; Krasnow, A.Z.; Collier, B.D.

    1990-05-01

    A case of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis with multiple areas of mismatch on ventilation-perfusion lung imaging in the absence of pulmonary embolism is presented. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is one of the few nonembolic diseases producing a pulmonary ventilation-perfusion mismatch. In this condition, chest radiographs may not detect the full extent of disease, and xenon-133 ventilation imaging may be relatively insensitive to morbid changes in small airways. Thus, when examining patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, one should be aware that abnormal perfusion imaging patterns without matching ventilation abnormalities are not always due to embolism. In this setting, contrast pulmonary angiography is oftenmore » needed for accurate differential diagnosis.« less

  20. Increased Granulocyte Heparanase Activity in Neutrophils from Patients with Lupus Nephritis and Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy.

    PubMed

    Szymczak, Maciej; Kuźniar, Jakub; Kopeć, Wacław; Żabińska, Marcelina; Marchewka, Zofia; Kościelska-Kasprzak, Katarzyna; Klinger, Marian

    2017-02-01

    Heparanase is a β-glucuronidase that cleaves sugar chains of heparan sulfate proteoglycans. It is believed that heparanase may be involved in the pathogenesis of proteinuria. The aim of this study was to assess the significance of heparanase in the pathogenesis of particular glomerulonephritis types. The evaluation of heparanase activity in serum, urine, and granulocytes and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in granulocytes of patients with lupus nephritis (n = 17), membranous nephropathy (n = 11), IgA nephropathy (n = 12), focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (n = 18), mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis (n = 12) and in 19 healthy volunteers were performed. The heparanase activity in granulocytes of patients with lupus nephritis and membranous nephropathy was higher than heparanase activity in granulocytes in the control group (p = 0.02 in both cases). This is the first observation of this phenomenon. There was no difference between SOD activity in granulocytes of patients with all assessed types of glomerulonephritis and the control group. A positive correlation between heparanase activity in urine and double-strain DNA antibodies (r = 0.51; p = 0.04), and reverse correlations between heparanase in urine and hemolytic activity of the complement (r = -0.57; p = 0.03) in the lupus nephritis group, and between heparanase activity in granulocytes and serum total protein level (r = -0.69; p = 0.02) in membranous nephropathy were observed. Increase in heparanase activity without changes in superoxide dismutase activity in the granulocytes from patients with lupus nephritis and membranous nephropathy was observed. It may be used as one of the markers of these disease activities.

  1. Idiopathic Hypersomnia.

    PubMed

    Trotti, Lynn Marie

    2017-09-01

    Idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) is a chronic neurologic disorder of daytime sleepiness, accompanied by long sleep times, unrefreshing sleep, difficulty in awakening, cognitive dysfunction, and autonomic symptoms. The cause is unknown; a genetic predisposition is suggested. Autonomic, inflammatory, or immune dysfunction has been proposed. Diagnosis involves a clinical history and objective testing. There are no approved treatments for IH, but modafinil is typically considered first-line. A substantial fraction of patients with IH are refractory or intolerant to standard treatments, and different treatment strategies using novel therapeutics are necessary. Even with current treatment options, quality of life and safety may remain impaired. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Spinal Manipulative Therapy for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review.

    PubMed

    Théroux, Jean; Stomski, Norman; Losco, Christine Dominique; Khadra, Christelle; Labelle, Hubert; Le May, Sylvie

    The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review of clinical trials of spinal manipulative therapy for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Search strategies were developed for PubMed, CINHAL, and CENTRAL databases. Studies were included through June 2016 if they were prospective trials that evaluated spinal manipulative therapy (eg, chiropractic, osteopathic, physical therapy) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Data were extracted and assessed by 2 independent reviewers. Cochrane risk of bias tools were used to assess the quality of the included studies. Data were reported qualitatively because heterogeneity prevented statistical pooling. Four studies satisfied the inclusion criteria and were critically appraised. The findings of the included studies indicated that spinal manipulative therapy might be effective for preventing curve progression or reducing Cobb angle. However, the lack of controls and small sample sizes precluded robust estimation of the interventions' effect sizes. There is currently insufficient evidence to establish whether spinal manipulative therapy may be beneficial for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The results of the included studies suggest that spinal manipulative therapy may be a promising treatment, but these studies were all at substantial risk of bias. Further high-quality studies are warranted to conclusively determine if spinal manipulative therapy may be effective in the management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  3. STELLATE NONHEREDITARY IDIOPATHIC FOVEOMACULAR RETINOSCHISIS ACCOMPANIED BY CONTRALATERAL PERIPHERAL RETINOSCHISIS.

    PubMed

    Ahmed, Daniel; Stattin, Martin; Glittenberg, Carl; Krebs, Ilse; Ansari-Shahrezaei, Siamak

    2017-01-16

    To present a patient with stellate nonhereditary idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis on one eye and peripheral retinoschisis without foveal affection on the other eye. A case report with complete workup of family history and clinical examination, including multimodal imaging with optical coherence tomography and angiography, fluorescein angiography, and infrared fundus imaging. Genetic testing for gene mutation XRLS1 was performed. A white woman with unremarkable medical history presented with stellate foveal splitting of the outer plexiform layer on the right eye and peripheral splitting of the outer plexiform layer on both eyes. All known allegeable trigger factors for the existence of a hereditary or acquired foveomacular retinoschisis were ruled out either by clinical presentation or genetic testing. This led to the diagnosis of stellate nonhereditary idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis with central involvement only present on one eye. Although peripheral schisis of the outer plexiform layer is often concomitant with central splitting in X-linked juvenile retinoschisis, this is the first known report of nonhereditary cleavage of the outer plexiform layer of the peripheral retina without central affection in a patient with documented stellate nonhereditary idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis on the other eye. These findings suggest an accurate bilateral examination of the peripheral retina while confirming the diagnose of stellate nonhereditary idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis.

  4. Chronic idiopathic myelofibrosis terminating in extramedullary anaplastic plasmacytoma.

    PubMed

    Liu, Min-Ling; Kallakury, Bhaskar; Kessler, Craig; Hartmann, Dan-Paul; Azumi, Norio; Ozdemirli, Metin

    2006-02-01

    Chronic idiopathic myelofibrosis (CIMF) is a chronic myeloproliferative disorder (CMPD) with progressive fibrosis and extramedullary hematopoiesis. Similar to other CMPDs, the stem cell in CIMF has the potential to differentiate into myeloid or lymphoid lineages, and thus CIMF can culminate in acute leukemia of myeloid or, rarely, lymphoid lineage. We describe an unusual case of CIMF terminating in extramedullary anaplastic plasmacytoma. The patient was a 61-year-old male with an 11-year history of CIMF. His course was complicated by rapidly growing abdominal and inguinal lymphadenopathy. Lymph node biopsy revealed a diffuse undifferentiated infiltrate in the background of extramedullary hematopoiesis. Flow cytometric and immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated plasma cell-related antigens (CD138, CD38, cytoplasmic kappa light chain), epithelial membrane antigen and CD43 in the tumor cells. The myeloid, B-cell or T-cell markers were negative. A clonal immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement was identified by polymerase chain reaction. The plasma cell origin was further confirmed by electron microscopic examination, which revealed stacks of rough endoplasmic reticulum. Monoclonal gammopathy may occur in CIMF, and rare cases of simultaneous plasma cell myeloma and CIMF have been reported in the literature. However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of CIMF terminating in extramedullary anaplastic plasmacytoma.

  5. Genetic (idiopathic) epilepsy with photosensitive seizures includes features of both focal and generalized seizures.

    PubMed

    Xue, Jiao; Gong, Pan; Yang, Haipo; Liu, Xiaoyan; Jiang, Yuwu; Zhang, Yuehua; Yang, Zhixian

    2018-04-19

    Clinically, some patients having genetic (idiopathic) epilepsy with photosensitive seizures were difficult to be diagnosed. We aimed to discuss whether the genetic (idiopathic) epilepsy with photosensitive seizures is a focal entity, a generalized entity or a continuum. Twenty-two patients with idiopathic epilepsies and photoconvulsive response (PCR) were retrospectively recruited. In the medical records, the seizure types included "generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS)" in 15, "partial secondarily GTCS (PGTCS)" in 3, partial seizures (PS) in 3, myoclonic seizures in 2, eyelid myoclonus in one, and only febrile seizures in one. Seizure types of PCR included GTCS (1/22), PGTCS (6/22), PS (9/22), electrical seizures (ES) (3/22) and GTCS/PGTCS (3/22). Combined the medical history with PCR results, they were diagnosed as: idiopathic (photosensitive) occipital lobe epilepsy (I(P)OE) in 12, genetic (idiopathic) generalized epilepsy (GGE) in one, GGE/I(P)OE in 5, pure photosensitive seizure in one, and epilepsy with undetermined generalized or focal seizure in 3. So, the dichotomy between generalized and focal seizures might have been out of date regarding to pathophysiological advances in epileptology. To some extent, it would be better to recognize the idiopathic epilepsy with photosensitive seizures as a continuum between focal and generalized seizures.

  6. Enlarged Dural Sac in Idiopathic Bronchiectasis Implicates Heritable Connective Tissue Gene Variants

    PubMed Central

    Birchard, Katherine R.; Lowe, Jared R.; Patrone, Michael V.

    2016-01-01

    Rationale: Patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis are predominantly female and have an asthenic body morphotype and frequent nontuberculous mycobacterial respiratory infections. They also demonstrate phenotypic features (scoliosis, pectus deformity, mitral valve prolapse) that are commonly seen in individuals with heritable connective tissue disorders. Objectives: To determine whether lumbar dural sac size is increased in patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis as compared with control subjects, and to assess whether dural sac size is correlated with phenotypic characteristics seen in individuals with heritable connective tissue disorders. Methods: Two readers blinded to diagnosis measured anterior–posterior and transverse dural sac diameter using L1–L5 magnetic resonance images of 71 patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis, 72 control subjects without lung disease, 29 patients with cystic fibrosis, and 24 patients with Marfan syndrome. We compared groups by pairwise analysis of means, using Tukey’s method to adjust for multiple comparisons. Dural sac diameter association with phenotypic and clinical features was also tested. Measurements and Main Results: The L1–L5 (average) anterior–posterior dural sac diameter of the idiopathic bronchiectasis group was larger than those of the control group (P < 0.001) and the cystic fibrosis group (P = 0.002). There was a strong correlation between increased dural sac size and the presence of pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection (P = 0.007) and long fingers (P = 0.003). A trend toward larger dural sac diameter was seen in those with scoliosis (P = 0.130) and those with a family history of idiopathic bronchiectasis (P = 0.149). Conclusions: Individuals with idiopathic bronchiectasis have an enlarged dural sac diameter, which is associated with pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection, long fingers, and family history of idiopathic bronchiectasis. These findings support our

  7. McArdle's disease: A differential diagnosis of idiopathic toe walking.

    PubMed

    Pomarino, David; Martin, Stephan; Pomarino, Andrea; Morigeau, Stefanie; Biskup, Saskia

    2018-06-01

    Idiopathic toe walking (ITW) is a pathological gait pattern in which children walk on their tip toes with no orthopedic or neurological reason. Physiological characteristics of the gastrocnemius muscles, the Achilles tendon, and the foot of toe walkers differ from subjects with a plantigrade walking pattern. McArdle's disease is characterized by the inability to break down muscle glycogen. It is an autosomal-recessive condition, characterized by low exercise tolerance, muscular atrophy at the shoulder girdle, episodes of myoglobinuria after vigorous physical activities and the occurrence of the second wind phenomenon. The aim of this review is to present the case studies of two subjects who were originally diagnosed as idiopathic toe walkers, but were then found to have McArdle's disease. This review will describe some physical characteristics that distinguish McArdle´s disease from Idiopathic toe walkers.

  8. French consensus. Idiopathic hypersomnia: Investigations and follow-up.

    PubMed

    Leu-Semenescu, S; Quera-Salva, M-A; Dauvilliers, Y

    Idiopathic hypersomnia is a rare, central hypersomnia, recently identified and to date of unknown physiopathology. It is characterised by a more or less permanent, excessive daytime sleepiness, associated with long and unrefreshing naps. Night-time sleep is of good quality, excessive in quantity, associated with sleep inertia in the subtype previously described as "with long sleep time". Diagnosis of idiopathic hypersomnia is complex due to the absence of a quantifiable biomarker, the heterogeneous symptoms, which overlap with the clinical picture of type 2 narcolepsy, and its variable evolution over time. Detailed evaluation enables other frequent causes of somnolence, such as depression or sleep deprivation, to be eliminated. Polysomnography and multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT) are essential to rule out other sleep pathologies and to objectify excessive daytime sleepiness. Sometimes the MSLT do not show excessive sleepiness, hence a continued sleep recording of at least 24hours is necessary to show prolonged sleep (>11h/24h). In this article, we propose recommendations for the work-up to be carried out during diagnosis and follow-up for patients suffering from idiopathic hypersomnia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  9. [Results of amnioinfusion in pregnancies with oligohydramnios and non-ruptured fetal membranes].

    PubMed

    Zamłyński, Jacek; Bodzek, Piotr; Olejek, Anita; Grettka, Krzysztof; Mańka, Grzegorz

    2003-01-01

    Authors analysed results of amnioinfusion in the group of 65 pregnant women with oligohydramnios and non-ruptured fetal membranes. Amnioinfusions were the most efficient in the pregnancies with oligohydramnios and asymmetric hypotrophy, idiopathic oligohydramnios or oligohydramnios with pathological FCG. The group with oligohydramnios and fetal malformations showed the worst results of the treatment. The findings confirm mainly the diagnostic character of the method before the end of 25 week of pregnancy because during period the oligohydramnios usually occurs together with lethal fetus malformations. The amnioinfusion in the cases of fetal hypotrophy and pregnancy-induced hypertension seems to be the prophylactic procedure.

  10. Do adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis have body schema disorders? A cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Picelli, Alessandro; Negrini, Stefano; Zenorini, Andrea; Iosa, Marco; Paolucci, Stefano; Smania, Nicola

    2016-01-01

    To date etiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis appears complex and still remains unclear. A distorted body schema has been proposed to be a part of a sequence of pathological events in the development of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. To investigate the awareness of trunk misalignment in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Information about 44 adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis was collected as follows: age; sex; handedness; family history of scoliosis; back pain; sport practice; shoulder and waist line symmetry; leg length; dorsal kyphosis; back hump; rehabilitation; scoliotic curve; Risser sign. We evaluated awareness of trunk misalignment with a graphic table displaying pictures of progressively increasing scoliotic curves. Patients were asked to indicate which picture corresponded to their perceived own spinal alignment. Patients with thoracolumbar scoliosis overestimated their actual thoracic spine curve. Patients with thoracic-thoracolumbar scoliosis underestimated their actual thoracolumbar spine curve and overestimated their actual lumbar spine curve. Scoliotic curve > 15°, double curve, younger age, back pain, family history of scoliosis and lower Risser score related with a misperception of trunk alignment. Our results support the hypothesis that adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis have an altered corporeal awareness of their trunk alignment.

  11. Idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension: current perspectives

    PubMed Central

    Riggio, Oliviero; Gioia, Stefania; Pentassuglio, Ilaria; Nicoletti, Valeria; Valente, Michele; d’Amati, Giulia

    2016-01-01

    The term idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH) has been recently proposed to replace terms, such as hepatoportal sclerosis, idiopathic portal hypertension, incomplete septal cirrhosis, and nodular regenerative hyperplasia, used to describe patients with a hepatic presinusoidal cause of portal hypertension of unknown etiology, characterized by features of portal hypertension (esophageal varices, nonmalignant ascites, porto-venous collaterals), splenomegaly, patent portal, and hepatic veins and no clinical and histological signs of cirrhosis. Physicians should learn to look for this condition in a number of clinical settings, including cryptogenic cirrhosis, a disease known to be associated with INCPH, drug administration, and even chronic alterations in liver function tests. Once INCPH is clinically suspected, liver histology becomes mandatory for the correct diagnosis. However, pathologists should be familiar with the histological features of INCPH, especially in cases in which histology is not only requested to exclude liver cirrhosis. PMID:27555800

  12. Idiopathic burning mouth syndrome: a common treatment-refractory somatoform condition responsive to ECT.

    PubMed

    McGirr, Alexander; Davis, Lindsay; Vila-Rodriguez, Fidel

    2014-04-30

    Somatic symptom disorders are common causes of disability and suffering, and can pose significant management challenges. Idiopathic burning mouth syndrome is a challenging somatic symptom disorder with relatively high prevalence, particularly among post-menopausal women. Here, we present the case of a woman with severe treatment refractory idiopathic burning mouth syndrome and comorbid major depressive disorder, who was successfully treated with bitemporal electroconvulsive therapy. This case highlights the potential effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy in idiopathic burning mouth syndrome when other treatment options have been exhausted. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Cost-effectiveness of internal limiting membrane peeling versus no peeling for patients with an idiopathic full-thickness macular hole: results from a randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Ternent, Laura; Vale, Luke; Boachie, Charles; Burr, Jennifer M; Lois, Noemi

    2012-03-01

    To determine whether internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling is cost-effective compared with no peeling for patients with an idiopathic stage 2 or 3 full-thickness macular hole. A cost-effectiveness analysis was performed alongside a randomised controlled trial. 141 participants were randomly allocated to receive macular-hole surgery, with either ILM peeling or no peeling. Health-service resource use, costs and quality of life were calculated for each participant. The incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained was calculated at 6 months. At 6 months, the total costs were on average higher (£424, 95% CI -182 to 1045) in the No Peel arm, primarily owing to the higher reoperation rate in the No Peel arm. The mean additional QALYs from ILM peel at 6 months were 0.002 (95% CI 0.01 to 0.013), adjusting for baseline EQ-5D and other minimisation factors. A mean incremental cost per QALY was not computed, as Peeling was on average less costly and slightly more effective. A stochastic analysis suggested that there was more than a 90% probability that Peeling would be cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20,000 per QALY. Although there is no evidence of a statistically significant difference in either costs or QALYs between macular hole surgery with or without ILM peeling, the balance of probabilities is that ILM Peeling is likely to be a cost-effective option for the treatment of macular holes. Further long-term follow-up data are needed to confirm these findings.

  14. Incidence of tympanic membrane perforation after intratympanic steroid treatment through myringotomy tubes.

    PubMed

    Rutt, Amy L; Hawkshaw, Mary J; Sataloff, Robert T

    2011-04-01

    Intratympanic (IT) steroids are often used to treat inner ear disorders such as sudden idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss, autoimmune inner ear disease, and Ménière disease. Administration of corticosteroids via IT injection, via application with a pledget to the round window, or via catheter has been used for this purpose. The frequency of adverse events related to the IT injection of steroids is low, with pain, short-lasting vertigo, otitis media, and tympanic perforations being the most common complications. However, the safety of IT steroid therapy has not yet been established in a randomized clinical trial. In this article, we discuss a group of 11 patients with sensorineural hearing loss who underwent myringotomy and tube placement for home-based dexamethasone instillation and subsequently developed the complication of tympanic membrane perforation. It appears that there is a significantly increased incidence of tympanic membrane perforations in this population.

  15. Role of macular hole angle in macular hole closure.

    PubMed

    Chhablani, Jay; Khodani, Mitali; Hussein, Abdullah; Bondalapati, Sailaja; Rao, Harsha B; Narayanan, Raja; Sudhalkar, Aditya

    2015-12-01

    To evaluate correlation of various spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) parameters including macular hole angle as well as various indices with anatomical and visual outcomes after idiopathic macular hole repair surgery. Retrospective study of 137 eyes of 137 patients who underwent idiopathic macular hole repair surgery between January 2008 and January 2014 was performed. Various qualitative parameters such as presence of vitreomacular traction, epiretinal membrane and cystic edges at the macular hole as well as quantitative parameters such as maximum diameter on the apex of the hole, minimum diameter between edges, nasal and temporal vertical height, longest base diameter and macular hole angle between the retinal edge and the retinal pigment epithelium were noted. Indices including hole form factor, Macular Hole Index (MHI), Diameter Hole Index and Tractional Hole Index (THI) were calculated. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis was performed separately for final visual acuity (VA) and type of closure as dependent variable in relation to SD-OCT parameters as independent variables. On multivariate regression only minimum diameter between edges (p≤0.01) and longest base diameter (p≤0.03) were correlated significantly with both, type 1 closure and final VA. Among the indices, significant correlation of MHI (p=0.009) was noted with type of closure and that of THI with final VA (p=0.017). Our study shows no significant correlation between macular hole angle and hole closure. Minimum diameter between the edges and longest diameter of the hole are best predictors of hole closure and postoperative VA. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

  16. Tamoxifen is a potent antioxidant modulator for sperm quality in patients with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia.

    PubMed

    Guo, Li; Jing, Jun; Feng, Yu-Ming; Yao, Bing

    2015-09-01

    To explore the new mechanisms of tamoxifen (TAM) in the treatment for patients with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia-antioxidation. In a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial, 120 cases of idiopathic oligoasthenospermia were enrolled and randomly assigned to the indomethacin group (n = 60) treated with indomethacin (25 mg, bid) and TAM group (n = 60) treated with TAM (10 mg, bid) for 3 months. Before and after treatment, we evaluated semen parameters, serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), seminal plasma MDA and TAC, spermatozoa intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), sperm succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity, sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and sperm adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content. The independent t test and one-way repeated measures analysis of variance were used to compare the variables between and within two groups. In the indomethacin group, the percentage of progressive motile sperms, total motility, sperm MMP, and ATP content were increased significantly after 3-month treatment (P < 0.05). In the TAM group, total sperm count, sperm concentration, the percentage of progressive motile sperms, total motility, serum and seminal plasma TAC, sperm MMP, and ATP content were significantly improved or increased (P < 0.05), while spermatozoa intracellular ROS was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Compared to the indomethacin group, TAM treatment showed better improvement in total sperm count, sperm concentration, serum TAC, seminal plasma TAC, spermatozoa intracellular ROS, and sperm SDH activity. TAM treatment can significantly improve sperm quality, which is achieved through alleviating oxidative stress, improving sperm mitochondrial functionality, and subsequently increasing sperm motility.

  17. Selective Arterial Embolization of Idiopathic Priapism

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cohen, Gary S.; Braunstein, Larry; Ball, David S.

    1996-11-15

    We report a case of idiopathic priapism that was only identified as high-flow or arterial priapism after drainage of the corpora cavernosa. Following failure of conservative and surgical treatment attempts, two consecutive embolizations of a unilateral penile artery were performed with gelgoam particles.

  18. [Clinical features of idiopathic restless legs syndrome in Japanese patients].

    PubMed

    Kume, Akito; Kume, Hideaki

    2010-06-01

    Little is known about the diagnosis and management of restless legs syndrome (RLS) in Japanese neurology clinics. To validate the diagnostic criteria of the International RLS Study Group (IRLSSG) and the treatment algorithm of the Mayo Clinic in a Japanese neurology clinic setting and to clarify the features of Japanese patients with idiopathic RLS. Patients with RLS symptoms were examined by a neurologist and the assessment included neurological examination, tests for periodic limb movements (PLM) and dopaminergic response, and the clinical diagnosis was made according to IRLSSG diagnostic criteria. Patients diagnosed with idiopathic RLS were treated with dopaminergic agents and the efficacy was evaluated. The study subjects were 151 Japanese patients who presented with RLS symptoms. Idiopathic RLS was diagnosed in 113 patients, secondary RLS in 16 and RLS mimics in 22. The cause of RLS mimics was either myelopathy, radiculopathy or neuropathy in 11 patients. The mean age of patients with idiopathic RLS was 50.1 (SD 20.0) years, 63% were woman, 97% had daily RLS, 31% had family history (40% of the early-onset subgroup), 86% reported unpleasant sensations in the lower legs, 43% had PLM in the daytime suggested immobilization test, 81% suffered from insomnia, 49% had limitations of work and activities, 71% reported impaired mood, 27% had consulted physicians about their symptoms, 4% had been diagnosed with RLS, 73% improved after dopaminergic treatments, and 33% experienced complete remission. The clinical features of Japanese patients with idiopathic RLS were identical to those reported in western countries, which suggests that IRLSSG diagnostic criteria and Mayo Clinic treatment algorism are valid in Japanese neurology clinics. Both patients and physicians were not fully aware of RLS in this country. Neurological examination was important in excluding RLS mimics and making a diagnosis of RLS.

  19. Significance of Myositis Autoantibody in Patients with Idiopathic Interstitial Lung Disease

    PubMed Central

    Song, Ju Sun; Hwang, Jiwon; Cha, Hoon-Suk; Jeong, Byeong-Ho; Suh, Gee Young; Chung, Man Pyo

    2015-01-01

    Purpose Some patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) related to connective tissue disease (CTD) have a delayed diagnosis of the underlying CTD when the ILD is categorized as idiopathic. In this study, we evaluated the frequency of myositis autoantibodies in patients diagnosed with idiopathic ILD and investigated the clinical significance stemming from the presence of the antibodies. Materials and Methods A total 32 patients diagnosed with idiopathic ILD were enrolled in this study. We analyzed a panel of 11 myositis autoantibody specificities in the patients using a line blot immunoassay. Then, we divided them into myositis autoantibody-positive and -negative groups and compared the clinical features and laboratory data between the two groups. Results Of the 32 idiopathic ILD patients, 12 patients had myositis autoantibodies encompassing 9 specificities, except for anti-Mi-2 and anti-PM-Scl 100 (12/32, 38%). Anti-synthetase autoantibodies including Jo-1, EJ, OJ, PL-7, and PL-12 were present in 7 patients (7/32, 22%). The group with myositis autoantibodies presented more frequently with the symptom of mechanic's hand and showed abnormal pulmonary function test results with low forced vital capacity, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, total lung capacity, and high lactate dehydrogenase values in blood when compared with the group without myositis antibodies. Conclusion We strongly suggest that patients undergo an evaluation of myositis autoantibodies, if they are diagnosed with idiopathic ILD in the presence of clinical characteristics including mechanic's hand, arthralgia, and autoantibodies which are insufficient to make a diagnosis of a specific CTD category. PMID:25837172

  20. Significance of myositis autoantibody in patients with idiopathic interstitial lung disease.

    PubMed

    Song, Ju Sun; Hwang, Jiwon; Cha, Hoon-Suk; Jeong, Byeong-Ho; Suh, Gee Young; Chung, Man Pyo; Kang, Eun-Suk

    2015-05-01

    Some patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) related to connective tissue disease (CTD) have a delayed diagnosis of the underlying CTD when the ILD is categorized as idiopathic. In this study, we evaluated the frequency of myositis autoantibodies in patients diagnosed with idiopathic ILD and investigated the clinical significance stemming from the presence of the antibodies. A total 32 patients diagnosed with idiopathic ILD were enrolled in this study. We analyzed a panel of 11 myositis autoantibody specificities in the patients using a line blot immunoassay. Then, we divided them into myositis autoantibody-positive and -negative groups and compared the clinical features and laboratory data between the two groups. Of the 32 idiopathic ILD patients, 12 patients had myositis autoantibodies encompassing 9 specificities, except for anti-Mi-2 and anti-PM-Scl 100 (12/32, 38%). Anti-synthetase autoantibodies including Jo-1, EJ, OJ, PL-7, and PL-12 were present in 7 patients (7/32, 22%). The group with myositis autoantibodies presented more frequently with the symptom of mechanic's hand and showed abnormal pulmonary function test results with low forced vital capacity, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, total lung capacity, and high lactate dehydrogenase values in blood when compared with the group without myositis antibodies. We strongly suggest that patients undergo an evaluation of myositis autoantibodies, if they are diagnosed with idiopathic ILD in the presence of clinical characteristics including mechanic's hand, arthralgia, and autoantibodies which are insufficient to make a diagnosis of a specific CTD category.

  1. Plasma membrane wounding and repair in pulmonary diseases.

    PubMed

    Cong, Xiaofei; Hubmayr, Rolf D; Li, Changgong; Zhao, Xiaoli

    2017-03-01

    Various pathophysiological conditions such as surfactant dysfunction, mechanical ventilation, inflammation, pathogen products, environmental exposures, and gastric acid aspiration stress lung cells, and the compromise of plasma membranes occurs as a result. The mechanisms necessary for cells to repair plasma membrane defects have been extensively investigated in the last two decades, and some of these key repair mechanisms are also shown to occur following lung cell injury. Because it was theorized that lung wounding and repair are involved in the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), in this review, we summarized the experimental evidence of lung cell injury in these two devastating syndromes and discuss relevant genetic, physical, and biological injury mechanisms, as well as mechanisms used by lung cells for cell survival and membrane repair. Finally, we discuss relevant signaling pathways that may be activated by chronic or repeated lung cell injury as an extension of our cell injury and repair focus in this review. We hope that a holistic view of injurious stimuli relevant for ARDS and IPF could lead to updated experimental models. In addition, parallel discussion of membrane repair mechanisms in lung cells and injury-activated signaling pathways would encourage research to bridge gaps in current knowledge. Indeed, deep understanding of lung cell wounding and repair, and discovery of relevant repair moieties for lung cells, should inspire the development of new therapies that are likely preventive and broadly effective for targeting injurious pulmonary diseases. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

  2. Glymphatic MRI in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus

    PubMed Central

    Ringstad, Geir; Vatnehol, Svein Are Sirirud; Eide, Per Kristian

    2017-01-01

    Abstract The glymphatic system has in previous studies been shown as fundamental to clearance of waste metabolites from the brain interstitial space, and is proposed to be instrumental in normal ageing and brain pathology such as Alzheimer’s disease and brain trauma. Assessment of glymphatic function using magnetic resonance imaging with intrathecal contrast agent as a cerebrospinal fluid tracer has so far been limited to rodents. We aimed to image cerebrospinal fluid flow characteristics and glymphatic function in humans, and applied the methodology in a prospective study of 15 idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus patients (mean age 71.3 ± 8.1 years, three female and 12 male) and eight reference subjects (mean age 41.1 + 13.0 years, six female and two male) with suspected cerebrospinal fluid leakage (seven) and intracranial cyst (one). The imaging protocol included T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging with equal sequence parameters before and at multiple time points through 24 h after intrathecal injection of the contrast agent gadobutrol at the lumbar level. All study subjects were kept in the supine position between examinations during the first day. Gadobutrol enhancement was measured at all imaging time points from regions of interest placed at predefined locations in brain parenchyma, the subarachnoid and intraventricular space, and inside the sagittal sinus. Parameters demonstrating gadobutrol enhancement and clearance in different locations were compared between idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and reference subjects. A characteristic flow pattern in idiopathic normal hydrocephalus was ventricular reflux of gadobutrol from the subarachnoid space followed by transependymal gadobutrol migration. At the brain surfaces, gadobutrol propagated antegradely along large leptomeningeal arteries in all study subjects, and preceded glymphatic enhancement in adjacent brain tissue, indicating a pivotal role of intracranial pulsations for glymphatic

  3. Glymphatic MRI in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.

    PubMed

    Ringstad, Geir; Vatnehol, Svein Are Sirirud; Eide, Per Kristian

    2017-10-01

    The glymphatic system has in previous studies been shown as fundamental to clearance of waste metabolites from the brain interstitial space, and is proposed to be instrumental in normal ageing and brain pathology such as Alzheimer's disease and brain trauma. Assessment of glymphatic function using magnetic resonance imaging with intrathecal contrast agent as a cerebrospinal fluid tracer has so far been limited to rodents. We aimed to image cerebrospinal fluid flow characteristics and glymphatic function in humans, and applied the methodology in a prospective study of 15 idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus patients (mean age 71.3 ± 8.1 years, three female and 12 male) and eight reference subjects (mean age 41.1 + 13.0 years, six female and two male) with suspected cerebrospinal fluid leakage (seven) and intracranial cyst (one). The imaging protocol included T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging with equal sequence parameters before and at multiple time points through 24 h after intrathecal injection of the contrast agent gadobutrol at the lumbar level. All study subjects were kept in the supine position between examinations during the first day. Gadobutrol enhancement was measured at all imaging time points from regions of interest placed at predefined locations in brain parenchyma, the subarachnoid and intraventricular space, and inside the sagittal sinus. Parameters demonstrating gadobutrol enhancement and clearance in different locations were compared between idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and reference subjects. A characteristic flow pattern in idiopathic normal hydrocephalus was ventricular reflux of gadobutrol from the subarachnoid space followed by transependymal gadobutrol migration. At the brain surfaces, gadobutrol propagated antegradely along large leptomeningeal arteries in all study subjects, and preceded glymphatic enhancement in adjacent brain tissue, indicating a pivotal role of intracranial pulsations for glymphatic function. In

  4. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis masquerading as carcinoma of the breast: a case report and review of the literature

    PubMed Central

    Tuli, Richard; O'Hara, Brian J; Hines, Janet; Rosenberg, Anne L

    2007-01-01

    Background Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is an uncommon, benign entity with a diagnosis of exclusion. The typical clinical presentation of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis often mimics infection or malignancy. As a result, histopathological confirmation of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis combined with exclusion of infection, malignancy and other causes of granulomatous disease is absolutely necessary. Case Presentation We present a case of a young woman with idiopathic granulomatous mastitis, initially mistaken for mastitis as well as breast carcinoma, and successfully treated with a course of corticosteroids. Conclusion There is no clear clinical consensus regarding the ideal therapeutic management of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis. Treatment options include expectant management with spontaneous remission, corticosteroid therapy, immunosuppressive agents and extensive surgery for refractory cases. PMID:17662130

  5. The coeruleus/subcoeruleus complex in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder.

    PubMed

    Ehrminger, Mickael; Latimier, Alice; Pyatigorskaya, Nadya; Garcia-Lorenzo, Daniel; Leu-Semenescu, Smaranda; Vidailhet, Marie; Lehericy, Stéphane; Arnulf, Isabelle

    2016-04-01

    Idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder is characterized by nocturnal violence, increased muscle tone during rapid eye movement sleep and the lack of any other neurological disease. However, idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder can precede parkinsonism and dementia by several years. Using 3 T magnetic resonance imaging and neuromelanin-sensitive sequences, we previously found that the signal intensity was reduced in the locus coeruleus/subcoeruleus area of patients with Parkinson's disease and rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder. Here, we studied the integrity of the locus coeruleus/subcoeruleus complex with neuromelanin-sensitive imaging in 21 patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder and compared the results with those from 21 age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers. All subjects underwent a clinical examination, motor, cognitive, autonomous, psychological, olfactory and colour vision tests, and rapid eye movement sleep characterization using video-polysomnography and 3 T magnetic resonance imaging. The patients more frequently had preclinical markers of alpha-synucleinopathies, including constipation, olfactory deficits, orthostatic hypotension, and subtle motor impairment. Using neuromelanin-sensitive imaging, reduced signal intensity was identified in the locus coeruleus/subcoeruleus complex of the patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour. The mean sensitivity of the visual analyses of the signal performed by neuroradiologists who were blind to the clinical diagnoses was 82.5%, and the specificity was 81% for the identification of idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour. The results confirm that this complex is affected in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour (to the same degree as it is affected in Parkinson's disease). Neuromelanin-sensitive imaging provides an early marker of non-dopaminergic alpha-synucleinopathy that can be detected on an individual

  6. Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis rehabilitation: a case report with two-year followup.

    PubMed

    Jayachandran, Mahesh; Kapoor, Shalini; Mahesh, Rethi

    2013-01-01

    Gingival enlargements are quite common and may be either inflammatory, noninflammatory, or a combination of both. Gingival hyperplasia is a bizarre condition causing esthetic, functional, psychological, and masticatory disturbances of the oral cavity. Causes of gingival enlargement can be due to plaque accumulation, due to poor oral hygiene, inadequate nutrition, or systemic hormonal stimulation (Bakaeen and Scully, 1998). It can occur as an isolated disease or as part of a syndrome or chromosomal abnormality. A progressive fibrous enlargement of the gingiva is a facet of idiopathic fibrous hyperplasia of the gingiva (Carranza and Hogan, 2002; Gorlin et al., 1976). It is described variously as fibromatosis gingivae, gingivostomatitis, hereditary gingival fibromatosis, idiopathic fibromatosis, familial elephantiasis, and diffuse fibroma. We present a case of idiopathic gingival fibromatosis with its multidisciplinary approach of management.

  7. [Biologic therapy in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy].

    PubMed

    Selva-O'Callaghan, Albert; Ramos Casals, Manel; Grau Junyent, Josep M

    2014-09-15

    The aim of this article is to study the evidence-based knowledge related to the use of biological therapies in patients diagnosed with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (dermatomyositis, polymyositis and inclusion body myositis). In this review the leading published studies related to the use of biological therapy in patients with myositis are analysed; mainly those with high methodological standards, that means randomized and controlled studies. Methodological drawbacks due to the rarity and heterogeneity of these complex diseases are also addressed. Up to now is not possible to ascertain the biologics as a recommended therapy in patients with myositis, at least based in the current evidence-based knowledge, although it can not be neglected as a therapeutic option in some clinical situations, taking into account the scarce of effective treatments in those patients, especially in refractory myositis. Future studies probably will help to better define the role of biological therapies in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  8. Update on diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Baddini-Martinez, José; Baldi, Bruno Guedes; da Costa, Cláudia Henrique; Jezler, Sérgio; Lima, Mariana Silva; Rufino, Rogério

    2015-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a type of chronic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia, of unknown etiology, which is associated with a progressive decrease in pulmonary function and with high mortality rates. Interest in and knowledge of this disorder have grown substantially in recent years. In this review article, we broadly discuss distinct aspects related to the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We list the current diagnostic criteria and describe the therapeutic approaches currently available, symptomatic treatments, the action of new drugs that are effective in slowing the decline in pulmonary function, and indications for lung transplantation. PMID:26578138

  9. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: case report and review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Imoto, S; Kitaya, T; Kodama, T; Hasebe, T; Mukai, K

    1997-08-01

    We report a case of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis in a 35-year-old Japanese woman, who came to our hospital complaining of a tender mass in her right breast. Because the results of initial aspiration cytology were considered highly suspicious for carcinoma, modified radical mastectomy was performed. However, the final histological diagnosis was granulomatous lobular mastitis with no evidence of malignancy. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is a rare inflammatory breast disease of unknown etiology. Since the clinical manifestations are similar to those of mammary carcinoma, this condition has been misdiagnosed as carcinoma and treated as such. A review of the literature revealed that idiopathic granulomatous mastitis has tended to occur in young patients with a history of childbirth or oral contraceptive usage. Clinical or imaging diagnosis has often been difficult. Complete resection or corticosteroid therapy can be recommended as the optimal treatment. Since 38% of patients experience recurrence, long-term follow-up is indicated.

  10. Idiopathic Chronic Parotitis: Imaging Findings and Sialendoscopic Response.

    PubMed

    Heineman, Thomas E; Kacker, Ashutosh; Kutler, David I

    2015-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to correlate imaging and sialendoscopic findings to therapeutic response in patients with idiopathic chronic parotitis. We retrospectively reviewed 122 consecutive sialendoscopies performed in an academic medical center by two surgeons between 2008 and 2013. Forty-one (34%) and 54 (44%) patients were excluded on the basis of having parotid or submandibular sialolith, respectively. Nineteen cases were included in the study with idiopathic chronic parotitis. There was a median follow-up of 5 months. Computed tomography (CT) imaging had a sensitivity and specificity of 80.0 and 71.4%, respectively, for predicting abnormal findings on sialendoscopy, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) had 100% accuracy in a small set of cases. In glands with noticeable pathology present on preoperative imaging or sialendoscopy, 11 out of 12 glands (92%) treated experienced symptomatic improvement, while 3 out of 7 glands (43%) without pathology on imaging or endoscopy experienced symptomatic improvement (p = 0.038). Sialendoscopy for the treatment of idiopathic chronic parotid disease can improve pain and swelling with a higher frequency of success in patients with abnormalities noted on endoscopy. CT and MRI have a moderate degree of accuracy in predicting which patients will benefit from therapeutic sialendoscopy. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  11. Clinicopathologic correlation of chorioretinitis sclopetaria.

    PubMed

    Dubovy, S R; Guyton, D L; Green, W R

    1997-01-01

    To report the clinicopathologic features in the eye of a patient who sustained a traumatic chorioretinal rupture from a gunshot wound to the orbit, chorioretinitis sclopetaria, with clinical follow up of more than 20 years. The patient was studied ophthalmoscopically and by fluorescein angiography after the trauma and was seen intermittently thereafter. The eyes were obtained postmortem; sections of the central portion of the right eye, including the macula and optic nerve head, and the inferior cap were examined by light microscopy. Histopathologic study of the right eye showed partial loss of the nerve fiber and ganglion cell layers in the macular area, temporal peripapillary and macular loss of the photoreceptors with hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the retinal pigment epithelium, an epiretinal membrane, and three defects in Bruch's membrane. Inferiorly, there was a 5-mm defect in choroid, Bruch's membrane, and retina. These structures were replaced by a loose and dense fibrous connective tissue. The sclera and a long posterior ciliary nerve remained intact. A thin fibrovascular tissue from the choroid extended into the subretinal space where it was covered by retinal pigment epithelium and thickened basement membrane in the posterior aspect of the inferior lesion. Marked hemiatrophy of the optic nerve was present. The clinicopathologic features of chorioretinitis sclopetaria include direct traumatic chorioretinal rupture followed by marked fibrovascular proliferation with variable replacement of choroid and retina with no retinal detachment. Posteriorly, indirect macular choroidal ruptures with hyperplasia and migration of the retinal pigment epithelium into the retina and choroid, epiretinal membrane formation, loss of photoreceptors, and marked hemiatrophy of the optic nerve were present.

  12. Blocking of the Hepatic Vein Outflow by Neointima Covering a Wallstent Across a Membranous Stenosis of the Inferior Vena Cava

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dutta, Usha; Garg, Pramod K.; Agarwal, Rajeev

    1999-11-15

    A 31-year-old man presented with idiopathic membranous obstruction of the suprahepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) and was treated by balloon dilation and placement of a Wallstent. The patient improved markedly. However, he developed obstruction of the hepatic vein outflow secondary to neointima formation over the stent that covered the hepatic vein ostia. The patient died of liver failure and septicemia. We believe that this is the first report of such a serious complication.

  13. [Linkage analysis in an extended multigenerational family segregating for idiopathic epilepsy].

    PubMed

    Palacio, L G; Sánchez, J L; Jiménez, M E; Rivera-Valencia, D; Jiménez-Ramírez, I; Arcos, O M

    Linkage analyses enable us to identify the loci that bestow susceptibility to certain diseases which are assumed to have a genetic aetiology by determining the cosegregation of alleles of specific markers within families. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is generalised idiopathic epilepsy (GIE) susceptibility in the 8q22.1 -q24.23, 16p13.3 and 21q22.3 regions within an extended multigenerational family belonging to the Paisa community in Antioquia, a genetic isolate located in Colombia segregating for GIE with a strong capacity for detecting linkage. A family with a number of individuals affected by idiopathic epilepsy who visited the Instituto Neurológico de Antioquia was selected for study. An affected individual was required to have been diagnosed by a neurologist as suffering from non-myoclonic idiopathic epilepsy or partial idiopathic epilepsy. All patients suspected of suffering from idiopathic epilepsy were submitted to video monitoring in order to characterise the seizures electroencephalographically. Of the 106 individuals in this family that were included in the family tree, 76 were genotyped, 15 of whom were affected by generalised clonic tonic seizures and six were considered to be possibly affected. Results of the lod score were significantly negative for all the markers in relation to each model that was considered. The possibility of the genes located in the 8q22.1 -q24.23, 16p13.3 and 21q22.3 regions being responsible for the familial aggregation of GIE in this family was ruled out, which is in accordance with claims made in previous studies conducted on other families.

