Current Approach to Complications and Difficulties during Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsies

Prostate cancer is one of the most common male malignancies worldwide. It affects middle-aged men (45-60 years) and is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Western countries. The TRUS (trans rectal ultrasound)-guided prostate biopsy has been a standard procedure in prostate cancer detection for more than thirty years, and it is recommended in male patients with an abnormal PSA (prostate-specific antigens) or abnormalities found during digital rectal examinations. During this procedure, urologists might encounter difficulties which may cause subsequent complications. This manuscript aims to present both the complications and the technical difficulties that may occur during TRUS-guided prostate biopsy, along with resolutions and solutions found in the specialized literature. The conclusions of this manuscript will note that the TRUS-guided prostate biopsy remains a solid, cost-efficient, and safe procedure with which to diagnose prostate cancer. The complications are usually self-limiting and do not require additional medical assistance. The difficulties posed by the procedure can be safely overcome if there are no other available alternatives. Open communication with the patients improves both pre- and post-procedure compliance.

Interleukin-8, CXCL10, CXCL11 and their role in insulin resistance in adult females with subclinical hypothyroidism and prediabetes

In obesity, the hormonal secretion of the thyroid gland switches from homeostasis to type 2 allostasis in order to adapt to persistent modifications of adipose tissue and inflammation. Previous meta-analyses have linked obesity with an increased risk of developing thyroid diseases, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. We designed an observational cross-sectional study including all female patients presenting consecutively in an ambulatory clinic for 16 months. This study aimed to describe the level of serum cytokines and chemokines in relation to TSH, fT4 and insulin resistance (IR) indexes in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH). The study included 72 women with a median age of 59 ± 17.75 years, and a mean BMI (Body Mass Index) of 31.48 ± 6.75 kg/m². Modelling homeostasis model assessment of IR indices (HOMA-IR) based on chemokines (IL-8, CXCL10, CXCL11, leptin), C-reactive protein, the presence or absence of SCH, taking into account age, BMI, abdominal circumference, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (ATPO) as covariates, identified a single chemokine that was significantly associated with the dependent variable (IL-8). IR indices are negatively associated with IL-8 in female patients with subclinical hypothyroidism, but the effect of the cytokine is minimal. BMI rather than TSH influences the level of CXCL11 in our population. CXCL10 has a tendency to increase in patients with SCH, obesity and prediabetes, with no association with TSH.

Efficiency of platelet-rich plasma therapy for healing sports injuries in young athletes

In recent years, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has been a subject of controversy in orthopedics field. Our objective was to assess the efficiency of PRP therapy for patients who have suffered grade 2 meniscal lesions and grade 2 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) lesions, graded by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A retrospective observational study was conducted, which included 72 young recreational athletes who had been diagnosed with grade 2 meniscal injury, graded using MRI, that benefited from PRP therapy as an enhancement of the primary treatment, after cast immobilization. The Lysholm score, the pain intensity and the resuming of the physical activity before the PRP treatment and one month after were analyzed. Our study revealed that patients had an improved subjective perception of pain after PRP therapy and an improvement of the Lysholm score. Concurrently, 83.3% of patients could return to sports and daily physical activity. It can be concluded that PRP therapy is a safe, easy to manage treatment, efficient for pain relief and in resuming of sports activities for young recreational athletes who have sustained partial meniscal or ACL tears. In terms of pain relief, it appears that the PRP therapy could be more efficient for young patients with ACL injuries.

Demographic, anthropometric, and metabolic characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea patients from Romania before the COVID-19 pandemic

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is one of the major pathologies of modern life, with multiple etiologies intertwining: the increase in life expectancy, facial and dental changes, metabolic syndrome, and others. The current diagnosis is based on sleep studies, flexible endoscopy, imaging studies and a complete differential diagnosis from other possible pathologies. We present a retrospective study of 80 cases with OSA managed in 2019 prior to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed various demographic, anthropometric and metabolic data recorded in our study group. Some of the results, such as high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, were consistent with worldwide literature. However, regarding the anthropometric data, we underline a general decrease in height in the Romanian population. In addition, demographic data have changed in the last decade due to the work immigration in the European Union. This data will be used in a future analysis for comparison with variables recorded from cases with OSA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Current cases with OSA are not a priority for healthcare systems, and patients avoid referral to a specialist as much as possible.