  14. "Idiopathic" mental retardation and new chromosomal abnormalities

    PubMed Central

    2010-01-01

    Mental retardation is a heterogeneous condition, affecting 1-3% of general population. In the last few years, several emerging clinical entities have been described, due to the advent of newest genetic techniques, such as array Comparative Genomic Hybridization. The detection of cryptic microdeletion/microduplication abnormalities has allowed genotype-phenotype correlations, delineating recognizable syndromic conditions that are herein reviewed. With the aim to provide to Paediatricians a combined clinical and genetic approach to the child with cognitive impairment, a practical diagnostic algorithm is also illustrated. The use of microarray platforms has further reduced the percentage of "idiopathic" forms of mental retardation, previously accounted for about half of total cases. We discussed the putative pathways at the basis of remaining "pure idiopathic" forms of mental retardation, highlighting possible environmental and epigenetic mechanisms as causes of altered cognition. PMID:20152051

  15. Anterior hypopituitarism is rare and autoimmune disease is common in adults with idiopathic central diabetes insipidus.

    PubMed

    Hannon, M J; Orr, C; Moran, C; Behan, L A; Agha, A; Ball, S G; Thompson, C J

    2012-05-01

    Central diabetes insipidus is a rare clinical condition with a heterogenous aetiology. Up to 40% of cases are classified as idiopathic, although many of these are thought to have an autoimmune basis. Published data have suggested that anterior hypopituitarism is common in childhood-onset idiopathic diabetes insipidus. We aimed to assess the incidence of anterior hypopituitarism in a cohort of adult patients with idiopathic diabetes insipidus. We performed a retrospective review of the databases of two pituitary investigation units. This identified 39 patients with idiopathic diabetes insipidus. All had undergone magnetic resonance imaging scanning and dynamic pituitary testing (either insulin tolerance testing or GHRH/arginine and short synacthen testing) to assess anterior pituitary function. One patient had partial growth hormone deficiency; no other anterior pituitary hormonal deficits were found. Thirty-three percent had at least one autoimmune disease in addition to central diabetes insipidus. Our data suggest that anterior hypopituitarism is rare in adult idiopathic diabetes insipidus. Routine screening of these patients for anterior hypopituitarism may not, therefore, be indicated. The significant prevalence of autoimmune disease in this cohort supports the hypothesis that idiopathic diabetes insipidus may have an autoimmune aetiology. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  16. [Effect of internal limiting membrane peeling on morpho-functional state of the retina in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (preliminary report)].

    PubMed

    Bikbov, M M; Fayzrakhmanov, R R; Kalanov, M R

    2018-01-01

    To compare morpho-functional parameters of retina during vitrectomy with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The study included 55 patients (55 eyes) that had underwent vitreoretinal surgery in the setting of antivasoproliferative therapy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Patients of the 1 st group (n=27) underwent vitrectomy with silicone tamponade, 2 nd group (n=28) received similar treatment with the addition of ILM peeling. Three months after the treatment, all patients had silicone oil removed. Best Corrected Visual Acuity before treatment was 0.06±0.02 in both groups; after the treatment it improved to 0.1±0.05 (p<0.05) in the 1 st group and to 0.25±0.05 (p 1-2 <0.05) in the 2 nd group. Thickness of the 'nerve fiber layer - internal limiting membrane' in the macular area was 28.67±2.21 µm in both groups before the treatment. By 3-month follow-up its thickness increased to 46.44±2.56 µm (p<0.05) in the 1 st group due to the formation of epiretinal membrane (ERM). In patients of the 2 nd group 'nerve fiber layer' area thickness amounted to 28.41±1.88 µm (p 1-2 <0.05) and ERM could not be identified in any of them. ILM peeling during vitrectomy with following silicone oil tamponade eliminates the risk of ERM formation in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy in the follow-up period of up to 6-month and results in better morpho-functional parameters in comparison with patients who received similar treatment but without peeling.

  17. Serial Derotational Casting in Idiopathic and Non-Idiopathic Progressive Early-Onset Scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Gussous, Yazeed M; Tarima, Sergey; Zhao, Shi; Khan, Safdar; Caudill, Angela; Sturm, Peter; Hammerberg, Kim W

    2015-05-01

    Serial derotational casting has been used as a definitive treatment or as delaying strategy in progressive idiopathic (IS) and non-idiopathic (NIS) early-onset scoliosis (EOS). Retrospective chart and radiographic review of patients who underwent serial casting for progressive EOS between 2005 and 2012 at a single institution. A total of 74 consecutive patients entered serial cast treatment. Twenty-eight were currently being casted, 30 completed cast treatment and were converted to thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO), 9 were treated surgically, 6 were lost to follow-up, and 1 had no further treatment. The researchers diagnosed IS in 41 patients; 33 had NIS. At presentation the IS group had an average Cobb angle (CA) of 49° and a rib vertebral angle difference (RVAD) of 37°. The NIS group had a CA of 51° (p = .69) and RVAD of 37° (p = .94). In patients currently being casted, 19 IS patients had a decreased CA, from 47° to 27°. The 9 NIS patients had a decreased CA, from 62° to 57° (p = .0002). Cobb angle improvement was significantly better in IS (p = .0005). In the TLSO group the 17 IS patients had a decreased average CA, from 46° to 18°, after serial casting and the 13 NIS patients decreased CA from 42° to 32°. Patients with IS had better improvement in CA than the NIS group (p < .001). At last follow-up, this was reduced to 11° in the IS group and maintained at 32° in the NIS. In the IS group, 5 of 41 patients were converted to growth constructs, and 4 of 26 in the NIS group. Casting initiated before age 2 years yielded better curve correction for IS (p < .01) compared with NIS. Progressive idiopathic scoliosis patients had better curve correction with casting than NIS patients. Casting in IS patients before age 24 months yielded better curve correction. Patients who required surgery had a higher age and Cobb angle at presentation than those who transitioned to a TLSO. The surgical group was observed for a similar duration of time and there was no

  18. Sigmoid Sinus Diverticulum, Dehiscence, and Venous Sinus Stenosis: Potential Causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus in Patients with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension?

    PubMed

    Lansley, J A; Tucker, W; Eriksen, M R; Riordan-Eva, P; Connor, S E J

    2017-09-01

    Pulsatile tinnitus is experienced by most patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The pathophysiology remains uncertain; however, transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence have been proposed as potential etiologies. We aimed to determine whether the prevalence of transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence was increased in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and pulsatile tinnitus relative to those without pulsatile tinnitus and a control group. CT vascular studies of patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension with pulsatile tinnitus ( n = 42), without pulsatile tinnitus ( n = 37), and controls ( n = 75) were independently reviewed for the presence of severe transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence according to published criteria. The prevalence of transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension with pulsatile tinnitus was compared with that in the nonpulsatile tinnitus idiopathic intracranial hypertension group and the control group. Further comparisons included differing degrees of transverse sinus stenosis (50% and 75%), laterality of transverse sinus stenosis/sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence, and ipsilateral transverse sinus stenosis combined with sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence. Severe bilateral transverse sinus stenoses were more frequent in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension than in controls ( P < .001), but there was no significant association between transverse sinus stenosis and pulsatile tinnitus within the idiopathic intracranial hypertension group. Sigmoid sinus dehiscence (right- or left-sided) was also more common in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension compared with controls ( P = .01), but there was no significant association with pulsatile tinnitus within the idiopathic intracranial hypertension group. While our data

  19. [Identifying clinical risk factors in recurrent idiopathic deep venous thrombosis].

    PubMed

    Del Río Solá, M Lourdes; González Fajardo, José Antonio; Vaquero Puerta, Carlos

    2016-03-18

    Oral anticoagulant therapy for more than 6 months in patients with an episode of idiopathic thromboembolic disease is controversial. The objective was to determine predictive clinical signs that identify patients at increased risk of thromboembolic recurrence after stopping anticoagulant therapy for 6 months after an episode of idiopathic deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A prospective study which included 306 consecutive patients with a first episode of idiopathic DVT from June 2012 to June 2014. Predictor variables of recurrent thromboembolic disease and episodes of recurrence during follow-up of the patients (28.42 months) were collected. We performed a multivariate analysis to analyze possible predictors (P<.20) and an analysis of Kaplan-Meier to establish mean recurrence-free survival. We identified 91 episodes of residual vein thrombosis on follow-up of the patients (37.5% men and 20.3% women) (OR 1.84; 95% CI 1.25-2.71). In the Cox regression analysis stratified by gender, variables showed significant presence of hyperechoic thrombus (P=.001) in males, and persistence of residual thrombus in women (P=.046). The mean recurrence-free survival was shorter in both groups. The presence of echogenic thrombus in men and the existence of residual DVT in women were 2 clinical signs associated with increased risk of thromboembolic recurrence after stopping anticoagulant therapy for 6 months after an episode of idiopathic DVT in our study. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  20. Treatment of Refractory Idiopathic Supraorbital Neuralgia Using Percutaneous Pulsed Radiofrequency.

    PubMed

    Luo, Fang; Lu, Jingjing; Ji, Nan

    2018-02-26

    No ideal therapeutic method currently exists for refractory idiopathic supraorbital neuralgia patients who do not respond to conservative therapy, including medications and nerve blocks. Pulsed radiofrequency is a neuromodulation technique that does not produce sequelae of nerve damage after treatment. However, the efficacy of percutaneous pulsed radiofrequency for the treatment of refractory idiopathic supraorbital neuralgia is still not clear. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pulsed radiofrequency treatment of the supraorbital nerve for refractory supraorbital neuralgia patients. We prospectively investigated the long-term effects of ultrasound-guided percutaneous pulsed radiofrequency in the treatment of 22 refractory idiopathic supraorbital neuralgia patients. A reduction in the verbal pain numeric rating scale score of more than 50% was used as the standard of effectiveness. The effectiveness rates at different time points within 2 years were calculated. After a single pulsed radiofrequency treatment, the effectiveness rate at 1 and 3 months was 77%, and the rates at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years were 73%, 64%, and 50%, respectively. Except for a small portion of patients (23%) who experienced mild upper eyelid ecchymosis that gradually disappeared after approximately 2 weeks, no obvious complications were observed. In conclusion, the results of our study demonstrate that for patients with refractory idiopathic supraorbital neuralgia, percutaneous pulsed radiofrequency may be an effective and safe treatment choice. © 2018 World Institute of Pain.

  1. Auditory verbal memory and psychosocial symptoms are related in children with idiopathic epilepsy.

    PubMed

    Schaffer, Yael; Ben Zeev, Bruria; Cohen, Roni; Shuper, Avinoam; Geva, Ronny

    2015-07-01

    Idiopathic epilepsies are considered to have relatively good prognoses and normal or near normal developmental outcomes. Nevertheless, accumulating studies demonstrate memory and psychosocial deficits in this population, and the prevalence, severity and relationships between these domains are still not well defined. We aimed to assess memory, psychosocial function, and the relationships between these two domains among children with idiopathic epilepsy syndromes using an extended neuropsychological battery and psychosocial questionnaires. Cognitive abilities, neuropsychological performance, and socioemotional behavior of 33 early adolescent children, diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy, ages 9-14years, were assessed and compared with 27 age- and education-matched healthy controls. Compared to controls, patients with stabilized idiopathic epilepsy exhibited higher risks for short-term memory deficits (auditory verbal and visual) (p<0.0001), working memory deficits (p<0.003), auditory verbal long-term memory deficits (p<0.0021), and more frequent psychosocial symptoms (p<0.0001). The severity of auditory verbal memory deficits was related to severity of psychosocial symptoms among the children with epilepsy but not in the healthy controls. Results suggest that deficient auditory verbal memory may be compromising psychosocial functioning in children with idiopathic epilepsy, possibly underscoring that cognitive variables, such as auditory verbal memory, should be assessed and treated in this population to prevent secondary symptoms. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Familial Idiopathic Cranial Neuropathy in a Chinese Family.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Li; Liang, Jianfeng; Yu, Yanbing

    Cranial neuropathy is usually idiopathic and familial cases are uncommon. We describe a family with 5 members with cranial neuropathy over 3 generations. All affected patients were women, indicating an X-linked dominant or an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. Our cases and a review of the literature suggest that familial idiopathic cranial neuropathy is a rare condition which may be related to autosomal dominant vascular disorders (e.g. vascular tortuosity, sclerosis, elongation or extension), small posterior cranial fossas, anatomical variations of the posterior circulation, hypersensitivity of cranial nerves and other abnormalities. Moreover, microvascular decompression is the treatment of choice because vascular compression is the main factor in the pathogenesis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of familial cranial neuropathy in China.

  3. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis misdiagnosed as sputum-negative pulmonary tuberculosis.

    PubMed

    Isah, Muhammad Danasabe; Abbas, Aminu; Abba, Abdullahi A; Umar, Mohammed

    2016-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), also known as cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis, is one of a spectrum of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. IPF is an increasingly common condition which poses many diagnostic and therapeutic challenges leading to misdiagnosis and mismanagement. We presented a 55-year-old male textile trader who was initially managed as sputum-negative pulmonary tuberculosis before histology report. He presented to our clinic with Breathlessness and cough of 3 years and 2.5 years, respectively. He had commenced anti-tuberculosis two months before presentation without significant relief. General Physical examination and vital signs were essentially normal. SPO2 was 96% on room air. Chest Examination revealed end-inspiratory bi-basal velcro-like crackles. Other systemic examinations were normal. Radiological examination by way of chest X- ray and chest CT showed features suggestive of IPF. The patient also had open Lung biopsy for histology and spirometry which demonstrated restrictive ventilatory function pattern. A diagnosis of Interstitial lung disease probably Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis was entertained. He was commenced on Tab prednisolone, Tab Rabeprazole, with minimal improvement. IPF have often been misdiagnosed and treated as pulmonary tuberculosis with unfavorable outcome.

  4. Physical examination in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Diab, Mohammad

    2007-04-01

    The following distinguish the physical examination in scoliosis: it is extensive, it is revealing, and it influences treatment. Throughout this discussion, reference frequently is made to evaluation for underlying neural disease. Idiopathic scoliosis is a diagnosis of exclusion, and a neural etiology of spinal deformity must be ruled out in every case.

  5. Complications of Macular Peeling

    PubMed Central

    Asencio-Duran, Mónica; Manzano-Muñoz, Beatriz; Vallejo-García, José Luis; García-Martínez, Jesús

    2015-01-01

    Macular peeling refers to the surgical technique for the removal of preretinal tissue or the internal limiting membrane (ILM) in the macula for several retinal disorders, ranging from epiretinal membranes (primary or secondary to diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment…) to full-thickness macular holes, macular edema, foveal retinoschisis, and others. The technique has evolved in the last two decades, and the different instrumentations and adjuncts have progressively advanced turning into a safer, easier, and more useful tool for the vitreoretinal surgeon. Here, we describe the main milestones of macular peeling, drawing attention to its associated complications. PMID:26425351

  6. Active depth-guiding handheld micro-forceps for membranectomy based on CP-SSOCT

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheon, Gyeong Woo; Lee, Phillip; Gonenc, Berk; Gehlbach, Peter L.; Kang, Jin U.

    2016-03-01

    In this study, we demonstrate a handheld motion-compensated micro-forceps system using common-path swept source optical coherence tomography with highly accurate depth-targeting and depth-locking for Epiretinal Membrane Peeling. Two motors and a touch sensor were used to separate the two independent motions: motion compensation and tool-tip manipulation. A smart motion monitoring and guiding algorithm was devised for precise and intuitive freehand control. Ex-vivo bovine eye experiments were performed to evaluate accuracy in a bovine retina retinal membrane peeling model. The evaluation demonstrates system capabilities of 40 um accuracy when peeling the epithelial layer of bovine retina.

  7. Idiopathic paraproteinaemia. I. Studies in an animal model--the ageing C57BL/KaLwRij mouse.

    PubMed Central

    Radl, J; Hollander, C F; van den Berg, P; de Glopper, E

    1978-01-01

    A search for a suitable animal model for studies on idiopathic paraproteinaemia showed that an age-dependent increase in the appearance of homogeneous immunoglobulins in serum was common to all of the seven mouse strains investigated to date. The highest frequency was found in C57Bl/KaLwRij mice. Further investigations in this strain demonstrated that, except for some quantitative differences, most of the features of human and C57BL Mouse idiopathic paraproteinaemia were essentially the same. No clear-cut correlation was found between the idiopathic paraproteinaemia and, in the old C57B1 mice, a rather frequently occurring reticulum cell sarcoma B and amyloidosis. The mouse idiopathic paraproteinaemia can be regarded as an analogue of the human idiopathic paraproteinaemia and therefore as a suitable model for further experimental studies. PMID:367647

  8. Small vertebral cross-sectional area and tall intervertebral disc in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Ponrartana, Skorn; Fisher, Carissa L; Aggabao, Patricia C; Chavez, Thomas A; Broom, Alexander M; Wren, Tishya A L; Skaggs, David L; Gilsanz, Vicente

    2016-09-01

    When compared to boys, girls have smaller vertebral cross-sectional area, which conveys a greater spinal flexibility, and a higher prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. To test the hypothesis that small vertebral cross-sectional area and tall intervertebral disc height are structural characteristics of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Using multiplanar imaging techniques, measures of vertebral cross-sectional area, vertebral height and intervertebral disc height in the lumbar spine were obtained in 35 pairs of girls and 11 pairs of boys with and without adolescent idiopathic scoliosis of the thoracic spine matched for age, height and weight. Compared to adolescents without spinal deformity, girls and boys with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis had, on average, 9.8% (6.68 ± 0.81 vs. 7.40 ± 0.99 cm(2); P = 0.0007) and 13.9% (8.22 ± 0.84 vs. 9.55 ± 1.61 cm(2); P = 0.009) smaller vertebral cross-sectional dimensions, respectively. Additionally, patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis had significantly greater values for intervertebral disc heights (9.06 ± 0.85 vs. 7.31 ± 0.62 mm and 9.09 ± 0.87 vs. 7.61 ± 1.00 mm for girls and boys respectively; both P ≤ 0.011). Multiple regression analysis indicated that the presence of scoliosis was negatively associated with vertebral cross-sectional area and positively with intervertebral disc height, independent of sex, age and body mass index. We provide new evidence that girls and boys with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis have significantly smaller vertebral cross-sectional area and taller intervertebral disc heights - two major structural determinants that influence trunk flexibility. With appropriate validation, these findings may have implications for the identification of children at the highest risk for developing scoliosis.

  9. Prediction of pulmonary hypertension in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis☆

    PubMed Central

    Zisman, David A.; Ross, David J.; Belperio, John A.; Saggar, Rajan; Lynch, Joseph P.; Ardehali, Abbas; Karlamangla, Arun S.

    2007-01-01

    Summary Background Reliable, noninvasive approaches to the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are needed. We tested the hypothesis that the forced vital capacity to diffusing capacity ratio and room air resting pulse oximetry may be combined to predict mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP) in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Methods Sixty-one idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients with available right-heart catheterization were studied. We regressed measured MPAP as a continuous variable on pulse oximetry (SpO2) and percent predicted forced vital capacity (FVC) to percent-predicted diffusing capacity ratio (% FVC/% DLco) in a multivariable linear regression model. Results Linear regression generated the following equation: MPAP = −11.9+0.272 × SpO2+0.0659 × (100−SpO2)2+3.06 × (% FVC/% DLco); adjusted R2 = 0.55, p<0.0001. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive and negative predictive value of model-predicted pulmonary hypertension were 71% (95% confidence interval (CI): 50–89%), 81% (95% CI: 68–92%), 71% (95% CI: 51–87%) and 81% (95% CI: 68–94%). Conclusions A pulmonary hypertension predictor based on room air resting pulse oximetry and FVC to diffusing capacity ratio has a relatively high negative predictive value. However, this model will require external validation before it can be used in clinical practice. PMID:17604151

  10. The effect of myofascial release (MFR) on an adult with idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    LeBauer, Aaron; Brtalik, Robert; Stowe, Katherine

    2008-10-01

    The lack of evidence of conservative treatment has led to an interest in exploring myofascial release (MFR) as an effective means of controlling spinal curvature progression in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. The purpose of this case study is to measure the effects of MFR as a manual therapy technique in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. One 18-year-old female subject underwent 6 weeks of MFR treatment consisting of two sessions each week for 60min. Pain, pulmonary function, and quality of life were measured. Six goniometric measurements were taken encompassing trunk flexion, extension, and rotation. The subject improved with pain levels, trunk rotation, posture, quality of life, and pulmonary function. The results suggest further investigation is needed using MFR, as an effective manual therapy treatment for idiopathic scoliosis.

  11. Idiopathic Noncirrhotic Portal Hypertension: An Appraisal

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Hwajeong; Rehman, Aseeb Ur; Fiel, M. Isabel

    2016-01-01

    Idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension is a poorly defined clinical condition of unknown etiology. Patients present with signs and symptoms of portal hypertension without evidence of cirrhosis. The disease course appears to be indolent and benign with an overall better outcome than cirrhosis, as long as the complications of portal hypertension are properly managed. This condition has been recognized in different parts of the world in diverse ethnic groups with variable risk factors, resulting in numerous terminologies and lack of standardized diagnostic criteria. Therefore, although the diagnosis of idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension requires clinical exclusion of other conditions that can cause portal hypertension and histopathologic confirmation, this entity is under-recognized clinically as well as pathologically. Recent studies have demonstrated that variable histopathologic entities with different terms likely represent a histologic spectrum of a single entity of which obliterative portal venopathy might be an underlying pathogenesis. This perception calls for standardization of the nomenclature and formulation of widely accepted diagnostic criteria, which will facilitate easier recognition of this disorder and will highlight awareness of this entity. PMID:26563701

  12. Effect of acid suppression therapy on gastroesophageal reflux and cough in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: an intervention study.

    PubMed

    Kilduff, Claire E; Counter, Melanie J; Thomas, Gareth A; Harrison, Nicholas K; Hope-Gill, Benjamin D

    2014-01-01

    Chronic cough affects more than 70 percent of patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and causes significant morbidity. Gastroesophageal reflux is the cause of some cases of chronic cough; and also has a postulated role in the aetiology of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. A high prevalence of acid; and more recently non-acid, reflux has been observed in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis cohorts. Therefore, gastroesophageal reflux may be implicated in the pathogenesis of cough in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Eighteen subjects with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis underwent 24-hour oesophageal impedance and cough count monitoring after the careful exclusion of causes of chronic cough other than gastroesophageal reflux. All 18 were then treated with high dose acid suppression therapies. Fourteen subjects underwent repeat 24-hour oesophageal impedance and cough count monitoring after eight weeks. Total reflux and acid reflux frequencies were within the normal range in the majority of this cohort. The frequencies of non-acid and proximal reflux events were above the normal range. Following high dose acid suppression therapy there was a significant decrease in the number of acid reflux events (p = 0.02), but an increase in the number of non-acid reflux events (p = 0.01). There was no change in cough frequency (p = 0.70). This study confirms that non-acid reflux is prevalent; and that proximal oesophageal reflux occurs in the majority, of subjects with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. It is the first study to investigate the effect of acid suppression therapy on gastroesophageal reflux and cough in patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. The observation that cough frequency does not improve despite verifiable reductions in oesophageal acid exposure challenges the role of acid reflux in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis associated cough. The finding that non-acid reflux is increased following the use of acid suppression therapies cautions against the widespread use

  13. Effect of acid suppression therapy on gastroesophageal reflux and cough in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: an intervention study

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Chronic cough affects more than 70 percent of patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and causes significant morbidity. Gastroesophageal reflux is the cause of some cases of chronic cough; and also has a postulated role in the aetiology of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. A high prevalence of acid; and more recently non-acid, reflux has been observed in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis cohorts. Therefore, gastroesophageal reflux may be implicated in the pathogenesis of cough in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Methods Eighteen subjects with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis underwent 24-hour oesophageal impedance and cough count monitoring after the careful exclusion of causes of chronic cough other than gastroesophageal reflux. All 18 were then treated with high dose acid suppression therapies. Fourteen subjects underwent repeat 24-hour oesophageal impedance and cough count monitoring after eight weeks. Results Total reflux and acid reflux frequencies were within the normal range in the majority of this cohort. The frequencies of non-acid and proximal reflux events were above the normal range. Following high dose acid suppression therapy there was a significant decrease in the number of acid reflux events (p = 0.02), but an increase in the number of non-acid reflux events (p = 0.01). There was no change in cough frequency (p = 0.70). Conclusions This study confirms that non-acid reflux is prevalent; and that proximal oesophageal reflux occurs in the majority, of subjects with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. It is the first study to investigate the effect of acid suppression therapy on gastroesophageal reflux and cough in patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. The observation that cough frequency does not improve despite verifiable reductions in oesophageal acid exposure challenges the role of acid reflux in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis associated cough. The finding that non-acid reflux is increased following the use of acid suppression

  14. Recurrent urethral obstruction secondary to idiopathic renal hematuria in a puppy.

    PubMed

    Hawthorne, J C; deHaan, J J; Goring, R L; Randall, S R; Kennedy, F S; Stone, E; Zimmerman, K M; McAbee, S W

    1998-01-01

    A seven-month-old, neutered male Catahoula leopard dog cross was presented for recurrent urethral obstruction and intermittent hematuria. After exploratory laparotomy and ventral cystotomy, unilateral idiopathic renal hematuria was diagnosed based on gross observation of hematuria from the left ureteral catheter. The hematuria resolved after nephrectomy of the left kidney. The histopathological diagnosis was multifocal, acute congestion and intratubular hemorrhage. Although idiopathic renal hematuria has been described previously, this puppy was unique because the hematuria caused recurrent, complete urethral obstruction.

  15. Natural history of idiopathic abducens nerve paresis in a young adult.

    PubMed

    Hussaindeen, Jameel Rizwana; Mani, Revathy; Rakshit, Archayeeta; Ramasubramanian, Srikanth; Vittal Praveen, Smitha

    2016-01-01

    The natural history of idiopathic abducens nerve paresis and the role of conservative management such as vision training during the recovery process is not well documented in the literature to the best of our knowledge. This case report presents the natural recovery process of idiopathic abducens nerve paresis in a young adult and the role of vision therapy in the recovery process. Copyright © 2016 Spanish General Council of Optometry. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  16. Circulating irisin and chemerin levels as predictors of seizure control in children with idiopathic epilepsy.

    PubMed

    Elhady, Marwa; Youness, Eman R; Gafar, Heba S; Abdel Aziz, Ali; Mostafa, Rehab S I

    2018-06-02

    Irisin and chemerin peptides expression are triggered by hypoxia and involved in activation of inflammatory cascades in various organs including the brain; however, their role in epilepsy is not fully illustrated. This study aims to explore the predictive role of irisin and chemerin for seizure control in children with idiopathic epilepsy. This cross-sectional comparative study included 50 children with idiopathic epilepsy; 25 of them had controlled seizures over the previous 6 months and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy children as controls. Epilepsy characteristics, seizure severity Chalfont score, and response to medications were assessed in relation to serum irisin and chemerin levels. In comparison to healthy controls, serum chemerin and irisin levels were significantly higher in children with idiopathic epilepsy especially those with uncontrolled seizures. Serum chemerin and irisin levels had significant positive correlation with seizure severity Chalfont score and the duration of epilepsy. Elevated Chalfont score (OR 3.19), serum chemerin (OR 2.01), and irisin (OR 2.03) are predictors of uncontrolled seizures. Circulating chemerin and irisin have 80% and 76% sensitivity and 88% and 92% specificity at cutoff point > 191.38 ng/ml and > 151.2 ng/ml respectively for prediction of uncontrolled seizures in children with idiopathic epilepsy. Elevated circulating level of irisin and chemerin may predict poor seizure control in children with idiopathic epilepsy suggesting the role of hypoxia-triggered neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of childhood idiopathic epilepsy.

  17. Gastric mucin expression in Helicobacter pylori-related, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-related and idiopathic ulcers

    PubMed Central

    Boltin, Doron; Halpern, Marisa; Levi, Zohar; Vilkin, Alex; Morgenstern, Sara; Ho, Samuel B; Niv, Yaron

    2012-01-01

    AIM: To determine the pattern of secreted mucin expression in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-related, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-related and idiopathic gastric ulcers. METHODS: We randomly selected 92 patients with H. pylori-associated (n = 30), NSAID-associated (n = 18), combined H. pylori and NSAID-associated gastric ulcers (n = 24), and patients with idiopathic gastric ulcers (n = 20). Immunohistochemistry for T-cell CD4/CD8, and for mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) and mucin 6 (MUC6), was performed on sections of the mucosa from the ulcer margin. Inflammation score was assessed according to the Sydney system. RESULTS: MUC5AC was expressed on the surface epithelium (98.9%) and neck glands (98.9%) with minimal expression in the deep glands (6.5%). MUC6 was strongly expressed in the deep glands (97.8%), variable in the neck glands (19.6%) and absent in the surface epithelium (0%). The pattern of mucin expression in idiopathic ulcer margins was not different from the expression in ulcers associated with H. pylori, NSAIDs, or combined H. pylori and NSAIDs. CD4/CD8 ratio was higher in H. pylori-positive patients (P = 0.009). Idiopathic ulcers are associated with hospitalized patients and have higher bleeding and mortality rates. CONCLUSION: Idiopathic ulcers have a unique clinical profile. Gastric mucin expression in idiopathic gastric ulcers is unchanged compared with H. pylori and/or NSAID-associated ulcers. PMID:22969235

  18. Idiopathic bile acid malabsorption: qualitative and quantitative clinical features and response to cholestyramine.

    PubMed

    Sinha, L; Liston, R; Testa, H J; Moriarty, K J

    1998-09-01

    Idiopathic bile acid malabsorption is a poorly recognized cause of chronic diarrhoea. The SeHCAT (75Selenium HomotauroCholic Acid Test) can accurately diagnose this condition. To identify patients with idiopathic bile acid malabsorption, to describe their clinical features, both qualitatively and quantitatively, and to assess the response to cholestyramine. Idiopathic bile acid malabsorption was considered in all patients complaining of chronic diarrhoea. They were included in the study if their SeHCATs were positive (< 15% retention) and secondary causes of bile acid malabsorption were excluded. The response to therapy with cholestyramine was assessed. Nine patients were diagnosed with idiopathic bile acid malabsorption (median SeHCAT retention 8%, range 3-12.6). Their median daily faecal weight was 285 g (range 85-676) and median faecal fat output was 17 mmol/24 h (range 8.3-38.8). Six patients had an immediate response to cholestyramine. There was a marked reduction in stool frequency (median stool frequency pre-treatment 5/day vs. 2/day post-treatment, P = 0.03). Five patients had large volume diarrhoea (faecal weight > 200 g/day) and three had steatorrhoea. Idiopathic bile acid malabsorption, once suspected, especially by documenting true 'large volume' watery diarrhoea or steatorrhoea, is easily diagnosed and response to therapy is often very good. There is often a previous history of gastrointestinal infection and this condition should be considered in patients with chronic diarrhoea of undetermined origin, especially before they are labelled as having irritable bowel syndrome.

  19. Idiopathic Paroxysmal Ventricular Tachycardia in Infants and Children

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hernandez, Antonio; And Others

    1975-01-01

    Laboratory tests including blood count serum electrolyte measures, and electroencephalograms were performed on seven children ages 1 day to 18 years with recurrent attacks of rapid heart action known as idiopathic paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia. (CL)

  20. Diagnosis of narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. An update based on the International classification of sleep disorders, 2nd edition.

    PubMed

    Billiard, Michel

    2007-10-01

    Defining the precise nosological limits of narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia is an ongoing process dating back to the first description of the two conditions. The most recent step forward has been done within the preparation of the second edition of the "International classification of sleep disorders" published in June 2005. Appointed by Dr Emmanuel Mignot, the Task Force on "Hypersomnias of central origin, not due to a circadian rhythm sleep disorder, sleep related breathing disorder, or other causes of disturbed nocturnal sleep" thoroughly revisited the nosology of narcolepsy and of idiopathic hypersomnia. Narcolepsy is now distinguished into three different entities, narcolepsy with cataplexy, narcolepsy without cataplexy and narcolepsy due to medical condition, and idiopathic hypersomnia into two entities, idiopathic hypersomnia with long sleep time and idiopathic hypersomnia without long sleep time. Nevertheless there are still a number of pending issues. What are the limits of narcolepsy without cataplexy? Is there a continuum in the pathophysiology of narcolepsy with and without cataplexy? Should sporadic and familial forms of narcolepsy with cataplexy appear as subgroups in the classification? Are idiopathic hypersomnia with long sleep time and idiopathic hypersomnia without long sleep time, two forms of the same condition or two different conditions? Is there a pathophysiological relationship between narcolepsy without cataplexy and idiopathic hypersomnia without long sleep time?

  1. Assessment of sensorimotor control in adults with surgical correction for idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Pialasse, Jean-Philippe; Mercier, Pierre; Descarreaux, Martin; Simoneau, Martin

    2016-10-01

    This study aims at verifying if impaired sensorimotor control observed in adolescents and young adults with scoliosis is also present in adult patients who underwent surgery to reduce their spine deformation. The study included ten healthy adults and ten adults with idiopathic scoliosis who underwent surgery to reduce their spine deformation. Galvanic vestibular stimulation was delivered to assess sensorimotor control. Vertical forces under each foot and horizontal displacement of the upper body were measured before, during and after stimulation. Balance control was assessed by calculating the root mean square values of kinematic and kinetic variables. The amplitude of the vestibular-evoked postural response was 3.4 % (0.8-6.0 %) and 4.5 % (-0.4 to 9.5 %) of the maximal range of motion. Therefore, spine surgery did not limit the postural response. Patients with idiopathic scoliosis exhibited larger body sway than the healthy controls during and immediately after vestibular stimulation. The maximal normalized lateral displacement of the body was 0.85 and 0.40 cm/m and maximal normalized vertical force was 0.78 vs. 0.39 N/kg, for idiopathic scoliosis and healthy groups, respectively. This result suggests that dysfunctional sensorimotor integration is still present even in adult idiopathic scoliosis that underwent spine deformation correction.

  2. Idiopathic slow transit constipation and megacolon are not associated with neurturin mutations.

    PubMed

    Chen, B; Knowles, C H; Scott, M; Anand, P; Williams, N S; Milbrandt, J; Tam, P K H

    2002-10-01

    Chronic idiopathic slow-transit constipation (ISTC) and idiopathic megacolon (IMC) are early-onset gastrointestinal motility disorders of unknown aetiology. The gene encoding the neurotrophic factor neurturin may be a candidate for these disorders, as neurturin-deficient mice have a similar enteric phenotype. In the present study, we tested this hypothesis. Genomic DNA from 26 cases of chronic idiopathic STC [with a family history of constipation in 15 (58%) and Hirschsprung's disease in two (8%)], and five cases of IMC [two familial (40%)] was screened by direct DNA sequencing using the fluorescent dideoxy terminator method. Results were compared with published sequence data and 24 control DNAs. Our results revealed several previously unreported common sequence polymorphisms, but overall frequencies were comparable between patients and controls. We conclude that mutation of neurturin is not a frequent cause of ISTC or IMC.

  3. [Juvenile idiopathic arthritis with dry synovitis: clinical case and review of literature].

    PubMed

    Dias, Bruno Leonardo Scofano; Imamura, Erica Ueno; Izumi, Ana Paula; Pinheiro, Lúcia Virgínia de Melo; Borigato, Eliana Valverde Magro

    2009-01-01

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a term that encompasses all forms of arthritis that begin before the age of 16 years, persist for more than 6 weeks and are of unknown cause. Dry synovitis is still not completely understood nor commonly described. It is associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and must be considered in patients with minimal swelling but pain and stiffness along with flexion contractures as well as other evidence of an inflammatory process (lab changes and/or other symptoms, such as uveitis or rash), and often follow a destructive course. The authors present a case of a brazilian child with a rheumatoid factor- negative polyarthritis compatible with the subtype dry synovitis, who had great clinical and functional improvement after participation in rehabilitation activities and beginning of pharmacological treatment usually used in Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, including immunossuppressive therapy.

  4. Inhibition of ileal bile acid transporter: An emerging therapeutic strategy for chronic idiopathic constipation.

    PubMed

    Mosińska, Paula; Fichna, Jakub; Storr, Martin

    2015-06-28

    Chronic idiopathic constipation is a common disorder of the gastrointestinal tract that encompasses a wide profile of symptoms. Current treatment options for chronic idiopathic constipation are of limited value; therefore, a novel strategy is necessary with an increased effectiveness and safety. Recently, the inhibition of the ileal bile acid transporter has become a promising target for constipation-associated diseases. Enhanced delivery of bile acids into the colon achieves an accelerated colonic transit, increased stool frequency, and relief of constipation-related symptoms. This article provides insight into the mechanism of action of ileal bile acid transporter inhibitors and discusses their potential clinical use for pharmacotherapy of constipation in chronic idiopathic constipation.

  5. Is There a Rationale behind Pharmacotherapy in Idiopathic Gynecomastia?

    PubMed

    Kasielska-Trojan, Anna; Danilewicz, Marian; Antoszewski, Bogusław

    2018-05-17

    The aim of this research was to analyze digit ratio in relation to estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) expression and to verify digit ratio (2D: 4D) as a marker of ER and PR overexpression in the male breast. This study included 35 patients who underwent breast reduction due to the idiopathic form of gynecomastia. The average age of the studied individuals was 25.7 years (SD = 7.8). ER and PR expression was detected in breasts, and digit ratios were calculated in patients with idiopathic gynecomastia. ER expression did not correlate with the right (p = 0.51) and left 2D: 4D (p = 0.97). Also, there was no correlation between PR expression and 2D: 4D. A lack of correlation between these variables may result from the fact that the analyzed group of men with idiopathic gynecomastia was small in number, but at the same time, it appeared to be homogenous in these aspects (positive ER and/or PR expression and high digit ratio). High digit ratio in men with gynecomastia may tend to be a marker of overexpression of ER and PR. This may justify an early use of tamoxifen in men with gynecomastia and a high digit ratio. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  6. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: Indications and efficacy of nonoperative treatment

    PubMed Central

    Canavese, Federico; Kaelin, André

    2011-01-01

    The strategy for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis depends essentially upon the magnitude and pattern of the deformity, and its potential for progression. Treatment options include observation, bracing and/or surgery. During the past decade, several studies have demonstrated that the natural history of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis can be positively affected by nonoperative treatment, especially bracing. Other forms of conservative treatment, such as chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation, acupuncture, exercise or other manual treatments, or diet and nutrition, have not yet been proven to be effective in controlling spinal deformity progression, and those with a natural history that is favorable at the completion of growth. Observation is appropriate treatment for small curves, curves that are at low risk of progression, and those with a natural history that is favorable at the completion of growth. Indications for brace treatment are a growing child presenting with a curve of 25°–40° or a curve less than 25° with documented progression. Curves of 20°–25° in patients with pronounced skeletal immaturity should also be treated. The purpose of this review is to provide information about conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Indications for conservative treatment, hours daily wear and complications of brace treatment as well as brace types are discussed. PMID:21221217

  7. Adults With Idiopathic Scoliosis Diagnosed at Youth Experience Similar Physical Activity and Fracture Rate as Controls.

    PubMed

    Diarbakerli, Elias; Grauers, Anna; Danielsson, Aina; Gerdhem, Paul

    2017-04-01

    Cross-sectional. To describe physical activity level and fracture rates in adults with idiopathic scoliosis, diagnosed before maturity, and to compare with a control group. A previous study found a lower level of sporting activities in adults treated for idiopathic scoliosis compared with controls. Other studies have shown a lower bone mass in adults with idiopathic scoliosis compared with controls. One thousand two hundred seventy-eight adults (aged 18-71 yr) with idiopathic scoliosis and 214 controls (aged 18-70 yr) were included and answered the International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and questions about previous fractures. The three scoliosis treatment groups (untreated n = 360, brace n = 460, and surgically treated n = 458) were compared. Furthermore, a comparison based on onset (juvenile n = 169 or adolescent n = 976) was performed. Achieved weekly moderate activity level and metabolic equivalent task (MET) minutes/week were assessed for patients and controls. Statistical comparisons were made with analysis of covariance with adjustments for age, body mass index, and sex. The proportion achieving weekly moderate activity level was 962 out of 1278 for individuals with idiopathic scoliosis (75%) and 157 out of 214 (73%) for controls (P = 0.40). The scoliosis patients reported 2016 MET-minutes/week (median value) and the controls 2456 (P = 0.06). Fracture rates did not differ (P = 0.72). Fewer surgically treated individuals achieved moderate activity level (P = 0.046) compared with the untreated and the previously braced individuals. No difference was seen regarding MET-minutes/week (P = 0.86). No differences were seen between individuals with a juvenile onset compared with individuals with an adolescent onset (all P ≥ 0.05). Adults with idiopathic scoliosis have similar physical activity level and do not sustain more fractures compared with controls. Adults with surgically treated

  8. The influence of thermoplastic thoraco lumbo sacral orthoses on standing balance in subjects with idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Khanal, Minoo; Arazpour, Mokhtar; Bahramizadeh, Mahmood; Samadian, Mohammad; Hutchins, Stephen W; Kashani, Reza Vahab; Mardani, Mohammad A; Tari, Hossein Vahid; Aboutorabi, Atefeh; Curran, Sarah; Sadeghi, Heidar

    2016-08-01

    Idiopathic scoliosis patients have postural equilibrium problems. The objective of this study was to assess postural control in subjects with idiopathic scoliosis following a 4-month intervention in an unbraced position. Quasi-experimental. Eight healthy girls and eight girls with idiopathic scoliosis took part. A Kistler force platform was used with a frequency of 100 Hz for recording data. The center of pressure was recorded in different positions out of brace for scoliosis and healthy subjects. Test conditions were single limb and double limb stance, with eyes open and closed, and foam and rigid surfaces. The data reflected a weak balance of idiopathic scoliosis subjects compared to healthy subjects. After 1 and 4 months of wearing the brace, center of pressure and center of gravity sway increased in the majority of the tests, although there were no significant differences in any of the test conditions (p > 0.05). While the center of pressure sway in medio-lateral direction decreased after 4 months of wearing a brace, in other variables center of pressure and center of gravity sway increased. Idiopathic scoliosis patients have weak balance in comparison to healthy subjects. In addition, following a period of 4 months of wearing a brace, balance parameters in the scoliosis subjects did not improve. The results show that we need more follow-up of orthoses wearing in idiopathic scoliosis subjects and suggest more studies at least 1-year follow-up to identify the efficiency of brace wear on balance. Scoliosis can alter postural stability and balance performance during quiet standing. Spinal deformity can alter a subject's ability to compensate for postural changes and cause gait deviations. This study investigated balance differences between the healthy and idiopathic scoliosis patients and the results of thoraco lumbo sacral orthosis brace wear. It might provide some new insight into the conservative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis patients for

  9. Towards a new taxonomy of idiopathic orofacial pain.

    PubMed

    Woda, Alain; Tubert-Jeannin, Stéphanie; Bouhassira, Didier; Attal, Nadine; Fleiter, Bernard; Goulet, Jean-Paul; Gremeau-Richard, Christelle; Navez, Marie Louise; Picard, Pascale; Pionchon, Paul; Albuisson, Eliane

    2005-08-01

    There is no current consensus on the taxonomy of the different forms of idiopathic orofacial pain (stomatodynia, atypical odontalgia, atypical facial pain, facial arthromyalgia), which are sometimes considered as separate entities and sometimes grouped together. In the present prospective multicentric study, we used a systematic approach to help to place these different painful syndromes in the general classification of chronic facial pain. This multicenter study was carried out on 245 consecutive patients presenting with chronic facial pain (>4 months duration). Each patient was seen by two experts who proposed a diagnosis, administered a 111-item questionnaire and filled out a standardized 68-item examination form. Statistical processing included univariate analysis and several forms of multidimensional analysis. Migraines (n=37), tension-type headache (n=26), post-traumatic neuralgia (n=20) and trigeminal neuralgia (n=13) tended to cluster independently. When signs and symptoms describing topographic features were not included in the list of variables, the idiopathic orofacial pain patients tended to cluster in a single group. Inside this large cluster, only stomatodynia (n=42) emerged as a distinct homogenous subgroup. In contrast, facial arthromyalgia (n=46) and an entity formed with atypical facial pain (n=25) and atypical odontalgia (n=13) could only be individualised by variables reflecting topographical characteristics. These data provide grounds for an evidence-based classification of idiopathic facial pain entities and indicate that the current sub-classification of these syndromes relies primarily on the topography of the symptoms.