Histopathological and immunohistochemical study of periodontal changes in chronic smokers

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory, multifactorial condition, that, in the absence of an early and adequate treatment, may lead to a progressive damaging of the alveolar tissues that support the teeth (periodontal ligament, cement and alveolar bone) followed by teeth mobility and, subsequently, their loss. Periodontal disease is one of the most common inflammatory disease affecting adult individuals all over the world, being considered a real worldwide pandemic. This disease may influence the progression of certain systemic diseases: diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, ischemic cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarction, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, chronic kidney diseases, cancer, etc. The association between smoking and periodontal disease was described in numerous clinical and epidemiological studies, suggesting that products derived from tobacco burning may change the clinical aspects and the disease progression. The present study analyzed microscopically and immunohistochemically 58 periodontal fragments, from 50 patients, chronic smokers, clinically diagnosed with severe periodontitis. There were highlighted major changes in the gingival epithelium (epithelium thickening, acanthosis, intraepithelial edema, infiltrates of neutrophils or lymphocytes, epithelial necrosis), in the periodontal conjunctive tissue (more or less intense inflammatory infiltrates, microhemorrhages, vascular congestion, intense immunohistochemical expression for some matrix metalloproteinases). The periodontal changes may be the expression of both toxic factors present in tobacco smoke and due to the changes caused by tobacco in the microbial flora of the oral cavity.

Current diagnosis and treatment of rhinosinusal aspergilloma (Review)

There are numerous types of sinusitis caused by fungal strains, some of which already colonize the nasal cavity. Mild forms present fungus balls growing inside a preexisting sinus cavity. The invasive type ranges from chronic manifestations to acute aggravated episodes. The latter scenario is encountered in cases with reduced immune responses, such as patients with diabetes, individuals receiving any form of transplant, AIDS cases and chemotherapy patients. Without the control of immunosuppression, the infection is aggravated and extends to the orbit and inside the skull base, regardless of the prompt surgical and medical treatment. This is the most common pathogenic fungus on the nasal sinuses level. It can occasionally enter the sinus cavity during dental procedures. The pathogenesis is enhanced by anaerobic conditions in poorly ventilated sinus cavities. Rhinosinusal aspergilloma has a slow, insidious evolution over months and even years. Our experience revealed the presence of both a dental problem and previous self-administered antibiotic regimens in almost every case. The initial symptoms are common with sinusitis of dental origin, but aspergilloma should be considered when a patient with a competent immune system does not respond to standard antibiotic treatment. The final diagnosis of rhinosinusal aspergilloma is conducted on a pathology sample with silver staining. The bacteriology exam of the sinus secretion rarely reveals a fungus infection; however, as revealed in our clinical experience, there may be coinfection with other multidrug-resistant bacteria. Surgical treatment must establish a wide exposure of the sinus cavity and correct drainage regardless of the external, combined or endoscopic approach. Early diagnosis and emergency surgical debridement along with administering systemic antifungal compounds in some cases represent the key to the successful treatment of invasive aspergilloma.

Risk Factors for Extraintestinal Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases - Data from the Romanian National Registry

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Identifying the risk factors for extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) may optimize the therapeutic decision. We aimed to assess the prevalence of EIMs in IBD patients in Romania and to determine the risk factors.

METHODS

We analyzed 2,626 patients registered in the Romanian IBD Prospect National Registry. We performed a descriptive cross-sectional study to assess the point prevalence of EIMs, calculating global prevalence and analyzing the different types of EIMs and their respective frequencies were carried out. Demographic and clinical risk factors were researched as possible predictors for EIMs development, based on the results of the univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The overall point prevalence of EIMs was 16.3%. A significantly higher frequency of EIMs in Crohn's disease (CD) was noted in comparison to ulcerative colitis (UC) and IBD unclassified (IBDU) (23.2% vs 11.3% and 16.3%, respectively, p<0.001). The most frequent type of EIM was peripheral arthropathy (8.3%), significantly associated with CD (p<0.001). Univariate analysis highlighted the significant independent common predictive risk factors for EIMs, in both CD and UC patients: female gender, patient's urban area of origin, anemia, hypoalbuminemia, and high level of C-reactive protein (CRP), while significant independent IBD phenotype-related risk factors were ileocolonic location and concomitant involvement of upper gastrointestinal tract for CD, non-smoker status and both moderate and severe disease activity for UC (p<0.05). Multivariate analysis determined that female CD patients with moderate or severe disease activity, with other than isolated ileal disease, and female UC patients with moderate or severe extensive colitis are the most likely to develop EIMs.

CONCLUSIONS

IBD patients are experiencing EIMs in a large proportion, with higher rates for CD. As EIMs negatively affect patient outcomes, foreseeing the risk by identifying independent and associated predictive factors could be a first step to optimal work-up and treatment.

Anticoagulation Therapy for Portal Vein Thrombosis in Patients with Cirrhosis in a Tertiary Center Experience

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The evidence regarding the use of anticoagulant (AC) agents in portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is increasing and, most patients undergo chronic treatment with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or vitamin K antagonists (VKA). Nevertheless, there are no clear data about who should receive antithrombotic therapy, when to initiate it, how long and what dose should be used for this set of patients. The aim of the study was to assess the outcome of patients with cirrhosis and portal vein thrombosis who received AC therapy, in terms of thrombus regression, bleeding events and survival rates.

METHODS

This observational and retrospective study included 107 cirrhotic patients diagnosed with PVT in a single tertiary center between 2010-2019. 54 received low molecular weight heparin or vitamin K antagonist (AC treatment group) and 53 were untreated. All patients were periodically follow-up to assess the evolution of PVT (regression, progression, stable thrombus) and potential occurrence of bleeding events.

RESULTS

The regression of portal vein thrombosis was significantly higher in the AC treatment group (OR=2.430; 95% CI=1.11-6.167; p=0.026), more than 50% of on-treatment patients experiencing regression of the thrombus. However, bleeding events were significantly more frequent in the AC treatment group (18.5% vs. 7.5%) and the risk of bleeding was associated with thrombocytes less than 50x103/mm3 (OR=8.266; 95%CI: 2.310-39.211; p=0.002). Survival was better in the AC treatment group (68.4% vs 48.7% at 5 years and 92.7% vs 77.8% at 1 year, p=0.038) and was lower in patients that experienced bleeding events (37.22% survival at 5 years, mean time survival 44 months, p=0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of cirrhotic patients with PVT more than 50% of patients receiving AC therapy presented regression of the thrombus; most of them obtained partial recanalization. The bleeding complication rate was higher than expected, reaching 18%. The overall mortality was lower in the treated group.

Role of temporal artery resection in Horton's arteritis (Review)

Horton's arteritis is found in the literature under various names, such as temporal arteritis, Horton's disease senile arteritis, granulomatous arteritis or giant cell arteritis (GCA). The pathogenic mechanism is the result of an inflammatory cascade triggered by a still unknown factor that causes dendritic cells in vessels to recruit T cells and macrophages, which form granulomatous infiltrates. The clinical picture consists of a daily headache with temporal localization, with moderate to severe intensity, unilateral or bilateral, with a history of months, years. Other changes may include pain in the cheek or tongue during chewing (claudication), weight loss, generalized fatigue, low-grade fever, and frequent pain in the limbs, in the context of coexisting rheumatic polymyalgia. Visual symptoms represent a special category, involving blurred vision, scotomas, and even sudden blindness. Histopathological examination of the temporal artery biopsy reveals focal thickening of the intima, with interruption of the lamina propria, with transmural inflammatory infiltrates, sometimes with multinucleated giant cells. In this article, we aim to review the role of temporal artery resection in the diagnosis of Horton's arteritis, but we also discuss the hypothesis of a potential therapeutic benefit of this procedure. However, there are also clinical situations in which there has been a considerable improvement in clinical symptoms and especially in vision deficit, with the improvement of the visual field after surgery performed for biopsy. It is difficult to estimate the influence of temporal artery resection alone, given that most patients also have concomitant cortisone treatment. However, in some cases, the rapid improvement of symptoms immediately after surgery, with the improvement of visual acuity and visual field, along with the disappearance of the headaches, can create the premises for future studies on a therapeutic contribution of temporal artery resection in GCA.

The use of polypropylene mesh in inguinal hernia surgery: A retrospective study

Previously, inguinal hernia surgery was based exclusively on repairing the abdominal wall defects using the patient's own tissues, which were put in contact with and tensioned to recalibrate the natural orifices. At present, inguinal hernia surgery is based almost solely on mounting an allograft, which has the role of strengthening the weakened groin region that allowed the herniation. This modern method of operation on inguinal hernia can be performed in a classic or laparoscopic manner. The mesh is made of polypropylene, which is a polymer of cyclic hydrocarbons. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness, biocompatibility, as well as the immediate and long-term complications in textile allografts used in open surgery of inguinal hernia repair. Another aim was to demonstrate once again the superiority of low-weight meshes with large pores by decreasing the number of complications caused by the synthetic material used, but also by a decrease in the tension on the tissues to which it was fixed. The present study included 255 cases submitted to inguinal hernia surgery. Only 1.5% required immediate reintervention before discharge to evacuate hematoma. The short duration of hospitalization, the quality-price ratio, the good postoperative results, as well as the rapid socio-professional reintegration, render the use of polypropylene mesh in inguinal hernia surgery very attractive for patients.