  10. Lack of evidence for central sensitization in idiopathic, non-traumatic neck pain: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Malfliet, Annaleen; Kregel, Jeroen; Cagnie, Barbara; Kuipers, Mandy; Dolphens, Mieke; Roussel, Nathalie; Meeus, Mira; Danneels, Lieven; Bramer, Wichor M; Nijs, Jo

    2015-01-01

    Chronic neck pain is a common problem with a poorly understood pathophysiology. Often no underlying structural pathology can be found and radiological imaging findings are more related to age than to a patient's symptoms. Besides its common occurrence, chronic idiopathic neck pain is also very disabling with almost 50% of all neck pain patients showing moderate disability at long-term follow-up. Central sensitization (CS) is defined as "an amplification of neural signaling within the central nervous system that elicits pain hypersensitivity," "increased responsiveness of nociceptive neurons in the central nervous system to their normal or subthreshold afferent input," or "an augmentation of responsiveness of central neurons to input from unimodal and polymodal receptors." There is increasing evidence for involvement of CS in many chronic pain conditions. Within the area of chronic idiopathic neck pain, there is consistent evidence for the presence and clinical importance of CS in patients with traumatic neck pain, or whiplash-associated disorders. However, the majority of chronic idiopathic neck pain patients are unrelated to a traumatic injury, and hence are termed chronic idiopathic non-traumatic neck pain. When comparing whiplash with idiopathic non-traumatic neck pain, indications for different underlying mechanisms are found. The goal of this article was to review the existing scientific literature on the role of CS in patients with chronic idiopathic non-traumatic neck pain. Systematic review. All selected studies were case control studies. A systematic search of existing, relevant literature was performed via the electronic databases Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cinahl, PubMed, and Google Scholar. All titles and abstracts were checked to identify relevant articles. An article was considered eligible if it met following inclusion criteria: (1) participants had to be human adults (> 18 years) diagnosed with idiopathic non-traumatic chronic (present for at

  11. A phase 3 trial of pirfenidone in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    King, Talmadge E; Bradford, Williamson Z; Castro-Bernardini, Socorro; Fagan, Elizabeth A; Glaspole, Ian; Glassberg, Marilyn K; Gorina, Eduard; Hopkins, Peter M; Kardatzke, David; Lancaster, Lisa; Lederer, David J; Nathan, Steven D; Pereira, Carlos A; Sahn, Steven A; Sussman, Robert; Swigris, Jeffrey J; Noble, Paul W

    2014-05-29

    In two of three phase 3 trials, pirfenidone, an oral antifibrotic therapy, reduced disease progression, as measured by the decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) or vital capacity, in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; in the third trial, this end point was not achieved. We sought to confirm the beneficial effect of pirfenidone on disease progression in such patients. In this phase 3 study, we randomly assigned 555 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to receive either oral pirfenidone (2403 mg per day) or placebo for 52 weeks. The primary end point was the change in FVC or death at week 52. Secondary end points were the 6-minute walk distance, progression-free survival, dyspnea, and death from any cause or from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In the pirfenidone group, as compared with the placebo group, there was a relative reduction of 47.9% in the proportion of patients who had an absolute decline of 10 percentage points or more in the percentage of the predicted FVC or who died; there was also a relative increase of 132.5% in the proportion of patients with no decline in FVC (P<0.001). Pirfenidone reduced the decline in the 6-minute walk distance (P=0.04) and improved progression-free survival (P<0.001). There was no significant between-group difference in dyspnea scores (P=0.16) or in rates of death from any cause (P=0.10) or from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (P=0.23). However, in a prespecified pooled analysis incorporating results from two previous phase 3 trials, the between-group difference favoring pirfenidone was significant for death from any cause (P=0.01) and from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (P=0.006). Gastrointestinal and skin-related adverse events were more common in the pirfenidone group than in the placebo group but rarely led to treatment discontinuation. Pirfenidone, as compared with placebo, reduced disease progression, as reflected by lung function, exercise tolerance, and progression-free survival, in patients with

  12. Sleep apnea, daytime somnolence, and idiopathic dizziness--a novel association.

    PubMed

    Sowerby, Leigh J; Rotenberg, Brian; Brine, Meggan; George, Charles F P; Parnes, Lorne S

    2010-06-01

    To determine if an association exists between sleep apnea, daytime somnolence, and chronic idiopathic dizziness. Case-control study of new patients presenting to a tertiary neuro-otologic practice. A total of 46 subjects with idiopathic dizziness (ID), 20 positive controls with dizziness (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo [BPV]), and 69 negative controls with hearing loss (HL) but no dizziness were enrolled. Participants who were patients diagnosed with the above conditions and who met all other inclusion criteria completed a sleep questionnaire and had a complete physical exam and investigations to establish or exclude a neuro-otologic diagnosis. They were subsequently evaluated for risk of symptomatic sleep disturbance based on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Berlin Questionnaire, and the Multivariable Apnea Risk Index (MAP). Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL). There was no significant demographic difference among the groups in terms of age, sex, body mass index, neck size, alcohol consumption, or smoking. Using a cutoff of both 10 and 12 on the ESS, the ID were more likely to have significant daytime somnolence than the HL group, with a likelihood ratio (LR) of 7.8 for the ESS 12 score (P = .021) and 7.1 for the ESS 10 score (P = .029). Using the MAP score, a statistically significant difference between the ID group and both the BPV group (LR 3.99, P = .046) and the HL group (LR 5.46, P = .019) was found. This study suggests that a previously undescribed link between idiopathic dizziness, daytime somnolence, and sleep apnea might exist. Prospective investigation is warranted to determine whether treatment of any sleep issues resolves symptoms of idiopathic dizziness.

  13. Pediatric Central Diabetes Insipidus: Brain Malformations Are Common and Few Patients Have Idiopathic Disease.

    PubMed

    Werny, David; Elfers, Clinton; Perez, Francisco A; Pihoker, Catherine; Roth, Christian L

    2015-08-01

    Pediatric cohorts of central diabetes insipidus (CDI) have shown varying prevalences for the different causes of CDI, including idiopathic. The objective of the study was to determine the causes of CDI at a pediatric tertiary care center and to characterize their clinical outcomes. All patients with CDI at Seattle Children's Hospital were identified and retrospectively analyzed. From 2000 to 2013, 147 patients with CDI were encountered (mean age 7 y at diagnosis, mean follow-up 6.2 y). The different causes of CDI were grouped, and age of diagnosis, anterior pituitary hormone deficiencies (APHDs), and presence of the posterior pituitary bright spot (PPBS) were analyzed. Patients with idiopathic CDI had infundibular thickening measured using a systematic method. Brain malformations caused 24% of CDI cases, and 12.2% were idiopathic. Four of 22 patients with initially idiopathic CDI were diagnosed with an underlying condition, none occurring later than 2.5 years from diagnosis. APHDs were as common in the brain malformation group as they were in the tumor/infiltrative group (72% vs 85%; P = .09). The PPBS was present in at least 13% of patients and in 19% of those with brain malformations. Patients with idiopathic CDI and stalk thickening on the initial magnetic resonance imaging were more likely to have an underlying diagnosis (40% vs 0%; P = .03). Brain malformations were a more common cause of pediatric CDI than previously reported. These patients have a high rate of APHDs, and many have persistence of the PPBS. Idiopathic CDI is an uncommon diagnosis, and none of our patients were diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis or germinoma for more than 3 years from CDI diagnosis. Providers can consider less frequent magnetic resonance imaging after this time point. A systematic method of infundibular measurement on the initial magnetic resonance imaging may predict an underlying germinoma or Langerhans cell histiocytosis.

  14. Brief Report: Sensorimotor Gating in Idiopathic Autism and Autism Associated with Fragile X Syndrome

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yuhas, Jennifer; Cordeiro, Lisa; Tassone, Flora; Ballinger, Elizabeth; Schneider, Andrea; Long, James M.; Ornitz, Edward M.; Hessl, David

    2011-01-01

    Prepulse inhibition (PPI) may useful for exploring the proposed shared neurobiology between idiopathic autism and autism caused by FXS. We compared PPI in four groups: typically developing controls (n = 18), FXS and autism (FXS+A; n = 15), FXS without autism spectrum disorder (FXS-A; n = 17), and idiopathic autism (IA; n = 15). Relative to…

  15. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition-related proteins ZEB1, β-catenin, and β-tubulin-III in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Chilosi, Marco; Caliò, Anna; Rossi, Andrea; Gilioli, Eliana; Pedica, Federica; Montagna, Licia; Pedron, Serena; Confalonieri, Marco; Doglioni, Claudio; Ziesche, Rolf; Grubinger, Markus; Mikulits, Wolfgang; Poletti, Venerino

    2017-01-01

    Epithelial to mesenchymal transition has been suggested as a relevant contributor to pulmonary fibrosis, but how and where this complex process is triggered in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is not fully understood. Beta-tubulin-III (Tubβ3), ZEB1, and β-catenin are partially under the negative control of miR-200, a family of micro-RNAs playing a major role in epithelial to mesenchymal transition, that are reduced in experimental lung fibrosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We wonder whether in situ expression of these proteins is increased in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, to better understand the significance of miR-200 feedback loop and epithelial to mesenchymal transition. We investigated the immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent expression and precise location of ZEB1, Tubβ3, and β-catenin in tissue samples from 34 idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis cases and 21 controls (5 normal lungs and 16 other interstitial lung diseases). In 100% idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis samples, the three proteins were concurrently expressed in fibroblastic foci, as well in damaged epithelial cells overlying these lesions and in pericytes within neo-angiogenesis areas. These results were also confirmed by immunofluorescence assay. In controls the abnormal expression of the three proteins was absent or limited. This is the first study that relates concurrent expression of Tubβ3, ZEB1, and β-catenin to abnormal epithelial and myofibroblast differentiation in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, providing indirect but robust evidence of miR-200 deregulation and epithelial to mesenchymal transition activation in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The abnormal expression and localization of these proteins in bronchiolar fibro-proliferative lesions are unique for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and might represent a disease-specific marker in challenging lung biopsies.

  16. Acute effects of spinal bracing on scapular kinematics in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Gur, Gozde; Turgut, Elif; Ayhan, Cigdem; Baltaci, Gul; Yakut, Yavuz

    2017-08-01

    Bracing is the most common nonsurgical treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Spinal braces affect glenohumeral and scapulothoracic motion because they restrict trunk movements. However, the potential spinal-bracing effects on scapular kinematics are unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the acute effects of spinal bracing on scapular kinematics in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Scapular kinematics, including scapular internal/external rotation, posterior/anterior tilting, and downward/upward rotation during scapular plane elevation, were evaluated in 27 in-brace and out-of-brace adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients with a three-dimensional electromagnetic tracking system. Data on the position and orientation of the scapula at 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° humerothoracic elevation were used for statistical comparisons. The paired t-test was used to assess the differences between the mean values of in-brace and out-of-brace conditions. The in-brace condition showed significantly increased (P<0.05) scapular anterior tilting and decreased internal rotation in the resting position on the convex and concave sides; increased scapular downward rotation at 120° humerothoracic elevation on the convex side and at 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° humerothoracic elevation on the concave side; increased scapular anterior tilt at 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° humerothoracic elevation on the convex and concave sides; and decreased (P<0.05) maximal humerothoracic elevation of the arm. Spinal bracing affects scapular kinematics. Observed changes in scapular kinematics with brace may also affect upper extremity function for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Therefore, clinicians should include assessments of the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic joints when designing rehabilitation protocols for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: in search of a therapeutic paradigm.

    PubMed

    Wilson, Jason P; Massoll, Nicole; Marshall, Julia; Foss, Robin M; Copeland, Edward M; Grobmyer, Stephen R

    2007-08-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis, also known as idiopathic granulomatous lobular mastitis, is a benign breast lesion that represents both a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma. We report two cases of granulomatous mastitis recently evaluated and managed at our institution. To better understand this rare disease, we analyzed treatment outcomes in reported cases of granulomatous mastitis. One hundred sixteen cases were subsequently analyzed. Primary management strategies included observation (n = 9), steroids (n = 29), partial mastectomy (n = 75), and mastectomy (n = 3). Success rates with each treatment were observation, 56 per cent; steroids, 42 per cent; partial mastectomy, 79 per cent; and mastectomy, 100 per cent. Based on this analysis, we propose a clinically useful algorithm for both workup and management of these challenging cases.

  18. Precision Medicine: The New Frontier in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Brownell, Robert; Kaminski, Naftali; Woodruff, Prescott G; Bradford, Williamson Z; Richeldi, Luca; Martinez, Fernando J; Collard, Harold R

    2016-06-01

    Precision medicine is defined by the National Institute of Health's Precision Medicine Initiative Working Group as an approach to disease treatment that takes into account individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle. There has been increased interest in applying the concept of precision medicine to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, in particular to search for genetic and molecular biomarker-based profiles (so called endotypes) that identify mechanistically distinct disease subgroups. The relevance of precision medicine to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is yet to be established, but we believe that it holds great promise to provide targeted and highly effective therapies to patients. In this manuscript, we describe the field's nascent efforts in genetic/molecular endotype identification and how environmental and behavioral subgroups may also be relevant to disease management.

  19. Idiopathic polyhydramnios: persistence across gestation and impact on pregnancy outcomes.

    PubMed

    Odibo, Imelda N; Newville, Trista M; Ounpraseuth, Songthip T; Dixon, Mandi; Lutgendorf, Monica A; Foglia, Lisa M; Magann, Everett F

    2016-04-01

    To investigate the likelihood of resolution of idiopathic polyhydramnios in pregnant women and compare outcomes between resolved and persistent cases. One hundred and sixty-three women with idiopathic polyhydramnios who delivered at two medical centers during a 3 year period (January 2012-January 2015) were included in the study. Exclusion criteria included congenital fetal anomalies, maternal diabetes, isoimmunization, fetal infection, placental tumors or anomalies, and multiple gestation. Polyhydramnios was defined as SDP≥8cm or AFI≥24cm. Resolved cases were defined as those with AFI and/or SDP falling and remaining below 24cm and 8cm respectively. Pregnancy outcomes were compared between resolved and persistent cases. Two-sample t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used for continuous variables while chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was used for categorical measures. Resolution was noted in 61 of 163 (37%) patients. There were no differences in maternal age, gravidity or parity between resolved and persistent cases. Mean gestational age at diagnosis of polyhydramnios and overall mean AFI were significantly lower in the cases that resolved (29.7±4.5 weeks vs 33.4±4.1 weeks, p<0.0001; 23.3±3.5cm vs 25.8 23.3±4.0cm, p=0.0002). Similar to AFI measurements, mean SDP was also lower in cases with resolution (p=0.002). There was no difference in induction rates, mode of delivery, amnioinfusion rates, meconium staining of amniotic fluid and fetal heart rate abnormalities influencing intrapartum management between the two groups. Induction of labor for fetal indication and rupture of membranes were significantly more common in the persistent group. Cesarean delivery for abnormal lie and fetal distress did not differ between the groups. There was an increased risk of macrosomia (>4000g) and preterm delivery (<37 weeks) in the persistent group (p<0.05). Resolution rate was approximately 37% and more likely in cases diagnosed earlier in pregnancy and with lower

  20. Possible association of FAS and FASLG polymorphisms with the risk of idiopathic azoospermia in southeast Turkey.

    PubMed

    Balkan, Mahmut; Atar, Murat; Erdal, Mehmet Emin; Rustemoğlu, Aydin; Yildiz, Ismail; Gunesacar, Ramazan; Hatipoğlu, Namık Kemal; Bodakçi, Mehmet Nuri; Ay, Ozlem Izci; Çevik, Kenan

    2014-06-01

    To investigate the association of the genetic variants of FAS/FASLG cell death pathway genes in male infertility, we genotyped the FAS -670A/G, -1377G/A, and FASLG -124A/G single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) by real-time polymerase chain reaction in 108 infertile men with idiopathic azoospermia and in 125 proven fertile controls. The distribution of genotypes and alleles for SNPs at FAS -1377G/A and FASLG -124A/G loci were determined not to be statistically different between the case and control groups. However, the genotype frequencies of SNPs, FAS -670AA and FAS -670AG, were found to be significantly different between the case and control groups. Whereas the FAS -670AA genotype might be regarded as a higher predisposition for idiopathic azoospermia, FAS -670AG could be interpreted to mean that this genotype provides protection against idiopathic azoospermia. The study of combined genotype and haplotype frequencies has found statistically significant differences between case and control subjects for some combinations. The AA-GG binary genotype for the FAS670 and FAS1377 loci couple, in particular, may have a high degree of predisposition to idiopathic azoospermia. Our results suggest that FAS -670A/G SNP may be a genetic predisposing factor of idiopathic azoospermia among southeastern Anatolian men. Larger studies are needed to verify these findings. Furthermore, our data indicated a possible linkage between the FAS and FASLG genes and idiopathic azoospermia.

  1. Risk of Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy in 29 000 Patients With Celiac Disease

    PubMed Central

    Emilsson, Louise; Andersson, Bert; Elfström, Peter; Green, Peter H.R.; Ludvigsson, Jonas F.

    2012-01-01

    Background Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a rare disease of largely unknown origin. Previous studies have suggested an increased prevalence of celiac disease (CD) in patients with DCM. These studies, however, were based on a maximum of 5 patients with both CD and DCM. In the present large Swedish population-based cohort study, we examined the risk of idiopathic DCM in patients with CD determined by small-intestinal histopathology. Methods and Results From 2006 to 2008, we collected duodenal/jejunal biopsy data on CD (equal to villous atrophy, Marsh stage 3, n=29 071 unique individuals) from (all) 28 pathology departments in Sweden. These individuals were compared with 144 429 reference individuals matched for age, sex, calendar year, and county. Data on DCM were obtained through the National Patient Register and confirmed by patient charts and echocardiography data. During follow-up, 17 patients with CD and 52 reference individuals developed idiopathic DCM. Thus, patients with CD were at an increased risk of idiopathic DCM (hazard ratio, 1.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.00 to 3.00), although the risk estimate failed to attain statistical significance (P=0.052). Conclusion This nationwide study found a moderately but not statistically significantly increased risk of idiopathic DCM in patients with biopsy-verified CD. (J Am Heart Assoc. 2012;1:e001594 doi: 10.1161/JAHA.112.001594.) PMID:23130142

  2. Long-term efficacy of abatacept in pediatric patients with idiopathic uveitis: a case series.

    PubMed

    Marrani, Edoardo; Paganelli, Valeria; de Libero, Cinzia; Cimaz, Rolando; Simonini, Gabriele

    2015-10-01

    Non-infectious uveitis represents one of the most common causes of blindness, even at pediatric age; in particular, idiopathic chronic uveitis can pose significant difficulties during treatment, due to a partial response to TNF-α antagonists. To date, very few case series exist describing the treatment of idiopathic uveitis not adequately controlled by TNF-α antagonists. The aim of our study is to describe the role of abatacept in achieving remission in patients with idiopathic uveitis previously treated with TNF-α antagonists, and to assess how long abatacept efficacy is maintained during follow-up. The treatment's safety profile and tolerability were also specifically investigated. Three patients affected with chronic idiopathic uveitis, who have been treated with abatacept due to loss of efficacy of TNF-α antagonists, were reviewed. Details of the demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded, and a summary of the medical history was obtained. Patients were regularly reviewed in the ophthalmology and rheumatology clinics. Assessment of their ocular condition was characterized according to the Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature (SUN) group. In our patients, abatacept was able to induce remission and to discontinue systemic corticosteroids after a mean of 30 weeks; the drug maintained its efficacy through a long follow-up period (42, 33, and 18 months respectively), with an excellent safety profile. Our small case series seems to suggest abatacept to be a promising therapy in children affected with chronic idiopathic uveitis not adequately controlled by TNF-α antagonists.

  3. Idiopathic granulomatous lobular mastitis.

    PubMed

    Pereira, Frederick A; Mudgil, Adarsh V; Macias, Edgar S; Karsif, Karen

    2012-02-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous lobular mastitis (IGLM) is a rare breast condition with prominent skin findings. It is typically seen in young parous women. Painful breast masses, draining sinuses, scarring, and breast atrophy are the main clinical manifestations. IGLM can resemble a variety of other inflammatory and neoplastic processes of the breast. It is thought to result from obstruction and rupture of breast lobules. Extravasated breast secretions then induce an inflammatory reaction. Corynebacteria have also been implicated in the pathogenesis. Treatment is surgical, but systemic corticosteroids, methotrexate, and antibiotics also play a role. © 2012 The International Society of Dermatology.

  4. Detection of equine herpesvirus in horses with idiopathic keratoconjunctivitis and comparison of three sampling techniques.

    PubMed

    Hollingsworth, Steven R; Pusterla, Nicola; Kass, Philip H; Good, Kathryn L; Brault, Stephanie A; Maggs, David J

    2015-09-01

    To determine the role of equine herpesvirus (EHV) in idiopathic keratoconjunctivitis in horses and to determine whether sample collection method affects detection of EHV DNA by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Twelve horses with idiopathic keratoconjunctivitis and six horses without signs of ophthalmic disease. Conjunctival swabs, corneal scrapings, and conjunctival biopsies were collected from 18 horses: 12 clinical cases with idiopathic keratoconjunctivitis and six euthanized controls. In horses with both eyes involved, the samples were taken from the eye judged to be more severely affected. Samples were tested with qPCR for EHV-1, EHV-2, EHV-4, and EHV-5 DNA. Quantity of EHV DNA and viral replicative activity were compared between the two populations and among the different sampling techniques; relative sensitivities of the sampling techniques were determined. Prevalence of EHV DNA as assessed by qPCR did not differ significantly between control horses and those with idiopathic keratoconjunctivitis. Sampling by conjunctival swab was more likely to yield viral DNA as assessed by qPCR than was conjunctival biopsy. EHV-1 and EHV-4 DNA were not detected in either normal or IKC-affected horses; EHV-2 DNA was detected in two of 12 affected horses but not in normal horses. EHV-5 DNA was commonly found in ophthalmically normal horses and horses with idiopathic keratoconjunctivitis. Because EHV-5 DNA was commonly found in control horses and in horses with idiopathic keratoconjunctivitis, qPCR was not useful for the etiological diagnosis of equine keratoconjunctivitis. Conjunctival swabs were significantly better at obtaining viral DNA samples than conjunctival biopsy in horses in which EHV-5 DNA was found. © 2015 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

  5. A geriatric patient with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis

    PubMed Central

    Karadag, Berrin; Cat, Huseyin; Aksoy, Selma; Ozulu, Banu; Ozturk, Ali Osman; Oguz, Sukru; Altuntas, Yuksel

    2010-01-01

    The most frequent health problems seen in senility are chronic and degenerative diseases. A 75-year-old male patient with the complaints of weight loss and difficulty in swallowing was admitted to our hospital from a nursing home. Upper system fiber-optic gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed and a mass at the junction of the hypopharynx and esophagus just below recessus piriformis obstructing almost the whole of the lumen and blocking the distal passage was detected. Computed tomography revealed marked narrowing secondary to osseous hypertrophy in the air column of the hypopharynx and proximal esophagus. Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis or Forestier’s disease is an idiopathic disease characterized by the ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament of vertebra and some of the extraspinal ligaments. In the present case we aim to discuss an elderly patient who suffered from dysphagia and weight loss and the diagnostic stages. PMID:20355249

  6. Imaging of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Part I: Clinical classifications and radiographs

    PubMed Central

    Matuszewska, Genowefa; Gietka, Piotr; Płaza, Mateusz; Walentowska-Janowicz, Marta

    2016-01-01

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common autoimmune systemic disease of the connective tissue affecting individuals at the developmental age. Radiography is the primary modality employed in the diagnostic imaging in order to identify changes typical of this disease entity and rule out other bone-related pathologies, such as neoplasms, posttraumatic changes, developmental defects and other forms of arthritis. The standard procedure involves the performance of comparative joint radiographs in two planes. Radiographic changes in juvenile idiopathic arthritis are detected in later stages of the disease. Bone structures are assessed in the first place. Radiographs can also indirectly indicate the presence of soft tissue inflammation (i.e. in joint cavities, sheaths and bursae) based on swelling and increased density of the soft tissue as well as dislocation of fat folds. Signs of articular cartilage defects are also seen in radiographs indirectly – based on joint space width changes. The first part of the publication presents the classification of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and discusses its radiographic images. The authors list the affected joints as well as explain the spectrum and specificity of radiographic signs resulting from inflammatory changes overlapping with those caused by the maturation of the skeletal system. Moreover, certain dilemmas associated with the monitoring of the disease are reviewed. The second part of the publication will explain issues associated with ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging, which are more and more commonly applied in juvenile idiopathic arthritis for early detection of pathological features as well as the disease complications. PMID:27679726

  7. A systematic approach for the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic peptic ulcers

    PubMed Central

    Chung, Chen-Shuan; Chiang, Tsung-Hsien; Lee, Yi-Chia

    2015-01-01

    An idiopathic peptic ulcer is defined as an ulcer with unknown cause or an ulcer that appears to arise spontaneously. The first step in treatment is to exclude common possible causes, including Helicobacter pylori infection, infection with other pathogens, ulcerogenic drugs, and uncommon diseases with upper gastrointestinal manifestations. When all known causes are excluded, a diagnosis of idiopathic peptic ulcer can be made. A patient whose peptic ulcer is idiopathic may have a higher risk for complicated ulcer disease, a poorer response to gastric acid suppressants, and a higher recurrence rate after treatment. Risk factors associated with this disease may include genetic predisposition, older age, chronic mesenteric ischemia, smoking, concomitant diseases, a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score, and higher stress. Therefore, the diagnosis and management of emerging disease should systematically explore all known causes and treat underlying disease, while including regular endoscopic surveillance to confirm ulcer healing and the use of proton-pump inhibitors on a case-by-case basis. PMID:26354049

  8. Sensory Impairment and Head Circumference in Fragile X Syndrome, Down Syndrome and Idiopathic Intellectual Disability.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Turk, Jeremy; Patton, Michael

    2000-01-01

    Eighteen boys with fragile X syndrome were compared with 42 with idiopathic intellectual disability, and 45 with Down syndrome. Boys with Down syndrome had more sensory problems and smaller head circumferences than normal. Head circumferences of boys with fragile X syndrome and with idiopathic intellectual disability were larger than normal.…

  9. Perioperative Care of a Patient with Refractory Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty

    PubMed Central

    Gudimetla, Veera; Stewart, Andrew; Luscombe, Karen L; Charalambous, Charalambos P

    2012-01-01

    Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder leading to low platelet count and an increased risk of bleeding. Major joint replacement surgery in a patient with ITP can be associated with severe postoperative bleeding. We present our experience of perioperative management in a patient with severe refractory chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura who successfully underwent a cemented total knee replacement. PMID:23269964

  10. Subjective symptoms in idiopathic hypersomnia: beyond excessive sleepiness.

    PubMed

    Vernet, Cyrille; Leu-Semenescu, Smaranda; Buzare, Marie-Annick; Arnulf, Isabelle

    2010-12-01

    Patients with idiopathic hypersomnia never feel fully alert despite a normal or long sleep night. The spectrum of the symptoms is insufficiently studied. We interviewed 62 consecutive patients with idiopathic hypersomnia (with a mean sleep latency lower than 8 min or a sleep time longer than 11 h) and 50 healthy controls using a questionnaire on sleep, awakening, sleepiness, alertness and cognitive, psychological and functional problems during daily life conditions. Patients slept 3 h more on weekends, holidays and in the sleep unit than on working days. In the morning, the patients needed somebody to wake them, or to be stressed, while routine, light, alarm clocks and motivation were inefficient. Three-quarters of the patients did not feel refreshed after short naps. During the daytime, their alertness was modulated by the same external conditions as controls, but they felt more sedated in darkness, in a quiet environment, when listening to music or conversation. Being hyperactive helped them more than controls to resist sleepiness. They were more frequently evening-type and more alert in the evening than in the morning. The patients were able to focus only for 1 h (versus 4 h in the controls). They complained of attention and memory deficit. Half of them had problems regulating their body temperature and were near-sighted. Mental fatigability, dependence on other people for awakening them, and a reduced benefit from usually alerting conditions (except being hyperactive or stressed) seem to be more specific of the daily problems of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia than daytime sleepiness. © 2010 European Sleep Research Society.

  11. Cisapride stimulates contraction of idiopathic megacolonic smooth muscle in cats.

    PubMed

    Hasler, A H; Washabau, R J

    1997-01-01

    We have previously shown that cisapride, a substituted piperidinyl benzamide, stimulates contraction of healthy feline colonic smooth muscle. The purpose of the present investigation was to determine the effect of cisapride on feline idiopathic megacolonic smooth muscle function. Longitudinal smooth muscle strips from ascending and descending colon were obtained from cats with idiopathic megacolon, suspended in a 1.5 mM Ca(2+)-HEPES buffer solution (37 degrees C, 100% O2, pH 7.4), attached to isometric force transducers, and stretched to optimal muscle length (Lo). Control responses were obtained at each muscle site with acetylcholine (10(-8) to 10(-4) M), substance P (10(-11) to 10(-7) M), or potassium chloride (10 to 80 mM). Muscles were then stimulated with cumulative (10(-9) to 10(-6) M) doses of cisapride in the absence or presence of tetrodotoxin (10(-6) M) and atropine (10(-6) M), or in a 0 calcium HEPES buffer solution. In cats with idiopathic megacolon, cisapride stimulated contractions of longitudinal smooth muscle from both the ascending and the descending colon. Cisapride-induced contractions were similar in magnitude to those induced by substance P and acetylcholine in the ascending colon, but were less than those observed in the descending colon. Cisapride-induced contractions in megacolonic smooth muscle were only partially inhibited by tetrodotoxin and atropine, but were virtually abolished by removal of extracellular calcium. We concluded that cisapride-induced contractions of feline megacolonic smooth muscle are largely smooth muscle mediated and dependent on influx of extracellular calcium. Cisapride-induced contractions in megacolonic smooth muscle are only partially dependent on enteric cholinergic nerves. Thus, cisapride may be useful in the treatment of cats with idiopathic megacolon.

  12. Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension in Children and Adolescents: An Update.

    PubMed

    Cleves-Bayon, Catalina

    2018-03-01

    Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), previously known as pseudotumor cerebri syndrome (PTC) is a serious neurological disorder that can lead to irreversible visual loss. Predominantly a disorder affecting women in reproductive years, the pediatric population is not spared. In the past few years, the condition has been redefined, due to new accepted values for opening pressure in children and advances in neuroimaging. Emerging techniques in ophthalmology are being increasingly used to monitor disease in these patients. And, although the treatment tools have not changed in several years, important evidence for efficacy for acetazolamide finally came to light in recent years in the Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatment Trial (IIHTT). This review article provides an overview on recent advances in diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of IIH. © 2017 American Headache Society.

  13. Precision Medicine: The New Frontier in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Brownell, Robert; Kaminski, Naftali; Woodruff, Prescott G.; Bradford, Williamson Z.; Richeldi, Luca; Martinez, Fernando J.

    2016-01-01

    Precision medicine is defined by the National Institute of Health’s Precision Medicine Initiative Working Group as an approach to disease treatment that takes into account individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle. There has been increased interest in applying the concept of precision medicine to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, in particular to search for genetic and molecular biomarker-based profiles (so called endotypes) that identify mechanistically distinct disease subgroups. The relevance of precision medicine to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is yet to be established, but we believe that it holds great promise to provide targeted and highly effective therapies to patients. In this manuscript, we describe the field’s nascent efforts in genetic/molecular endotype identification and how environmental and behavioral subgroups may also be relevant to disease management. PMID:26991475

  14. Bell's palsy before Bell: Evert Jan Thomassen à Thuessink and idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis.

    PubMed

    van de Graaf, R C; IJpma, F F A; Nicolai, J-P A; Werker, P M N

    2009-11-01

    Bell's palsy is the eponym for idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis. It is named after Sir Charles Bell (1774-1842), who, in the first half of the nineteenth century, discovered the function of the facial nerve and attracted the attention of the medical world to facial paralysis. Our knowledge of this condition before Bell's landmark publications is very limited and is based on just a few documents. In 1804 and 1805, Evert Jan Thomassen à Thuessink (1762-1832) published what appears to be the first known extensive study on idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis. His description of this condition was quite accurate. He located several other early descriptions and concluded from this literature that, previously, the condition had usually been confused with other afflictions (such as 'spasmus cynicus', central facial paralysis and trigeminal neuralgia). According to Thomassen à Thuessink, idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis and trigeminal neuralgia were related, being different expressions of the same condition. Thomassen à Thuessink believed that idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis was caused by 'rheumatism' or exposure to cold. Many aetiological theories have since been proposed. Despite this, the cold hypothesis persists even today.

  15. Non-Autoimmune Subclinical and Overt Hypothyroidism in Idiopathic Steroid-resistant Nephrotic Syndrome in Children.

    PubMed

    Marimuthu, Vidhya; Krishnamurthy, Sriram; Rajappa, Medha

    2017-11-15

    To evaluate the frequency of non-autoimmune subclinical and overt hypothyroidism in children with idiopathic steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). This cross-sectional study recruited 30 children (age 1-18 y) with idiopathic SRNS; and 30 healthy controls. Serum T3, T4 and TSH were performed in cases as well as controls. Anti-thyroid peroxidase and anti-thyroglobulin antibody tests were performed in all cases. Non-autoimmune subclinical or overt hypothyroidism was detected in 10 out of 30 children with idiopathic SRNS; 2 had overt hypothyroidism, while 8 patients had subclinical hypothyroidism. Children with SRNS had a mean (SD) TSH value 4.55 (4.64) mIU/L that was higher as compared to controls (1.88 (1.04) mIU/L) (P<0.01). Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) was the commonest histopathological condition, seen in 13 (43.3%). Children with overt hypothyroidism (2 cases) and grade III subclinical hypothyroidism (1 case) were subsequently started on levothyroxine therapy. The prevalence of subclinical and overt hypothyroidism seems to be high in idiopathic SRNS, with almost one-third of children having overt or subclinical non-autoimmune hypothyroidism.

  16. The consequences of idiopathic partial epilepsies in relation to neuropsychological functioning: a closer look at the associated mathematical disability.

    PubMed

    Sart, Z Hande; Demirbilek, Veysi; Korkmaz, Bariş; Slade, Peter D; Dervent, Ayşin; Townes, Brenda D

    2006-03-01

    Although the seizure prognosis is mostly favorable in idiopathic partial epilepsies, there is some empirical evidence showing that subtle neuropsychological impairments, with a consequent risk of academic underachievement, are not rare. We investigated neuropsychological functioning including attention, memory, visuomotor ability, and executive functioning with a closer look at the associated mathematical ability in patients with idiopathic partial epilepsies. A battery of age-appropriate, neuropsychological and mathematics achievement tests was administered to 30 participants with idiopathic partial epilepsy [13 children with benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS), 17 children with idiopathic childhood occipital epilepsies (ICOE)], and to 30 healthy participants matched for age, sex, handedness, and socioeconomic status. Results did not support any impairment in overall neuropsychological functioning in participants with idiopathic partial epilepsies, whereas, isolated deficits did exist. The mean performance of the IPE group was significantly lower than the control group in six out of 12, neuropsychological measures: drawing (p < 0.01), digit span (p < 0.05), verbal learning (p < 0.01), object assembly (p < 0.01), similarities (p < 0.05), and vocabulary (p < 0.001). Results suggested that one should be cautious regarding neuropsychological and academic prognosis in the so-called benign idiopathic partial epilepsies of childhood.

  17. SOLITARY IDIOPATHIC CHOROIDITIS IN THE SETTING OF EXTENSIVE ANIMAL EXPOSURE.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Vivek; Khoo, Chloe T L; Shields, Carol L

    2016-01-01

    To describe solitary idiopathic choroiditis in the setting of extensive animal exposure. A 56-year-old asymptomatic female equestrian with an extensive history of exposure to horses and dogs and a trapper of wild animals and rodents was discovered to have an amelanotic choroidal mass in the macular region and referred for suspicious atypical nevus. Funduscopy revealed a deep yellow mass with overlying retinal pigment epithelial thinning and without visible subretinal fluid or lipofuscin. Mild hyperautofluorescence represented unmasking of scleral autofluorescence. Ultrasonography showed a 1.8-mm-thick echodense lesion. Enhanced depth imaging-optical coherence tomography disclosed a dense, elevated scleral mass with "volcanic" configuration, demonstrating choroidal compression and trace overlying subretinal fluid. These features were consistent with solitary idiopathic choroiditis/scleritis. Systemic evaluation for standard cat-related bartonellosis, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and syphilis were negative. Horse-, dog-, and rodent-related bartonellosis testing was not available. Observation was advised, and the findings remained stable at 6 months. Solitary idiopathic choroiditis is best imaged on enhanced depth imaging-optical coherence tomography as a scleral lesion with "volcanic" configuration and often secondary to previous Bartonella infection. Serologic positivity for cat-related Bartonella decays over time, and testing for horse-, dog-, or rodent-related Bartonella is not commonly used.

  18. [Effects of temporal lobe epilepsy and idiopathic epilepsy on cognitive function and emotion in children].

    PubMed

    Yang, Xiao-Yan; Long, Li-Li; Xiao, Bo

    2016-07-01

    To investigate the effects of temporal lobe epilepsy and idiopathic epilepsy on cognitive function and emotion in children and the risk factors for cognitive impairment. A retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of 38 children with temporal lobe epilepsy and 40 children with idiopathic epilepsy. The controls were 42 healthy children. All subjects received the following neuropsychological tests: Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale, verbal fluency test, digit span test, block design test, Social Anxiety Scale for Children (SASC), and Depression Self-rating Scale for Children (DSRSC). Compared with the control group, the temporal lobe epilepsy and idiopathic epilepsy groups showed significantly lower scores of MoCA, verbal fluency, digit span, and block design (P<0.05) and significantly higher scores on SASC and DSRSC (P<0.05). Compared with the idiopathic epilepsy group, the temporal lobe epilepsy group showed significantly lower scores of MoCA, verbal fluency, digit span, and block design (P<0.05) and significantly higher scores on SASC and DSRSC (P<0.05). In the temporal lobe epilepsy group, MoCA score was negatively correlated with SASC score, DSRSC score, and seizure frequency (r=-0.571, -0.529, and -0.545 respectively; P<0.01). In the idiopathic epilepsy group, MoCA score was also negatively correlated with SASC score, DSRSC score, and seizure frequency (r=-0.542, -0.487, and -0.555 respectively; P<0.01). Children with temporal lobe epilepsy and idiopathic epilepsy show impaired whole cognition, verbal fluency, memory, and executive function and have anxiety and depression, which are more significant in children with temporal lobe epilepsy. High levels of anxiety, depression, and seizure frequency are risk factors for impaired cognitive function.

  19. The effectiveness of core stabilization exercise in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Gür, Gözde; Ayhan, Cigdem; Yakut, Yavuz

    2017-06-01

    Core stabilization training is used to improve postural balance in musculoskeletal problems. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of stabilization training in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. A randomized controlled trial, pretest-posttest design. In total, 25 subjects with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were randomly divided into two groups: stabilization group ( n = 12) and control group ( n = 13). The stabilization group received core stabilization in addition to traditional rehabilitation, and the control group received traditional rehabilitation for 10 weeks. Assessment included Cobb's angle on radiograph, apical vertebral rotation in Adam's test, trunk asymmetry (Posterior Trunk Symmetry Index), cosmetic trunk deformity (Trunk Appearance Perception Scale), and quality of life (Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire). Inter-group comparisons showed significantly greater improvements in the mean change in lumbar apical vertebral rotation degree and the pain domain of Scoliosis Research Society-22 in the stabilization group than those in the control group ( p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed for other measurements between the groups; however, trends toward greater improvement were observed in the stabilization group. Core stabilization training in addition to traditional exercises was more effective than traditional exercises alone in the correction of vertebral rotation and reduction of pain in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Clinical relevance Stabilization exercises are more effective in reducing rotation deformity and pain than traditional exercises in the conservative rehabilitation of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. These improvements suggest that stabilization training should be added to rehabilitation programs in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

  20. Pediatric and adult vision restoration after optic nerve sheath decompression for idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

    PubMed

    Bersani, Thomas A; Meeker, Austin R; Sismanis, Dimitrios N; Carruth, Bryant P

    2016-06-01

    To compare presentations of idiopathic intracranial hypertension and efficacy of optic nerve sheath decompression between adult and pediatric patients, a retrospective cohort study was completed All idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients undergoing optic nerve sheath decompression by one surgeon between 1991 and 2012 were included. Pre-operative and post-operative visual fields, visual acuity, color vision, and optic nerve appearance were compared between adult and pediatric (<18 years) populations. Outcome measures included percentage of patients with complications or requiring subsequent interventions. Thirty-one adults (46 eyes) and eleven pediatric patients (18 eyes) underwent optic nerve sheath decompression for vision loss from idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Mean deviation on visual field, visual acuity, color vision, and optic nerve appearance significantly improved across all subjects. Pre-operative mean deviation was significantly worse in children compared to adults (p=0.043); there was no difference in mean deviation post-operatively (p=0.838). Significantly more pediatric eyes (6) presented with light perception only or no light perception than adult eyes (0) (p=0.001). Pre-operative color vision performance in children (19%) was significantly worse than in adults (46%) (p=0.026). Percentage of patients with complications or requiring subsequent interventions did not differ between groups. The consistent improvement after surgery and low rate of complications suggest optic nerve sheath decompression is safe and effective in managing vision loss due to adult and pediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Given the advanced pre-operative visual deficits seen in children, one might consider a higher index of suspicion in diagnosing, and earlier surgical intervention in treating pediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

  1. Optimal management of idiopathic macular holes

    PubMed Central

    Madi, Haifa A; Masri, Ibrahim; Steel, David H

    2016-01-01

    This review evaluates the current surgical options for the management of idiopathic macular holes (IMHs), including vitrectomy, ocriplasmin (OCP), and expansile gas use, and discusses key background information to inform the choice of treatment. An evidence-based approach to selecting the best treatment option for the individual patient based on IMH characteristics and patient-specific factors is suggested. For holes without vitreomacular attachment (VMA), vitrectomy is the only option with three key surgical variables: whether to peel the inner limiting membrane (ILM), the type of tamponade agent to be used, and the requirement for postoperative face-down posturing. There is a general consensus that ILM peeling improves primary anatomical hole closure rate; however, in small holes (<250 µm), it is uncertain whether peeling is always required. It has been increasingly recognized that long-acting gas and face-down positioning are not always necessary in patients with small- and medium-sized holes, but large (>400 µm) and chronic holes (>1-year history) are usually treated with long-acting gas and posturing. Several studies on posturing and gas choice were carried out in combination with ILM peeling, which may also influence the gas and posturing requirement. Combined phacovitrectomy appears to offer more rapid visual recovery without affecting the long-term outcomes of vitrectomy for IMH. OCP is licensed for use in patients with small- or medium-sized holes and VMA. A greater success rate in using OCP has been reported in smaller holes, but further predictive factors for its success are needed to refine its use. It is important to counsel patients realistically regarding the rates of success with intravitreal OCP and its potential complications. Expansile gas can be considered as a further option in small holes with VMA; however, larger studies are required to provide guidance on its use. PMID:26834454

  2. Optimal management of idiopathic macular holes.

    PubMed

    Madi, Haifa A; Masri, Ibrahim; Steel, David H

    2016-01-01

    This review evaluates the current surgical options for the management of idiopathic macular holes (IMHs), including vitrectomy, ocriplasmin (OCP), and expansile gas use, and discusses key background information to inform the choice of treatment. An evidence-based approach to selecting the best treatment option for the individual patient based on IMH characteristics and patient-specific factors is suggested. For holes without vitreomacular attachment (VMA), vitrectomy is the only option with three key surgical variables: whether to peel the inner limiting membrane (ILM), the type of tamponade agent to be used, and the requirement for postoperative face-down posturing. There is a general consensus that ILM peeling improves primary anatomical hole closure rate; however, in small holes (<250 µm), it is uncertain whether peeling is always required. It has been increasingly recognized that long-acting gas and face-down positioning are not always necessary in patients with small- and medium-sized holes, but large (>400 µm) and chronic holes (>1-year history) are usually treated with long-acting gas and posturing. Several studies on posturing and gas choice were carried out in combination with ILM peeling, which may also influence the gas and posturing requirement. Combined phacovitrectomy appears to offer more rapid visual recovery without affecting the long-term outcomes of vitrectomy for IMH. OCP is licensed for use in patients with small- or medium-sized holes and VMA. A greater success rate in using OCP has been reported in smaller holes, but further predictive factors for its success are needed to refine its use. It is important to counsel patients realistically regarding the rates of success with intravitreal OCP and its potential complications. Expansile gas can be considered as a further option in small holes with VMA; however, larger studies are required to provide guidance on its use.