Solanum melongena allergy (A comprehensive review)

The Solanaceae family, including, among other, eggplants, represents the sixth most widely cultivated crops around the globe. We review the current data regarding allergies to Solanum melongena (eggplants), generating symptoms that range from gastrointestinal to respiratory allergic reactions. Currently, there are more than 4 mechanisms and molecules presumably involved in triggering allergic reactions to Solanum melongena: The lipid transfer protein (LTP) pathway, the profilin pathway, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) mechanism and other molecules. Allergies may be triggered both by pollen respiratory reactions and fruit intake. There is also an important cross-reactivity mechanism revealed by recent studies. Our literature review revealed many case series studies, some with in-depth molecular analysis of the triggering mechanism. However, wide population studies are still scarce. Current geographical distribution of the crops and population migrations should enhance the awareness of allergy and immunology specialists, ENT specialists, emergency physicians and pediatricians to the need for proper routine laboratory testing for possible Solanum allergy.

Subclinical hypothyroidism has no association with insulin resistance indices in adult females: A case-control study

Longitudinal studies have indicated an association between thyroid function and insulin resistance (IR) or a neutral relationship. Both the lowest tertile of free thyroxine (fT4) and the highest tertile of free triiodothyronine (fT3) were found to be associated with IR in cross-sectional studies. The aim of the present study was to analyze the association between IR and subclinical hypothyroidism in a female adult population from Bucharest, Romania. This is a retrospective pilot case-control study that included female patients examined by two endocrinologists and a diabetologist in an outpatient clinic. The retrospective follow-up had a one-year duration and included the evaluation of thyroid function tests and IR indices based on fasting insulinemia and C-peptide. The study included 176 women, 91 with subclinical hypothyroidism, with a median age of 60±17 years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 27.79±4.76 kg/m². The majority of the population (50%) was diagnosed with autoimmune thyroiditis, and 17.05% with goitre. The univariate logistic regression using hypothyroidism as the explaining variable found no evidence of a significant relationship between a decreased thyroid function and IR (OR 1.32; P=0.36). Metabolic syndrome was probably the most important determinant of IR in the population group studied. Thus, it was not the thyroid function per se, but the coexistence of other elements of this syndrome that prevailed in determining IR. Advantages to the study are the design that permitted evaluation of IR and the thyroid function at different moments in time as well as the uniformity of the blood tests. The multivariate analyses were adjusted for age, lipid profile and treatment; however, one limiting factor was the absence of other hormonal blood tests. In summary, there was no association between the thyroid function tests (TSH, fT4) and IR indices in adult Romanian women in a case-control study with one-year retrospective follow-up.

Congenital cataract - clinical and morphological aspects

Congenital cataract is one of the main causes of blindness in newborns and children. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are about 14 million children suffering from congenital cataract. Our study is based on 82 children, males – 46 (56.1%) and females – 36 (43.9%), with congenital cataract operated in the same ophthalmological centre in Bucharest, Romania. Of the 82 patients, 49 (59.76%) had bilateral cataract and 33 (40.24%) unilateral cataract. Clinically, the most frequent was the total cataract, followed by lamellar, nuclear and cerulean. We employed nine surgical approaches in our patients, depending on the type of intraocular lens (IOL). Morphologically, obvious changes were rendered evident at the level of anterior and posterior capsules, as well as subcapsular.

Ultrasonography used in the diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis: From experimental imaging to clinical practice

There is an increasing incidence of sinusitis cases in outpatient clinics; therefore, new methods for screening and triage are required. Performance of sinus sonography in our outpatient protocol was assessed in order to ascertain the specificity and sensitivity of this imaging method to detect rhinosinusitis. A total of 81 consecutive cases with clinical signs of sinusitis were collected and clinical data compared with sinus sonography results. Moreover, sinus sonography enhanced referral for further computed tomography scans. The results showed that sonography may be a screening method in sinus pathology, with a high sensitivity of 78.3% and a specificity of 93.1%. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of ultrasound for paranasal sinus imaging should be reconsidered as in the case of lung sonography. According to data of the present study, sinus ultrasound may be implemented in the emergency departments with no access to standard ENT services and it could be efficient in managing sinusitis in pregnant women and pediatric cases.

Respiratory allergies: Salicaceae sensitization (Review)

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) is one of the most frequent chronic conditions of the modern world. Pollen carried by the wind from pollinated trees is a major source of SAR. Betulaceae, Oleaceae and Platanus are the most important sources of airway sensitization with regard to tree pollen and, therefore, they are included in the official recommendations of skin prick testing by different official societies. Salicaceae pollen is a moderate source of pollen sensitization. Conversely, large areas are covered with poplars and willows around the world. A number of studies from many countries showed that in some particular situations (large and compacted areas covered by Salicaceae, weather conditions, air pollution, urban ornamental vegetation), poplar and willow pollens may become of local importance in producing SAR. The aim of this review was to present a synthesis of information regarding Salicaceae pollen allergy showing that, if various unfavorable aspects are brought together, a minor problem (Salicaceae sensitization) can became a public health problem.