  3. Effect of pirfenidone on mortality: pooled analyses and meta-analyses of clinical trials in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Nathan, Steven D; Albera, Carlo; Bradford, Williamson Z; Costabel, Ulrich; Glaspole, Ian; Glassberg, Marilyn K; Kardatzke, David R; Daigl, Monica; Kirchgaessler, Klaus-Uwe; Lancaster, Lisa H; Lederer, David J; Pereira, Carlos A; Swigris, Jeffrey J; Valeyre, Dominique; Noble, Paul W

    2017-01-01

    In clinical trials of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, rates of all-cause mortality are low. Thus prospective mortality trials are logistically very challenging, justifying the use of pooled analyses or meta-analyses. We did pooled analyses and meta-analyses of clinical trials of pirfenidone versus placebo to determine the effect of pirfenidone on mortality outcomes over 120 weeks. We did a pooled analysis of the combined patient populations of the three global randomised phase 3 trials of pirfenidone versus placebo-Clinical Studies Assessing Pirfenidone in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Research of Efficacy and Safety Outcomes (CAPACITY 004 and 006; trial durations 72-120 weeks) and Assessment of Pirfenidone to Confirm Efficacy and Safety in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (ASCEND 016; 52 weeks)-for all-cause mortality, treatment-emergent all-cause mortality, idiopathic-pulmonary-fibrosis-related mortality, and treatment-emergent idiopathic-pulmonary-fibrosis-related mortality at weeks 52, 72, and 120. We also did meta-analyses of these data and data from two Japanese trials of pirfenidone versus placebo-Shionogi Phase 2 (SP2) and Shionogi Phase 3 (SP3; trial durations 36-52 weeks). At week 52, the relative risk of death for all four mortality outcomes was significantly lower in the pirfenidone group than in the placebo group in the pooled population (all-cause mortality hazard ratio [HR] 0·52 [95% CI 0·31-0·87; p=0·0107]; treatment-emergent all-cause mortality 0·45 [0·24-0·83; 0·0094]; idiopathic-pulmonary-fibrosis-related mortality 0·35 [0·17-0·72; 0·0029]; treatment-emergent idiopathic-pulmonary-fibrosis-related mortality 0·32 [0·14-0·76; 0·0061]). Consistent with the pooled analysis, meta-analyses for all-cause mortality at week 52 also showed a clinically relevant and significant risk reduction in the pirfenidone group compared with the placebo group. Over 120 weeks, we noted significant differences in the pooled analysis favouring pirfenidone

  4. The distribution of immunomodulatory cells in the lungs of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Nuovo, Gerard J.; Hagood, James S.; Magro, Cynthia M.; Chin, Nena; Kapil, Rubina; Davis, Luke; Marsh, Clay B.; Folcik, Virginia A.

    2011-01-01

    We have characterized the immune system involvement in the disease processes of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in novel ways. To do so, we analyzed lung tissue from 21 cases of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and 21 (non-fibrotic, non-cancerous) controls for immune cell and inflammation-related markers. The immunohistochemical analysis of the tissue was grouped by patterns of severity in disease pathology. There were significantly greater numbers of CD68+ and CD80+ cells, and significantly fewer CD3+, CD4+, and CD45RO+ cells in areas of relatively (histologically) normal lung in biopsies from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients compared to controls. In zones of active disease, characterized by epithelial cell regeneration and fibrosis, there were significantly more cells expressing CD4, CD8, CD20, CD68, CD80, CCR6, S100, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor-α, and retinoic acid-related orphan receptors compared to histologically normal lung areas from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients. Inflammation was implicated in these active regions by the cells that expressed retinoid orphan receptor-α, -β, and -γ, CCR6, and IL-17. The regenerating epithelial cells predominantly expressed these pro-inflammatory molecules, as evidenced by co-expression analyses with epithelial cytokeratins. Macrophages in pseudo-alveoli and CD3+ T cells in the fibrotic interstitium also expressed IL-17. Co-expression of IL-17 with retinoid orphan receptors, and epithelial cytoskeletal proteins, CD68, and CD3 in epithelial cells, macrophages, and T-cells, respectively, confirmed the production of IL-17 by these cell types. There was little staining for Foxp3, CD56, or CD34 in any idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis lung regions. The fibrotic regions had fewer immune cells overall. In summary, our study shows participation of innate and adaptive mononuclear cells in active-disease regions of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis lung, where the regenerating epithelial cells appear to propagate inflammation

  5. Computed tomographic features of idiopathic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia: comparison with pulmonary fibrosis related to collagen vascular disease.

    PubMed

    Hwang, Jeong-Hwa; Misumi, Shigeki; Sahin, Hakan; Brown, Kevin K; Newell, John D; Lynch, David A

    2009-01-01

    To compare the computed tomographic (CT) features of idiopathic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia with those of pulmonary fibrosis related to collagen vascular disease (CVD). We reviewed the CT scans of 177 patients with diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, of which 97 had idiopathic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia and 80 had CVD. The CT images were systematically scored for the presence and extent of pulmonary and extrapulmonary abnormalities. Computed tomographic diagnosis of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) or nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) was assigned. A CT pattern of UIP was identified in 59 (60.8%) of patients with idiopathic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia compared with 15 (18.7%) of those patients with CVD; conversely, the CT diagnosis of NSIP was made in 51 (64%) of patients with CVD compared with 36 (37%) of patients with idiopathic disease (P < 0.01). In 113 patients who had lung biopsy, the CT diagnoses of UIP and NSIP were concordant with the histologic diagnoses in 36 of 50 patients and 34 of 41 patients, respectively. Pleural effusions, esophageal dilation, and pericardial abnormalities were more frequent in patients with CVD than in patients with idiopathic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia. Compared with patients with CVD, those patients with an idiopathic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia showed a higher prevalence of a UIP pattern and lower prevalence of an NSIP pattern as determined by CT. Identification of coexisting extrapulmonary abnormalities on CT can support a diagnosis of CVD.

  6. Familial or Sporadic Idiopathic Scoliosis – classification based on artificial neural network and GAPDH and ACTB transcription profile

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Importance of hereditary factors in the etiology of Idiopathic Scoliosis is widely accepted. In clinical practice some of the IS patients present with positive familial history of the deformity and some do not. Traditionally about 90% of patients have been considered as sporadic cases without familial recurrence. However the exact proportion of Familial and Sporadic Idiopathic Scoliosis is still unknown. Housekeeping genes encode proteins that are usually essential for the maintenance of basic cellular functions. ACTB and GAPDH are two housekeeping genes encoding respectively a cytoskeletal protein β-actin, and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, an enzyme of glycolysis. Although their expression levels can fluctuate between different tissues and persons, human housekeeping genes seem to exhibit a preserved tissue-wide expression ranking order. It was hypothesized that expression ranking order of two representative housekeeping genes ACTB and GAPDH might be disturbed in the tissues of patients with Familial Idiopathic Scoliosis (with positive family history of idiopathic scoliosis) opposed to the patients with no family members affected (Sporadic Idiopathic Scoliosis). An artificial neural network (ANN) was developed that could serve to differentiate between familial and sporadic cases of idiopathic scoliosis based on the expression levels of ACTB and GAPDH in different tissues of scoliotic patients. The aim of the study was to investigate whether the expression levels of ACTB and GAPDH in different tissues of idiopathic scoliosis patients could be used as a source of data for specially developed artificial neural network in order to predict the positive family history of index patient. Results The comparison of developed models showed, that the most satisfactory classification accuracy was achieved for ANN model with 18 nodes in the first hidden layer and 16 nodes in the second hidden layer. The classification accuracy for positive Idiopathic

  7. Idiopathic orthostatic hypotension treated with levodopa and MAO inhibitor: a preliminary report

    PubMed Central

    Sharpe, J.; Marquez-Julio, A.; Ashby, P.

    1972-01-01

    The clinical and pathophysiological features of a case of idiopathic orthostatic hypotension (Shy-Drager syndrome) are presented. Recent reports on the pathological findings in this condition indicate that there may be a defect in catecholamine synthesis in the pigmented brain stem nuclei and sympathetic ganglia similar to that in idiopathic parkinsonism. On this basis a new form of therapy using levodopa combined with MAO inhibition is derived. The results of a trial of this therapy, which produced improvements in both the hypotension and in the extrapyramidal features of the disease, are reported. PMID:5056115

  8. Biochemical analysis of tunica vaginalis fluid in patients with or without idiopathic hydroceles.

    PubMed

    Madlala, T S; Rencken, R K; Bornman, M S; Reif, S; Joubert, H F; Van der Merwe, C A

    1994-10-01

    To establish the differences, if any, between the biochemical composition of idiopathic hydrocele fluid and the fluid normally present in the tunica vaginalis. Aspiration and sclerotherapy of 37 idiopathic hydroceles from patients who presented to this urology clinic were performed. The biochemical content of the fluid was compared with that of the tunica vaginalis fluid from a small group of controls (n = 8), taken from patients undergoing orchidectomy for carcinoma of the prostate. Differences in several measurements were recorded; in particular, there were significantly higher concentrations of calcium, albumin, total protein and creatine-kinase in the hydrocele group. The levels of potassium, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase were significantly lower in the hydrocele group. Whether these differences have a role in the causation of an idiopathic hydrocele is, at this stage, speculative. A similar study on a larger scale would probably be more conclusive.

  9. Quality of life in patients with an idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder in Korea.

    PubMed

    Kim, Keun Tae; Motamedi, Gholam K; Cho, Yong Won

    2017-08-01

    There have been few quality of life studies in patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder. We compared the quality of life in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder patients to healthy controls, patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus without complication and idiopathic restless legs syndrome. Sixty patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder (24 female; mean age: 61.43 ± 8.99) were enrolled retrospectively. The diagnosis was established based on sleep history, overnight polysomnography, neurological examination and Mini-Mental State Examination to exclude secondary rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. All subjects completed questionnaires, including the Short Form 36-item Health Survey for quality of life. The total quality of life score in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder (70.63 ± 20.83) was lower than in the healthy control group (83.38 ± 7.96) but higher than in the hypertension (60.55 ± 24.82), diabetes mellitus (62.42 ± 19.37) and restless legs syndrome (61.77 ± 19.25) groups. The total score of idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder patients had a negative correlation with the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (r = -0.498, P < 0.001), Insomnia Severity Index (r = -0.645, P < 0.001) and the Beck Depression Inventory-2 (r = -0.694, P < 0.001). Multiple regression showed a negative correlation between the Short Form 36-item Health Survey score and the Insomnia Severity Index (β = -1.100, P = 0.001) and Beck Depression Inventory-2 (β = -1.038, P < 0.001). idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder had a significant negative impact on quality of life, although this effect was less than that of other chronic disorders. This negative effect might be related to a depressive mood associated with the disease. © 2016 European Sleep Research Society.

  10. Introversion, the prevalent trait of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: an observational study.

    PubMed

    D'Agata, Elisabetta; Sánchez-Raya, Judith; Bagó, Juan

    2017-01-01

    A large number of studies about adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis focus on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). However, only a few articles aim at evaluating the personality of these patients. Therefore, the purpose of the present research is to assess the personality traits of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis and their relationship with HRQOL.Our hypothesis is that adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis present the principal personality trait of introversion, defined as self-reliance and inhibition in social relationships. This was a cross-sectional study. The examined group consisted of 43 patients (only 4 boys), mean age = 14.3 (SD = 2.23). On the day of the visit, HRQOL tools (Scoliosis Research Society-22 Questionnaire (SRS-22) and Trunk Appearance Perception Scale (TAPS)) and a personality test (16 Personality Factors-Adolescent Personality Questionnaire (16PF-APQ)) were completed; in addition, a posterior-anterior radiography was performed. Correlations among demographic and medical data and HRQOL and personality tests were assessed. Results for SRS-22 were as follows: Function 4.5 (SD = .4), Pain 4.3 (SD = .5), Self-image 3.6 (SD = .7), Mental Health 3.8. (SD = .7), and Subtotal 4.2 (SD = .7). Mean TAPS was 3.5 (SD = .6).In personality, the lowest values were assessed for Extroversion ( M  = 29.4, SD = 24.7) and Self-reliance ( M  = 71, SD = 25.3).Independence was negatively related to Self-image ( r  = -.51), Mental Health ( r  = -.54), and Subtotal SRS-22 ( r  = -.60) ( p  < .01). Adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis presented a common style of personality, characterized by social inhibition (introversion), preference for staying alone, and being self-sufficient (self-reliance).Specific programs in promoting social abilities may help adolescent patients with idiopathic scoliosis in finding a way to express themselves and to become more sociable. Correlational studies between personality and HRQOL need to be

  11. Clinical and nutritional outcomes in children with idiopathic superior mesenteric artery syndrome.

    PubMed

    Shiu, Jr-Rung; Chao, Hsun-Chin; Luo, Chih-Cheng; Lai, Ming-Wei; Kong, Man-Shan; Chen, Shih-Yen; Chen, Chien-Chang; Wang, Chao-Jan

    2010-08-01

    There are no available data for outcomes in children's idiopathic superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) strictly treated conservatively. The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical and nutritional outcome in children with idiopathic SMAS. A 1-year prospective observation study of effects of treatment and outcome was performed in 27 children (8 boys, 19 girls) with idiopathic SMAS who underwent an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series, ultrasound measurement of the aortomesenteric angle, treatment, clinical assessment, growth evaluation, and regular clinical visits for more than 12 months. Mean age of the patients was 11.77 +/- 2.15 years. The major clinical complaints were postprandial pain or fullness (88.9%), vomiting (55.6%), and early satiety (51.9%). Eight patients (29.6%) had weight loss. The UGI series revealed typical features of SMAS. The aortomesenteric angle on ultrasound was 10 degrees to 19 degrees. The height of most patients (92.6%) was above the 10th percentile, whereas 15 (55.6%) patients weighed below the 10th percentile. Six patients underwent surgical intervention (3 for obstruction and 3 for persistent anorexia with weight loss), and their clinical symptoms and weight status improved steadily during the follow-up months. Among the 21 patients not subject to surgical intervention, 11 (52.4%) experienced a reduction of symptoms >50% after 3 months of treatment, and weight-for-age percentile increased significantly after 6 months of treatment. Overall, a significant increase in the weight-for-age status was seen in the patients with surgical treatment or with medication only after 6 and 12 months of treatment. An aortomesenteric angle <20 degrees is a constant phenomenon in children with idiopathic SMAS. A duodenojejunostomy can effectively relieve the obstructive symptoms, such as anorexia, and improve nutritional status, whereas long-term medical treatment may aid in relieving the clinical symptoms, promoting appetite, and improving

  12. Idiopathic Parkinson's disease and depression: a psychosomatic view.

    PubMed Central

    Todes, C J

    1984-01-01

    The link between idiopathic Parkinson's disease and depression is examined in the light of psychosomatic theory. A view of the condition is offered as a manifestation of chronic emotional disorder in an organic sense. Predisposition arises from bereavement and/or maternal failure in early emotional development. PMID:6707677

  13. Prevalence of macular complications associated with high myopia by multimodal imaging.

    PubMed

    Lichtwitz, O; Boissonnot, M; Mercié, M; Ingrand, P; Leveziel, N

    2016-04-01

    To describe the prevalence of macular complications in patients with visual acuity decrease related to high myopia (HM). To establish correlations between these complications and demographic or anatomical characteristics. Cross-sectional observational study including HM patients undergoing best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fundus examination, macular SD-OCT, and fluorescein angiography in the case of suspicion of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). The presence of anatomical criteria (staphyloma, subfoveal choroidal thickness [CT]) and macular complications (CNV, lacquer cracks, central chorioretinal atrophy, dome-shaped macula with serous retinal detachment [SRD], retinal foveoschisis, macular hole and epiretinal membrane) was investigated. A total of 87 eyes of 47 patients were included (39 eyes without macular complication and 48 eyes with macular complications). In the case of macular complications, decrease in BCVA was related to CNV in 33%, macular hole in 25%, chorioretinal atrophy in 19%, foveoschisis in 11%, lacquer crack in 6%, to a dome-shape macula with serous retinal detachment in 4% and epiretinal membrane in 2%. After adjusting for interocular correlation and degree of myopia, staphyloma (P=0.0023), choroidal thinning (P=0.0036), and extrafoveal chorioretinal atrophy (P=0.042) were significantly associated with macular complications. High myopic patients with staphyloma or choroidal thinning should undergo regular comprehensive retinal screening for retinal complications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  14. Imaging of retinal and choroidal vascular tumours

    PubMed Central

    Heimann, H; Jmor, F; Damato, B

    2013-01-01

    The most common intraocular vascular tumours are choroidal haemangiomas, vasoproliferative tumours, and retinal haemangioblastomas. Rarer conditions include cavernous retinal angioma and arteriovenous malformations. Options for ablating the tumour include photodynamic therapy, argon laser photocoagulation, trans-scleral diathermy, cryotherapy, anti-angiogenic agents, plaque radiotherapy, and proton beam radiotherapy. Secondary effects are common and include retinal exudates, macular oedema, epiretinal membranes, retinal fibrosis, as well as serous and tractional retinal detachment, which are treated using standard methods (ie, intravitreal anti-angiogenic agents or steroids as well as vitreoretinal procedures, such as epiretinal membrane peeling and release of retinal traction). The detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of vascular tumours and their complications have improved considerably thanks to advances in imaging. These include spectral domain and enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT and EDI-OCT, respectively), wide-angle photography and angiography as well as wide-angle fundus autofluorescence. Such novel imaging has provided new diagnostic clues and has profoundly influenced therapeutic strategies so that vascular tumours and secondary effects are now treated concurrently instead of sequentially, enhancing any opportunities for conserving vision and the eye. In this review, we describe how SD-OCT, EDI-OCT, autofluorescence, wide-angle photography and wide-angle angiography have facilitated the evaluation of eyes with the more common vascular tumours, that is, choroidal haemangioma, retinal vasoproliferative tumours, and retinal haemangioblastoma. PMID:23196648

  15. Isolated upper eyelid retraction: a sign of idiopathic inflammatory orbital disease.

    PubMed

    Shome, Debraj; Toshniwal, Svetlana; Jain, Vandana; Natarajan, Sundaram; Vemuganti, Geeta K

    2008-01-01

    A 41-year-old woman was examined for left upper eyelid retraction. Remaining ocular and systemic examination was unremarkable. Orbital CT demonstrated an ill-defined, extraconal, superior orbital soft-tissue mass involving the levator palpebrae superioris muscle. Incisional biopsy with histopathology demonstrated idiopathic orbital inflammation. The patient was started on a gradually tapering dose of oral steroids, for 6 weeks. On follow-up, the eyelid retraction had resolved. We report this case to demonstrate that idiopathic inflammatory orbital disease, localized to the superior orbit, may cause isolated upper eyelid retraction without associated proptosis. This condition resolves with medical therapy, leading to symmetrical palpebral apertures.

  16. Comparison of plasma, liver, and skeletal muscle carnitine concentrations in cats with idiopathic hepatic lipidosis and in healthy cats.

    PubMed

    Jacobs, G; Cornelius, L; Keene, B; Rakich, P; Shug, A

    1990-09-01

    Concentrations of total, free, and esterified carnitine were determined in plasma, liver, and skeletal muscle from cats with idiopathic hepatic lipidosis and compared with values from healthy cats. The mean concentrations of plasma, liver, and skeletal muscle total carnitine; plasma and skeletal muscle free carnitine; and plasma and liver esterified carnitine were greater (P less than 0.05) in cats with idiopathic hepatic lipidosis than in control cats. The mean for the ratio of free/total carnitine in plasma and liver was lower (P less than 0.05) in cats with idiopathic hepatic lipidosis than in control cats. These data suggest that carnitine deficiency does not contribute to the pathogenesis of feline idiopathic hepatic lipidosis.

  17. Decreased retinal sensitivity after internal limiting membrane peeling for macular hole surgery.

    PubMed

    Tadayoni, Ramin; Svorenova, Ivana; Erginay, Ali; Gaudric, Alain; Massin, Pascale

    2012-12-01

    To compare the retinal sensitivity and frequency of microscotomas found by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) combined with scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO) microperimetry after idiopathic macular hole closure, in eyes that underwent internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and eyes that did not. This was a retrospective, non-randomised, comparative study. Combined SD-OCT and SLO microperimetry was performed in 16 consecutive eyes after closure of an idiopathic macular hole. A customised microperimetry pattern with 29 measurement points was used. The ILM was peeled in 8/16 eyes. The main outcome measure was mean retinal sensitivity. Mean retinal sensitivity (in dB) was lower after peeling: 9.80 ± 2.35 dB with peeling versus 13.19 ± 2.92 without (p=0.0209). Postoperative microscotomas were significantly more frequent after ILM peeling: 11.3 ± 6.6 points with retinal sensitivity below 10 dB in eyes that underwent peeling versus 2.9 ± 4.6 in those that did not (p=0.0093). These results suggest that ILM peeling may reduce retinal sensitivity, and significantly increase the incidence of microscotomas. Until a prospective trial confirming or not these results, it seems justified to avoid peeling the ILM when its potential benefit seems minor or unproved, and when peeling is carried out, to limit the surface peeled to the bare minimum.

  18. Economic evaluation and randomised controlled trial of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: UK collaborative trial

    PubMed Central

    Roberts, Tracy E

    1998-01-01

    Objective: To compare the resource implications and short term outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and conventional management for term babies with severe respiratory failure. Design: Cost effectiveness evaluation alongside a randomised controlled trial. Setting: 55 approved recruiting hospitals in the United Kingdom. These hospitals provided conventional management, but infants randomised to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were transferred to one of five specialist centres. Subjects: 185 mature newborn infants (gestational age at birth >35 weeks, birth weight >2 kg) with severe respiratory failure (oxygenation index >40) recruited between 1993 and 1995. The commonest diagnoses were persistent pulmonary hypertension due to meconium aspiration, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, isolated persistent fetal circulation, sepsis, and idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome. Main outcome measure: Cost effectiveness based on survival at 1 year of age without severe disability. Results: 63 (68%) of the 93 infants randomised to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation survived to 1 year compared with 38 (41%) of the 92 infants who received conventional management. Of those that survived, one infant in each arm was lost to follow up and the proportion with disability at 1 year was similar in the two arms of the trial. One child in each arm had severe disability. The estimated additional cost of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation per additional surviving infant without severe disability was £51 222 and the cost per surviving infant with no disability was £75 327. Conclusions: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for term neonates with severe respiratory failure would increase overall survival without disability. Although the policy will increase costs of neonatal health care, it is likely to be as cost effective as other life extending technologies. Key messagesExtracorporeal membrane oxygenation increases survival for term neonates in respiratory failure

  19. Determinants of 6-minute walk distance in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis undergoing lung transplant evaluation.

    PubMed

    Porteous, Mary K; Rivera-Lebron, Belinda N; Kreider, Maryl; Lee, James; Kawut, Steven M

    2016-03-01

    Little is known about the physiologic determinants of 6-minute walk distance in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We investigated the demographic, pulmonary function, echocardiographic, and hemodynamic determinants of 6-minute walk distance in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis evaluated for lung transplantation. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 130 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis who completed a lung transplantation evaluation at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania between 2005 and 2010. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to generate an explanatory model for 6-minute walk distance. After adjustment for age, sex, race, height, and weight, the presence of right ventricular dilation was associated with a decrease of 50.9 m (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.4-93.3) in 6-minute walk distance ([Formula: see text]). For each 200-mL reduction in forced vital capacity, the walk distance decreased by 15.0 m (95% CI, 9.0-21.1; [Formula: see text]). For every increase of 1 Wood unit in pulmonary vascular resistance, the walk distance decreased by 17.3 m (95% CI, 5.1-29.5; [Formula: see text]). Six-minute walk distance in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis depends in part on circulatory impairment and the degree of restrictive lung disease. Future trials that target right ventricular morphology, pulmonary vascular resistance, and forced vital capacity may potentially improve exercise capacity in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

  20. The Use of IL-1 Receptor Antagonist (Anakinra) in Idiopathic Recurrent Pericarditis: A Narrative Review

    PubMed Central

    Baskar, Shankar; Klein, Allan L.; Zeft, Andrew

    2016-01-01

    Recurrent pericarditis is a complication of acute pericarditis in 20–30% of the patients and is usually idiopathic in nature. The underlying pathogenesis of this condition remains unclear, although immune-mediated mechanisms seem likely. A subgroup of these patients with refractory symptoms can be challenging to manage, and multiple immunosuppressive medications have been used without consistent benefit. Anakinra, an interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, has been used in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and autoinflammatory syndromes. Preliminary evidence suggests that anakinra could be a promising therapy for idiopathic recurrent pericarditis. In this narrative review, we summarize the current understanding of the etiopathogenesis of idiopathic recurrent pericarditis, mechanism of action of anakinra, and the preliminary evidence, supporting the use of anakinra in pericarditis. PMID:26942035

  1. Glomerular filtration barrier in pediatric idiopathic nephrotic syndrome.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Alok; Gupta, Ruchika; Bagga, Arvind; Dinda, Amit K

    2013-03-01

    Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common proteinuric disorder with defect in the perm-selectivity of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB). Ultrastructural morphometric evaluation of the GFB in pediatric NS has been attempted in only a few studies. This study was aimed at qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the alterations involving the GFB in pediatric idiopathic NS with an attempt to correlate these alterations with the clinico-laboratory data. For this study, renal biopsies from nine patients with NS and two children with interstitial nephritis were included. Relevant clinical and laboratory data, including degree of 24-h proteinuria and renal function tests, were recorded. Renal biopsies were reviewed for morphologic and electron microscopic diagnosis. Ultrastructural morphometry of the GFB was performed using image analysis software. The age at onset of NS, duration of illness, presence of hypertension, and renal function tests were comparable between the group of patients with minimal change disease (MCD) and those with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis (mesPGN)/focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). However, the latter group showed higher 24-h proteinuria compared with the group with MCD. Among the detected ultra-structural changes, glomerular basement membrane thickness and foot process width were significantly different between the MCD and the mesPGN/FSGS groups. The slit pore diameter in the glomeruli showed a positive correlation with the degree of proteinuria. We conclude that our study demonstrated remarkable differences in certain parameters and the glomerular ultrastructural alterations in the various categories of NS. These differences might underlie the observed variation in response of these entities to various therapies.

  2. Positron emission tomography suggests that the rate of progression of idiopathic parkinsonism is slow

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bhatt, M.H.; Snow, B.J.; Martin, W.R.

    1991-06-01

    The authors performed sequential positron emission tomography scans with 6-(18F)fluoro-L-dopa in 9 patients with idiopathic parkinsonism and 7 age-matched normal control subjects to compare changes in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway over time. The mean interval between the scans was 3.3 years for the group with idiopathic parkinsonism and 3.9 years for the control subjects. The scans were analyzed by calculating the ratio of striatal to background radioactivity. Both groups showed statistically significant reductions of striatal uptake over the interval. The rate of decrease was almost identical in each group (p = 0.6). They infer that the usual rate of lossmore » of integrity of the dopaminergic nigrostriatal pathway in patients with idiopathic parkinsonism is slow and the rate of change between the two groups was comparable.« less

  3. Idiopathic portal hypertension regarding thiopurine treatment in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

    PubMed

    Suárez Ferrer, Cristina; Llop Herrera, Elba; Calvo Moya, Marta; Vera Mendoza, María Isabel; González Partida, Irene; González Lama, Yago; Matallana Royo, Virginia; Calleja Panero, José Luis; Abreu García, Luis

    2016-02-01

    The possibility of developing idiopathic portal hypertension has been described with thiopurine treatment despite compromises the prognosis of these patients, the fact its true prevalence is unknown. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a cohort of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients followed at our unit, to determine the prevalence of diagnosis of idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) and its relationship with thiopurine treatment. At the time of the analysis, 927/1,419 patients were under treatment with thiopurine drugs (65%). A total of 4 patients with IBD type Crohn's disease with idiopathic portal hypertension probably related to the thiopurine treatment were identified (incidence of 4.3 cases per 1,000). Seventy-five percent of patients started with signs or symptoms of portal hypertension. Only one patient was asymptomatic but the diagnosis of IPH because of isolated thrombocytopenia is suspected. However, note that all patients had thrombocytopenia previously. Abdominal ultrasound with fibroscan, hepatic vein catheterization and liver biopsy were performed on all of them as part of the etiology of portal hypertension. In the abdominal ultrasound, indirect portal hypertension data were observed in all patients (as splenomegaly) cirrhosis was also ruled out. The fibroscan data showed significant liver fibrosis (F2-F3). Idiopathic portal hypertension following thiopurine treatment in IBD patients is a rare occurrence, but it must be borne in mind in the differential diagnosis for early diagnosis, especially in patients undergoing thiopurine treatment over a long period. The presence of thrombocytopenia is often the only predictor of its development in the preclinical stage.

  4. Chromovitrectomy: Update

    PubMed Central

    Al-Halafi, Ali M.

    2013-01-01

    The basic concept for the application of vital dyes during vitreoretinal surgery is to assist in highlighting preretinal membranes and tissues which are very thin and semitransparent and thus difficult to detect. The vital dyes may be classified according to different criteria, where the most commonly applied includes chemical classification. In ophthalmic surgery, vital dyes are widely used in cataract and vitreoretinal surgery. The vital dyes, indocyanine green, infracyanine green, and brilliant blue stain the internal limiting membrane, and trypan blue and triamcinolone acetonide help to visualize epiretinal membranes and vitreous, respectively. This review exhibits the current literature regarding the properties of vital dyes, techniques of application, indications, and toxicities during vitreoretinal surgery and, also suggests that the field of chromovitrectomy represents an expanding area of research. PMID:24371423

  5. Crohn's disease mistaken for long-standing idiopathic mesenteric panniculitis: A case report and management algorithm.

    PubMed

    Nuzzo, Alexandre; Zappa, Magaly; Cazals-Hatem, Dominique; Bouhnik, Yoram

    2016-09-01

    Mesenteric panniculitis (MP) is mostly an associated sign of an intra-abdominal or systemic inflammatory primary disease. Nevertheless, etiological and differential diagnosis of idiopathic MP can be challenging when an associate primary cause is not in the foreground. We report here the case of an isolated small bowel Crohn's disease, long time considered as idiopathic MP. This patient presented to our department with a 10-year history of acute abdominal symptoms evolving with flare-up and remission. A diagnosis of idiopathic MP was made based on compatible CT-scan features along with normal laboratory tests and upper and lower bowel endoscopies. As symptoms recurred, a steroid course was proposed which dramatically improved his condition for years. Finally, an explorative laparoscopy was performed because of concern of malignancy when he returned to our unit with a steroid refractory flare-up and weight loss, along with MP nodes growing up to 10 mm. Crohn's disease was eventually diagnosed, based on histopathological middle-gut bowel resection and numerous granulomas in mesenteric nodes without necrosis. This case emphasizes the importance of excluding inflammatory intestinal lesions before making the diagnosis of idiopathic MP (fecal calprotectin, magnetic resonance enterography, wireless capsule endoscopy).

  6. The clinical and molecular genetic features of idiopathic infantile periodic alternating nystagmus

    PubMed Central

    Thomas, Mervyn G.; Crosier, Moira; Lindsay, Susan; Kumar, Anil; Thomas, Shery; Araki, Masasuke; Talbot, Chris J.; McLean, Rebecca J.; Surendran, Mylvaganam; Taylor, Katie; Leroy, Bart P.; Moore, Anthony T.; Hunter, David G.; Hertle, Richard W.; Tarpey, Patrick; Langmann, Andrea; Lindner, Susanne; Brandner, Martina

    2011-01-01

    Periodic alternating nystagmus consists of involuntary oscillations of the eyes with cyclical changes of nystagmus direction. It can occur during infancy (e.g. idiopathic infantile periodic alternating nystagmus) or later in life. Acquired forms are often associated with cerebellar dysfunction arising due to instability of the optokinetic-vestibular systems. Idiopathic infantile periodic alternating nystagmus can be familial or occur in isolation; however, very little is known about the clinical characteristics, genetic aetiology and neural substrates involved. Five loci (NYS1-5) have been identified for idiopathic infantile nystagmus; three are autosomal (NYS2, NYS3 and NYS4) and two are X-chromosomal (NYS1 and NYS5). We previously identified the FRMD7 gene on chromosome Xq26 (NYS1 locus); mutations of FRMD7 are causative of idiopathic infantile nystagmus influencing neuronal outgrowth and development. It is unclear whether the periodic alternating nystagmus phenotype is linked to NYS1, NYS5 (Xp11.4-p11.3) or a separate locus. From a cohort of 31 X-linked families and 14 singletons (70 patients) with idiopathic infantile nystagmus we identified 10 families and one singleton (21 patients) with periodic alternating nystagmus of which we describe clinical phenotype, genetic aetiology and neural substrates involved. Periodic alternating nystagmus was not detected clinically but only on eye movement recordings. The cycle duration varied from 90 to 280 s. Optokinetic reflex was not detectable horizontally. Mutations of the FRMD7 gene were found in all 10 families and the singleton (including three novel mutations). Periodic alternating nystagmus was predominantly associated with missense mutations within the FERM domain. There was significant sibship clustering of the phenotype although in some families not all affected members had periodic alternating nystagmus. In situ hybridization studies during mid-late human embryonic stages in normal tissue showed restricted

  7. Discrete potentials guided radiofrequency ablation for idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias.

    PubMed

    Liu, Enzhao; Xu, Gang; Liu, Tong; Ye, Lan; Zhang, Qitong; Zhao, Yanshu; Li, Guangping

    2015-03-01

    Discrete potentials (DPs) have been recorded and targeted as the site of ablation of the outflow tract arrhythmias. The aim of the present study was to investigate the significance of DPs with respect to mapping and ablation for idiopathic outflow tract premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) or ventricular tachycardias (VTs). Seventeen consecutive patients with idiopathic right or left ventricular outflow tract PVCs/VTs who underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation were included. Intracardiac electrograms during the mapping and ablation were analysed. During sinus rhythm, sharp high-frequency DPs that displayed double or multiple components were recorded following or buried in the local ventricular electrograms in all of the 17 patients, peak amplitude 0.51 ± 0.21 mV. The same potential was recorded prior to the local ventricular potential of the PVCs/VTs. Spontaneous reversal of the relationship of the DPs to the local ventricular electrogram during the arrhythmias was noted. The DPs were related to a region of low voltage showed by intracardiac high-density contact mapping. At the sites with DPs, lower unipolar and bipolar ventricular voltage of sinus beats were noted compared with the adjacent regions without DPs (unipolar: 6.1 ± 1.8 vs. 8.3 ± 2.3 mV, P < 0.05; bipolar: 0.62 ± 0.45 vs. 1.03 ± 0.60 mV, P < 0.05). The targeted DPs were still present in 12 patients after successful elimination of the ectopies. Discrete potentials were not present in seven controls. Discrete potentials and related low-voltage regions were common in idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias. Discrete potential- and substrate-guided ablation strategy will help to reduce the recurrence of idiopathic outflow tract arrhythmias. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2014. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  8. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and the single-nucleotide polymorphism of the growth hormone receptor and IGF-1 genes.

    PubMed

    Yang, Yong; Wu, Zhihong; Zhao, Taimao; Wang, Hai; Zhao, Dong; Zhang, Jianguo; Wang, Yipeng; Ding, Yaozhong; Qiu, Guixing

    2009-06-01

    The etiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is undetermined despite years of research. A number of hypotheses have been postulated to explain its development, including growth abnormalities. The irregular expression of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) may disturb hormone metabolism, result in a gross asymmetry, and promote the progress of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Initial association studies in complex diseases have demonstrated the power of candidate gene association. Prior to our study, 1 study in this field had a negative result. A replicable study is vital for reliability. To determine the relationship of growth hormone receptor and IGF-1 genes with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, a population-based association study was performed. Single nucleotide polymorphisms with potential function were selected from candidate genes and a distribution analysis was performed. A conclusion was made confirming the insufficiency of an association between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and the single-nucleotide polymorphism of the growth hormone receptor and IGF-1 genes in Han Chinese.

  9. Diffuse idiopathic hyperplasia of the sternocleidomastoid muscle in a child

    PubMed Central

    Pal, Kamalesh; Bhat, Nisar; Moghazy, Khaled; Mitra, DK; Hegazi, Mohammed

    2009-01-01

    Unilateral diffuse or localized enlargement of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) is an event commonly seen in infancy, and is popularly known as ‘sternocleidomastoid tumor’. The condition, which usually spontaneously resolves with or without physiotherapy, is due to a hematoma following a difficult labor. The muscle regains its elasticity and complete function. In some infants it resolves with fibromatous changes in the muscle leading to shortening, fibrosis and finally culminating in torticollis. We describe a case of idiopathic diffuse enlargement of unilateral SCM in a 12-year-old child without any functional compromise or torticollis. The histopathological and clinical characteristics differentiating it from more commonly described sternocleidomastoid tumor or fibromatosis coli are described. We believe this is the first case report of idiopathic hyperplasia of SCM. PMID:19847086

  10. Autologous transplantation of the internal limiting membrane for refractory macular holes.

    PubMed

    Morizane, Yuki; Shiraga, Fumio; Kimura, Shuhei; Hosokawa, Mio; Shiode, Yusuke; Kawata, Tetsuhiro; Hosogi, Mika; Shirakata, Yukari; Okanouchi, Toshio

    2014-04-01

    To determine the effectiveness of autologous transplantation of the internal limiting membrane (ILM) for refractory macular holes. Prospective, interventional case series. Ten eyes of 10 consecutive patients who underwent autologous transplantation of the ILM for the treatment of refractory macular holes were studied. The primary diseases in these patients were large idiopathic macular holes that had existed for more than 1 year (4 eyes), a traumatic macular hole (1 eye), myopic foveoschisis (2 eyes), foveoschisis resulting from pit-macular syndrome (2 eyes), and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (1 eye). Apart from the 5 eyes with idiopathic or traumatic macular holes, macular holes developed in the other 5 eyes after initial vitrectomies with ILM removal. In all eyes, regular macular hole surgery failed to achieve closure. The main outcome measures used in this study were macular hole closure and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Macular holes were closed successfully in 9 eyes (90%) after autologous transplantation of the ILM. The postoperative BCVAs were significantly better than the preoperative BCVAs (P = .007, paired t test). Postoperative BCVAs improved by more than 0.2 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution units in 8 eyes (80%) and were unchanged in 2 eyes (20%). Although this is a pilot study, the results suggest that autologous transplantation of the ILM may contribute to improved anatomic and visual outcomes in the treatment of refractory macular holes and may warrant further investigation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Efficacy of adalimumab in young children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and chronic uveitis: a case series.