Chameleonic appearance of caseous calcification of the mitral valve - still a problem for its appropriate management

According to the research literature, the caseous calcification of the mitral annulus (CCMA) is a rare variant of the mitral annulus calcification (MAC) entity, described mostly in elderly women. The aim of this study was to present the case of a 53-year-old female patient with caseous calcification of the mitral valve annulus and posterior cusp, which was diagnosed as papillary fibroelastoma. An echo-dense and quasi-homogeneous tumoral mass, measuring 1.6/1.4 cm, at the level of the posterior mitral ring was detected by echocardiographic examination, as well as by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Histopathological analysis revealed fibrous connective tissue with myxoid areas, hyaline degeneration with unstructured necrosis and dystrophic calcifications, which was consisting with the operative findings of a “toothpaste tumor”, or caseous calcification of the mitral valve. Differential diagnosis with other cardiac tumors, abscesses, thrombi or fibroelastomas is emphasized.

Correlations between ultrasonography performed by the ENT specialist and pathologic findings in the management of three cases with thyroglossal duct cyst

Thyroglossal duct cyst (TDC) has an increasing incidence. We present a series of three cases that benefited from the use of ultrasonography performed first hand by the ENT specialist. All cases underwent Sistrunk procedure and the diagnosis was confirmed by pathology results: one uncomplicated TDC, a thyroglossal duct carcinoma, and an infected TDC with the risk of becoming a diffuse cervical suppuration. Ultrasonography performed first hand by the ENT specialist enables a quick and thorough planning of the surgical procedure and management of the case.

PREVALENCE OF OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY IN A ROMA POPULATION FROM SOUTHERN ROMANIA - CALARASI COUNTY

Introduction

The prevalence of obesity has reached alarming levels in the European Union, including in Romania. Data on the prevalence of obesity is only available at the national populational level, but this may hide the increased levels in disadvantaged groups. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the Roma population in Southern Romania.

Material and method

This cross-sectional, epidemiological, non-interventional study was conducted from March 2014 to May 2017 in several settlements from Calarasi County. Screening procedures included interviews about medical history, lifestyle, anthropometric and clinical measurements and fasting capillary glucose.

Results

The study population consisted of 1120 adult subjects, of which 735 Roma. In Roma population group, the prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity was 4.5% (n=33), 25% (n=184), 25.3% (n=186) and 45.2% (n=332) respectively. In Romanian Caucasians group, the prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity was 2.3% (n=9), 20% (n=77), 33.8% (n=130) and 43.9% (n=169) respectively. Among the Romanian Caucasians significant predictors of obesity were a sedentary lifestyle and current smoking. The odds of being obese in Roma population were higher in sedentary lifestyle persons and lower in current smokers, with primary education, and in those living in rural settlements. The family history of obesity had a significant association with obesity only in Roma population.

Conclusions

Our results confirm the need to implement prevention programs in high-risk populations due to the double burden of malnutrition, lack of medical education and preventive healthcare, low socio-economic level.

Prevalence of Obesity and Newly Diagnosed Diabetes in the Roma Population from a County in the South Part of Romania (Călăraşi County) -Preliminary Results

Background and Aims: This study’s aim was to evaluate the prevalence of obesity and new cases of diabetes in Roma population compared to ethnic Romanian Caucasians from Călăraşi County in the south part of Romania.

Material and Methods: The population included in this study is part of a larger project that aims to evaluate the prevalence of obesity, prediabetes and diabetes in the Roma population from Călăraşi County. So far we have included 344 people: 180 Roma (119 female/61 male), and 164 non-Roma (108 female/56 male) aged between 18 and 85.

Results: In Roma population, the prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity was 4.4% (n=8), 37.2% (n=67), 26.7% (n=48) and 31.7% (n=57) respectively. In Romanian Caucasians, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 37.2% (n=61) and 32.3% (n=53) respectively. Diabetes was diagnosed in 14.6% (n=24) of Romanian Caucasians and in 11.7% (n=21) of Roma population. Risk factors for obesity in Roma population were: lower socio-educational level, smoking, physical inactivity (active less than 30 min/day).

Conclusions: High prevalence of overweight (26.7%), obesity (31.7%) and new cases of diabetes (11.7%) among the Roma population in the south part of Romania, Calarasi County was an important finding of our study. We observed a negative effect of lifestyle behaviours on health-related outcomes: smoking, sedentariness, lower socio-educational level.

Enterocutaneous Fistula Occurring 15 Years after the Prosthetic Mesh Repair of a Recurrent Incisional Hernia - A Case Report

A 78 year-old female patient who had been operated in 1999 for a recurrent large incisional hernia, with a 20/20 cm prosthetic mesh sutured to the lateral muscular layers of the abdominal wall, has had a favourable postoperative evolution for over 15 years. The patient was admitted in our clinic for a wound infection in January 2015. The clinical examination revealed a cutaneous fistula with large purulent drainage from the deep space; the outflow was between 30 and 50 ml/day. The fistulography identified the communication with the small bowel. The surgical procedure consisted of an enterectomy, which achieved the excision of 2 lesions of an ileal loop; one of them had a fragment of the prosthesis inside the lumen, while the other was strongly adherent to the internal surface of the prosthesis. An end-to-end anastomosis was then performed, as well as the large excision of the infected prosthesis. Finally, the only possible option was the skin closure. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged after 14 days; the reconstruction of the abdominal wall using a composite mesh is expected after few months. This clinical case is demonstrative for a rare and serious complication of a prosthetic mesh repair, which occurred after a very long period of normal clinical condition.

Adult cervical lymphangioma - ultrasonography, surgical removal, and pathology results. Case report

Lymphangioma is a rare pathology in children and even more exotic when encountered in adults. We review the current data on this subject underlining possible controversies and limitations. This is the case of an adult male who underwent a complete clinical examination and ENT performed ultrasound exam, along with contrast CT prior to complete surgical removal of the mass. The mass was 6 cm in diameter and compressed the left lobe of the thyroid gland. Pathology result confirmed the diagnosis of lymphagioma.

The Association Between Insulin Resistance And Advanced Renal Disease In Type 1 Diabetes

Background and Aims. Insulin resistance is documented in type 1 diabetes and it has been associated with chronic complications. Diabetic nephropathy is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this article is to quantify insulin resistance in type 1 diabetes subjects according to the presence or absence of advanced renal disease. A secondary objective was to study the possible association between insulin resistance and advanced renal disease.

Material and Methods. This was a cross-sectional study that included 167 type 1 diabetes patients. Insulin resistance was determined using the eGDR (estimated glucose disposal rate) formula. The association between eGDR and diabetic nephropathy was assessed in uni and multivariate models using stepwise logistic regression analysis of variables. The contribution of individual predictors in the final regression model was examined using Wald statistic.

Results. Significantly lower eGDR’s values were observed in patients with nephropathy: 5 vs. 7.3 (p<0.001). In univariate analysis eGDR was significantly associated with diabetic nephropathy (p<0.001). eGDR variable was retained in the final model of stepwise logistic regression (p<0.001) and showed the strongest association with diabetic nephropathy (Wald = 30.4).

Conclusions. In type 1 diabetes patients insulin resistance was the most important independent risk factor associated with advanced renal disease.

Current management of tubal infertility: from hysterosalpingography to ultrasonography and surgery

RATIONALE

The development of IVF techniques has diminished the importance of tubal infertility but recent discoveries shed a new light on reproductive tubal surgery prior to any IVF cycle.

OBJECTIVE

To adapt current state of the art recommendations concerning tubal factor infertility to actual possibilities in Romanian healthcare system and to grow the awareness of fellow fertility specialists and general practitioners to the improved outcomes of novel management and treatment modalities.

METHODS AND RESULTS

67 free full text articles centered on the subject of management in tubal infertility were identified in international databases. Four articles described general diagnosis using data from medical history, 21 works approached the diagnosis through hysterosalpingography, 14 papers introduced the use of different sonographic procedures, 8 files analyzed the importance of exploratory laparoscopy and 20 articles reviewed different treatment modalities.

DISCUSSIONS

Current data show that active implementation of the large scale use of tubal surgery prior to any IVF cycle will reduce up to 30% the costs associated with obtaining a viable pregnancy in cases with tubal factor sterility.

Ultrasonographic anatomy of head and neck--a pictorial for the ENT specialist

An increased pressure on ENT departments has evolved as head and neck pathology is showing a higher incidence and prevalence. Therefore, the ENT specialist should develop good skills in ultrasonographic examination of patients with head and neck masses. The aim of this paper is to enable the ENT specialist to identify anatomical landmarks on ultrasonographic images in order to expedite the diagnosis with a higher degree of certainty. We describe the steps for a proper ultrasound examination of the patient. We illustrate the following anatomical areas: submandibular gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, oropharinx, larynx, parotid glands, etc. Moreover we emphasize the differential diagnosis that should be taken into account when examining pathology in these regions. Ultrasonographic examination of head and neck pathology is cost efficient, non irradiating and permits fast follow up with serial examination of the lesions. Furthermore one can perform an initial TNM staging of the case prior to other expensive imaging studies such as CT and MRI. We hope to raise the awareness of fellow ENT specialists in performing ultrasonography as future developments such as elastography and CEUS will increase the specificity and sensitivity of this diagnostic method.