    PubMed

    La Torre, Francesco; Cattalini, Marco; Teruzzi, Barbara; Meini, Antonella; Moramarco, Fulvio; Iannone, Florenzo

    2014-05-24

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a relatively common chronic disease of childhood, and is associated with persistent morbidity and extra-articular complications, one of the most common being uveitis. The introduction of biologic therapies, particularly those blocking the inflammatory mediator tumor necrosis factor-α, provided a new treatment option for juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients who were refractory to standard therapy such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and/or methotrexate. The first case was a 2-year-old girl with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and uveitis who failed to respond to treatment with anti-inflammatories, low-dose corticosteroids and methotrexate, and had growth retardation. Adalimumab 24 mg/m2 every 2 weeks and prednisone 0.5 mg/kg/day were added to methotrexate therapy; steroid tapering and withdrawal started after 1 month. After 2 months the patient showed good control of articular and ocular manifestations, and she remained in remission for 1 year, receiving adalimumab and methotrexate with no side effects, and showing significant improvement in growth. Case 2 was a 9-year-old boy with an 8-year history of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and uveitis that initially responded to infliximab, but relapse occurred after 2 years off therapy. After switching to adalimumab, and adjusting doses of both adalimumab and methotrexate based on body surface area, the patient showed good response and corticosteroids were tapered and withdrawn after 6 months; the patient remained in remission taking adalimumab and methotrexate. The final case was a 5-year-old girl with juvenile idiopathic arthritis for whom adalimumab was added to methotrexate therapy after three flares of uveitis. The patient had two subsequent episodes of uveitis that responded well to local therapy, but was then free of both juvenile idiopathic arthritis and uveitis symptoms, allowing methotrexate and then adalimumab to be stopped; the patient remained in drug

  12. Efficacy of adalimumab in young children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and chronic uveitis: a case series

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a relatively common chronic disease of childhood, and is associated with persistent morbidity and extra-articular complications, one of the most common being uveitis. The introduction of biologic therapies, particularly those blocking the inflammatory mediator tumor necrosis factor-α, provided a new treatment option for juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients who were refractory to standard therapy such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and/or methotrexate. Case presentations The first case was a 2-year-old girl with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and uveitis who failed to respond to treatment with anti-inflammatories, low-dose corticosteroids and methotrexate, and had growth retardation. Adalimumab 24 mg/m2 every 2 weeks and prednisone 0.5 mg/kg/day were added to methotrexate therapy; steroid tapering and withdrawal started after 1 month. After 2 months the patient showed good control of articular and ocular manifestations, and she remained in remission for 1 year, receiving adalimumab and methotrexate with no side effects, and showing significant improvement in growth. Case 2 was a 9-year-old boy with an 8-year history of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and uveitis that initially responded to infliximab, but relapse occurred after 2 years off therapy. After switching to adalimumab, and adjusting doses of both adalimumab and methotrexate based on body surface area, the patient showed good response and corticosteroids were tapered and withdrawn after 6 months; the patient remained in remission taking adalimumab and methotrexate. The final case was a 5-year-old girl with juvenile idiopathic arthritis for whom adalimumab was added to methotrexate therapy after three flares of uveitis. The patient had two subsequent episodes of uveitis that responded well to local therapy, but was then free of both juvenile idiopathic arthritis and uveitis symptoms, allowing methotrexate and then adalimumab to be

  13. Spinal alignment in surgical, multisegmental, transpedicular correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

    PubMed Central

    Nowakowski, Andrzej; Dworak, Lechosław B.; Kubaszewski, Łukasz; Kaczmarczyk, Jacek

    2012-01-01

    Summary The objective of this study was to discuss the variables influencing alignment mechanisms of the spine, with particular consideration of post-surgical alignment in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The analysis is based on information currently available in the literature, and on the authors’ own experience, which includes surgical material from over 2200 cases of idiopathic scoliosis. Over 50% of cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis are decompensated before surgical treatment. Spinal alignment is most significantly influenced by the position of the pelvis. Surgical restoration of lumbar lordosis is more important than attempting to restore thoracic kyphosis in the sagittal plane. The sagittal profile has an essential impact on spinal alignment. The same curves in the coronal plane can have various 3-dimensional configurations. Clinical difficulties in the assessment of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis result from the fact that they undergo constant change with age. Thoracic hypokyphosis diagnosed before surgery is a very frequent symptom of curve progression. The presence of proximal (thoraco-thoracic) and distal (thoraco-lumbar) junctional kyphosis is very important for planning the scope of spondylodesis. The natural tendency of the spine for alignment (compensation) after surgery nowadays occurs more naturally by applying derotational forces through pedicle screws, compared to the distraction devices (eg, Harrington rod) used in the past. PMID:23229319

  14. INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING IN MACULAR HOLE SURGERY; WHY, WHEN, AND HOW?

    PubMed

    Chatziralli, Irini P; Theodossiadis, Panagiotis G; Steel, David H W

    2018-05-01

    To review the current rationale for internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in macular hole (MH) surgery and to discuss the evidence base behind why, when, and how surgeons peel the ILM. Review of the current literature. Pars plana vitrectomy is an effective treatment for idiopathic MH, and peeling of the ILM has been shown to improve closure rates and to prevent postoperative reopening. However, some authors argue against ILM peeling because it results in a number of changes in retinal structure and function and may not be necessary in all cases. Furthermore, the extent of ILM peeling optimally performed and the most favorable techniques to remove the ILM are uncertain. Several technique variations including ILM flaps, ILM scraping, and foveal sparing ILM peeling have been described as alternatives to conventional peeling in specific clinical scenarios. Internal limiting membrane peeling improves MH closure rates but can have several consequences on retinal structure and function. Adjuvants to aid peeling, instrumentation, technique, and experience may all alter the outcome. Hole size and other variables are important in assessing the requirement for peeling and potentially its extent. A variety of evolving alternatives to conventional peeling may improve outcomes and need further study.

  15. Flow void of cerebrospinal fluid in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus of the elderly: can it predict outcome after shunting?

    PubMed

    Krauss, J K; Regel, J P; Vach, W; Jüngling, F D; Droste, D W; Wakhloo, A K

    1997-01-01

    We investigate the predictive value of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow void on outcome after shunting in a prospective series of patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). The degree and extension of CSF flow void were examined on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging scans of 37 elderly patients with idiopathic NPH who underwent subsequent shunting. The degree of flow void was assessed in comparison with the signal of large cerebral arteries. The extension was evaluated via the calculation of sum scores for the occurrence of flow void in different locations of the ventricular system. Those parameters were not considered in the decision to perform shunting. CSF flow void in the aqueduct and the adjacent third and fourth ventricles of the 37 patients with idiopathic NPH was compared with that of 37 age-matched control patients. CSF flow void scores in patients with idiopathic NPH were investigated for correlations between postoperative outcome scores and ventricular width indices. No difference was found between the occurrence of aqueductal CSF flow void in patients with idiopathic NPH and the control group. A significant difference, however, was noted for the extension of the CSF flow void, which was greater in the NPH group. Postoperative improvement was found in 33 of 37 patients with idiopathic NPH at a mean follow-up of 15.6 months. Only small, statistically not significant correlations were found between CSF flow void and postoperative outcome. Flow void sum scores, however, correlated significantly with ventricular width indices. The degree and extension of CSF flow void on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging scans have little predictive value for outcome after shunting in patients with idiopathic NPH. The greater extension of the CSF flow void in patients with NPH is most likely related to increased ventricular width. It is not useful to consider CSF flow void findings on conventional magnetic resonance imaging scans in making the

  16. Effects of Low-frequency Current Sacral Dermatome Stimulation on Idiopathic Slow Transit Constipation.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jin-Seop; Yi, Seung-Ju

    2014-06-01

    [Purpose] This study aimed to determine whether low-frequency current therapy can be used to reduce the symptoms of idiopathic slow transit constipation (ISTC). [Subjects] Fifteen patients (ten male and five female) with idiopathic slow transit constipation were enrolled in the present study. [Results] Bowel movements per day, bowel movements per week, and constipation assessment scale scores significantly improved after low-frequency current simulation of S2-S3. [Conclusion] Our results show that stimulation with low-frequency current of the sacral dermatomes may offer therapeutic benefits for a subject of patients with ISTC.

  17. CSF Histamine Contents in Narcolepsy, Idiopathic Hypersomnia and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Kanbayashi, Takashi; Kodama, Tohru; Kondo, Hideaki; Satoh, Shinsuke; Inoue, Yuichi; Chiba, Shigeru; Shimizu, Tetsuo; Nishino, Seiji

    2009-01-01

    Study Objective: To (1) replicate our prior result of low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) histamine levels in human narcolepsy in a different sample population and to (2) evaluate if histamine contents are altered in other types of hypersomnia with and without hypocretin deficiency. Design: Cross sectional studies. Setting and Patients: Sixty-seven narcolepsy subjects, 26 idiopathic hypersomnia (IHS) subjects, 16 obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) subjects, and 73 neurological controls were included. All patients were Japanese. Diagnoses were made according to ICSD-2. Results: We found significant reductions in CSF histamine levels in hypocretin deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy (mean ± SEM; 176.0 ± 25.8 pg/mL), hypocretin non-deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy (97.8 ± 38.4 pg/mL), hypocretin non-deficient narcolepsy without cataplexy (113.6 ± 16.4 pg/mL), and idiopathic hypersomnia (161.0 ± 29.3 pg/mL); the levels in OSAS (259.3 ± 46.6 pg/mL) did not statistically differ from those in the controls (333.8 ± 22.0 pg/mL). Low CSF histamine levels were mostly observed in non-medicated patients; significant reductions in histamine levels were evident in non-medicated patients with hypocretin deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy (112.1 ± 16.3 pg/mL) and idiopathic hypersomnia (143.3 ± 28.8 pg/mL), while the levels in the medicated patients were in the normal range. Conclusion: The study confirmed reduced CSF histamine levels in hypocretin-deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy. Similar degrees of reduction were also observed in hypocretin non-deficient narcolepsy and in idiopathic hypersomnia, while those in OSAS (non central nervous system hypersomnia) were not altered. The decrease in histamine in these subjects were more specifically observed in non-medicated subjects, suggesting CSF histamine is a biomarker reflecting the degree of hypersomnia of central origin. Citation: Kanbayashi T; Kodama T; Kondo H; Satoh S; Inoue Y; Chiba S; Shimizu T; Nishino S. CSF

  18. Outcome of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation as a non-pharmacological therapy for idiopathic Ventricular Tachycardia.

    PubMed

    Samore, Naseer Ahmed; Imran Majeed, Syed Muhammad; Kayani, Azhar Mahmud; Bhalli, Muhammad Asif; Shabbir, Muhammad

    2009-09-01

    To determine the outcome of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation (RFCA) as a non-pharmacological curative therapy for idiopathic Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) and to identify procedure-related complications. Descriptive study. The Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and National Institute of Heart Diseases, Rawalpindi, from February 2001 to October 2008. Ninety eight consecutive patients with idiopathic VT, resistant to drug therapy, who underwent Electrophysiology Studies (EPS) radiofrequency catheter ablation were enrolled. Clinical and electrophysiological variables were recorded and a descriptive analysis was done. Out of the 98 patients, 79 were males (80.6%). The mean age was 33.29+11.93 years. Modes of presentation were sustained VT, Repetitive Monomorphic VT (RMVT), Non-sustained VT (NSVT) and Ventricular Premature Beats (VPBs). Right Ventricular Outflow Tract (RVOT) VT was found in 37 patients, 37 had Idiopathic Left Ventricular Tachycardia (ILVT), 20 had Left Ventricular Outflow Tract (LVOT) VT, and Inflow Right Ventricular Tachycardia (IRVT) was found in 7 patients. Other sites of origin of VT were infrequent. Eight patients had dual morphologies of VT. Atrioventricular Nodal Re-entry Tachycardia (AVNRT) was found in 8 patients. RFCA was successful in abolishing inducible VT in 88 patients. One patient developed complete AV block requiring a permanent pacemaker. Results of this study confirm a high degree of success and safety of radiofrequency catheter ablation as curative therapy for idiopathic ventricular tachycardia.

  19. CONTRAIS: CONservative TReatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: a randomised controlled trial protocol.

    PubMed

    Abbott, Allan; Möller, Hans; Gerdhem, Paul

    2013-09-05

    Idiopathic scoliosis is a three-dimensional structural deformity of the spine that occurs in children and adolescents. Recent reviews on bracing and exercise treatment have provided some evidence for effect of these interventions. The purpose of this study is to improve the evidence base regarding the effectiveness of conservative treatments for preventing curve progression in idiopathic scoliosis. Previously untreated girls and boys with idiopathic scoliosis, 9 to 17 years of age with at least one year of remaining growth and a curve Cobb angle of 25-40 degrees will be included. A total of 135 participants will be randomly allocated in groups of 45 patients each to receive one of the three interventions. All three groups will receive a physical activity prescription according to the World Health Organisation recommendations. One group will additionally wear a hyper-corrective night-time brace. One group will additionally perform postural scoliosis-specific exercises. Participation in the study will last until the curve has progressed, or until cessation of skeletal growth. OUTCOME variables will be measured every 6 months. The primary outcome variable, failure of treatment, is defined as progression of the Cobb angle more than 6 degrees, compared to the primary x-ray, seen on two consecutive spinal standing x-rays taken with 6 months interval. Secondary outcome measures include the SRS-22r and EQ5D-Y quality of life questionnaires, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form, and Cobb angle at end of the study. This trial will evaluate which of the tested conservative treatment approaches that is the most effective for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. NCT01761305.

  20. Eliminating the use of allogeneic blood products in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery.

    PubMed

    Berney, Mark J; Dawson, Peter H; Phillips, Margaret; Lui, Darren F; Connolly, Paul

    2015-07-01

    The aim of this study was to compare transfusion requirements in patients before and after the introduction of tranexamic acid as standard in patients undergoing spinal surgery for idiopathic scoliosis in a national orthopaedic hospital. A retrospective chart review of 56 idiopathic scoliosis patients who underwent posterior spinal instrumentation and fusion between 2009 and 2013 at our institution. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were measured. Patients who received tranexamic acid as standard (n = 31) showed a trend towards a decrease in transfusion requirements compared with those who received no tranexamic acid (n = 25). These patients had a statistically significant decrease in operative time (223 vs 188 min, p = 0.005), and estimated intraoperative blood loss was reduced by nearly 50% in the tranexamic acid group. They also had an associated reduced decrease in haemoglobin between preoperative and postoperative levels (4 vs 5 g/dL, p = 0.01). Since February 2012, no patient has required intraoperative or postoperative allogeneic blood product transfusion in this hospital. The routine use of antifibrinolytic medications in patients undergoing surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis has effectively eliminated the need for allogeneic blood products.

  1. Associations Between Neuropsychological, Neurobehavioral and Emotional Functioning and Either Narcolepsy or Idiopathic Hypersomnia in Children and Adolescents.

    PubMed

    Ludwig, Beris; Smith, Simon; Heussler, Helen

    2018-04-15

    Narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia are chronic neurological sleep disorders characterized by hypersomnolence or excessive daytime sleepiness. This review aims to systematically examine the scientific literature on the associations between narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia and their effect on intellectual functioning, academic achievement, behavior, and emotion. Published studies that examined those associations in children and adolescents were included. Studies in which children or adolescents received a clinical diagnosis, and in which the associated function was measured with at least one objective instrument were included. Twenty studies published between 1968 and 2017 were eligible for inclusion in this review. There does not appear to be a clear association between intellectual functioning and narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia; however, limited research is an obstacle to obtaining generalizability. The variability in results from studies investigating associations between academic achievement and these two hypersomnolence disorders suggests that further research using standardized and validated assessment instruments is required to determine if there is an association. Behavior and emotion appear to be significantly affected by narcolepsy. Only two studies included populations of children and adolescents with idiopathic hypersomnia. Further research using larger populations of children and adolescents with narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia while utilizing standardized and validated instruments is required, because the effect of these conditions of hypersomnolence varies and is significant for each individual. © 2018 American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

  2. Anti-TNF therapy for juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis

    PubMed Central

    Semeraro, Francesco; Arcidiacono, Barbara; Nascimbeni, Giuseppe; Angi, Martina; Parolini, Barbara; Costagliola, Ciro

    2014-01-01

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis is the most common type of uveitis in childhood and one of the main causes of visual impairment in children. The introduction of biological treatment has widened the range of therapeutic options for children with uveitis refractory to standard nonbiologic immunosuppressants. Data from clinical trials suggest that both adalimumab and infliximab have demonstrated effectiveness and safety in open-label studies, although no large, randomized, controlled trials have been reported so far. The role of etanercept in treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis is not yet well defined. In our experience, anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy has been shown to be more effective than steroids and/or methotrexate in treating uveitis. Up to now, tumor necrosis factor blocking compounds have been reserved for the treatment of the most severe cases of refractory uveitis, and larger prospective clinical trials are required in order to better assess the safety of these new compounds. PMID:24711694

  3. Anti-TNF therapy for juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis.

    PubMed

    Semeraro, Francesco; Arcidiacono, Barbara; Nascimbeni, Giuseppe; Angi, Martina; Parolini, Barbara; Costagliola, Ciro

    2014-01-01

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis is the most common type of uveitis in childhood and one of the main causes of visual impairment in children. The introduction of biological treatment has widened the range of therapeutic options for children with uveitis refractory to standard nonbiologic immunosuppressants. Data from clinical trials suggest that both adalimumab and infliximab have demonstrated effectiveness and safety in open-label studies, although no large, randomized, controlled trials have been reported so far. The role of etanercept in treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis is not yet well defined. In our experience, anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy has been shown to be more effective than steroids and/or methotrexate in treating uveitis. Up to now, tumor necrosis factor blocking compounds have been reserved for the treatment of the most severe cases of refractory uveitis, and larger prospective clinical trials are required in order to better assess the safety of these new compounds.

  4. Efficacy of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulins in two patients with idiopathic recurrent pericarditis refractory to previous immunosuppressive treatment.

    PubMed

    Tona, Francesco; Bellotto, Fabio; Laveder, Francesco; Meneghin, Alessia; Sinagra, Gianfranco; Marcolongo, Renzo

    2003-01-01

    Although idiopathic acute pericarditis is usually a self-limiting disease, in many patients it may recur over a period of months or years. Even if some evidence seems to suggest the possible role of a deranged immune reactivity in the pathogenesis of idiopathic recurrent pericarditis, the etiology of the disease is still unknown. Furthermore, while some trial data confirm the usefulness of colchicine, its medical treatment is not yet clearly established. We here report the clinical history of 2 patients with idiopathic recurrent pericarditis resistant to prednisone, colchicine and other immunosuppressive drugs, who have been successfully treated with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulins.

  5. Long-term follow-up of amitriptyline treatment for idiopathic cough.

    PubMed

    Ryan, Marisa A; Cohen, Seth M

    2016-12-01

    To evaluate short- and long-term treatment outcomes of amitriptyline for idiopathic cough. Retrospective chart review and anonymous survey of a patient cohort. We evaluated a cohort of adults treated for cough at the Duke Voice Care Center with amitriptyline over a 2- to 3-year period. We characterized demographics, symptoms, treatment variability, and treatment effects from chart review and survey responses. We performed univariate analysis comparing cough improvement to age, gender, symptoms of throat irritation, cough duration, concurrent speech therapy, and dosage. Eighty-nine percent were taking the medication at the first clinical follow-up at a mean 2.6 months, and overall, 67% reported ≥50% improvement. No statistically significant predictors of cough improvement with medication were identified. At follow-up 2 to 3 years later, overall, 53% reported ≥50% improvement, with only 34% of patients still taking amitriptyline. After 2 to 3 years, 65% of patients had titrated the medication to effect, and 33% restarted the medication. Occurrence of side effects was the most frequent reason for stopping the medication. Amitriptyline can be an effective and well-tolerated part of short- and long-term management of idiopathic cough in adults. Titrating the dose and restarting are often necessary. Larger studies and randomized control trials are needed to better understand the outcomes of using amitriptyline to treat idiopathic cough. 4 Laryngoscope, 126:2758-2763, 2016. © 2016 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

  6. Conservative treatment of idiopathic spontaneous pneumoperitoneum in a bedridden patient: a case report.

    PubMed

    Tanaka, Ryo; Kameyama, Hitoshi; Nagahashi, Masayuki; Kanda, Tatsuo; Ichikawa, Hiroshi; Hanyu, Takaaki; Ishikawa, Takashi; Kobayashi, Takashi; Sakata, Jun; Kosugi, Shin-Ichi; Wakai, Toshifumi

    2015-01-01

    Idiopathic spontaneous pneumoperitoneum is a rare condition that is characterized by intraperitoneal gas for which no clear etiology has been identified. We report here a case of idiopathic spontaneous pneumoperitoneum, which was successfully managed by conservative treatment. A 77-year-old woman who was bedridden with speech disability as a sequela of brain hemorrhage presented at our hospital with a 1-day history of abdominal distention. On physical examination, she had stable vital signs and slight epigastric tenderness on deep palpation without any other signs of peritonitis. A chest radiograph and computed tomography showed that a large amount of free gas extended into the upper abdominal cavity. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed no perforation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The patient was diagnosed with idiopathic spontaneous pneumoperitoneum, and conservative treatment was selected. The abdominal distension rapidly disappeared, and the patient resumed oral intake on the 5th hospital day without deterioration of symptoms. Knowledge of this rare disease and accurate diagnosis with findings of clinical imaging might contribute towards refraining from unnecessary laparotomy.

  7. Western blot immunoassay for HSP-70 antibodies in idiopathic tinnitus: a preliminary report.

    PubMed

    Savastano, Marina; Celadin, Marilena; Pittoni, Marina; Plebani, Mario; Marioni, Gino

    2006-03-01

    Our preliminary study investigated the role of nonspecific immunologic tests and immunoassay for heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70) in supporting the possibility of an autoimmune inner ear process determining idiopathic tinnitus. Thirty-six consecutive patients with idiopathic tinnitus without other otologic or autoimmune diseases and 20 healthy blood donor subjects underwent determinations of circulating immune complexes (CICs) and other nonspecific immunologic factors and immunoassay for HSP-70. The mean CIC values were 4.2 microg/mL in the tinnitus patients and 0.9 microg/mL in the control group (p = .012). Thirteen of the 36 tinnitus patients and none of the control group were HSP-70-positive. Ten of the 13 HSP-70-positive patients had CIC values higher than normal. In the tinnitus group, the mean CIC values were 6.9 microg/mL and 2.6 microg/mL in the HSP-70-positive and -negative subgroups, respectively (p = .024). It may be hypothesized that in a significant number of cases, idiopathic tinnitus could be induced by immune response to inner ear-specific HSP-70.

  8. Prognostic value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging measurements corrected for age and sex in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension.

    PubMed

    Swift, Andrew J; Rajaram, Smitha; Campbell, Michael J; Hurdman, Judith; Thomas, Steve; Capener, Dave; Elliot, Charlie; Condliffe, Robin; Wild, Jim M; Kiely, David G

    2014-01-01

    There are limited data on the prognostic value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance measurements in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, with no studies investigating the impact of correction of cardiovascular magnetic resonance indices for age and sex on prognostic value. Consecutive patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging at 1.5T. Steady-state free precession cardiac volumes and mass measurements were corrected for age, sex, and body surface area according to reference data and prognostic significance assessed. A total of 80 patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension were identified, and 23 patients died during the mean follow-up of 32±14 months. Corrected for age, sex, and body surface area, right ventricular end-systolic volume (P=0.004) strongly predicted mortality, independent of World Health Organization functional class, mean right atrial pressure, cardiac index, and mixed venous oxygen saturations. Consideration should be given to correcting cardiovascular magnetic resonance measures for age, sex, and body surface area, particularly given the changing demographics of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension. Corrected right ventricular end-systolic volume is a strong prognostic marker in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, independent of invasively derived measurements, mean right atrial pressure cardiac index, and mixed venous oxygen saturations.

  9. Brain tissue water content in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.

    PubMed

    Aygok, G; Marmarou, A; Fatouros, P; Young, H

    2006-01-01

    Relatively little is known regarding the water content of brain tissue in idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) patients. The objective of our study was to determine absolute water content non-invasively in hydrocephalic patients, particularly in the anterior and posterior ventricular horns and in the periventricular white matter. Ten patients who were diagnosed and treated for idiopathic NPH in our clinic were selected for study. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques were used to obtain anatomical image slices for quantitative brain water measurements. Apparent diffusion coefficient measures were also extracted from regions of interest. To our knowledge, this is the first study to confirm that periventricular lucency seen on MRI represents increased water content in the extracellular space that is markedly elevated prior to shunting.

  10. Observation and Early Intervention in Mild Idiopathic Scoliosis via Corrective Exercises in Growing Children.

    PubMed

    Sy, Ng

    2016-01-01

    Idiopathic scoliosis afflicts 2-3% of the population. For mild curvatures, observation is the treatment of choice. Though this passive "wait and see" approach has been used for many years, the practice is inconsistent among different countries. In Anglo-Saxon countries where scoliosis specific exercises are not practised, observation is indicated for curvatures below 25° in growing children and adolescents. In countries, such as France, Germany, Italy and Poland where scoliosis specific corrective exercises are employed, only patients with no signs of maturity and with curvatures below 15° are treated by observation. Patients with curvatures between 15 - 25° are treated by scoliosis specific exercises. In view of the unpredictability of the progression of scoliosis curvatures in immature patients and the lack of knowledge of long term biomechanical repercussions of mild idiopathic scoliosis on lumbar spine and lower extremities, it is proposed that active intervention through scoliosis specific exercises rather than passive observation be employed in the treatment of mild adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

  11. [Idiopathic scrotal elephantiasis. A case report].

    PubMed

    López-Caballero, Ignacio; Sánchez-Ruvalcaba, Itzel; Sánchez-Martinez, Luis Carlos; Hernández-Ordoñez, Octavio; Gómez-Lara, Miguel; Flores-Carrillo, Víctor

    2014-01-01

    Penoscrotal lymphedema (scrotal elephantiasis) is a condition that has been described in areas in which filariasis is endemic. This paper presents a case of a 45-year-old man with idiopathic lymphedema isolated to the scrotum. After acquired causes of lymphedema were ruled out, the patient was treated with scrotectomy and penoscrotal reconstruction. Currently, the patient is receiving follow-up care without evidence of recurrence. Penoscrotal lymphedema may cause symptoms of weakness, immobility and emotional disturbance. Surgery procedure provides a satisfactory cosmetical and functional outcome.

  12. Facial morphology in children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and moderate to severe temporomandibular joint involvement.

    PubMed

    Hsieh, Yuh-Jia; Darvann, Tron A; Hermann, Nuno V; Larsen, Per; Liao, Yu-Fang; Bjoern-Joergensen, Jens; Kreiborg, Sven

    2016-02-01

    The aims of this study were to (1) assess lateral facial morphology in children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and moderate to severe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement, (2) compare the lateral facial morphology of these subjects with and without TMJ involvement using cephalograms and 3-dimensional (3D) facial photographs, and (3) compare and correlate the results of the 3D photographic and cephalometric analyses. Sixty patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis were included and grouped as follows: group 1, juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients without TMJ involvement; group 2, juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients with moderate to severe unilateral TMJ involvement; and group 3, juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients with moderate to severe bilateral TMJ involvement. Lateral cephalograms were used to assess and compare lateral facial morphologies between the groups. Lateral projections of oriented 3D photographs were superimposed on the lateral cephalograms. The results of the lateral 3D photographic analysis were correlated with those of lateral cephalometric analysis. Group 3 showed the most severe growth disturbances, including more retrognathic mandible and retruded chin, steep occlusal and mandibular planes, and more hyperdivergent type (P <0.01). Group 2 showed similar growth disturbances, but to a lesser extent than did group 3. Photographic variables were significantly correlated with the soft tissue and skeletal variables of cephalograms (0.5 < r < 0.9; P <0.001). Subjects with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and unilateral or bilateral moderate to severe TMJ involvement had significant growth disturbances. Early intervention is recommended for these patients to prevent unfavorable facial development. Furthermore, with proper orientation, 3D photographs can be used as an alternative to conventional lateral cephalograms and 2-dimensional photographs. Copyright © 2016 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Elsevier

  13. Idiopathic Juxtafoveolar Retinal Telangiectasis: A Current Review

    PubMed Central

    Nowilaty, Sawsan R.; Al-Shamsi, Hanan N.; Al-Khars, Wajeeha

    2010-01-01

    Idiopathic juxtafoveolar retinal telangiectasis (IJFT), also known as parafoveal telangiectasis or idiopathic macular telangiectasia, refers to a heterogeneous group of well-recognized clinical entities characterized by telangiectatic alterations of the juxtafoveolar capillary network of one or both eyes, but which differ in appearance, presumed pathogenesis, and management strategies. Classically, three groups of IJFT are identified. Group I is unilateral easily visible telangiectasis occurring predominantly in males, and causing visual loss as a result of macular edema. Group II, the most common, is bilateral occurring in both middle-aged men and women, and presenting with telangiectasis that is more difficult to detect on biomicroscopy, but with characteristic and diagnostic angiographic and optical coherence tomography features. Vision loss is due to retinal atrophy, not exudation, and subretinal neovascularization is common. Group III is very rare characterized predominantly by progressive obliteration of the perifoveal capillary network, occurring usually in association with a medical or neurologic disease. This paper presents a current review of juxtafoveolar retinal telangiectasis, reviewing the classification of these entities and focusing primarily on the two most common types encountered in clinical practice, i.e., groups I and II, describing their clinical features, histopathology, natural history, complications, latest results from imaging modalities and functional studies, differential diagnosis, and treatment modalities. PMID:20844678

  14. Idiopathic sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (or abdominal cocoon).

    PubMed

    Serafimidis, Costas; Katsarolis, Ioannis; Vernadakis, Spyros; Rallis, George; Giannopoulos, George; Legakis, Nikolaos; Peros, George

    2006-02-13

    Idiopathic sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (or abdominal cocoon) is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction, especially in adult population. Diagnosis is usually incidental at laparotomy. We discuss one such rare case, outlining the fact that an intra-operative surprise diagnosis could have been facilitated by previous investigations. A 56 year-old man presented in A&E department with small bowel ileus. He had a history of 6 similar episodes of small bowel obstruction in the past 4 years, which resolved with conservative treatment. Pre-operative work-up did not reveal any specific etiology. At laparotomy, a fibrous capsule was revealed, in which small bowel loops were encased, with the presence of interloop adhesions. A diagnosis of abdominal cocoon was established and extensive adhesiolysis was performed. The patient had an uneventful recovery and follow-up. Idiopathic sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis, although rare, may be the cause of a common surgical emergency such as small bowel ileus, especially in cases with attacks of non-strangulating obstruction in the same individual. A high index of clinical suspicion may be generated by the recurrent character of small bowel ileus combined with relevant imaging findings and lack of other plausible etiologies. Clinicians must rigorously pursue a preoperative diagnosis, as it may prevent a "surprise" upon laparotomy and result in proper management.

  15. Manual therapy as a conservative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review

    PubMed Central

    Romano, Michele; Negrini, Stefano

    2008-01-01

    Background The treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is contingent upon many variables. Simple observation is enough for less serious curvatures, but for very serious cases surgical intervention could be proposed. Between these there is a wide range of different treatments. Manual therapy is commonly used: the aim of this paper is to verify the data existing in the literature on the efficacy of this approach. Methods A systematic review of the scientific literature published internationally has been performed. We have included in the term manual therapy all the manipulative and generally passive techniques performed by an external operator. In a more specific meaning, osteopathic, chiropractic and massage techniques have been considered as manipulative therapeutic methods. We performed our systematic research in Medline, Embase, Cinhal, Cochrane Library, Pedro with the following terms: idiopathic scoliosis combined with chiropractic; manipulation; mobilization; manual therapy; massage; osteopathy; and therapeutic manipulation. The criteria for inclusion were as follows: Any kind of research; diagnosis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis; patients treated exclusively by one of the procedures established as a standard for this review (chiropractic manipulation, osteopathic techniques, massage); and outcome in Cobb degrees. Results We founded 145 texts, but only three papers were relevant to our study. However, no one of the three satisfied all the required inclusion criteria because they were characterized by a combination of manual techniques and other therapeutic approaches. Conclusion The lack of any kind of serious scientific data does not allow us to draw any conclusion on the efficacy of manual therapy as an efficacious technique for the treatment of Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. PMID:18211702

  16. Manual therapy as a conservative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Romano, Michele; Negrini, Stefano

    2008-01-22

    The treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is contingent upon many variables. Simple observation is enough for less serious curvatures, but for very serious cases surgical intervention could be proposed. Between these there is a wide range of different treatments. Manual therapy is commonly used: the aim of this paper is to verify the data existing in the literature on the efficacy of this approach. A systematic review of the scientific literature published internationally has been performed. We have included in the term manual therapy all the manipulative and generally passive techniques performed by an external operator. In a more specific meaning, osteopathic, chiropractic and massage techniques have been considered as manipulative therapeutic methods. We performed our systematic research in Medline, Embase, Cinhal, Cochrane Library, Pedro with the following terms: idiopathic scoliosis combined with chiropractic; manipulation; mobilization; manual therapy; massage; osteopathy; and therapeutic manipulation. The criteria for inclusion were as follows: Any kind of research; diagnosis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis; patients treated exclusively by one of the procedures established as a standard for this review (chiropractic manipulation, osteopathic techniques, massage); and outcome in Cobb degrees. We founded 145 texts, but only three papers were relevant to our study. However, no one of the three satisfied all the required inclusion criteria because they were characterized by a combination of manual techniques and other therapeutic approaches. The lack of any kind of serious scientific data does not allow us to draw any conclusion on the efficacy of manual therapy as an efficacious technique for the treatment of Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

  17. Are we simplifying balance evaluation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?

    PubMed

    Pasha, Saba; Baldwin, Keith

    2018-01-01

    Clinical evaluation of the postural balance in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis has been measured by sagittal vertical axis and frontal balance. The impact of the scoliotic deformity in three planes on balance has not been fully investigated. 47 right thoracic and left lumbar curves adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and 10 non-scoliotic controls were registered prospectively. 13 spinopelvic postural parameters were calculated from the 3-dimantional reconstructions of X-rays. 7 balance variables describing the position and sway of the center of pressure were recorded using a pressure mat. A regression analysis was used to predict sagittal vertical axis and frontal balance from the 7 balance variables. A canonical correlation analysis was performed between all the postural parameters and balance variables and the significant associations between the postural and balance variables were determined. sagittal vertical axis and frontal balance were not significantly associated with the position or sway of the center of pressure (p>0.05). Canonical correlation analysis showed significant associations between the postural variables in the 3 planes and center of pressure position (R 2 =0.81) and sway (R 2 =0.62), p<0.05. Frontal Cobbs, apical rotations, distal kyphosis, pelvic incidence, sacral slope, sagittal vertical axis, and frontal balance contributed to the postural balance in the cohort. The compensatory role of the pelvis and distal kyphosis in sagittal plane was underlined. Multidimensional analyses between the postural and balance variables showed the alignment of the thoracic, lumbar, and pelvis in the 3 planes, in addition to the global head-pelvic position impact on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis balance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Do all patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis warrant a trial of therapeutic intervention? A pro-con perspective.

    PubMed

    Moodley, Yuben; Corte, Tamera; Richeldi, Luca; King, Talmadge E

    2015-04-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an incurable condition that is characterized by progressive pulmonary fibrosis, architectural distortion of the lung and loss of gas exchange units. Until recently, there was no effective treatment for this condition. However, there were two landmark trials published earlier this year, which have changed the management of this condition. Pirfenidone (Assessment of Pirfenidone to Confirm Efficacy and Safety in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis trial) and nintedanib (Efficacy and Safety of Nintedanib in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis-1 and -2 trials) have both demonstrated positive outcomes in patients with IPF. In this perspective, we critically discuss the role of these agents in IPF and in the broader pulmonary fibrosis population. © 2015 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

  19. SIGNIFICANCE OF PREOPERATIVE EXTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE HEIGHT ON VISUAL PROGNOSIS IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING MACULAR HOLE SURGERY.

    PubMed

    Geenen, Caspar; Murphy, Declan C; Sandinha, Maria T; Rees, Jon; Steel, David H W

    2018-03-05

    To investigate the association between the vertical elevation of the external limiting membrane (ELM) and visual outcome in patients undergoing surgery for idiopathic full-thickness macular hole. Retrospective observational study of a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing vitrectomy to treat macular hole. The greatest vertical height of the central ELM above the retinal pigment epithelium (ELM height) was measured on spectral domain optical coherence tomography preoperatively. The relationship of ELM height to other preoperative and postoperative variables, including macular hole width and height, and visual acuity was analyzed. Data from 91 eyes of 91 patients who had undergone successful hole closure were included. The mean ELM height was 220 μm (range 100-394). There were significant correlations between the ELM height and the diameter of the hole, hole height, and worsening preoperative visual acuity. For holes less than 400 μm in width, better postoperative visual acuity was significantly predicted by a lower ELM height. The ELM height varies widely in idiopathic macular hole. It is higher in eyes where the hole is wider and also when the hole itself is higher. For holes of less than 400 μm in width, a lower ELM height is a strong independent predictor of a good postoperative outcome.

  20. Effects of Low-frequency Current Sacral Dermatome Stimulation on Idiopathic Slow Transit Constipation

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Jin-Seop; Yi, Seung-Ju

    2014-01-01

    [Purpose] This study aimed to determine whether low-frequency current therapy can be used to reduce the symptoms of idiopathic slow transit constipation (ISTC). [Subjects] Fifteen patients (ten male and five female) with idiopathic slow transit constipation were enrolled in the present study. [Results] Bowel movements per day, bowel movements per week, and constipation assessment scale scores significantly improved after low-frequency current simulation of S2-S3. [Conclusion] Our results show that stimulation with low-frequency current of the sacral dermatomes may offer therapeutic benefits for a subject of patients with ISTC. PMID:25013277

  1. The Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatment Trial

    PubMed Central

    Wall, Michael; Kupersmith, Mark J.; Kieburtz, Karl D.; Corbett, James J.; Feldon, Steven E.; Friedman, Deborah I.; Katz, David M.; Keltner, John L.; Schron, Eleanor B.; McDermott, Michael P.

    2015-01-01

    IMPORTANCE To our knowledge, there are no large prospective cohorts of untreated patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) to characterize the disease. OBJECTIVE To report the baseline clinical and laboratory features of patients enrolled in the Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatment Trial. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS We collected data at baseline from questionnaires, examinations, automated perimetry, and fundus photography grading. Patients (n = 165) were enrolled from March 17, 2010, to November 27, 2012, at 38 academic and private practice sites in North America. All participants met the modified Dandy criteria for IIH and had a perimetric mean deviation between −2 dB and −7 dB. All but 4 participants were women. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Baseline and laboratory characteristics. RESULTS The mean (SD) age of our patients was 29.0 (7.4) years and 4 (2.4%) were men. The average (SD) body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) was 39.9 (8.3). Headache was the most common symptom (84%). Transient visual obscurations occurred in 68% of patients, back pain in 53%, and pulse synchronous tinnitus in 52%. Only 32% reported visual loss. The average (SD) perimetric mean deviation in the worst eye was −3.5 (1.1) dB, (range, −2.0 to −6.4 dB) and in the best eye was −2.3 (1.1) dB (range, −5.2 to 0.8 dB). A partial arcuate visual field defect with an enlarged blind spot was the most common perimetric finding. Visual acuity was 85 letters or better (20/20) in 71% of the worst eyes and 77% of the best eyes. Quality of life measures, including the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire–25 and the Short Form–36 physical and mental health summary scales, were lower compared with population norms. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatment Trial represents the largest prospectively analyzed cohort of untreated patients with IIH. Our data show

  2. Causes of gynaecomastia in young adult males and factors associated with idiopathic gynaecomastia.

    PubMed

    Ersöz, Halil önder; Onde, Mehmet Emin; Terekeci, Hakan; Kurtoglu, Soner; Tor, Hayati

    2002-10-01

    Gynaecomastia is a common clinical condition. Persistent pubertal or late onset idiopathic gynaecomastia is the leading cause of gynaecomastia in different series. The aim of this study was the assessment of the prevalence and characteristics of different causes of gynaecomastia in young adult males, and evaluation of the factors associated with idiopathic gynaecomastia. Fifty-three male patients (mean age 22.04 +/- 2.22, range 19-29), who had been admitted to our outpatient clinics with gynaecomastia as the main presenting symptom were enrolled in the study. Patients were evaluated with breast palpation, breast ultrasonography, anthropometric measurements and sex steroid levels. Secondary causes of gynaecomastia were ruled out. Thirty age-matched healthy individuals were also studied as healthy control group. Idiopathic gynaecomastia was diagnosed in 31 of 53 patients (58%), with 17 (32%) persistent pubertal and 14 (24%) late onset course. Other causes of gynaecomastia were hypogonadism in 13 cases (25%), hyperprolactinaemia in five (9%), chronic liver disease in two (4%), and drug induced (prolonged use of H2 antagonists) in two (4%). Patients with idiopathic gynaecomastia, either pubertal or late onset, were compared with the healthy control group in order to find out associated factors. Anthropometric measurements revealed a significant increase in body weight and body mass index (BMI) in the patient group compared with healthy controls (72.4 +/- 13.3 vs. 63.6 +/- 7.9 kg, p = 0.0086 and 25.2 +/- 4.0 vs. 21.5 +/- 2.7 kg/m2, p = 0.0001). Total skin fold thickness (SFT) of four different regions were also higher in the patient group (50.9 +/- 22.1 vs. 32.6 +/- 10.2 mm, p = 0.0006) indicating a higher body fat percentage. Total serum testosterone (4.76 +/- 1.31 vs. 5.70 +/- 1.06 microg/mL, p = 0.0038) and luteinizing hormone (LH) (4.80 +/- 1.92 vs. 7.32 +/- 1.90 mIU/mL, p < 0.0001) levels were significantly lower in the patient group while oestradiol levels were

  3. [Normal lung volumes in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema].

    PubMed

    Casas, Juan Pablo; Abbona, Horacio; Robles, Adriana; López, Ana María

    2008-01-01

    Pulmonary function tests in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis characteristically show a restrictive pattern, resulting from reduction of pulmonary compliance due to diffuse fibrosis. Conversely, an obstructive pattern with hyperinflation results in emphysema by loss of elastic recoil, expiratory collapse of the peripheral airways and air trapping. Previous reports suggest that when both diseases coexist, pulmonary volumes are compensated and a smaller than expected reduction or even normal lung volumes can be found. We report 4 male patients of 64, 60, 73 and 70 years, all with heavy cigarette smoking history and progressive breathlessness. Three of them had severe limitation in their quality of life. All four showed advanced lung interstitial involvement, at high resolution CT scan, fibrotic changes predominantly in the subpleural areas of lower lung fields and concomitant emphysema in the upper lobes. Emphysema and pulmonary fibrosis was confirmed by open lung biopsy in one patient. The four patients showed normal spirometry and lung volumes with severe compromise of gas exchange and poor exercise tolerance evaluated by 6 minute walk test. Severe pulmonary arterial hypertension was also confirmed in three patients. Normal lung volumes does not exclude diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in patients with concomitant emphysema. The relatively preserved lung volumes may underestimate the severity of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and attenuate its effects on lung function parameters.

  4. Conservative management of idiopathic scoliosis--guidelines based on SOSORT 2006 Consensus.

    PubMed

    Kotwicki, Tomasz; Durmała, Jacek; Czaprowski, Dariusz; Głowacki, Maciej; Kołban, Maciej; Snela, Sławomir; Sliwiński, Zbigniew; Kowalski, Ireneusz M

    2009-01-01

    Idiopathic scoliosis, defined as a lateral curvature of the spine of above 10 degrees (Cobb angle), is seen in 2-3% of the growing age population, while curves above 20 degrees , requiring conservative treatment, are found in 0.3-0.5%. In our observation, both under-treatment of progressive curves and over-treatment of stable cases are common during conservative management of scoliosis. A model of therapeutic management is presented based on the experience of Polish clinicians specialising in the treatment of scoliosis as well as the effects of work of a panel of experts of SOSORT (Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment). The model comprises the indications for conservative treatment according to age, curve type and size and Risser grading. The aetiology, classifications, usefulness of the Lonstein and Carlson factor of progression and other methods of determining the probability of scoliosis progression, as well as the psychological aspects of conservative management are presented. Based on the knowledge of the natural history of idiopathic scoliosis, factors of progression and on the SOSORT experts' opinion, guidelines are proposed for clinicians treating children and adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis, including the timing and course of brace treatment and the types of exercises. Uniform practical guidelines developed by experts may represent an essential step towards establishing standards of conservative scoliosis care in our country.

  5. Correlates of the peak height velocity in girls with idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Sanders, James O; Browne, Richard H; Cooney, Timothy E; Finegold, David N; McConnell, Sharon J; Margraf, Susan A

    2006-09-15

    Prospective longitudinal. Determine correlates of the peak height velocity (PHV) in girls with idiopathic scoliosis. Only identifiable retrospectively, the PHV is the most useful known maturity marker in idiopathic scoliosis. Clinically useful correlates are needed to make PHV timing helpful. A total of 24 immature girls with idiopathic scoliosis were followed with serial heights, sexual staging, skeletal ages, spinal radiographs, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, IGF binding protein-3, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, estradiol, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin levels. These markers were correlated to PHV timing. There were 14 girls who had identifiable growth peaks that averaged 10.5 +/- 1.8 cm/y at age 11.7 +/- 1 years. At the PHV, all girls were Risser 0 with open triradiate cartilages. On a skeletal age radiograph, digital uncapped phalangeal epiphyses were indicative of pre-PHV and fused epiphyses of post-PHV. Capped but unfused epiphyses were indeterminate. Tanner stage 1 for breast strongly indicates pre-PHV. Stage 3 for breast and pubic hair occurred at or after the PHV, and stage 4 always occurred after PHV. Higher IGF-1 and estradiol levels after PHV are potentially discriminatory. The PHV occurs during Risser 0 with open triradiate cartilages. If triradiate cartilages are open, then Tanner stages, IGF-1, estradiol levels, and the appearance of the epiphyses on a skeletal age radiograph are useful in determining status before or after PHV.

  6. Consanguineous marriage and increased risk of idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus: a case-control study in a rural area.

    PubMed

    Sahin, Orcun; Yildirim, Cengiz; Akgun, Rahmi C; Haberal, Bahtiyar; Yazici, Ayse C; Tuncay, Ismail C

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to evaluate if there is any relationship between consanguineous marriages and idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV). A case-control study on CTEV screening was conducted in a rural eastern city of Turkey between 2009 and 2011 and a total of 28 cases (infants with idiopathic CTEV) and 575 controls (healthy infants) were recruited. Sociodemographic status of the infants, including gestational age and birth weights, maternal characteristics and, if any, the degree of consanguinity, were recorded. As an inclusion criterion, only singleton, full-term, live births were accepted. A backward stepwise logistic regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between idiopathic CTEV and parental consanguinity. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Among maternal and infant characteristics, significant risk factors for idiopathic CTEV in the regression analysis were work status (employed), consanguineous marriage, sex (male), and gestational age (>42 wk). Babies born to first-cousin parents had >4 times the risk of idiopathic CTEV [OR, 4.138, (95% CI, 1.484, 11.538)] and the risk for those born to distant relatives was 2.9 times higher [OR, 2.941, (95% CI, 1.070, 8.087)] than for children of unrelated parents. Consanguineous marriage was significantly associated with an increased risk of idiopathic CTEV. This association remained significant even after adjusting for potential confounding variables. To obtain more accurate results, a population-based screening study with an increased number of cases and controls should be performed in future studies. Case-control study investigating the effect of a patient characteristic on the outcome of disease (level-III).

  7. CSF histamine contents in narcolepsy, idiopathic hypersomnia and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Kanbayashi, Takashi; Kodama, Tohru; Kondo, Hideaki; Satoh, Shinsuke; Inoue, Yuichi; Chiba, Shigeru; Shimizu, Tetsuo; Nishino, Seiji

    2009-02-01

    To (1) replicate our prior result of low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) histamine levels in human narcolepsy in a different sample population and to (2) evaluate if histamine contents are altered in other types of hypersomnia with and without hypocretin deficiency. Cross sectional studies. Sixty-seven narcolepsy subjects, 26 idiopathic hypersomnia (IHS) subjects, 16 obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) subjects, and 73 neurological controls were included. All patients were Japanese. Diagnoses were made according to ICSD-2. We found significant reductions in CSF histamine levels in hypocretin deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy (mean +/- SEM; 176.0 +/- 25.8 pg/mL), hypocretin non-deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy (97.8 +/- 38.4 pg/mL), hypocretin non-deficient narcolepsy without cataplexy (113.6 +/- 16.4 pg/mL), and idiopathic hypersomnia (161.0 +/- 29.3 pg/ mL); the levels in OSAS (259.3 +/- 46.6 pg/mL) did not statistically differ from those in the controls (333.8 +/- 22.0 pg/mL). Low CSF histamine levels were mostly observed in non-medicated patients; significant reductions in histamine levels were evident in non-medicated patients with hypocretin deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy (112.1 +/- 16.3 pg/ mL) and idiopathic hypersomnia (143.3 +/- 28.8 pg/mL), while the levels in the medicated patients were in the normal range. The study confirmed reduced CSF histamine levels in hypocretin-deficient narcolepsy with cataplexy. Similar degrees of reduction were also observed in hypocretin non-deficient narcolepsy and in idiopathic hypersomnia, while those in OSAS (non central nervous system hypersomnia) were not altered. The decrease in histamine in these subjects were more specifically observed in non-medicated subjects, suggesting CSF histamine is a biomarker reflecting the degree of hypersomnia of central origin.

  8. CONTRAIS: CONservative TReatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: a randomised controlled trial protocol

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Idiopathic scoliosis is a three-dimensional structural deformity of the spine that occurs in children and adolescents. Recent reviews on bracing and exercise treatment have provided some evidence for effect of these interventions. The purpose of this study is to improve the evidence base regarding the effectiveness of conservative treatments for preventing curve progression in idiopathic scoliosis. Methods/design Patients: Previously untreated girls and boys with idiopathic scoliosis, 9 to 17 years of age with at least one year of remaining growth and a curve Cobb angle of 25–40 degrees will be included. A total of 135 participants will be randomly allocated in groups of 45 patients each to receive one of the three interventions. Interventions: All three groups will receive a physical activity prescription according to the World Health Organisation recommendations. One group will additionally wear a hyper-corrective night-time brace. One group will additionally perform postural scoliosis-specific exercises. Outcome: Participation in the study will last until the curve has progressed, or until cessation of skeletal growth. Outcome variables will be measured every 6 months. The primary outcome variable, failure of treatment, is defined as progression of the Cobb angle more than 6 degrees, compared to the primary x-ray, seen on two consecutive spinal standing x-rays taken with 6 months interval. Secondary outcome measures include the SRS-22r and EQ5D-Y quality of life questionnaires, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form, and Cobb angle at end of the study. Discussion This trial will evaluate which of the tested conservative treatment approaches that is the most effective for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Trial registration NCT01761305 PMID:24007599

  9. Manual Therapy in the Treatment of Idiopathic Scoliosis. Analysis of Current Knowledge.

    PubMed

    Czaprowski, Dariusz

    2016-10-28

    Apart from the recommended specific physiotherapy, the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) also incorporates non-specific manual therapy (NMT). The aim of this paper is to assess the efficacy of NMT (manual therapy, chiropractic, osteopathy) used in the treatment of children and adolescents with IS. The study analysed systematic reviews (Analysis 1) and other recent scientific publications (Analysis 2). Analysis 1 encompassed papers on the use of NMT in patients with IS. Works concerning specific physiotherapy (SP) or bracing (B) and other types of scoliosis were excluded from the analysis. Inclusion criteria for Analysis 2 were: treatment with NMT; subjects aged 10-18 years with IS. The following types of papers were excluded: works analysing NMT combined with SP or B, reports concerning adult pa tients, analyses of single cases and publications included in Analysis 1. Analysis 1: six systematic reviews contained 6 papers on the efficacy of NMT in the treatment of IS. The results of these studies are contradictory, ranging from Cobb angle reduction to no treatment effects whatsoever. The papers analysed are characterised by poor methodological quality: small group sizes, incomplete descriptions of the study groups, no follow-up and no control groups. Analysis 2: in total, 217 papers were found. None of them met the criteria set for the analysis. 1. Few papers verifying the efficacy of manual therapy, chiropractic and osteopathy in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis have been published to date. 2. The majority are experimental studies with poor methodology or observational case studies. 3. At present, the efficacy of non-specific manual therapy in the treatment of patients with idiopathic scoliosis cannot be reliably evaluated. 4. It is necessary to conduct further research based on appropriate methods (prospective, rando mi s ed, controlled studies) in order to reliably assess the usefulness of non-specific manual therapy in the treatment of idiopathic

  10. Echocardiography-based spectrum of severe tricuspid regurgitation: the frequency of apparently idiopathic tricuspid regurgitation.

    PubMed

    Mutlak, Diab; Lessick, Jonathan; Reisner, Shimon A; Aronson, Doron; Dabbah, Salim; Agmon, Yoram

    2007-04-01

    The cause of tricuspid valve (TV) regurgitation (TR) occasionally remains unclear. The objectives of our study were to define the causal spectrum of severe TR diagnosed by echocardiography at a tertiary medical center and to assess the relative frequency and determine the clinical and echocardiographic characteristics of TR without an apparent cause (idiopathic TR). Consecutive patients with severe TR were identified by the echocardiography laboratory computerized database. The echocardiographic reports of all patients were reviewed and the causes of TR were determined. The echocardiographic studies and medical charts were reviewed in patients without an obvious cause of TR. Of 242 consecutive patients diagnosed with severe TR, organic TV disease was evident in 23 patients (9.5%) and significant pulmonary hypertension (estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure > 50 mm Hg) in an additional 157 patients (64.9%). After further excluding patients with various confounding factors, possibly associated with occult organic TV disease or significant pulmonary hypertension, 23 patients (9.5%) had severe TR without an apparent cause. Of these, TV coaptation appeared relatively intact, allowing adequate estimation of pulmonary artery pressure, in 15 patients (6.2% of all patients with severe TR; idiopathic TR group). Patients with idiopathic TR were older (76 +/- 10 years), with a high frequency of atrial fibrillation (93%), and prominent TV annular dilatation. After excluding multiple potential causes of TR, severe TR is occasionally idiopathic. Annular dilatation (secondary to aging, atrial fibrillation, or other causes) is the likely mechanism of TR in these patients.

  11. Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection of the subtalar joint for treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

    PubMed

    Young, Cody M; Horst, Deanna M; Murakami, James W; Shiels, William E

    2015-07-01

    The subtalar joint is commonly affected in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and is challenging to treat percutaneously. To describe the technique for treating the subtalar joint with US-guided corticosteroid injections in children and young adults with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and to evaluate the safety of the treatment. We retrospectively analyzed 122 patients (age 15 months-29 years) with juvenile idiopathic arthritis who were referred by a pediatric rheumatologist for corticosteroid injection therapy for symptoms related to the hindfoot or ankle. In these patients the diseased subtalar joint was targeted for therapy, often in conjunction with adjacent affected joints or tendon sheaths of the ankle. We used a protocol based on age, weight and joint for triamcinolone hexacetonide or triamcinolone acetonide dose prescription. We describe the technique for successful treatment of the subtalar joint. A total of 241 subtalar joint corticosteroid injections were performed under US guidance, including 68 repeat injections for recurrent symptoms in 26 of the 122 children and young adults. The average time interval between repeat injections was 24.8 months (range 2.2-130.7 months, median 14.2 months). Subcutaneous tissue atrophy and skin hypopigmentation were the primary complications observed. These complications occurred in 3.9% of the injections. With appropriate training and practice, the subtalar joint can be reliably and safely targeted with US-guided corticosteroid injection to treat symptoms related to juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

  12. Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia due to lecithin overdose: a case report

    PubMed Central

    2009-01-01

    Introduction Idiopathic Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia is a potentially fatal condition which requires prompt and potent treatment. Diagnosis of idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia requires both serologic evidence of autoantibody presence and hemolysis. Although most of the times it is considered idiopathic, several underlying causes have been identified, like autoimmune and connective tissue diseases, viral infections, drugs or hyper function of the immune system. To our knowledge, this is the first case in the international literature describing lecithin-induced autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Case Presentation This case report is to highlight a rare but dangerous adverse reaction to overdose of lecithin. A 38 year old white female from Greece, presented to our emergency room with progressive fatigue over a period of ten days and icteric discoloration of her skin and conjunctiva. The patient had been taking lecithin supplements (1200 mg, 3 capsules a day) over a period of ten days for weight loss. She reports that the last 3 days, prior to the examination, she took 5 capsules/day, so that the supplement would take effect more rapidly. Her past medical, social and family history showed no disturbance. Relatives of the patient were requested to submit any blood-tests taken over a period of 20 days prior to the onset of symptoms caused by Lecithin. All tests proved that all functions were within normal scale. Her physical examination revealed pallor and jaundice without palpable hepatosplenomegaly. Blood biochemistry tests showed total bilirubin 7.5 mg/dl, with indirect bilirubin 6.4 mg/dl and complete blood count showed hemoglobin 7.6 g/dl with blood levels 21.4%. Conclusion In every case of idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia the administration of pharmaceutical substances should always be examined, except for the standard reasons that cause it. In this case the cause of hemolysis was attributed to the excessive intake of lecithin capsules for the loss of body

  13. Surgical repair of idiopathic scrotal elephantiasis.

    PubMed

    Zacharakis, Evangelos; Dudderidge, Tim; Zacharakis, Emmanouil; Ioannidis, Evangelos

    2008-02-01

    Scrotal lymphedema (scrotal elephantiasis) is uncommon outside of filariasis endemic regions. We present a case of a 65-year-old with idiopathic lymphedema of the scrotum and functional impairment of the penis. The patient underwent surgical excision of the edematous subcutaneous tissues and plastic reconstruction of his penis and scrotum. Three years later, the patient showed no signs of local recurrence, had complete restoration of urinary and sexual function and was extremely satisfied with the result. Surgical management was an effective strategy in the management of scrotal lymphedema in this case.

  14. [Idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease - advancements in surgical treatment].

    PubMed

    Ulrych, J; Krška, Z

    2012-10-01

    Treatment of idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease is constantly developing. Biological therapy has become a standard part of conservative treatment, and gene and cell therapy of these diseases is in preclinical phase. Surgical therapy also offers some progress in the treatment, such as the increasingly preferred laparoscopic approach offering the numerous benefits of minimally invasive surgery or a tendency to perform stapled anastomosis. A retrospective analysis of patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic inflammatory bowel operated on at the First Department of Surgery, General University Hospital in the years 2007-2011 was performed. Within this period, 179 patients diagnosed with Crohns disease were operated on. 30 patients underwent acute operation and 149 patients were indicated for elective surgery. In the same period, 40 patients with ulcerative colitis were indicated for surgery, of whom 22 patients for acute surgery and 18 for elective surgery. Multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease is crucial and patients should be treated in specialized centres. New possibilities of conservative treatment and progress in surgical therapy mutually correlate, and thus the choice of a correct therapeutic procedure requires specific cooperation between the surgeon and the gastroenterologist.

  15. Idiopathic hypercalciuria and formation of calcium renal stones

    PubMed Central

    Coe, Fredric L.; Worcester, Elaine M.; Evan, Andrew P.

    2018-01-01

    The most common presentation of nephrolithiasis is idiopathic calcium stones in patients without systemic disease. Most stones are primarily composed of calcium oxalate and form on a base of interstitial apatite deposits, known as Randall’s plaque. By contrast some stones are composed largely of calcium phosphate, as either hydroxyapatite or brushite (calcium monohydrogen phosphate), and are usually accompanied by deposits of calcium phosphate in the Bellini ducts. These deposits result in local tissue damage and might serve as a site of mineral overgrowth. Stone formation is driven by supersaturation of urine with calcium oxalate and brushite. The level of supersaturation is related to fluid intake as well as to the levels of urinary citrate and calcium. Risk of stone formation is increased when urine citrate excretion is <400 mg per day, and treatment with potassium citrate has been used to prevent stones. Urine calcium levels >200 mg per day also increase stone risk and often result in negative calcium balance. Reduced renal calcium reabsorption has a role in idiopathic hypercalciuria. Low sodium diets and thiazide-type diuretics lower urine calcium levels and potentially reduce the risk of stone recurrence and bone diseas PMID:27452364

  16. Nephrotic syndrome complicated by idiopathic central diabetes insipidus.

    PubMed

    Konomoto, Takao; Tanaka, Etsuko; Imamura, Hideaki; Orita, Mayuko; Sawada, Hirotake; Nunoi, Hiroyuki

    2014-05-01

    There is ongoing discussion regarding the mechanisms underlying edema formation in nephrotic syndrome (NS). Many studies published in the last decade reported that primary renal sodium retention was a major factor in edema formation. However, many of the factors influencing edema formation in NS remain unclear, including the role of arginine vasopressin (AVP). We report a 12-year-old boy with steroid-dependent NS complicated by idiopathic central diabetes insipidus (CDI). He did not develop edema during his first relapse of NS after developing CDI, despite having hypoalbuminemia. He had polydipsia, polyuria, low urine osmolality, and a low serum arginine AVP level. His fractional excretion of sodium was only slightly low. Endocrinological testing and magnetic resonance imaging revealed idiopathic CDI. After starting desmopressin therapy, he developed edema when his NS relapsed. This is the first known reported case of NS in a patient with CDI. The findings suggest that appropriate AVP secretion in response to an increase in serum osmolality caused by renal sodium retention is necessary for excess extracellular fluid accumulation in NS. Further investigation is needed to more fully understand the role of AVP in edema formation in NS.

  17. Rituximab in treatment of idiopathic glomerulopathy.

    PubMed

    El-Reshaid, Kamel; Sallam, Hossameldin Tawfik; Hakim, Abbass Ali; Al-Attiyah, Rajaa

    2012-09-01

    The aim of our study was to assess the role of rituximab (Mabthera) in the treatment of patients with corticosteroid-resistant and calcineurin-inhibitors ± cellcept refractory idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). A total of 83 patients who had required the previous treatment for a minimum of two years were included in the study. Our protocol included the use of rituximab in four-weekly slow infusions. Five patients were excluded as they could not tolerate rituximab infusion for allergic reaction. As expected, none of the patients had a decline in the total circulating lymphocyte counts yet all had achieved decline of their initially normal CD20 to < 0.5% one month after infusion. The decline persisted for eight to ten months later. In the minimal change disease (MCD) group, 31 of the 32 patients had complete remission (CR) and were off any immunosuppressive therapy and one of the previous non-responders (NR) did not respond. Excluding two patients who had required retreatment, the others remained in CR (17 up to 28 months and six up to 36 months). Treatment with rituximab resulted in amelioration of NS in 17 of the 18 patients with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), while only one patient remained NR. Although renal function remained stable, proteinuria reappeared by eight to 12 months. Retreatment with rituximab resulted in a similar response with stable kidney function. In the 28 patients with membranous glomerulopathy (MG), 24 had achieved CR. Two patients failed to respond and two had partial remission. By 12 months, all patients relapsed. The response was within one month following treatment in patient with MCD, but was gradual within three months in FSGS and MG. Relapsers in all groups responded in a similar pattern to repeat dosing with the drug subsequently. Our prospective study represents an adequate number of patients with biopsy-proven subgroups of INS in both children and adults with long-term follow-up of treatment with rituximab. The drug is

  18. Immunosuppressive therapy for patients with Down syndrome and idiopathic aplastic anemia.

    PubMed

    Suzuki, Kyogo; Muramatsu, Hideki; Okuno, Yusuke; Narita, Atsushi; Hama, Asahito; Takahashi, Yoshiyuki; Yoshida, Makoto; Horikoshi, Yasuo; Watanabe, Ken-Ichiro; Kudo, Kazuko; Kojima, Seiji

    2016-07-01

    Idiopathic aplastic anemia (AA) is a rare hematological complication of Down syndrome (DS). The safety and efficacy of immunosuppressive therapy (IST) in individuals with DS remain unknown. We used a standard regimen of IST, comprising antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine A, to treat three children with DS and idiopathic acquired AA. Two patients achieved a hematological (complete or partial) response and became transfusion independent at the final follow-up. The third patient failed to respond to IST and underwent bone marrow transplantation from a human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-mismatched unrelated donor. None of the patients experienced severe or unexpected adverse events during IST. Our experience suggests that IST is a safe and reasonable treatment, even in individuals with DS who suffer from AA and lack an HLA-matched sibling donor.

  19. Impact of sildenafil on survival of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension.

    PubMed

    Zeng, Wei-Jie; Sun, Yun-Juan; Gu, Qing; Xiong, Chang-Ming; Li, Jian-Jun; He, Jian-Guo

    2012-09-01

    It has been reported that short-term sildenafil therapy is safe and effective for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, data regarding the impact of sildenafil on the survival of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension remain limited. The study was conducted on 77 patients with newly diagnosed idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension at Fu Wai Hospital between September 2005 and September 2009. Patients were divided into 2 groups: the sildenafil group and the conventional group. Nine patients treated with sildenafil were re-evaluated by right heart catheterization after 3 months. Our data demonstrated that the 6-minute walk distance, World Health Organization functional class, mixed venous oxygen saturation, and hemodynamics significantly improved after 3 months of sildenafil therapy (P < .05). The baseline characteristics of the sildenafil group were similar to those of the conventional group. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates in the sildenafil group were 88%, 72%, and 68% compared with 61%, 36%, and 27% in the conventional group (P < .001). The absence of sildenafil therapy, lower body mass index, and lower mixed venous oxygen saturation were found to be independent predictors of mortality. In conclusion, sildenafil therapy was found to be associated with improved survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension.

  20. Familial idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Evidence of lung inflammation in unaffected family members

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bitterman, P.B.; Rennard, S.I.; Keogh, B.A.

    1986-05-22

    We evaluated 17 clinically unaffected members of three families with an autosomal dominant form of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis for evidence of alveolar inflammation. Each person in the study was examined by gallium-67 scanning for a general estimate of pulmonary inflammation, and by bronchoalveolar lavage for characterization of the types of recovered cells and their state of activation. Eight of the 17 subjects had evidence of alveolar inflammation on the lavage studies. Supporting data included increased numbers of neutrophils and activated macrophages that released one or more neutrophil chemoattractants, and growth factors for lung fibroblasts--findings similar to those observed in patientsmore » with overt idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Four of these eight also had a positive gallium scan; in all the other clinically unaffected subjects the scan was normal. During a follow-up of two to four years in seven of the eight subjects who had evidence of inflammation, no clinical evidence of pulmonary fibrosis has appeared. These results indicate that alveolar inflammation occurs in approximately half the clinically unaffected family members at risk of inheriting autosomal dominant idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Whether these persons with evidence of pulmonary inflammation but no fibrosis will proceed to have clinically evident pulmonary fibrosis is not yet known.« less

  1. Identification of a novel mutation in the PTCH gene in a patient with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome with unusual ocular disorders.

    PubMed

    Romano, Mary; Iacovello, Daniela; Cascone, Nikhil C; Contestabile, Maria Teresa

    2011-01-01

    To document the clinical, functional, and in vivo microanatomic characteristics of a patient with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome with a novel nonsense mutation in PTCH (patched). Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, electrophysiologic testing, visual field, magnetic resonance imaging, and mutation screening of PTCH gene. Visual acuity was 20/20 in the right eye and 20/25 in the left. Fundus examination revealed myelinated nerve fibers in the left eye and bilateral epiretinal membranes with lamellar macular hole also documented with macular OCT. A reduction of the retinal nerve fiber layers in both eyes was found with fiber nervous OCT. Fluorescein angiography showed bilaterally foveal hyperfluorescence and the visual field revealed inferior hemianopia in the right eye. Pattern visual evoked potentials registered a reduction of amplitude in both eyes and latency was delayed in the left eye. Pattern electroretinogram showed a reduction in P50 and N95 peak time and a delay in P50 peak time in the left eye. Flash electroretinogram was reduced in rod response, maximal response, and oscillatory potentials in both eyes. Cone response was normal and 30-Hz flicker was slightly reduced in both eyes. Mutation screening identified a novel nonsense mutation in PTCH. A novel nonsense mutation in the PTCH gene was found. We report the occurrence of epiretinal membranes and the persistence of myelinated nerve fibers. Electrophysiologic and visual field alterations, supporting a neuroretinal dysfunction, were also documented.

  2. En face spectral domain optical coherence tomography analysis of lamellar macular holes.

    PubMed

    Clamp, Michael F; Wilkes, Geoff; Leis, Laura S; McDonald, H Richard; Johnson, Robert N; Jumper, J Michael; Fu, Arthur D; Cunningham, Emmett T; Stewart, Paul J; Haug, Sara J; Lujan, Brandon J

    2014-07-01

    To analyze the anatomical characteristics of lamellar macular holes using cross-sectional and en face spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Forty-two lamellar macular holes were retrospectively identified for analysis. The location, cross-sectional length, and area of lamellar holes were measured using B-scans and en face imaging. The presence of photoreceptor inner segment/outer segment disruption and the presence or absence of epiretinal membrane formation were recorded. Forty-two lamellar macular holes were identified. Intraretinal splitting occurred within the outer plexiform layer in 97.6% of eyes. The area of intraretinal splitting in lamellar holes did not correlate with visual acuity. Eyes with inner segment/outer segment disruption had significantly worse mean logMAR visual acuity (0.363 ± 0.169; Snellen = 20/46) than in eyes without inner segment/outer segment disruption (0.203 ± 0.124; Snellen = 20/32) (analysis of variance, P = 0.004). Epiretinal membrane was present in 34 of 42 eyes (81.0%). En face imaging allowed for consistent detection and quantification of intraretinal splitting within the outer plexiform layer in patients with lamellar macular holes, supporting the notion that an area of anatomical weakness exists within Henle's fiber layer, presumably at the synaptic connection of these fibers within the outer plexiform layer. However, the en face area of intraretinal splitting did not correlate with visual acuity, disruption of the inner segment/outer segment junction was associated with significantly worse visual acuity in patients with lamellar macular holes.

  3. Ultrahigh-Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography of Surgically Closed Macular Holes

    PubMed Central

    Ko, Tony H.; Witkin, Andre J.; Fujimoto, James G.; Chan, Annie; Rogers, Adam H.; Baumal, Caroline R.; Schuman, Joel S.; Drexler, Wolfgang; Reichel, Elias; Duker, Jay S.

    2007-01-01

    Objective To evaluate retinal anatomy using ultrahigh-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) in eyes after successful surgical repair of full-thickness macular hole. Methods Twenty-two eyes of 22 patients were diagnosed as having macular hole, underwent pars plana vitrectomy, and had flat/closed macular anatomy after surgery, as confirmed with biomicroscopic and OCT examination findings. An ultrahigh-resolution–OCT system developed for retinal imaging, with the capability to achieve approximately 3-μm axial resolution, was used to evaluate retinal anatomy after hole repair. Results Despite successful closure of the macular hole, all 22 eyes had macular abnormalities on ultrahigh-resolution–OCT images after surgery. These abnormalities were separated into the following 5 categories: (1) outer foveal defects in 14 eyes (64%), (2) persistent foveal detachment in 4 (18%), (3) moderately reflective foveal lesions in 12 (55%), (4) epiretinal membranes in 14 (64%), and (5) nerve fiber layer defects in 3 (14%). Conclusions With improved visualization of fine retinal architectural features, ultrahigh-resolution OCT can visualize persistent retinal abnormalities despite anatomically successful macular hole surgery. Outer foveal hyporeflective disruptions of the junction between the inner and outer segments of the photoreceptors likely represent areas of foveal photoreceptor degeneration. Moderately reflective lesions likely represent glial cell proliferation at the site of hole reapproximation. Thin epiretinal membranes do not seem to decrease visual acuity and may play a role in reestablishing foveal anatomy after surgery. PMID:16769836

  4. Early prediction of medication refractoriness in children with idiopathic epilepsy based on scalp EEG analysis.

    PubMed

    Lin, Lung-Chang; Ouyang, Chen-Sen; Chiang, Ching-Tai; Yang, Rei-Cheng; Wu, Rong-Ching; Wu, Hui-Chuan

    2014-11-01

    Refractory epilepsy often has deleterious effects on an individual's health and quality of life. Early identification of patients whose seizures are refractory to antiepileptic drugs is important in considering the use of alternative treatments. Although idiopathic epilepsy is regarded as having a significantly lower risk factor of developing refractory epilepsy, still a subset of patients with idiopathic epilepsy might be refractory to medical treatment. In this study, we developed an effective method to predict the refractoriness of idiopathic epilepsy. Sixteen EEG segments from 12 well-controlled patients and 14 EEG segments from 11 refractory patients were analyzed at the time of first EEG recordings before antiepileptic drug treatment. Ten crucial EEG feature descriptors were selected for classification. Three of 10 were related to decorrelation time, and four of 10 were related to relative power of delta/gamma. There were significantly higher values in these seven feature descriptors in the well-controlled group as compared to the refractory group. On the contrary, the remaining three feature descriptors related to spectral edge frequency, kurtosis, and energy of wavelet coefficients demonstrated significantly lower values in the well-controlled group as compared to the refractory group. The analyses yielded a weighted precision rate of 94.2%, and a 93.3% recall rate. Therefore, the developed method is a useful tool in identifying the possibility of developing refractory epilepsy in patients with idiopathic epilepsy.

  5. Corticosteroid treatment and timing of surgery in idiopathic granulomatous mastitis confusing with breast carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Erozgen, Fazilet; Ersoy, Yeliz E; Akaydin, Murat; Memmi, Naim; Celik, Aysun Simsek; Celebi, Fatih; Guzey, Deniz; Kaplan, Rafet

    2010-09-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is an uncommon chronic inflammatory lesion of the breast with an uncertain optimal treatment regimen, the physical examination, and radiologic features of which may be confused with breast carcinoma. In this study, we aimed to describe the clinicopathologic characteristics of 33 patients who admitted to our breast policlinic and took the diagnosis of granulomatous (idiopathic and non-idiopathic) mastitis, and report the place of corticosteroids and the timing of surgery in the treatment of patients with IGM. The clinical features of 33 patients who presented to our breast policlinic with the complaint of breast mass and reached the final diagnosis of GM between March 2005 and October 2009 were reported. The most common symptoms were mass (n: 27) and pain (n: 11). Ultrasonography (USG) and biopsy were performed in all of the patients. Mammography (MMG) was performed in 9, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 10 patients. The diagnosis of idiopathic lobular granulomatous mastitis (ILGM) was made in 25 patients and tuberculous mastitis (non-idiopathic GM) in the remaining 8 patients. Twenty-four patients received steroid treatment except one who was pregnant. After giving birth, she also received steroids. One of the patients who developed recurrence after 11 months repeated the steroid therapy. Eight patients with tuberculous mastitis were placed on a regimen of antituberculosis therapy for 6 months. In the diagnosis of IGM, physical examination, USG, MMG, and even MRI alone may sometimes not be enough. They should be discussed altogether and the treatment should begin after definitive histopathologic result. Fine needle aspiration biopsy for cytology will result in a high level of diagnostic accuracy, however, core biopsy will reinforce the exact result. Corticosteroid therapy has been shown to be efficacious for IGM, but in the existence of complications such as abscess formation, fistulae, and persistent wound infection

  6. [Regulation of airway stem cell proliferation in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis].

    PubMed

    Yang, S X; Wu, Q; Sun, X; Li, X; Li, K; Xu, L; Li, Y; Zhang, Q Y; Zhang, Y C; Chen, H Y

    2016-09-01

    To investigate the effect of fibroblasts on regulating airway stem cell proliferation in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Lung cell suspension was prepared from β-actin-GFP mice. Airway stem cells were obtained by fluorescence activated cell sorting and co-cultured with lung fibroblasts. The fibroblasts were treated with TGF-β inhibitor SB43142. The expression of growth factors FGF1/2 and the effect of FGF1/2 on stem cell proliferation were observed. The cloning efficiency of airway stem cells, when co-cultured with normal lung fibroblast cells for 8 days, was (3.5±1.1)%, while the cloning efficiency was reduced to (0.04±0.04)% when co-cultured with lung fibroblasts from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients. The difference between the 2 groups was statistically significant(P=0.002 5). TGF-β receptor inhibitor SB431542 increased lung fibroblast growth factors FGF1/2 expression.FGF1 mRNA expression was increased to the experimental group 0.005 5 from 0.000 2 in the control group.FGF2 mRNA expression of the amount raised to the experimental group 0.000 15 from 0.000 8 in the control group.FGF1/2 promoted the growth of airway stem cells. After FGF1/2 was co-cultured with normal lung fibroblast cells for 8 days, the cloning efficiency of airway stem cells was (0.3±0.1)%. During the development of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, fibroblast secreted FGF1/2 regulate airway stem cell proliferation.

  7. Computational modeling of venous sinus stenosis in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Levitt, Michael R; McGah, Patrick M; Moon, Karam; Albuquerque, Felipe C; McDougall, Cameron G; Kalani, M Yashar S; Kim, Louis J; Aliseda, Alberto

    2016-01-01

    Background and Purpose Idiopathic intracranial hypertension has been associated with dural venous sinus stenosis in some patients, but the hemodynamic environment of the dural venous sinuses has not been quantitatively described. Here, we present the first such computational fluid dynamics model using patient-specific blood pressure measurements. Materials and Methods Six patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and at least one stenosis or atresia at the transverse-sigmoid sinus junction underwent MRV followed by cerebral venography and manometry throughout the dural venous sinuses. Patient-specific computational fluid dynamics models were created using MRV anatomy, with venous pressure measurements as boundary conditions. Blood flow and wall shear stress were calculated for each patient. Results Computational models of dural venous sinuses were successfully reconstructed in all six patients with patient-specific boundary conditions. Three patients demonstrated a pathologic pressure gradient (≥ 8 mm Hg) across four dural venous sinus stenoses. Small sample size precludes statistical comparisons, but average overall flow throughout the dural venous sinuses of patients with pathologic pressure gradients was higher than in those without (1041.00 ± 506.52 vs. 358.00 ± 190.95 mL/min). Wall shear stress was also higher across stenoses in patients with pathologic pressure gradients (37.66 ± 48.39 vs 7.02 ± 13.60 Pa). Conclusion The hemodynamic environment of the dural venous sinuses can be computationally modeled using patient-specific anatomy and physiological measurements in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. There was substantially higher blood flow and wall shear stress in patients with pathological pressure gradients. PMID:27197986

  8. Buckling and bone modeling as factors in the development of idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Goto, Manabu; Kawakami, Noriaki; Azegami, Hideyuki; Matsuyama, Yukihiro; Takeuchi, Kenzen; Sasaoka, Ryu

    2003-02-15

    Computational analysis using the finite-element method was used to examine a possible etiology of idiopathic scoliosis. To compare changes in the coronal and the transverse planes of idiopathic thoracic scoliosis with changes produced in a finite-element buckling model, and to investigate the influence of bone modeling on the buckling spine. Although it is now widely accepted that growth is related strongly to the onset and progression of scoliosis, the pathomechanism or etiology of idiopathic scoliosis still is not clear. A previous study showed that a buckling phenomenon caused by anterior spinal overgrowth can produce scoliosis, and that the fourth buckling mode matched the clinical characteristics associated with the thoracic type of idiopathic scoliosis. The fourth buckling mode occurs when the first, second, and third buckling modes are prevented. The spinal finite-element model used in this study consisted of 68,582 elements and 84,603 nodes. The transverse changes seen in the computed tomography images of 41 patients with idiopathic thoracic scoliosis (apex, T8; average Cobb angle, 52.5 degrees) were compared with those produced in the fourth buckling mode. Bone modeling (bone formation and resorption) was simulated as heat deformation caused by changes in temperature. The bone formation and resorption were simulated, respectively, by positive and negative volume changes in proportion to the stress that occurred in the buckling spine. Computed tomography images of scoliosis show that as the scoliosis becomes more severe, the thoracic cage decreases on the convex side of the curve and increases on the concave side. The opposite thoracic cage deformation was obtained in the fourth buckling mode. In patients with scoliosis, the sternum essentially remains in its original position with respect to the vertebrae, but in the linear buckling model, it shifted in the direction of vertebral body rotation. In contrast to clinical data, the incremental deformation

  9. Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection therapy for juvenile idiopathic arthritis: 12-year care experience.

    PubMed

    Young, Cody M; Shiels, William E; Coley, Brian D; Hogan, Mark J; Murakami, James W; Jones, Karla; Higgins, Gloria C; Rennebohm, Robert M

    2012-12-01

    Intra-articular corticosteroid injections are a safe and effective treatment for patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The potential scope of care in ultrasound-guided corticosteroid therapy in children and a joint-based corticosteroid dose protocol designed to optimize interdisciplinary care are not found in the current literature. The purpose of this study was to report the spectrum of care, technique and safety of ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection therapy in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and to propose an age-weight-joint-based corticosteroid dose protocol. A retrospective analysis was performed of 198 patients (ages 21 months to 28 years) referred for treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis with corticosteroid therapy. Symptomatic joints and tendon sheaths were treated as prescribed by the referring rheumatologist. An age-weight-joint-based dose protocol was developed and utilized for corticosteroid dose prescription. A total of 1,444 corticosteroid injections (1,340 joints, 104 tendon sheaths) were performed under US guidance. Injection sites included small, medium and large appendicular skeletal joints (upper extremity 497, lower extremity 837) and six temporomandibular joints. For patients with recurrent symptoms, 414 repeat injections were performed, with an average time interval of 17.7 months (range, 0.5-101.5 months) between injections. Complications occurred in 2.6% of injections and included subcutaneous tissue atrophy, skin hypopigmentation, erythema and pruritis. US-guided corticosteroid injection therapy provides dynamic, precise and safe treatment of a broad spectrum of joints and tendon sheaths throughout the entire pediatric musculoskeletal system. An age-weight-joint-based corticosteroid dose protocol is effective and integral to interdisciplinary care of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

  10. Risk Factors for Neurodegeneration in Idiopathic REM sleep Behavior Disorder: A Multicenter Study

    PubMed Central

    Postuma, RB; Iranzo, A; Hogl, B; Arnulf, I; Ferini-Strambi, L; Manni, R; Miyamoto, T.; Oertel, W; Dauvilliers, Y; Ju, Y; Puligheddu, M; Sonka, K; Pelletier, A; Santamaria, J; Frauscher, B; Leu-Semenescu, S; Zucconi, M; Terzaghi, M; Miyamoto, M.; Unger, MM; Carlander, B; Fantini, ML; Montplaisir, JY

    2018-01-01

    Objective To assess whether risk factors for Parkinson’s disease and Dementia with Lewy bodies increase rate of defined neurodegenerative disease in idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder Methods 12 centers administered a detailed questionnaire assessing risk factors for neurodegenerative synucleinopathy to patients with idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder. Variables included demographics, lifestyle factors, pesticide exposures, occupation, co-morbid conditions, medication use, family history, and autonomic/motor symptoms. After 4-years follow-up, patients were assessed for dementia or parkinsonism. Disease risk was assessed with Kaplan-Meier analysis, and epidemiologic variables were compared between convertors and those still idiopathic using logistic regression. Results Of 305 patients, follow-up information was available for 279, of whom 93 (33.3%) developed defined neurodegenerative disease. Disease risk was 25% at 3 years, and 41% after 5 years. Patients who converted were older (difference=4.5 years, p<0.001), with similar sex distribution. Neither caffeine, smoking, nor alcohol exposure predicted conversion. Although occupation was similar between groups, those who converted had a lower likelihood of pesticide exposure (occupational insecticide=2.3% vs. 9.0%). Convertors were more likely to report family history of dementia (OR=2.09), without significant differences in Parkinson’s disease or sleep disorders. Medication exposures and medical history were similar between groups. Autonomic and motor symptoms were more common among those who converted. Risk factors for primary dementia and parkinsonism were generally similar, except for a notably higher clonazepam use in dementia convertors (OR=2.6). Interpretation Patients with idiopathic RBD are at very high risk of neurodegenerative synucleinopathy. Risk factor profiles between convertors and non-convertors have both important commonalities and differences. PMID:25767079

  11. Long-Term Effects of Untreated Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Review of the Literature

    PubMed Central

    Karavidas, Nikos; Moramarco, Marc; Moramarco, Kathryn

    2016-01-01

    Currently, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is principally regarded as benign, but some researchers have cited serious or extreme effects, including severe pain, cardiopulmonary compromise, social isolation, and even early death. Therefore, exploration of the long-term effects of AIS, the most common type of idiopathic scoliosis, is warranted. The purpose of this review was to examine the long-term studies on the natural history of AIS and/or reviews concerning the long-term effects of untreated AIS. A PubMed search was conducted using the key words idiopathic scoliosis, long-term effects and idiopathic scoliosis, natural history. For further analysis, references cited in those studies were reviewed for additional, related evidence not retrieved in the initial PubMed search. A review of the pertinent bibliography showed that older natural history studies did not distinguish between late-onset scoliosis (referred to in this paper as AIS) and early-onset scoliosis (EOS). The more recent studies offer such important distinction and reach to the general conclusion that untreated AIS does not lead to severe consequences with respect to signs and symptoms of scoliosis. It is possible that earlier studies may have included patient populations with EOS, leading to the perception of untreated scoliosis as having an unusually high morbidity rate. Studies on the long-term effects of AIS that specifically excluded EOS patients conclude that AIS is a benign disorder. This indicates that for research and reporting purposes, it is important to distinguishing between AIS and EOS. This will allow the practitioner and patient and their families to decide on an optimal treatment plan based on the most appropriate prognosis. PMID:27994795

  12. Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis Associated with Corynebacterium Sp. Infection

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Yun Sun; Balfour, John

    2011-01-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a rare inflammatory condition of the breast. The etiology and treatments options of IGM remain controversial. Previous case reports have suggested that Corynebacterium sp., a gram-positive bacillus endogenous to the skin, may be associated with IGM. In the present report, we describe the first case of IGM with a positive culture for Corynebacterium sp. reported in the United States. PMID:21857740

  13. Myeloid-Related Protein-14/MRP-14/S100A9/Calgranulin B is Associated with Inflammation in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy.

    PubMed

    Abu El-Asrar, Ahmed M; Alam, Kaiser; Siddiquei, Mohammad M; Van den Eynde, Kathleen; Mohammad, Ghulam; De Hertogh, Gert; Opdenakker, Ghislain

    2018-01-01

    To investigate the expression of the leukocyte proteins myeloid-related protein (MRP)-8 and MRP-14 in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and the effect of MRP-8/MRP-14 (calprotectin) heterodimer on induction of proinflammatory factors in human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMEC). Epiretinal membranes from 20 patients with PDR and 10 patients with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), vitreous fluid samples from PDR and non-diabetic subjects and HRMEC were studied by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. MRP-14 expression was localized in endothelial cells, leukocytes and myofibroblasts in all PDR membranes. MRP-8 expression was limited to intravascular leukocytes in 42% of the studied membranes. In PVR membranes, MRP-14 was expressed in leukocytes and myofibroblasts, whereas MRP-8 immunoreactivity was limited to leukocytes. MRP-14 was significantly upregulated in vitreous from PDR patients. MRP-8/MRP-14 (calprotectin) increased expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, but attenuated vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 expression in HRMEC. Increased MRP-14 levels are associated with inflammation in PDR.

  14. Molecular analysis of HLA-DPB1 alleles in idiopathic systemic sclerosis patients and uranium miners with systemic sclerosis.

    PubMed

    Rihs, H P; Conrad, K; Mehlhorn, J; May-Taube, K; Welticke, B; Frank, K H; Baur, X

    1996-03-01

    According to clinical mainifestation and autoantibody pattern [anti-Scl-70, anti-centromere antibodies (ACAs)], systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disease with heterogenous subgroups. PCR-sequence-specific-oligonucleotide typing was used to study the genetic association of HLA-DPB1 alleles in 54 patients with idiopathic systemic sclerosis, 26 uranium miners with systemic sclerosis and 70 unrelated healthy control subjects. Systemic sclerosis patients with and without former employment in mines were divided into two subgroups according to their scleroderma-typical autoantibody specificities--anti-Scl-70 positive and ACA positive--and third subgroup comprising the rest. Statistical analysis revealed a significantly increased frequency of DPB1*1301(p=0.0001, corrected p=0.011) in idiopathic anti-Scl-70-positive systemic sclerosis cases when compared with unexposed controls. In the same group, we observed an enhanced frequency of DPB1*0601 and *1701 alleles. Since these three alleles carry the information for a glutamic acid residue in position 69 of DPB1, we tested the association of this residue with anti-Scl-70 expression. A strong association between anti-Scl-70 positivity in idiopathic systemic sclerosis patients and amino acid residue 69 of DPB1 was observed when compared with anti-Scl-70-negative idiopathic systemic sclerosis patients (p=0.0009) or unrelated controls (p=0.0007). ACA expression was not associated with the presence of any DPB1 allele tested. The data show that anti-Scl-70 expression in idiopathic systemic sclerosis patients is linked with DPB1*1301 whereas anti-Scl-70-positive miners do not show such a DPB1 association. Futhermore, the data indicate that glutamate 69 of DPB1 might be involved in the susceptibility to idiopathic anti-Scl-70 expression.