TNF-α evaluation in tonsil cancer

Squamous cell tonsil carcinoma is the most frequent form of oropharyngeal cancer, representing 70-80% of the total of head and neck malignant tumors. Poor clinical symptoms make that 60-80% of patients with squamous cell tonsil carcinoma have a late diagnosis, in the third and fourth stages, when the tumor exceeds the organ limits, invading the pharyngeal wall or the tongue base, being associated with metastases in the laterocervical lymphatic ganglions. The tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) represents an important inflammation mediator associated to carcinogenesis and even to tumor progression. We evaluated the seric values of TNF-α in a group of patients with tonsil cancer in comparison to a group of patients with chronic tonsillitis, as well as the reaction of mastocytes and macrophages in the two types of tonsil lesions. Seric levels of TNF-α in squamous cell tonsil carcinoma were quite high, varying from 1000 to 2000 pg÷mL, and in four patients, with poorly differentiated tonsil carcinoma in the fourth stage, the TNF-α values varied from 2000 to 4000 pg÷mL. In the patients undergoing radiotherapy, the TNF-α seric levels were within normal limits. In chronic tonsillitis, the TNF-α seric level varied from 10 to 200 pg÷mL. There were not observed any significant differences between the two types of tonsil lesions, regarding the macrophages and mast cells density on the surface unit.

Giant gastrointestinal stromal tumor of the stomach

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal malignancies of the digestive tract. Gastric localization is the most frequent. The aim of this study is to evaluate the importance of immunohistochemical factors (CD117, CD34, α-SMA, vimentin, p53, Ki67) in diagnostic and size tumor and mitotic activity as prognostic factors for these tumors. We present the case of a 66-year-old male patient with a giant gastric GIST. Like in the vast majority, the symptomatology in this patient has long been faint, despite the large tumor size, and when it became manifest, it was nonspecific. Imagery wise, the computer tomography (CT) scan was the most efficient, showing the origin of the tumor from the greater curvature of the stomach, its dimensions, as well as the relations with the other abdominal viscera. Surgery in this patient was en-bloc, according to the principles of GIST. The histological aspect is characterized by a proliferation of spindle cells positive for CD117 and CD34. Despite complete microscopic resection, the size of the tumor (25×20×27 cm) and the mitotic activity (21÷5 mm2) remains important relapse factor.

A rare complication of CMV infection in Crohn's disease - hemophagocytic syndrome: a case report

We report a case of CMV (cytomegalovirus) infection in a Crohn's disease patient, resulting in severe hemophagocytic syndrome and death. A 63-year-old man with a 10-year history of ileal and colonic Crohn's disease presented with general malaise, loss of appetite and weight loss over the last month. He was in clinical remission for two years, with maintenance therapy 5-Aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA)-derived Mesalamine. The patient had no prior immunomodulators or suppressive treatment. A colonoscopy was performed and we found appearance suggestive of active Crohn's disease, confirmed by histopathological examination. A diagnosis of an exacerbation of Crohn's disease was established. Although the specific treatment was initiated, patient's general condition degraded progressively and diarrheal stools appeared, followed by an episode of massive gastrointestinal bleeding - hematochezia. We performed a new colonoscopy and the pathological examination revealed Crohn's ileocolitis with superimposed CMV infection. Despite the initiation of Ganciclovir alongside with other intensive care measures, he increasingly deteriorated and chest X-ray confirmed multilobar pneumonia. The occurrence of rapidly progressing pancytopenia and evidence for disseminated intravascular coagulopathy as well as hyperferritinemia, raised the suspicion of hemophagocytic syndrome confirmed by bone marrow aspiration. Hence, CMV-associated hemophagocytic syndrome in the context of recent corticotherapy for Crohn's disease was established. There is enough evidence that supports the gravity of the CMV infection in the case of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, especially the ones on immunomodulator treatment. The hemophagocytic syndrome reactively occurs in patients with infections in cases of immunodeficiency, displaying a hematological aspect of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.

The assessment of matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression and angiogenesis in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent types of cancer in the world. Between tumor cells and the stroma mutual interconnections are established that favors the tumor development and metastasis. In this respect, the extracellular matrix is remodeled so that it may become totally different from a morphologic perspective than the stroma of the organ in which the tumor develops. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have an essential role in the remodeling of the tumor stroma. We assessed the expression of MMP-9 on a number of 31 stage III colorectal adenocarcinomas. Generally, MMP-9 had a high but inconstant expression in tumor cells. The highest expression was found in poorly and moderately differentiated carcinomas, with a lower expression in well-differentiated colorectal cancers. Occasionally, MMP-9 expression was identified also in peritumoral macrophages and in stromal cells. Metastasis-free lymph nodes had an intense positive reaction in both macrophages and lymphocytes. The intensely positive reaction was observed for the macrophages and lymphocytes in the tumor necrosis regions. The process of angiogenesis was generally correlated with the intensity of MMP-9 reaction.