  15. Comparing the Roles of EUS, ERCP and MRCP in Idiopathic Acute Recurrent Pancreatitis.

    PubMed

    Safari, Mohammad Taghi; Miri, Mohammad Bager; Ebadi, Shahram; Shahrokh, Shabnam; Mohammad Alizadeh, Amir Houshang

    2016-01-01

    Acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) is defined as more than two attacks of acute pancreatitis with complete or almost complete resolution of symptoms and signs of pancreatitis between episodes. The initial evaluation fails to detect the cause of ARP in 10%-30% of patients, whose condition is classified as idiopathic ARP. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has gained increasing attention as a useful imaging modality for the pancreas and the extrahepatic biliary tree. The close proximity of the pancreas to the digestive tract allows EUS to obtain detailed images of this organ. This review aims to record pancreaticobiliary endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and other imaging modalities in the clinical management of patients with idiopathic ARP.

  16. Idiopathic restrictive cardiomyopathy is part of the clinical expression of cardiac troponin I mutations

    PubMed Central

    Mogensen, Jens; Kubo, Toru; Duque, Mauricio; Uribe, William; Shaw, Anthony; Murphy, Ross; Gimeno, Juan R.; Elliott, Perry; McKenna, William J.

    2003-01-01

    Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) is an uncommon heart muscle disorder characterized by impaired filling of the ventricles with reduced volume in the presence of normal or near normal wall thickness and systolic function. The disease may be associated with systemic disease but is most often idiopathic. We recognized a large family in which individuals were affected by either idiopathic RCM or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Linkage analysis to selected sarcomeric contractile protein genes identified cardiac troponin I (TNNI3) as the likely disease gene. Subsequent mutation analysis revealed a novel missense mutation, which cosegregated with the disease in the family (lod score: 4.8). To determine if idiopathic RCM is part of the clinical expression of TNNI3 mutations, genetic investigations of the gene were performed in an additional nine unrelated RCM patients with restrictive filling patterns, bi-atrial dilatation, normal systolic function, and normal wall thickness. TNNI3 mutations were identified in six of these nine RCM patients. Two of the mutations identified in young individuals were de novo mutations. All mutations appeared in conserved and functionally important domains of the gene. PMID:12531876

  17. Torsional deformity of apical vertebra in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Kotwicki, Tomasz; Napiontek, Marek

    2002-01-01

    CT scans of structural thoracic idiopathic scoliosis were reviewed in nine patients admitted to our department for scoliosis surgery. The apical vertebra scans were chosen and the following parameters were evaluated: 1) alpha angle formed by the axis of vertebra and the axis of spinous process 2) beta concave and beta convex angle between the spinous process and the left and right transverse process, respectively, 3) gamma concave and gamma convex angle between the axis of vertebra and the left and right transverse process, respectively, 4) the rotation angle to the sagittal plane. The constant deviation of the spinous process towards the convex side of the curve was observed. The vertebral body itself was distorted towards the concavity of the curve. The angle between the spinous process and the transverse process was smaller on the convex side of the curve. The torsional, intravertebral deformity of the apical vertebra was a factor acting in the direction opposite to the rotation, in the sense to reduce the deformity of the spine in idiopathic scoliosis.

  18. Anti-adalimumab antibodies in juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis.

    PubMed

    Leinonen, Sanna T; Aalto, Kristiina; Kotaniemi, Kaisu M; Kivelä, Tero T

    2017-01-01

    To evaluate the association of adalimumab trough levels and anti-adalimumab antibodies with activity of uveitis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis. This was a retrospective observational case series in a clinical setting at the Department of Ophthalmology, Helsinki University Hospital, Finland in 2014-2016. Thirty-one paediatric patients with chronic anterior juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis in 58 eyes and who had been on adalimumab ≥6 months were eligible for the study. Uveitis activity during adalimumab treatment, adalimumab trough levels and anti-adalimumab antibody levels were recorded. Anti-adalimumab antibody levels ≥12 AU /ml were detected in nine patients (29%). This level of anti-adalimumab antibodies was associated with a higher grade of uveitis (p<0.001), uveitis that was not in remission (p=0.001) and with lack of concomitant methotrexate therapy (p=0.043). In patients with anti-adalimumab antibody levels <12 AU/ml, higher serum trough levels did not associate with better control of uveitis (p=0.86). Adalimumab treatment might be better guided by monitoring anti-adalimumab antibody formation in treating JIA-related uveitis.

  19. Stent-Graft Placement for Femoral Artery Pseudoaneurysm in a Patient with Idiopathic Multiple Arterial Aneurysmal Disease

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Koo, Bon Kwon; Choi, Donghoon; Kwon, Kihwan

    2002-12-15

    A 34-year-old man presenting with a left inguinal mass was diagnosed as having idiopathic multiple aneurysmal disease and pseudoaneurysm of a left superficial femoral artery. A stent-graft was successfully deployed percutaneously at the left superficial femoral artery pseudoaneurysm. Less invasive treatment should be used to avoid vascular complications in patients with idiopathic multiple aneurysmal disease, especially in those who have a progressive course or a history of prior complications after surgical repair.

  20. Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1) regulates pleural mesothelial cell plasticity and transition into myofibroblasts in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Karki, Suman; Surolia, Ranu; Hock, Thomas David; Guroji, Purusotham; Zolak, Jason S.; Duggal, Ryan; Ye, Tong; Thannickal, Victor J.; Antony, Veena B.

    2014-01-01

    Pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs), which are derived from the mesoderm, exhibit an extraordinary capacity to undergo phenotypic changes during development and disease. PMC transformation and trafficking has a newly defined role in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF); however, the contribution of Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1)-positive PMCs to the generation of pathognomonic myofibroblasts remains unclear. PMCs were obtained from IPF lung explants and healthy donor lungs that were not used for transplantation. Short hairpin Wt1-knockdown PMCs (sh Wt1) were generated with Wt1 shRNA, and morphologic and functional assays were performed in vitro. Loss of Wt1 abrogated the PMC phenotype and showed evidence of mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT), with a reduced expression of E-cadherin and an increase in the profibrotic markers α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin, along with increased migration and contractility, compared with that of the control. Migration of PMCs in response to active transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 was assessed by live-cell imaging with 2-photon microscopy and 3D imaging, of Wt1-EGFP transgenic mice. Lineage-tracing experiments to map the fate of Wt1+ PMCs in mouse lung in response to TGF-β1 were also performed by using a Cre-loxP system. Our results, for the first time, demonstrate that Wt1 is necessary for the morphologic integrity of pleural membrane and that loss of Wt1 contributes to IPF via MMT of PMCs into a myofibroblast phenotype.—Karki, S., Surolia, R., Hock, T. D., Guroji, P., Zolak, J. S., Duggal, R., Ye, T., Thannickal, V., J., Antony, V. B. Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1) regulates pleural mesothelial cell plasticity and transition into myofibroblasts in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. PMID:24265486

  1. Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss and ménière syndrome: The role of cerebral venous drainage.

    PubMed

    Ciccone, M M; Scicchitano, P; Gesualdo, M; Cortese, F; Zito, A; Manca, F; Boninfante, B; Recchia, P; Leogrande, D; Viola, D; Damiani, M; Gambacorta, V; Piccolo, A; De Ceglie, V; Quaranta, N

    2018-02-01

    To evaluate the influence of cerebral venous drainage on the pathogenesis of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) and Ménière syndrome (MD). Observational, prospective, cohort study. ENT and Cardiology Departments (University of Bari, Policlinico Hospital, Bari, Italy). We enrolled 59 consecutive patients (32 males, mean age 53.05 + 15.37 years): 40 ISSHL and 19 MD. All patients underwent physical examination, biochemical evaluation (glycemic and lipid profile, viral serology, C reactive protein, etc), audiometric (tonal, vocal, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials and auditory brainstem response test) and impedentiometric examination. The pure tone average (PTA) was calculated for the following frequencies: 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 8000. An echo-color Doppler evaluation of the venous cerebral veins, internal jugular (IJV) and vertebral veins (VV) at supine and 90° position was performed. No morphological alterations were found both in patients and controls. There were no signs of stenosis, blocked flow, membranes, etc. We found lower minimum, mean and maximum velocities in distal IJVs (P = .019; P = .013; P = .022; respectively) and left VVs (P = .027; P = .008; P = .001; respectively) in supine (0°) position in both MD and ISSHL patients as compared to controls. The same was for orthostatic position (90°). We found negative correlations between the velocities in extracranial veins and PTA values: therefore, the worst the audiometric performance of the subjects, the lower the velocities in the venous cerebral drainage. Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss and Ménière syndrome patients showed altered venous flow in IJVs and VVs as compared to controls, independently from posture. This different behavior of venous tone control can influence the ear performance and may have a role in the pathogenesis of both diseases. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  2. Idiopathic constipation: A challenging but manageable problem.

    PubMed

    Bischoff, Andrea; Brisighelli, Giulia; Dickie, Belinda; Frischer, Jason; Levitt, Marc A; Peña, Alberto

    2017-10-10

    A protocol to treat idiopathic constipation is presented. A contrast enema is performed in every patient and, when indicated, patients are initially submitted to a "clean out" protocol. All patients are started on a Senna-based laxative. The initial dosage is empirically determined and adjusted daily, during a one week period, based on history and abdominal radiographs, until the amount of Senna that empties the colon is reached. The management is considered successful when patients empty their colon daily and stop soiling. If the laxatives dose provokes abdominal cramping, distension, and vomiting, without producing bowel movements, patients are considered nonmanageable. From 2005 to 2012, 215 patients were treated. 121 (56%) were males. The average age was 8.2years (range: 1-20). 160 patients (74%) presented encopresis. 67 patients (32%) needed a clean out. After one week, 181 patients (84%) achieved successful management, with an average Senna dose of 67mg (range: 5-175mg). In 34 patients (16%) the treatment was unsuccessful: 19 were nonmanageable, 3 noncompliant, and 12 continued soiling. At a later follow-up (median: 329days) the success rate for 174 patients was 81%. We designed a successful protocol to manage idiopathic constipation. The key points are clean out before starting laxatives, individual adjustments of laxative, and radiological monitoring of colonic emptying. Level IV. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Uveitis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

    PubMed

    Heiligenhaus, Arnd; Minden, Kirsten; Föll, Dirk; Pleyer, Uwe

    2015-02-06

    Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common systemic disease causing uveitis in childhood, with a prevalence of 10 per 100 000 persons. JIA often takes a severe inflammatory course, and its complications often endanger vision. This review is based on pertinent articles retrieved by a selective literature search up to 18 August 2014 and on the current interdisciplinary S2k guideline on the diagnostic evaluation and anti-inflammatory treatment of juvenile idiopathic uveitis. Uveitis arises in roughly 1 in 10 patients with JIA. Regular eye check-ups should be performed starting as soon as JIA is diagnosed. 75-80% of patients are girls; antinuclear antibodies are found in 70-90%. The risk to vision is higher if JIA begins in the preschool years. As for treatment, only a single, small-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) and a small number of prospective trials have been published to date. Topical corticosteroids should be given as the initial treatment. Systemic immunosuppression is needed if irritation persists despite topical corticosteroids, if new complications arise, or if the topical steroids have to be given in excessively high doses or have unacceptable side effects. If the therapeutic effect remains inadequate, conventional and biological immune modulators can be given as add-on (escalation) therapy. Treatment lowers the risk of uveitis and its complications and thereby improves the prognosis for good visual function. Severely affected patients should be treated in competence centers to optimize their long-term outcome. Multidisciplinary, individualized treatment is needed because of the chronic course of active inflammation and the ensuing high risk of complications that can endanger vision. Future improvements in therapy will be aided by prospective, population-based registries and by basic research on biomarkers for the prediction of disease onset, prognosis, tissue damage, and therapeutic response.

  4. Improvements in vision‐related quality of life in blind patients implanted with the Argus II Epiretinal Prosthesis

    PubMed Central

    Duncan, Jacque L; Arditi, Aries; da Cruz, Lyndon; Dagnelie, Gislin; Dorn, Jessy D; Ho, Allen C; Olmos de Koo, Lisa C; Barale, Pierre‐Olivier; Stanga, Paulo E; Thumann, Gabriele; Wang, Yizhong; Greenberg, Robert J

    2016-01-01

    Background The purpose of this analysis is to report the change in quality of life (QoL) after treatment with the Argus II Epiretinal Prosthesis in patients with end‐stage retinitis pigmentosa. Methods The Vision and Quality of Life Index (VisQoL) was used to assess changes in QoL dimensions and overall utility score in a prospective 30‐patient single‐arm clinical study. VisQoL is a multi‐attribute instrument consisting of six dimensions (injury, life, roles, assistance, activity and friendship) that may be affected by visual impairment. Within each dimension, patients were divided into two groups based on how much their QoL was affected by their blindness at baseline (moderate/severe or minimal). Outcomes were compared within each dimension sub‐group between baseline and the combined follow‐up periods using the Friedman test. In addition, data from the six dimensions were combined into a single utility score, with baseline data compared to the combined follow‐up periods. Results Overall, 80 per cent of the patients reported difficulty in one or more dimensions pre‐implant. Composite VisQoL utility scores at follow‐up showed no statistically significant change from baseline; however, in three of the six VisQoL dimensions (injury, life and roles), patients with baseline deficits showed significant and lasting improvement after implantation with Argus II. In two of the three remaining dimensions (assistance and activity), data trended toward an improvement. In the final VisQoL dimension (friendship), none of the patients reported baseline deficits, suggesting that patients had largely adjusted to this attribute. Conclusion Patients whose vision negatively affected them with respect to three VisQoL dimensions (that is, getting injured, coping with the demands of their life and fulfilling their life roles) reported significant improvement in QoL after implantation of the Argus II retinal prosthesis. Furthermore, the benefit did not deteriorate at any

  5. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis associated with risperidone-induced hyperprolactinemia

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a rare inflammatory breast disease. The etiology and treatment options of IGM remain controversial. Previous case reports have suggested that hyperprolactinemia may be associated with IGM. In the present report, we describe the first case of IGM associated with risperidone-induced hyperprolactinemia. Virtual slides The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/8120093785928228 PMID:22221904

  6. Evaluation of Fitness and the Balance Levels of Children with a Diagnosis of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Pilot Study

    PubMed Central

    Maggio, Maria Cristina; Corsello, Giovanni; Messina, Giuseppe; Iovane, Angelo; Palma, Antonio

    2017-01-01

    Background: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a main cause of physical disability and has high economic costs for society. The purpose of this study was to assess the fitness levels and the postural and balance deficits with a specific test battery. Methods: Fifty-six subjects were enrolled in this study. Thirty-nine healthy subjects were included in the control group and seventeen in the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group. All subjects were evaluated using a posturography system. The fitness level was evaluated with a battery of tests (Abalakov test, sit-up test, hand grip test, backsaver sit and reach, the toe touch test). An unpaired t-test was used to determine differences. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between the tests. Results: The battery of tests demonstrated that subjects in the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group have lower fitness levels compared to the control group. The juvenile idiopathic arthritis group showed low postural control with respect to the control group. Pearson analysis of the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group data showed significant correlations between variables. Pearson’s results from the control group data showed a similar trend. Conclusions: The results suggest that the battery of tests used could be an appropriate tool. However, we highlight that these conclusions need to be supported by other studies with a larger population scale. PMID:28753965

  7. Evaluation of Fitness and the Balance Levels of Children with a Diagnosis of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Pilot Study.

    PubMed

    Patti, Antonino; Maggio, Maria Cristina; Corsello, Giovanni; Messina, Giuseppe; Iovane, Angelo; Palma, Antonio

    2017-07-19

    Background: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a main cause of physical disability and has high economic costs for society. The purpose of this study was to assess the fitness levels and the postural and balance deficits with a specific test battery. Methods: Fifty-six subjects were enrolled in this study. Thirty-nine healthy subjects were included in the control group and seventeen in the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group. All subjects were evaluated using a posturography system. The fitness level was evaluated with a battery of tests (Abalakov test, sit-up test, hand grip test, backsaver sit and reach, the toe touch test). An unpaired t -test was used to determine differences. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between the tests. Results: The battery of tests demonstrated that subjects in the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group have lower fitness levels compared to the control group. The juvenile idiopathic arthritis group showed low postural control with respect to the control group. Pearson analysis of the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group data showed significant correlations between variables. Pearson's results from the control group data showed a similar trend. Conclusions: The results suggest that the battery of tests used could be an appropriate tool. However, we highlight that these conclusions need to be supported by other studies with a larger population scale.

  8. Idiopathic recurrent pericarditis as an immune-mediated disease: current insights into pathogenesis and emerging treatment options.

    PubMed

    Imazio, Massimo

    2014-11-01

    Idiopathic recurrent pericarditis affects 30-50% of patients with a previous attack of pericarditis. The etiopathogenesis is incompletely understood and most cases remain idiopathic with a presumed immune-mediated pathogenesis. The mainstay of therapy is aspirin or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug plus colchicine and the possible adjunct of a low-to-moderate dose of a corticosteroid in more difficult cases. Colchicine as an adjunct to anti-inflammatory therapy reduces by 50% the subsequent recurrent rate. For true refractory cases with failure of standard combination therapies, new and emerging options especially include human intravenous immunoglobulins and biological agents (i.e., anakinra). The outcome of idiopathic recurrent pericarditis is good with a negligible risk of developing constrictive pericarditis. Thus, it is important to reassure patients on their prognosis, explaining the nature of the disease and the likely course. Moreover, therapeutic choices should include less toxic agents and favor cheaper drugs whenever possible.

  9. The contribution of the SPINK1 c.194+2T>C mutation to the clinical course of idiopathic chronic pancreatitis in Chinese patients.

    PubMed

    Sun, Chang; Liao, Zhuan; Jiang, Lili; Yang, Fu; Xue, Geng; Zhou, Qi; Chen, Ruiwen; Sun, Shuhan; Li, Zhaoshen

    2013-01-01

    Recent data suggest that the serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 (SPINK1) gene mutation is associated with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis. However, few studies have focused on the serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 c.194+2T>C mutation. Therefore, our goal was to study the prevalence and impact of serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 mutations on the clinical profile of idiopathic chronic pancreatitis patients in China. A retrospective-cohort study of 118 Chinese patients with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis was performed, and genetic tests were carried out to detect SPINK1 mutations. Subjects without pancreatitis were used as controls. In total, 118 idiopathic chronic pancreatitis patients and 100 control subjects were evaluated. The serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 c.194+2T>C variant was present in 44.9% of patients with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis. The frequency of diabetes in idiopathic chronic pancreatitis patients with the serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 c.194+2T>C mutation (39.6%) was higher than that of patients without the mutation (9.2%). The time to occurrence of diabetes mellitus after idiopathic chronic pancreatitis symptom onset is significantly influenced by the c.194+2T>C mutation (p<0.001). In addition, the mean age of diabetes onset in patients with the serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 c.194+2T>C mutation (38.33 ± 9.50) was significantly younger than that of patients without this mutation (49.67 ± 6.74). The presence of the serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 c.194+2T>C mutation seems to be associated with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis and could predispose individuals to pancreatic diabetes onset at an earlier age. Copyright © 2012 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Histiocytes in familial and infection-induced/idiopathic hemophagocytic syndromes may exhibit phenotypic differences.

    PubMed

    Buckley, P J; O'Laughlin, S; Komp, D M

    1992-01-01

    Familial hemophagocytic syndrome (FHS) and infection-associated hemophagocytic syndrome (IAHS) usually present with fever, pancytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, signs of hepatic dysfunction, bleeding diathesis, and neurological manifestations. FHS is almost uniformly fatal, and IAHS is associated with high mortality. The only distinguishing characteristics are lack of family history and association with infection in the latter. Despite this, sporadic cases of FHS and culture-negative examples of IAHS (idiopathic HS) can be difficult to distinguish and the distinction may have important implications for treatment and family planning. We evaluated the immunophenotype of the macrophages (M phi s) in frozen tissue sections from three cases of hemophagocytic syndrome using a very large panel of monocyte/M phi-associated monoclonal antibodies and an immunoperoxidase technique. The clinical and laboratory features suggested that two were examples of FHS (one with strong family history) and that the third was IAHS/idiopathic HS. The results supported the clinical impressions by showing that the antigenic phenotypes of the FHS cases were nearly identical and different from that of the case of presumed IAHS/idiopathic HS. Specifically, M phi s from the FHS cases expressed complement receptors, 1, 2, and 3 (CD35, CD21, and CD11b, respectively), the monocyte antigen CD36, and the "activation" antigens CD25 (IL2-R) and CD30 (Ki-1), while those from the IAHS/idiopathic case did not. These studies also demonstrated that the M phi s in these cases exhibited some phenotypic differences from those in control tissues, that is, expression of the pan-M phi antigen CD14, the M phi subset antigen identified by antibody G16/1, complement receptors, certain monocyte antigens, and M phi "activation" antigens.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

  11. Experiences of employment among young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a qualitative study.

    PubMed

    Hanson, Helen; Hart, Ruth I; Thompson, Ben; McDonagh, Janet E; Tattersall, Rachel; Jordan, Alison; Foster, Helen E

    2018-08-01

    This study explored expectations and experiences of employment among young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and the role of health professionals in promoting positive employment outcomes. Semistructured interviews (n = 13) and three focus groups (n = 9, n = 4, n = 3) were conducted with young people (16-25 y) and adults (26-31 y) with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and semistructured interviews (n = 9) were conducted with health professionals. Transcripts were analyzed thematically. Young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis have concerns about employers' attitudes toward employees with long-term health conditions and lack knowledge of antidiscrimination legislation. Young people not in education, employment or training identify arthritis as a key barrier. Challenges associated with arthritis (e.g., pain, psychological distress) may not be visible to employers. Decisions about disclosing arthritis are challenging and cause anxiety. Young people associate good disease management and access to flexible and convenient care with their capacity to succeed in employment. Psychosocial and vocational interventions have benefited some young people but are not routinely available. Low expectations of employers may affect young people's decisions about disclosure and seeking appropriate support in the work place. Health professionals can equip young people with knowledge and skills to negotiate appropriate support, through signposting to antidiscrimination information and offering practice of transferable skills such as disclosure in consultations. Implications for rehabilitation Young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis encounter challenges with regard to employment; many lack the knowledge and skills to negotiate appropriate support from employers. Rehabilitation professionals could play a more substantial role in equipping them with relevant knowledge and skills by signposting to antidiscrimination information and nurturing

  12. Non-surgical interventions for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: an overview of systematic reviews.

    PubMed

    Płaszewski, Maciej; Bettany-Saltikov, Josette

    2014-01-01

    Non-surgical interventions for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis remain highly controversial. Despite the publication of numerous reviews no explicit methodological evaluation of papers labeled as, or having a layout of, a systematic review, addressing this subject matter, is available. Analysis and comparison of the content, methodology, and evidence-base from systematic reviews regarding non-surgical interventions for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Systematic overview of systematic reviews. Articles meeting the minimal criteria for a systematic review, regarding any non-surgical intervention for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, with any outcomes measured, were included. Multiple general and systematic review specific databases, guideline registries, reference lists and websites of institutions were searched. The AMSTAR tool was used to critically appraise the methodology, and the Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine and the Joanna Briggs Institute's hierarchies were applied to analyze the levels of evidence from included reviews. From 469 citations, twenty one papers were included for analysis. Five reviews assessed the effectiveness of scoliosis-specific exercise treatments, four assessed manual therapies, five evaluated bracing, four assessed different combinations of interventions, and one evaluated usual physical activity. Two reviews addressed the adverse effects of bracing. Two papers were high quality Cochrane reviews, Three were of moderate, and the remaining sixteen were of low or very low methodological quality. The level of evidence of these reviews ranged from 1 or 1+ to 4, and in some reviews, due to their low methodological quality and/or poor reporting, this could not be established. Higher quality reviews indicate that generally there is insufficient evidence to make a judgment on whether non-surgical interventions in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis are effective. Papers labeled as systematic reviews need to be considered in terms

  13. An inquiry into chiropractors' intention to treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a telephone survey.

    PubMed

    Feise, R J

    2001-01-01

    The primary aim of this study was to (1) determine the clinical management approach of practicing chiropractors with regard to patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and (2) measure the response rate of a telephone survey. A survey instrument was developed and pretested, and a case-specific clinical vignette was generated for a hypothetical typical 12-year-old girl with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The instrument addressed 3 domains: the specific management of idiopathic scoliosis, elements guiding the general selection of treatment recommendations, and demographics of respondents. The sample frame consisted of 62,000 US chiropractors, of whom 165 were randomly selected for the survey sample. Interviews were conducted by telephone through use of the tested survey instrument. The response rate was 69% (114/165). Of the 51 nonrespondents, 15 did not have a listed business telephone number and 24 were not in active practice. The response rate of those who met the inclusion criteria (practicing chiropractor with a listed telephone number) was 90% (114/126). The gender, chiropractic college, and years in practice of respondents in this survey were similar to those of respondents in 3 other national surveys. In general, the respondents would provide 6 months of "intensive" chiropractic therapy, then follow the patient for 4 years (near skeletal maturity). Eighty-two percent of respondents named diversified technique as their primary adjustive treatment, 87% would use exercise, and 30% would use electric muscle stimulation as an adjunct to manual therapy. Most surveyed chiropractors would use similar methods (frequency and length of treatment, manipulation technique, and exercise) in the treatment of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. A high response rate to a national survey can be achieved through use of telephone contact.

  14. Psychologic management of brace therapy for patients with idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Matsunaga, Shunji; Hayashi, Kyoji; Naruo, Tetsuro; Nozoe, Shin-ichi; Komiya, Setsuro

    2005-03-01

    A trial of brace therapy modified by a measured personality pattern of patients with idiopathic scoliosis was performed. To evaluate the effectiveness of performing personality tests for patients with idiopathic scoliosis who undergo brace therapy. Brace therapy has often been used for the treatment of scoliosis. However, emotional distress can result from this therapy. Few attempts have been made to reduce such stress. A test using the Maudsley Personality Inventory was performed on 145 adolescent females with idiopathic scoliosis, treated with brace therapy alone, before the start of brace therapy and 1 month after the start of brace therapy. On the basis of test results, the patients were rated as normal type and four abnormal types. Brace therapy was continued considering the personality pattern of patients. For all patients, changes in psychologic test results, compliance with braces wearing instructions, and correction of scoliosis were analyzed. Of the 134 patients rated as normal before the start of therapy, 108 patients were rated as abnormal pattern when tested 1 month after the start of therapy. After performing autogenic training for patients with E-N+ and E-N- personalities, and giving advice to school teachers to decrease the emotional stress for patients with E+N+ personality, 47 patients were finally rated as abnormal pattern. In total, 12 (8%) of the 145 patients dropped out. In dropouts, the average pretreatment deformity of 29 degrees (range: 21 degrees -37 degrees ) had increased to an average of 37 degrees (range, 31 degrees -48 degrees ). Psychologic tests may be useful and provide a means of modifying brace therapy tailored to the psychologic conditions of individual patients.

  15. Prevalence and incidence of juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Thierry, Sigrid; Fautrel, Bruno; Lemelle, Irène; Guillemin, Francis

    2014-03-01

    To conduct a systematic literature review on incidence and prevalence of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and to estimate these figures in Europe for 2010. Articles on incidence or prevalence of juvenile idiopathic arthritis were searched in Medline. Pooled incidence and prevalence were calculated overall, by gender, age, classification and arthritis categories. We used the available age and gender pooled rates to standardize the incidence and prevalence on the 2010 European population and estimate the number of cases in Europe in 2010. Forty-three articles (33 on incidence, 29 on prevalence) were included. Incidence rates varied from 1.6 to 23 and prevalence from 3.8 to 400/100,000. Pooled incidence and prevalence were higher for girls (10.0 [9.4-10.7] and 19.4 [18.3-20.6]/100,000) than boys (5.7 [5.3-6.2] and 11.0 [10.2-11.9]/100,000). Oligoarthritis was the most frequent form (pooled incidence rate 3.7 [3.5-3.9] and prevalence 16.8 [15.9-17.7]/100,000). The direct standardized incidence rate was 8.2 [7.5-9.0] and prevalence 70.2 [62.9-78.1]/100,000. In Europe in 2010, the estimated number of incident cases was 6896 [5481-8578] and 59,175 [44,256-76,983] prevalent cases. Incidence and prevalence varied greatly among published reports of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which may be explained by methodological issues, classification used, and time. Estimating the number of affected children can be useful, especially with the new treatment possibilities. Copyright © 2013 Société française de rhumatologie. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

  16. Idiopathic ventricular outflow tract arrhythmias from the great cardiac vein: challenges and risks of catheter ablation.

    PubMed

    Steven, D; Pott, C; Bittner, A; Sultan, A; Wasmer, K; Hoffmann, B A; Köbe, J; Drewitz, I; Milberg, P; Lueker, J; Mönnig, G; Servatius, H; Willems, S; Eckardt, L

    2013-11-20

    Catheter ablation for idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia is well established but epicardial origin, proximity to coronary arteries, and limited accessibility may complicate ablation from the venous system in particular from the great cardiac vein (GCV). Between April 2009 and October 2010 14 patients (56 ± 15 years; 9 male) out of a total group of 117 patients with idiopathic outflow tract tachycardias were included undergoing ablation for idiopathic VT or premature ventricular contractions (PVC) originating from GCV. All patients in whom the PVC arose from the GCV were subject to the study. In these patients angiography of the left coronary system was performed with the ablation catheter at the site of earliest activation. Successful ablation was performed in 6/14 (43%) and long-term success was achieved in 5/14 (36%) patients. In 4/14 patients (28.6%) ablation was not performed. In another 4 patients (26.7%), ablation did not abolish the PVC/VT. In the majority, the anatomical proximity to the left coronary system prohibited effective RF application. In 3 patients RF application resulted in a coronary spasm with complete regression as revealed in repeat coronary angiography. A relevant proportion idiopathic VT/PVC can safely be ablated from the GCV without significant permanent coronary artery stenosis after RF application. Our data furthermore demonstrate that damage to the coronary artery system is likely to be transient. © 2013.

  17. Comparing the Roles of EUS, ERCP and MRCP in Idiopathic Acute Recurrent Pancreatitis

    PubMed Central

    Safari, Mohammad Taghi; Miri, Mohammad Bager; Ebadi, Shahram; Shahrokh, Shabnam; Alizadeh, Amir Houshang Mohammad

    2016-01-01

    Acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) is defined as more than two attacks of acute pancreatitis with complete or almost complete resolution of symptoms and signs of pancreatitis between episodes. The initial evaluation fails to detect the cause of ARP in 10%–30% of patients, whose condition is classified as idiopathic ARP. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has gained increasing attention as a useful imaging modality for the pancreas and the extrahepatic biliary tree. The close proximity of the pancreas to the digestive tract allows EUS to obtain detailed images of this organ. This review aims to record pancreaticobiliary endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and other imaging modalities in the clinical management of patients with idiopathic ARP. PMID:27375362

  18. Anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies in juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

    PubMed

    Brunner, Jürgen K H; Sitzmann, Friedrich C

    2006-01-01

    Anticyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies have been detected in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JRA), particularly in those with polyarticular JIA. We analyzed the presence of anti-CCP antibodies of the IgG class in sera of patients with defined juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) of various subgroups. One hundred and fifty-nine serum samples were investigated. Forty-five patients were diagnosed with JIA (15 male and 30 female) aged 1.9-17.3 years (median 12.9, mean 11.0). Thirty-eight samples were taken from patients suffering from other autoimmunopathies and 34 patients with other underlying diseases were taken at different time points in their disease course. Under 42 samples were taken from patients with noninflammatory diseases. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for the detection of anti-CCP antibodies. Anti-CCP antibodies were found in 6.9% of all samples and in 4.4% patients with JIA. Disease duration and medication did not differ significantly between anti-CCP positive and negative patients. A review of the literature and our own results shows that anti-CCP antibodies can be detected in the sera of only some patients with JIA. Routine determination of anti-CCP cannot be recommended.

  19. Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis: is it also an idiopathic entity?

    PubMed

    Portillo, Karina; Guasch Arriaga, Ignasi; Ruiz-Manzano, Juan

    2015-10-01

    Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE) is a rare disease that has been recently included in the updated consensus on idiopathic interstitial pneumonias. It shares some clinical features with other chronic interstitial pneumonias (dyspnea, dry cough), and is radiologically characterized by pleural and subpleural parenchymal fibrosis and elastosis, mainly in the upper lobes. The main histological findings include pleural fibrosis and prominent subpleural and parenchymal fibroelastosis. Its characterization is based on the increasing number of cases reported in the literature, so several aspects of the etiology, pathogenesis and natural history are still unknown. Although some cases have been described as idiopathic, PPFE has been reported as a complication after bone marrow transplantation, lung transplantation and chemotherapy, especially with alkylating agents.Spontaneous or iatrogenic pneumothorax is a frequently reported complication of invasive diagnostic tests for identifying PPFE. The disease course is variable, ranging from slow progression to rapid clinical deterioration. No treatment has shown evidence of efficacy, and lung transplantation remains the only option for patients who fulfill the diagnostic criteria for this option. Recognizing and disseminating the specific features of PPFE is essential to raise the level of clinical suspicion for this entity, and to implement appropriate multidisciplinary diagnostic management. Copyright © 2015 SEPAR. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  20. Predictors of emotional functioning in youth after surgical correction of idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Zebracki, Kathy; Thawrani, Dinesh; Oswald, Timothy S; Anadio, Jennifer M; Sturm, Peter F

    2013-09-01

    Patients with idiopathic scoliosis, although otherwise healthy, often have significant concerns about their self-image and appearance. In a group of juveniles and adolescents, this can impact adjustment in school, functioning in peer groups, and general sense of well-being. There are limited data to help physicians reliably and precisely identify those who are at higher risk of poor emotional adjustment even after spine deformity correction. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors of emotional maladjustment in juvenile and adolescent patients after surgical correction of idiopathic scoliosis. A total of 233 juveniles, mean age 11.26 ± 1.02 (range, 8 to 12) years and 909 adolescents, mean age 14.91 ± 1.61 (range, 13 to 21) years, who underwent surgical correction for idiopathic scoliosis and who were participating in a prospective longitudinal multicenter database, were enrolled in the study. Participants completed the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire before surgery and 2 years postoperatively. Radiographs were used to measure Cobb angle and surface measurements were used to determine decompensation and trunk shift. Adolescents reported poorer mental health preoperatively (P<0.05) and 2 years postoperatively (P<0.001) than juveniles; however, both groups reported improved mental health (P<0.001) and self-image (P<0.01) postoperatively. Mental health 2 years postoperatively was predicted by preoperative self-image (P<0.05), mental health (P<0.001), and main thoracic Cobb angle (P<0.05) in the juvenile group. Within the adolescent group, mental health 2 years postoperatively was predicted by preoperative mental health (P<0.001); self-image 2 years postoperatively was predicted by preoperative mental health (P<0.01) and self-image (P<0.001). Self-image and mental health are significantly improved after spine deformity correction in juveniles and adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. However, consistent with normative development

  1. Management of idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus: a multiinstitutional study conducted in Japan.

    PubMed

    Mori, K

    2001-12-01

    A cooperative study was undertaken to identify factors that could be used to predict a favorable outcome after extracranial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion (shunting) in patients with suspected idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). Questionnaires concerning patients with suspected idiopathic NPH were sent to 14 members of the Committee for Scientific Research on Intractable Hydrocephalus, sponsored by the Ministry of Health and Welfare of Japan. After the questionnaires were returned, a retrospective analysis of the responses was undertaken. To be included in the study, patients had to be 65 years of age or older and had to have undergone surgery between October 1995 and October 1998. Clinical measures included degrees of gait disturbance, dementia, and urinary incontinence as evaluated before. 3 months after, and 3 years after shunt placement. Diagnostic tests in various combinations included lumbar puncture in which CSF was withdrawn; intracranial pressure monitoring; measurements of CSF outflow resistance, level of serum alpha-1-antichymotrypsin, cerebral arteriovenous differences of oxygen content, and cerebral blood flow; and computerized tomography cisternography. In this study, 120 patients were identified as having idiopathic NPH and these patients underwent placement of shunts. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt with a programmable valve was used in two thirds of the patients. At the end of 3 months (early assessment), there was an 80% overall rate of clinical improvement, which dropped to 73.3% of the 105 patients who could be evaluated at the end of the 3-year study. Of the three variables, gait disturbance was most improved, both at early and late testing periods. Shunt complications occurred in 22 (18.3%) of the patients. Patients suspected of having idiopathic NPH did not form a homogeneous group, making it difficult to select those who would most likely respond to CSF diversion. Of the diagnostic studies, the most reliable result was

  2. Trunk rotational strength asymmetry in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: an observational study

    PubMed Central

    McIntire, Kevin L; Asher, Marc A; Burton, Douglas C; Liu, Wen

    2007-01-01

    Background Recent reports have suggested a rotational strength weakness in rotations to the concave side in patients with idiopathic scoliosis. There have been no studies presenting normative values of female adolescent trunk rotational strength to which a comparison of female adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis could be made. The purpose of this study was to determine trunk rotational strength asymmetry in a group of female adolescents with AIS and a comparison group of healthy female adolescents without scoliosis. Methods Twenty-six healthy adolescent females served as the healthy group (HG) (average age 14 years) and fourteen otherwise healthy adolescent females with idiopathic scoliosis served as the idiopathic scoliosis group (ISG) (average age 13.5 years, average Cobb 28°). Participant's isometric trunk rotational strength was measured in five randomly ordered trunk positions: neutral, 18° and 36° of right and left pre-rotation. Rotational strength asymmetry was compared within each group and between the two groups using several different measures. Results The HG showed strength asymmetry in the 36° pre-rotated trunk positions when rotating towards the midline (p < 0.05). The ISG showed strength asymmetry when rotating towards the concavity of their primary curve from the neutral position (p < 0.05) and when rotating towards the concavity from the 18° (p < 0.05) and 36° (p < 0.05) concave pre-rotated positions. The ISG is significantly weaker than the HG when rotating away from the midline toward the concave (ISG)-left (HG) side from the concave/left pre-rotated 18° (p < 0.05) and 36° (p < 0.05) positions. Conclusion The AIS females were found to be significantly weaker when contracting toward their main curve concavity in the neutral and concave pre-rotated positions compared to contractions toward the convexity. These weaknesses were also demonstrated when compared to the group of healthy female adolescent controls. Possible mechanisms for the

  3. A Role for the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Englert, Judson M.; Hanford, Lana E.; Kaminski, Naftali; Tobolewski, Jacob M.; Tan, Roderick J.; Fattman, Cheryl L.; Ramsgaard, Lasse; Richards, Thomas J.; Loutaev, Inna; Nawroth, Peter P.; Kasper, Michael; Bierhaus, Angelika; Oury, Tim D.

    2008-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severely debilitating disease associated with a dismal prognosis. There are currently no effective therapies for IPF, thus the identification of novel therapeutic targets is greatly needed. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily of cell surface receptors whose activation has been linked to various pathologies. In healthy adult animals, RAGE is expressed at the highest levels in the lung compared to other tissues. To investigate the hypothesis that RAGE is involved in IPF pathogenesis, we have examined its expression in two mouse models of pulmonary fibrosis and in human tissue from IPF patients. In each instance we observed a depletion of membrane RAGE and its soluble (decoy) isoform, sRAGE, in fibrotic lungs. In contrast to other diseases in which RAGE signaling promotes pathology, immunohistochemical and hydroxyproline quantification studies on aged RAGE-null mice indicate that these mice spontaneously develop pulmonary fibrosis-like alterations. Furthermore, when subjected to a model of pulmonary fibrosis, RAGE-null mice developed more severe fibrosis, as measured by hydroxyproline assay and histological scoring, than wild-type controls. Combined with data from other studies on mouse models of pulmonary fibrosis and human IPF tissues indicate that loss of RAGE contributes to IPF pathogenesis. PMID:18245812

  4. Association of the VDAC3 gene polymorphism with sperm count in Han-Chinese population with idiopathic male infertility.

    PubMed

    Pan, Lianjun; Liu, Qingzhen; Li, Jingyun; Wu, Wei; Wang, Xinru; Zhao, Dan; Ma, Jiehua

    2017-07-11

    Voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) is a multifunctional channel protein across the outer mitochondrial membrane of somatic cells and participates in many physiological and pathophysiological processes. Up to now, only a few studies, including our previous studies, showed that VDAC exists in mammalian spermatozoa and is involved in spermatogenesis and sperm functions. There is no report about VDAC genetic variants in germinal tissues or cells. To investigate the possible association between VDAC genetic variants and human sperm quality, we performed semen analysis and variant Genotyping of VDAC3 subtype (rs7004637, rs16891278 and rs6773) of 523 Han-Chinese males with idiopathic infertility respectively by computer assisted semen analysis (CASA) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) Genotyping assay. No significant association was found between rs7004637 and rs6773 genotypes and semen quality. However, the AG genotype of rs16891278 showed a significantly lower sperm concentration compared with the AA genotype (P = 0.044). Our findings suggest that VDAC3 genetic variants may be associated with human sperm count.

  5. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: a mimicking disease in a pregnant woman: a case report

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is a rare, benign, inflammatory chronic condition of unclear etiology. This case is reported because it illustrates how idiopathic granulomatous mastitis can mimic other diseases, making it difficult to associate the presenting symptoms and the correct diagnosis; This disease is a challenge for clinicians to diagnose, manage and avoid iatrogenic complications, and requires consultation with experts in several specialties. Case presentation The patient was 30 years old, South-American, eleven weeks pregnant, and with an apparent infectious mastitis. She presented with progressive worsening of her breast symptoms and multiple negative laboratory tests. She suffered different side effects from several prescribed treatments and endured a prolonged recovery. The article emphasizes the need for ruling out common pathologies to arrive at the correct diagnosis such as bacterial and fungal infections; granulomatous conditions like tuberculosis and sarcoidosis; and inflammatory breast carcinoma. It also describes frequently used pharmacological and supplementary forms of treatment for patients with this condition. Conclusion Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is a rare unusual condition of unknown etiology. Pathological confirmation is required for its diagnosis and optimal management is still unclear. The presentation and management of this case is intended to advance its awareness to physicians from different specialties. PMID:23497626

  6. Influence of proprioceptive insoles on spinal curvature in patients with slight idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Noll, Christine; Steitz, Vanessa; Daentzer, Dorothea

    2017-01-01

    Proprioceptive insoles are known to influence the functions of posture and gait by modulations of the sensory structures at the sole of the foot. Literature has shown that they could improve the position of the upper-body in patients with postural complaints of the musculoskeletal system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of proprioceptive insoles on the spinal curvature in patients with slight idiopathic scoliosis. Eighteen patients were included in this prospective, single-centre, randomized study. All patients needed to have a relevant growth potential and suffered from a slight idiopathic scoliosis. Two groups were used, where group 1 performed physiotherapy twice a week, whereas group 2 was additionally supplied with proprioceptive insoles. Patients underwent three-dimensional rasterstereography for back-shape analysis. Furthermore, a conventional x-ray imaging of the spine was performed at the beginning and 1 year later to document the curvatures. There was no statistical difference in the Cobb angles, and in almost all parameters of the rasterstereography, there was no statistically significant change between and within both groups. According to the results of this study, there was no evidence of any statistical significant effect of proprioceptive insoles on spinal curvature in patients with slight idiopathic scoliosis.

  7. The Immune Response and the Pathogenesis of Idiopathic Inflammatory Myositis: a Critical Review.

    PubMed

    Ceribelli, Angela; De Santis, Maria; Isailovic, Natasa; Gershwin, M Eric; Selmi, Carlo

    2017-02-01

    The pathogenesis of idiopathic inflammatory myositis (IIMs, including polymyositis and dermatomyositis) remains largely enigmatic, despite advances in the study of the role played by innate immunity, adaptive immunity, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors in an orchestrated response. Several factors are involved in the inflammatory state that characterizes the different forms of IIMs which share features and mechanisms but are clearly different with respect to the involved sites and characteristics of the inflammation. Cellular and non-cellular mechanisms of both the immune and non-immune systems have been identified as key regulators of inflammation in polymyositis/dermatomyositis, particularly at different stages of disease, leading to the fibrotic state that characterizes the end stage. Among these, a special role is played by an interferon signature and complement cascade with different mechanisms in polymyositis and dermatomyositis; these differences can be identified also histologically in muscle biopsies. Numerous cellular components of the adaptive and innate immune response are present in the site of tissue inflammation, and the complexity of idiopathic inflammatory myositis is further supported by the involvement of non-immune mechanisms such as hypoxia and autophagy. The aim of this comprehensive review is to describe the major pathogenic mechanisms involved in the onset of idiopathic inflammatory myositis and to report on the major working hypothesis with therapeutic implications.

  8. Time for a change: is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis still idiopathic and only fibrotic?

    PubMed Central

    Wolters, Paul J; Blackwell, Timothy S; Eickelberg, Oliver; Loyd, James E; Kaminski, Naftali; Jenkins, Gisli; Maher, Toby M; Molina-Molina, Maria; Noble, Paul W; Raghu, Ganesh; Richeldi, Luca; Schwarz, Marvin I; Selman, Moises; Wuyts, Wim A; Schwartz, David A

    2018-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, irreversible, and typically fatal lung disease characterised by subpleural fibrosis, subepithelial fibroblast foci, and microscopic honeycombing. Although understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms continues to evolve, evidence indicates that distal airway and alveolar epithelial cells are central drivers of the disease. In this Viewpoint, we review the history of naming and classifications used to define the disease now referred to as IPF, in the context of understanding the clinical presentation, causes, and pathogenesis of the disease. We aim to generate discussion on whether, given the substantial progress made in understanding the clinical, genetic, cellular, and molecular mechanisms involved in the development of IPF, a change of name should be considered. To initiate this discussion, we offer new suggestions to update the name of this disease and new approaches to classify all forms of pulmonary fibrosis. PMID:29413083

  9. Clinical Aspects of Idiopathic Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Review for Pathologists.

    PubMed

    Lee, Hwajeong; Westerhoff, Maria; Shen, Bo; Liu, Xiuli

    2016-05-01

    -Idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease manifests with different clinical phenotypes showing varying behavior and risk for neoplasia. The clinical questions that are posed to pathologists differ depending on phase of the disease and the clinical circumstances. Understanding the clinical aspects of the dynamic disease process will enhance the role of pathology in optimizing the care of patients with inflammatory bowel disease. -To review clinical and surgical aspects of inflammatory bowel disease that are relevant to practicing pathologists. -The literature was reviewed. -Diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease require an integrated evaluation of clinical, endoscopic, radiologic, and pathologic features. Therefore, close interaction between clinicians and pathologists is crucial. Having this team approach improves understanding of the pertinent clinical and surgical aspects of the disease and assists in the recognition of unusual presentation of variants, as well as mimics of idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease, by pathologists.

  10. Routine magnetic resonance imaging for idiopathic olfactory loss: a modeling-based economic evaluation.

    PubMed

    Rudmik, Luke; Smith, Kristine A; Soler, Zachary M; Schlosser, Rodney J; Smith, Timothy L

    2014-10-01

    Idiopathic olfactory loss is a common clinical scenario encountered by otolaryngologists. While trying to allocate limited health care resources appropriately, the decision to obtain a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to investigate for a rare intracranial abnormality can be difficult. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of ordering routine MRI in patients with idiopathic olfactory loss. We performed a modeling-based economic evaluation with a time horizon of less than 1 year. Patients included in the analysis had idiopathic olfactory loss defined by no preceding viral illness or head trauma and negative findings of a physical examination and nasal endoscopy. Routine MRI vs no-imaging strategies. We developed a decision tree economic model from the societal perspective. Effectiveness, probability, and cost data were obtained from the published literature. Litigation rates and costs related to a missed diagnosis were obtained from the Physicians Insurers Association of America. A univariate threshold analysis and multivariate probabilistic sensitivity analysis were performed to quantify the degree of certainty in the economic conclusion of the reference case. The comparative groups included those who underwent routine MRI of the brain with contrast alone and those who underwent no brain imaging. The primary outcome was the cost per correct diagnosis of idiopathic olfactory loss. The mean (SD) cost for the MRI strategy totaled $2400.00 ($1717.54) and was effective 100% of the time, whereas the mean (SD) cost for the no-imaging strategy totaled $86.61 ($107.40) and was effective 98% of the time. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for the MRI strategy compared with the no-imaging strategy was $115 669.50, which is higher than most acceptable willingness-to-pay thresholds. The threshold analysis demonstrated that when the probability of having a treatable intracranial disease process reached 7.9%, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for MRI vs no

  11. MRI, volumetry, 1H spectroscopy, and cerebropetal blood flowmetry in childhood idiopathic anatomic megalencephaly.

    PubMed

    Koudijs, Suzanne M; van der Grond, Jeroen; Hoogendoorn, Mechteld L C; Hulshoff Pol, Hilleke E; Schnack, Hugo G; Witkamp, Theo D; Gooskens, Rob H J M; van Nieuwenhuizen, Onno; Braun, Kees P J

    2006-08-01

    To evaluate cerebral abnormalities in childhood idiopathic anatomic megalencephaly (MC) by means of different magnetic resonance (MR) modalities. MRI, volumetry, spectroscopy, and cerebropetal blood flowmetry were performed in six children with idiopathic anatomic MC, and seven volunteers. MRI revealed an increased ventricular system in five of six patients. A thalamic hamartoma was found in one patient and a Chiari I malformation was found in two. Volumetric analysis showed a disproportional increase of ventricular volume but normal subarachnoid cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume. Supratentorial volume was disproportionally increased compared to cerebellar volume. Intracranial volume correlated significantly with skull circumference. MR spectroscopy (MRS) N-acetyl aspartate/choline (NAA/Cho) peak ratios in WM were significantly higher in patients than in controls. Choline/creatine (Cho/Cr) peak ratios in WM were significantly lower in patients. Cortical gray matter (GM) MRS ratios were unaltered. Cerebropetal flow was increased in MC, possibly related to increased brain volume. This study reveals associated developmental anomalies for idiopathic anatomic MC. A relative ventriculomegaly was found, which should not be misinterpreted as true hydrocephalus. In contrast to metabolic MC, MRS showed no severe disturbances. Total intracranial volume is correlated to skull circumference and cerebropetal blood flow.

  12. Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease phenotype related to C9ORF72 repeat expansions: contribution of the neuropsychological assessment

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Expanded GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeats in the non-coding region of the C9ORF72 gene was recently identified as being responsible for over 40% of the cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis associated with frontotemporal lobar degeneration, in various extrapyramidal syndromes including supranuclear gaze palsy and corticobasal degeneration, and in addition, has been found to be a rare genetic cause of isolated Parkinsonism. To our knowledge, there is no published data concerning the neuropsychological evaluation of patients diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease related with C9ORF72 repeat expansions. Case presentation We report the results of the comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation in a newly described case in the literature (the sixth) of a patient presenting isolated idiopathic Parkinson’s disease associated with C9ORF72 repeat expansions. The decrease in the patient’s prefrontal functions resulted in a slight decrease in global efficiency. These abnormalities did not appear to be different, with respect to the deficit observed and the intensity of the cognitive impairment, from those classically observed in cases of sporadic idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. Our patient also exhibited a significant impairment in visual gnosis. Conclusions If confirmed in other patients, visuoperceptive deficits in idiopathic Parkinson’s disease could represent a red flag that should prompt the clinician to perform addition diagnostic procedures. A thorough neuropsychological assessment may prove to be useful for detecting idiopathic Parkinson’s disease in patients who are suspected of having repeat abnormalities of C9ORF72 expansions. PMID:23987827

  13. Specialty Practice and Cost Considerations in the Management of Uveitis Associated With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.

    PubMed

    Palestine, Alan G; Singh, Jasleen K; Kolfenbach, Jason R; Ozzello, Daniel J

    2016-07-01

    To evaluate whether cost, prior insurance authorization concerns, and subspecialty practice influence therapeutic decisions in the treatment of uveitis associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. A total of 2,965 pediatric ophthalmologists, uveitis specialists, retina specialists, and rheumatologists across the United States were surveyed via e-mail regarding their choice in long-term therapy for a hypothetical patient with uveitis associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Outcomes of interest were differences in therapy choice based on cost/prior authorization and specialty practice. There were significant differences in the use of methotrexate and biologics among specialists, both with and without consideration for cost and prior authorization. Physicians in four different specialties who treat uveitis associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis agree on methotrexate as a first-line treatment choice and a biologic immunosuppressive medication as a second choice, but there are significant differences between the specialties in their use of these medications. Cost and insurance considerations did not affect therapy selection. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2016;53(4):246-251.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

  14. Recurrent recessive mutation in deoxyguanosine kinase causes idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension.

    PubMed

    Vilarinho, Sílvia; Sari, Sinan; Yilmaz, Güldal; Stiegler, Amy L; Boggon, Titus J; Jain, Dhanpat; Akyol, Gulen; Dalgic, Buket; Günel, Murat; Lifton, Richard P

    2016-06-01

    Despite advances in the diagnosis and management of idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension, its pathogenesis remains elusive. Insight may be gained from study of early-onset familial idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension, in which Mendelian mutations may account for disease. We performed exome sequencing of eight subjects from six kindreds with onset of portal hypertension of indeterminate etiology during infancy or childhood. Three subjects from two consanguineous families shared the identical rare homozygous p.N46S mutation in DGUOK, a deoxyguanosine kinase required for mitochondrial DNA replication; haplotype sharing demonstrated that the mutation in the two families was inherited from a remote common ancestor. All three affected subjects had stable portal hypertension with noncirrhotic liver disease for 6-16 years of follow-up. This mutation impairs adenosine triphosphate binding and reduces catalytic activity. Loss-of-function mutations in DGUOK have previously been implicated in cirrhosis and liver failure but not in isolated portal hypertension. Interestingly, treatment of patients with human immunodeficiency viral infection with the nucleoside analogue didanosine is known to cause portal hypertension in a subset of patients and lowers deoxyguanosine kinase levels in vitro; the current findings implicate these effects on deoxyguanosine kinase in the causal mechanism. Our findings provide new insight into the mechanisms mediating inherited and acquired noncirrhotic portal hypertension, expand the phenotypic spectrum of DGUOK deficiency, and provide a new genetic test for a specific cause of idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension. (Hepatology 2016;63:1977-1986). © 2016 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

  15. Rest tremor in idiopathic adult-onset dystonia.

    PubMed

    Gigante, A F; Berardelli, A; Defazio, G

    2016-05-01

    Tremor in dystonia has been described as a postural or kinetic abnormality. In recent series, however, patients with idiopathic adult-onset dystonia also displayed rest tremor. The frequency and distribution of rest tremor were studied in a cohort of 173 consecutive Italian patients affected by various forms of idiopathic adult-onset dystonia attending our movement disorder clinic over 8 months. Examination revealed tremor in 59/173 patients (34%): 12 patients had head tremor, 34 patients had arm tremor, whilst 13 patients presented tremor in both sites. Head tremor was postural in all patients, whereas arm tremor was postural/kinetic in 28 patients, only at rest in one and both postural/kinetic and at rest in 18 patients. Patients with tremor were more likely to have segmental/multifocal dystonia. Patients who had rest tremor (either alone or associated with action tremor) had a higher age at dystonia onset and a greater frequency of dystonic arm involvement than patients with action tremor alone or without tremor. Both action and rest tremor are part of the tremor spectrum of adult-onset dystonia and are more frequently encountered in segmental/multifocal dystonia. The higher age at dystonia onset and the greater frequency of arm dystonia in patients with rest tremor may have pathophysiological implications and may account, at least in part, for the previous lack of identification of rest tremor as one possible type of tremor present in dystonia. © 2016 EAN.

  16. Pathogenesis of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Wolters, Paul J.; Collard, Harold R.; Jones, Kirk D.

    2014-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fibrosing interstitial lung disease associated with aging that is characterized by the histopathological pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia. Although an understanding of the pathogenesis of IPF is incomplete, recent advances delineating specific clinical and pathologic features of IPF have led to better definition of the molecular pathways that are pathologically activated in the disease. In this review we highlight several of these advances, with a focus on genetic predisposition to IPF and how genetic changes, which occur primarily in epithelial cells, lead to activation of profibrotic pathways in epithelial cells. We then discuss the pathologic changes within IPF fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix, and we conclude with a summary of how these profibrotic pathways may be interrelated. PMID:24050627

  17. Epigenomics of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Ivana V

    2012-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a complex lung disease of unknown etiology. Development of IPF is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Gene-expression profiling studies have taught us quite a bit about the biology of this fatal disease, but epigenetic marks may be the missing link that connects the environmental exposure in genetically predisposed individuals to transcriptome changes associated with the development of IPF. This review will begin with an introduction to the disease, followed by brief summaries of studies of gene expression in IPF and epigenetic marks associated with exposures relevant to IPF. The majority of the discussion will focus on epigenetic studies conducted so far in IPF, the limitations, challenges and future directions in this field. PMID:22449190

  18. Epigenomics of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Yang, Ivana V

    2012-04-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a complex lung disease of unknown etiology. Development of IPF is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Gene-expression profiling studies have taught us quite a bit about the biology of this fatal disease, but epigenetic marks may be the missing link that connects the environmental exposure in genetically predisposed individuals to transcriptome changes associated with the development of IPF. This review will begin with an introduction to the disease, followed by brief summaries of studies of gene expression in IPF and epigenetic marks associated with exposures relevant to IPF. The majority of the discussion will focus on epigenetic studies conducted so far in IPF, the limitations, challenges nd future directions in this field.

  19. [Erythema nodosum during the course of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis].

    PubMed

    Fahmy, J; Halabi-Tawil, M; Bagot, M; Tournant, B; Petit, A

    2015-01-01

    Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a benign, aseptic inflammatory disease of unknown origin, which must be distinguished from tumoral and infectious processes that affect the breast, including tuberculosis. IGM is a rare cause of erythema nodosum, but it is useful for dermatologists to be aware of this association. A 32-year-old nulliparous woman presented with erythema nodosum, arthralgia and fever. On examination, she had a firm and painful mass of 5cm in the right breast with retraction and axillary adenopathy. The breast lump developed gradually over the preceding 4 months. Although two biopsies showed no evidence of atypical cells, inflammatory areas and a granulomatous process were seen. Culture of breast tissue for mycobacteria was negative. A diagnostic of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis was made. Systemic corticosteroids led to a reduction in size of the mass, but relapse occurred in the contralateral breast on dose-reduction of the corticosteroids. IGM is a rare disease of unknown aetiology. Diagnosis is based on characteristic histological features and exclusion of other granulomatous diseases. Extra-mammary signs are rare and include erythema nodosum, arthralgia and episcleritis. Management is poorly codified. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  20. Idiopathic Bilateral External Jugular Vein Thrombosis.

    PubMed

    Hindi, Zakaria; Fadhel, Ehab

    2015-08-20

    Vein thrombosis is mainly determined by 3 factors, which constitute a triad called Virchow's triad: hypercoagulability, stasis, and endothelial injury. Venous thrombosis commonly occurs in the lower extremities since most of the blood resides there and flows against gravity. The veins of the lower extremities are dependent on intact valves and fully functional leg muscles. However, in case of valvular incompetency or muscular weakness, thrombosis and blood stasis will occur as a result. In contrast, the veins of the neck, specially the jugulars, have distensible walls which allow flexibility during respiration. In addition, the blood directly flows downward towards the heart. Nevertheless, many case reports mentioned the thrombosis of internal jugular veins and external jugular veins with identified risk factors. Jugular vein thrombosis has previously been associated in the literature with a variety of medical conditions, including malignancy. This report is of a case of idiopathic bilateral external jugular vein thrombosis in a 21 year-old male construction worker of Southeast Asian origin with no previous medical history who presented with bilateral facial puffiness of gradual onset over 1 month. Doppler ultrasound and computed tomography were used in the diagnosis. Further work-up showed no evidence of infection or neoplasia. The patient was eventually discharged on warfarin. The patient was assessed after 6 months and his symptoms had resolved completely. Bilateral idiopathic external jugular veins thrombosis is extremely rare and can be an indicator of early malignancy or hidden infection. While previous reports in the literature have associated jugular vein thrombosis with malignancy, the present case shows that external jugular vein thrombosis can also be found in persons without malignancy.

  1. Microcatheter Embolization of Intractable Idiopathic Epistaxis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Leppaenen, Martti; Seppaenen, Seppo; Laranne, Jussi

    1999-11-15

    Purpose: To assess the efficacy and safety of microcatheter embolization in the treatment of intractable idiopathic epistaxis. Methods: Thirty-seven patients underwent microcatheter embolization in 1991-1998. We evaluated retrospectively the technical and clinical outcome, the number of complications, the duration of embolization in each case, and the number of blood transfusions needed. All embolizations were done with biplane digital subtraction angiography (DSA) equipment. The procedure was carried out under local anesthesia using transfemoral catheterization, except in one case where the translumbar route was used. Tracker 18 or 10 microcatheters were advanced as far as possible to the distal branches of themore » sphenopalatine artery. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles were used for embolization in most cases, while platinum coils or a combination of these two materials were occasionally used. The primary outcome was always assessed immediately by angiography. Follow-up data were obtained from patient records, by interviewing patients on the telephone or by postal questionnaires when necessary. The mean follow-up time was 21 months. Results: The embolization was technically successful in all 37 cases. A curative outcome was achieved in 33 cases (89%). The mean duration of the procedure was 110 min. Four patients (8%) had mild transient complications, but no severe or persistent complications were encountered. Twenty-three patients needed a blood transfusion. Slight rebleeding occurred in three patients during the follow-up; all responded to conservative treatment. One patient suffered two episodes of rebleeding within 2 months after primary embolization. Re-embolizations successfully stopped the bleeding. Conclusion: Embolization is the primary invasive modality for treating intractable idiopathic epistaxis. It proved both safe and effective over a relatively long follow-up.« less

  2. Efficacy of nighttime brace in preventing progression of idiopathic scoliosis of less than 25°.

    PubMed

    Lateur, G; Grobost, P; Gerbelot, J; Eid, A; Griffet, J; Courvoisier, A

    2017-04-01

    The objective of the present study was to assess, at skeletal maturity, the efficacy of non-operative treatment by isolated nighttime brace in the prevention of progression of progressive idiopathic scoliosis of less than 25°. Isolated nighttime brace treatment is effective in the prevention of progression of mild progressive idiopathic scoliosis (Cobb<25°). A single-center retrospective study included 142 patients managed by nighttime brace for progressive idiopathic scoliosis with Cobb angle<25°, with assessment at skeletal maturity. Mean Cobb angle at start of treatment was 15.5° (range, 10-25°). Mean values for Cobb angle and sagittal parameters before treatment and at skeletal maturity were compared on Student t-test. Change in Cobb angle over time was also analyzed. Mean Cobb angle at skeletal maturity was 16.3°, showing significant increase over baseline (15.5°; P=0.04), although the difference was less than the uncertainty of measurement (±6°). In baseline Risser 0 or 1, mean change in Cobb angle at skeletal maturity (16.2°) was not significant (P=0.1). Cobb angle diminished in 26 cases (18%), increased in 24 (17%) and was unchanged in 92 (65%). The present study confirmed the efficacy of non-operative treatment by nighttime brace in mild progressive idiopathic scoliosis (<25°) in a large majority of cases. A nighttime brace thus seems to be an effective option for the treatment of adolescent scoliosis, ensuring a safe curve of around 20°. Level IV, retrospective study. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  3. The Prevalence and Characteristics of Primary Headache and Dream-Enacting Behaviour in Japanese Patients with Narcolepsy or Idiopathic Hypersomnia: A Multi-Centre Cross-Sectional Study.

    PubMed

    Suzuki, Keisuke; Miyamoto, Masayuki; Miyamoto, Tomoyuki; Inoue, Yuichi; Matsui, Kentaro; Nishida, Shingo; Hayashida, Kenichi; Usui, Akira; Ueki, Yoichiro; Nakamura, Masaki; Murata, Momoyo; Numao, Ayaka; Watanabe, Yuji; Suzuki, Shiho; Hirata, Koichi

    2015-01-01

    Because the prevalence and characteristics of primary headache have yet to be thoroughly studied in patients with hypersomnia disorders, including narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia, we examined these parameters in the Japanese population. In a multicentre cross-sectional survey, among 576 consecutive outpatients with sleep disorders, 68 narcolepsy patients and 35 idiopathic hypersomnia patients were included. Additionally, 61 healthy control subjects participated. Semi-structured headache questionnaires were administered to all participants. The patients with narcolepsy (52.9%) and idiopathic hypersomnia (77.1%) more frequently experienced headache than the healthy controls (24.6%; p<0.0001). The prevalence rates were 23.5%, 41.2% and 4.9% for migraine (p<0.0001) and 16.2%, 23.5% and 14.8% (p = 0.58) for tension-type headache among the narcolepsy patients, the idiopathic hypersomnia patients and the control subjects, respectively. Those who experienced migraine more frequently experienced excessive daytime sleepiness, defined as an Epworth Sleepiness Scale score of ≥10, than those who did not experience headache among the patients with narcolepsy (93.8% vs. 65.6%, p = 0.040) and idiopathic hypersomnia (86.7% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.026). Dream-enacting behaviour (DEB), as evaluated by the rapid eye movement sleep disorders questionnaire, was more frequently observed in the narcolepsy patients than in the idiopathic hypersomnia patients and the control subjects. An increased DEB frequency was observed in the narcolepsy patients with migraines compared to those without headache. Migraines were frequently observed in patients with narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. DEB is a characteristic of narcolepsy patients. Further studies are required to assess the factors that contribute to migraines in narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia patients.

  4. Efficacy of N-Acetylcysteine in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Sun, Tong; Liu, Jing; Zhao, De Wei

    2016-01-01

    Abstract There are a number of conflicting reports describing the clinical outcomes of using N-acetylcysteine for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We have, therefore, performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine, compared with control, for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Original controlled clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis were included in the analysis. Searches for relevant articles were carried out in July 2014 by 2 independent researchers using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar. Change in forced vital capacity, change in percentage of predicted vital capacity, change in percentage of predicted carbon monoxide diffusing capacity, changes in 6 minutes walking test distance, rate of adverse events, and rate of death were expressed as outcomes using RevMan 5.0.1. Five trials, with a total of 564 patients, were included in this meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed that the control group had significant decreases in percentage of predicted vital capacity (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.13 to −0.62; P = 0.003) and 6 minutes walking test distance (SMD = 0.25; 95% CI: 0.02–0.48; P = 0.04). There were no statistically significant differences in forced vital capacity (SMD = 0.07; 95% CI: −0.13–0.27; P = 0.52), percentage of predicted carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (SMD = 0.12; 95% CI: −0.06–0.30; P = 0.18), rates of adverse events (odd ratio = 4.50; 95% CI: 0.19–106.41; P = 0.35), or death rates (odd ratio = 1.79; 95% CI: 0.3–5.12; P = 0.28) between the N-acetylcysteine group and the control group. N-Acetylcysteine was found to have a significant effect only on decreases in percentage of predicted vital capacity and 6 minutes walking test distance. N-acetylcysteine showed no beneficial effect on changes

  5. A comparative study of "Idiopathic catatonia" with catatonia in schizophrenia.

    PubMed

    Krishna, K R; Maniar, R C; Harbishettar, V S

    2011-06-01

    Catatonia has been defined as a cluster of signs and occurs secondary to or as a subgroup of schizophrenia, mood disorders or organic syndrome. This study specifically examined the distinct variety of catatonia that did not meet any standard psychiatric diagnostic criteria on globally recognised psychiatric rating tools and compared the clinical features with the catatonia that occurred in association with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The inpatients in a tertiary psychiatric ward in Ahmedabad, India, between 2002 and 2005 who presented with two or more catatonic signs present for more than 24h period were assessed on Structured Clinical Interview for DSM IV tool. Those with catatonic signs that met diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia (n=21) were compared, with those without any disorder called Idiopathic catatonia (n=13), on measures of Bush Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFRCS), Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and Scale for Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS). The scores on duration of illness (U=14.00; p<0.001) and mean BPRS (t=6.76; df=32; p<0.001) were significantly higher in schizophrenia group. The Idiopathic group had significantly higher scores on mean total BFCRS (t=-3.50; df=32; p=0.001) and also on subscores of negativism (p=0.02), waxy flexibility (p=0.02), mitgehen (p<0.05) and ambitendency (p=0.01). The results indicate that the Idiopathic catatonia present early in their course and have fewer general psychopathologies; however have higher number and severity of catatonic signs. The study also supports the current concept that there does exists, a distinct variety of catatonia that probably has its own course and prognosis, which need further consideration and more studies to explore this. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  6. The Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Chronic Idiopathic Anal Pain

    PubMed Central

    Mao, Weiming; Liao, Xiujun; Wu, Wenjing; Yu, Yanyan; Yang, Guangen

    2017-01-01

    Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes and psychological distress in patients with chronic idiopathic anal pain. The study was conducted on patients referred to Hangzhou Third Hospital for chronic anal pain from January, 2010 to December, 2014. Patient demographics, clinical history, anorectal physiology, and radiological imaging data were recorded for all patients. The treatment outcome was noted for patients treated and followed up for more than 6 month at the present unit. Ninety-six patients with mean age of 45.1 years (range, 17-82) were studied. Seventy-one patients (74.0%) had functional anorectal pain(FARP). The main complaints were dull, sharp, stabbing, or spasm pain. Among all patients, 34.3% reported that their pain radiated into other locations. Fifty-one patients (53.1%) had bowel dysfunction, while 28.1% patients had urinary dysfunction. The common factors associated with pain relief were day time, lying down and warm water baths; the factors that contributed to aggravated pain were night time, defecation or sitting. 92.7% (89/96) of patients reported symptoms of psychological disturbance. FARP patients exhibited increased depression than non-FARP patients(P<0.05). In addition, female patients were more likely to have depression than male patients (P<0.05). The overall pain treatment success rate was 55.2% (53/96). The pain treatment outcome was better in non-FARP patients than in FARP patients(χ2=3.85, P<0.05). Conclusively, chronic idiopathic anal pain is a complex clinical symptom, involving pelvic floor muscles, the nervous system, endocrine system, and the patients’ psychological conditions. Further research is needed to improve diagnosis and treatment for patients with chronic idiopathic anal pain. PMID:28730167

  7. Tibial rotational osteotomy for idiopathic torsion. A comparison of the proximal and distal osteotomy levels.

    PubMed

    Krengel, W F; Staheli, L T

    1992-10-01

    A retrospective analysis was done of 52 rotational tibial osteotomies (RTOs) performed on 35 patients with severe idiopathic tibial torsion. Thirty-nine osteotomies were performed at the proximal or midtibial level. Thirteen were performed at the distal tibial level with a technique previously described by one of the authors. Serious complications occurred in five (13%) of the proximal and in none of the distal RTOs. For severe and persisting idiopathic tibial torsion, the authors recommend correction by RTO at the distal level. Proximal level osteotomy is indicated only when a varus or valgus deformity required concurrent correction.

  8. Ongoing search for diagnostic biomarkers in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.

    PubMed

    Tarnaris, Andrew; Toma, Ahmed K; Kitchen, Neil D; Watkins, Laurence D

    2009-12-01

    Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus is a syndrome, which typically has a clinical presentation of gait/balance disturbance, often accompanied by cognitive decline and/or urinary incontinence. Its diagnosis is based on relevant history and clinical examination, appropriate imaging findings and physiological testing. The clinical picture of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus may occasionally be difficult to distinguish from that of Alzheimer's dementia, subcortical ischemic vascular dementia and Parkinson's disease. The aim of this article is to systematically review the literature from the last 29 years in order to identify cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or imaging biomarkers that may aid in the diagnosis of the syndrome. The authors concluded that no CSF or imaging biomarker is currently fulfilling the criteria required to aid in the diagnosis of the condition. However, a few studies have revealed promising CSF and imaging markers that need to be verified by independent groups. The reasons that the progress in this field has been slow so far is also commented on, as well as steps required to apply the current evidence in the design of future studies within the field.

  9. [Insight into the training of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy].

    PubMed

    Váncsa, Andrea

    2016-09-01

    Using current recommended treatment, a majority of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy develop muscle impairment and poor health. Beneficial effects of exercise have been reported on muscle performance, aerobic capacity and health in chronic polymyositis and dermatomyositis, as well as in active disease and inclusion body myositis to some extent. Importantly, randomized controlled trials indicate that improved health and decreased clinical disease activity could be mediated through increased aerobic capacity. Recently, reports seeking pathomechanisms of the underlying effects of exercise on skeletal muscle indicate increased aerobic capacity (i.e. increased mitochondrial capacity and capillary density, reduced lactate levels), activation of genes of aerobic phenotype and muscle growth programs and down regulation of genes related to inflammation. Exercise contributes to both systemic and within-muscle adaptations demonstrating that it is fundamental for improving muscle performance and health in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. There is a need for randomized controlled trials to study the effects of exercise in patients with active disease and inclusion body myositis. Orv. Hetil., 2016, 157(39), 1557-1562.

  10. Treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis: challenges and update.

    PubMed

    Rabinovich, C Egla

    2011-09-01

    To update the current understanding of the risk factors for poor outcomes in juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis. In addition, current therapies, both traditional and biological, are reviewed. Male sex, independent of age or antinuclear antibody status, is associated with increased ocular morbidity. Having anterior chamber inflammation on first exam increases the risk of developing vision-threatening eye complications. Presence of one complication increases the risk of developing another. Risk of cataract development associated with topical glucocorticoid use is better defined. Longer duration of remission on therapy has been found to decrease the risk of disease flare after discontinuation of methotrexate. Recent studies of both nonbiological and biological therapies for arthritis-related uveitis are discussed. With a better understanding of risk factors associated with the ocular morbidity of uveitis associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, aggressive therapies can be targeted for improved visual outcomes. Alternative treatments to avoid long-term corticosteroid use include the use of antimetabolites and biological therapies. More prospective comparator studies and/or use of multicenter databases are needed to better understand best treatments.

  11. Effects of standing on cerebrovascular resistance in patients with idiopathic orthostatic intolerance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jacob, G.; Atkinson, D.; Jordan, J.; Shannon, J. R.; Furlan, R.; Black, B. K.; Robertson, D.

    1999-01-01

    PURPOSE: Patients with idiopathic orthostatic intolerance often have debilitating symptoms on standing that are suggestive of cerebral hypoperfusion despite the absence of orthostatic hypotension. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We evaluated the effects of graded head-up tilt on cerebral blood flow as determined by transcranial Doppler measurements in 10 patients with idiopathic orthostatic intolerance (nine women, one man, 22 to 47 years) and nine age- and sex-matched control subjects. RESULTS: In patients, mean (+/- SD) arterial pressure at 0 degrees head-up tilt was 90 +/- 11 mm Hg and was well maintained at all tilt angles (90 +/- 11 mm Hg at 75 degrees). In controls, mean arterial pressure was 85 +/- 7 mm Hg at 0 degrees and 82 +/- 11 mm Hg at 75 degrees head-up tilt. There was a substantial decrease in peak velocity with increasing tilt angle in patients (28% +/- 10%) but not in controls (10% +/- 10% at 75 degrees, P <0.001). Similarly, mean velocity decreased 26% +/- 13% in patients and 12% +/- 11% in controls (P = 0.01). With increasing head-up tilt, patients had a significantly greater increase in regional cerebrovascular resistance than controls. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with idiopathic orthostatic intolerance, peak and mean middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity decreased in response to head-up tilt despite well sustained arterial blood pressure. These observations indicate that in this group of patients, regulation of cerebrovascular tone may be impaired and might therefore be a target for therapeutic interventions.

  12. Immunomodulating and antiproteinuric effect of Hippophae rhamnoides (Badriphal) in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome.

    PubMed

    Singh, Rana Gopal; Singh, Parampal; Singh, Praveen Kumar; Usha; Agrawal, Aruna; Upadhyay, B N; Soni, Ashutosh

    2013-06-01

    The treatment of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is still not well settled and at times is very frustrating. Number of protocols have been reported with variable results outcome in various conditions. The main pillar of treatment of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is use of immunomodulating and suppressive drugs in various combinations. The herbal preparations have also been reported to have immunomodulating property. The study has been planned to record Immunomodulating and antiproteinuric effect of Hippophae rhamnoides. In the present study had 2 groups having 28 patients of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in each group have been included. The patients were subjected to haematological, biochemical, immunological investigation at 0, 1, 2 and 3 months interval with dietic advise. Group A have been put on standard treatment, whereas group B on Badriphal in the well worked up doses. The hydroalcoholic extract of 350 mg twice daily of Badriphal was given to group B as add on treatment. Patients were followed up with definite protocol at monthly interval for 3 months. At the end of 3 month patients showed improvement in the symptoms of oedema, anorexia, oliguria in the herbal group. The urinary estimation of protein showed significant decrease in Group B with elevation of S. albumin levels. The inflammatory cytokines has showed significant decrease at the end of 3 month. Thus the pilot study showed beneficial effect of the herbal preparation Hippophae rhamnoides as add on treatment. A large perspective study is recommended to establish these findings.

  13. Benefit and risk of modafinil in idiopathic hypersomnia vs. narcolepsy with cataplexy.

    PubMed

    Lavault, Sophie; Dauvilliers, Yves; Drouot, Xavier; Leu-Semenescu, Smaranda; Golmard, Jean-Louis; Lecendreux, Michel; Franco, Patricia; Arnulf, Isabelle

    2011-06-01

    The benefit/risk ratio of modafinil was recently re-evaluated by the European Medicines Agency and was shown to be negative for idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) because of insufficient data. To evaluate the benefit/risk ratio of modafinil in idiopathic hypersomnia (with and without long sleep time) vs. narcolepsy/cataplexy. The benefit (Epworth sleepiness score, ESS; visual analog scale, patient and clinician opinions) and risks (habituation, adverse effects) of modafinil were studied in a consecutive clinical cohort of 104 IH patients (59 with long sleep time) and 126 patients with narcolepsy/cataplexy. Modafinil was the first line treatment in 96-99% of patients. It produced a similar ESS change in IH patients and in narcolepsy patients (-2.6±5.1 vs. -3±5.1) and a similar benefit as estimated by the patients (6.9±2.7 vs. 6.5±2.5 on a visual analog scale) and clinicians. The ESS change was lower in IH patients with long sleep time than in those without. Sudden loss of efficacy and habituation were rare in both groups. Patients with IH reported similar but more frequent adverse effects with modafinil than narcolepsy patients: nervousness (14%), palpitations (13%), and headache (11%). Modafinil has an excellent benefit/risk ratio in idiopathic hypersomnia, with or without long sleep time, similar to its effect on narcolepsy/cataplexy. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Omniphobic Membrane for Robust Membrane Distillation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lin, SH; Nejati, S; Boo, C

    2014-11-01

    In this work, we fabricate an omniphobic microporous membrane for membrane distillation (MD) by modifying a hydrophilic glass fiber membrane with silica nanoparticles followed by surface fluorination and polymer coating. The modified glass fiber membrane exhibits an anti-wetting property not only against water but also against low surface tension organic solvents that easily wet a hydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane that is commonly used in MD applications. By comparing the performance of the PTFE and omniphobic membranes in direct contact MD experiments in the presence of a surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS), we show that SDS wets the hydrophobic PTFE membranemore » but not the omniphobic membrane. Our results suggest that omniphobic membranes are critical for MD applications with feed waters containing surface active species, such as oil and gas produced water, to prevent membrane pore wetting.« less

  15. IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS: NEW CONCEPTS IN PATHOGENESIS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR DRUG THERAPY

    PubMed Central

    Horowitz, Jeffrey C.; Thannickal, Victor J.

    2008-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, and usually fatal pulmonary disease for which there are no proven or approved drug therapies. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents have been largely ineffective. The precise relationship of IPF to other idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs) is not known, despite the observation that different histopathological patterns of IIP may co-exist in the same patient. We propose that these different histopathological “reaction” patterns may be determined by complex interactions between host and environmental factors that alter the local alveolar milieu. Recent paradigms in IPF pathogenesis have focused on dysregulated epithelial-mesenchymal interactions, an imbalance in TH1/TH2 cytokines and potential roles for aberrant angiogenesis. In this review, we discuss these evolving concepts in disease pathogenesis and emerging therapies designed to target pro-fibrogenic pathways in IPF. PMID:16928146

  16. A Girl with Idiopathic Epilepsy Showing Forced Normalization after Levetiracetam Administration.

    PubMed

    Kawakami, Yasuhiko; Okazaki, Tetsuya; Takase, Masato; Fujino, Osamu; Itoh, Yasuhiko

    2015-01-01

    Forced normalization has been reported in association with almost all anti-epileptic drugs. We report on a 9-year-old girl with idiopathic epilepsy who showed forced normalization after administration of levetiracetam (LEV). She initially presented with generalized tonic-clonic seizures when she was 4 years old. Diffuse sharp and slow wave complexes (SWCs) were observed on electroencephalography (EEG). We prescribed sodium valproate (VPA) and benzodiazepines, but the seizures and EEG findings worsened gradually. Although subsequent administration of LEV stopped the seizures, the patient became subject to episodes of rage and violent behavior. Forced normalization was confirmed by the disappearance of SWCs on EEG. We reduced the dose of LEV and tried in various ways to resolve the situation, but finally we had to abandon LEV. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a patient with idiopathic epilepsy but without disabilities in everyday life showing forced normalization associated with LEV administration.

  17. Lubiprostone: a new drug for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation.

    PubMed

    Baker, Danial E

    2007-01-01

    Lubiprostone offers an additional alternative for patients with chronic idiopathic constipation. Lubiprostone is more efficacious than placebo in the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation. In placebo-controlled clinical trials, lubiprostone therapy was generally well tolerated and was not associated with severe adverse effects; however, the high incidence of nausea may be problematic for some patients. The nausea may be alleviated or minimized by administering the dose with food, and some patients may require a dosage reduction to 24 mug once daily. The key limitations of the placebo-controlled clinical trials include the absence of information regarding the duration of the constipation and previous types of therapies that had been used to treat the constipation and the absence of an active control group. Comparative studies with other therapies (eg, saline laxatives, polyethylene glycol) used for constipation are necessary to determine the clinical and economic value of this agent relative to other forms of therapy.

  18. Biopores/membrane proteins in synthetic polymer membranes.

    PubMed

    Garni, Martina; Thamboo, Sagana; Schoenenberger, Cora-Ann; Palivan, Cornelia G

    2017-04-01

    Mimicking cell membranes by simple models based on the reconstitution of membrane proteins in lipid bilayers represents a straightforward approach to understand biological function of these proteins. This biomimetic strategy has been extended to synthetic membranes that have advantages in terms of chemical and mechanical stability, thus providing more robust hybrid membranes. We present here how membrane proteins and biopores have been inserted both in the membrane of nanosized and microsized compartments, and in planar membranes under various conditions. Such bio-hybrid membranes have new properties (as for example, permeability to ions/molecules), and functionality depending on the specificity of the inserted biomolecules. Interestingly, membrane proteins can be functionally inserted in synthetic membranes provided these have appropriate properties to overcome the high hydrophobic mismatch between the size of the biomolecule and the membrane thickness. Functional insertion of membrane proteins and biopores in synthetic membranes of compartments or in planar membranes is possible by an appropriate selection of the amphiphilic copolymers, and conditions of the self-assembly process. These hybrid membranes have new properties and functionality based on the specificity of the biomolecules and the nature of the synthetic membranes. Bio-hybrid membranes represent new solutions for the development of nanoreactors, artificial organelles or active surfaces/membranes that, by further gaining in complexity and functionality, will promote translational applications. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Lipid order/lipid defects and lipid-control of protein activity edited by Dirk Schneider. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  19. Hypothalamic digoxin, hemispheric chemical dominance, and interstitial lung disease.

    PubMed

    Kurup, Ravi Kumar; Kurup, Parameswara Achutha

    2003-10-01

    The isoprenoid pathway produces three key metabolites--endogenous digoxin, dolichol, and ubiquinone. This was assessed in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and in individuals of differing hemispheric dominance to find out the role of hemispheric dominance in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. All 15 cases of interstitial lung disease were right-handed/left hemispheric dominant by the dichotic listening test. The isoprenoidal metabolites--digoxin, dolichol, and ubiquinone, RBC membrane Na(+)-K+ ATPase activity, serum magnesium, tyrosine/tryptophan catabolic patterns, free radical metabolism, glycoconjugate metabolism, and RBC membrane composition--were assessed in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis as well as in individuals with differing hemispheric dominance. In patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis there was elevated digoxin synthesis, increased dolichol and glycoconjugate levels, and low ubiquinone and elevated free radical levels. There was also an increase in tryptophan catabolites and a reduction in tyrosine catabolites. There was an increase in cholesterol phospholipid ratio and a reduction in glycoconjugate level of RBC membrane in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Isoprenoid pathway dysfunction con tributes to the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The biochemical patterns obtained in interstitial lung disease are similar to those obtained in left-handed/right hemispheric chemically dominant individuals by the dichotic listening test. However, all the patients with interstitial lung disease were right-handed/left hemispheric dominant by the dichotic listening test. Hemispheric chemical dominance has no correlation with handedness or the dichotic listening test. Interstitial lung disease occurs in right hemispheric chemically dominant individuals and is a reflection of altered brain function.

  20. Chronic idiopathic pain in adolescence--high prevalence and disability: the young HUNT Study 2008.

    PubMed

    Hoftun, Gry Børmark; Romundstad, Pål Richard; Zwart, John-Anker; Rygg, Marite

    2011-10-01

    The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of self-reported chronic idiopathic pain among adolescents in relation to age and gender, and to explore how pain interferes with daily activities. The study was performed in Nord-Trøndelag County, Norway in 2006-2008. All adolescents were invited to participate; the response rate was 78%. Participants completed a comprehensive questionnaire, including questions about pain and interference with everyday life. Chronic idiopathic pain was defined as pain at least once a week during the last 3 months, not related to any known disease or injury. The final study population, with complete pain questionnaires, consisted of 7373 adolescents aged 13-18 years. Chronic pain was reported by 44.4% of the participants, and 25.5% reported pain in at least 2 locations. Chronic idiopathic musculoskeletal pain was most prevalent (33.4%), and the neck/shoulder was most commonly affected. Musculoskeletal pain in 3 or more locations was reported by 8.5%. Pain almost daily was reported by 10.2%. More girls than boys reported pain. In girls, the prevalence of pain increased with age. A high number of pain-associated disabilities were reported, and 58.5% described difficulties doing daily activities in leisure time. Subjective disabilities were higher in girls, and increased with the frequency of pain and the number of pain locations, as shown by high disability in adolescents with musculoskeletal pain in 3 or more locations. Chronic idiopathic pain, especially multisite pain, is common among adolescents, and those suffering from it report a major impact on several areas of daily living. Copyright © 2011 International Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.