An unusual cutaneous malignant melanoma arised de novo: a case report

Malignant melanoma is a type of skin cancer with accelerated evolution and a high metastatic potential, thus being the most aggressive type of skin tumor. Its origin resides in the epidermal melanocytes, which multiply chaotically, therefore becoming malignant cells. The main objective of this study was represented by the clinical, histological and also immunohistochemical analysis of a peculiar case of malignant cutaneous melanoma arised de novo. Patient M.H., age 54, was admitted due to concerns regarding a cancerous growth on the right scapula. Dermoscopy revealed an asymmetrical, polymorphic and polychromatic lesion; therefore, a surgical intervention was scheduled. The histological exam showed a microscopic structure resembling an epithelioid cell malignant melanoma, with inflammatory reaction and central ulcerations. Immunostaining with melanocytic differentiation markers revealed the presence of pagetoid-disseminated cancerous cells into the epidermis, in addition to deep dermis invasion and the extension of cancerous cells in and around the hair follicles. In most cases, malignant melanoma develops on pre-existent nevi, but it can also appear de novo with accelerated evolution, mainly at phototype I young people. The importance of this particular case consists in the fact that the tumors presented some unusual particularities: appearing on healthy skin tissue, with slow evolution, at an age when this pathology is rarely encountered; the patient was phototype III and the cutaneous territory had been rarely exposed to ultraviolet radiations. Therefore, the case has proven interesting and worthy of being taken into consideration by the appropriate literature.

A nonfunctional neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas - a case report

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) represent about 1-5% of the pancreatic tumors, having an annual incidence of about 1/100 000, with difficult positive and differential diagnostic, especially in nonfunctioning tumors. We present a case of large dimensions (10/8 cm) pancreatic tail NET developed in a 65-year-old woman, incidentally discovered while she was examined for a strangled inguinal hernia. The patient had no specific tumor signs and the imagistic examination did not reveal any metastases. The histopathological and especially the immunohistochemical examinations were decisive for the diagnosis, treatment and prognostic establishment. The tumor showed intense positivity for chromogranin, synaptophysin, CD56, CD117, CK19, MNF-116 and negative for CK5/6 and CK7. The proliferative index established through the Ki-67 assessment was around 3%, while p53 was positive in 25-30% of tumor cells nuclei.

Prognostic markers in the pathology of cardiac failure: echocardiography and autonomic nervous system dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

Chronic heart failure is a major health problem worldwide and despite the therapeutic advances, the mortality and morbidity still remain high. Echocardiography is the gold standard for left ventricular function assessment and may provide prognostic information for predicting future heart failure events.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed the main echocardiographic markers used for the prognostic of chronic heart failure patients such as the ejection fraction, diastolic impairment and the collapse of inferior vena cava. Also, another parameter is studied, recently recognized as a marker for future cardiac events: autonomic nervous dysfunction. The current paper makes a comprehensive approach of the echocardiographic markers recommended for the diagnosis and follow-up of heart failure adapted to what we really find in our everyday practice with a correct patient management in a clinical and biological context. Even though left ventricle ejection fraction is the most often used parameter for cardiac failure follow-up and prognostic, new and more accurate parameters should be used: Tissue Doppler Imaging and Heart rate recovery - which may become a therapeutic target in the era of cardiac rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no stand-alone marker for the assessment of cardiac failure; each of the parameters presented has its advantages and its pitfalls. Echocardiography allows a morphologic study, which should always be correlated with clinical and functional studies (exercise stress test and autonomic nervous system dysfunction).

Fallopian tubes--literature review of anatomy and etiology in female infertility

RATIONALE

Around 30% of the infertile women worldwide have associated Fallopian tubes pathology. Unfortunately, for a long time, this aspect of infertility has been neglected due to the possibility of bypassing this deadlock through IVF.

OBJECTIVE

Up to date free full text literature was reviewed, meaning 4 major textbooks and around 100 articles centered on tubal infertility, in order to raise the awareness on this subject.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The anatomy of the Fallopian tube is complex starting from its embryological development and continuing with its vascular supply and ciliated microstructure, that is the key to the process of egg transport to the site of fertilization. There are many strongly documented causes of tubal infertility: infections (Chlamydia Trachomatis, Gonorrhea, and genital tuberculosis), intrauterine contraceptive devices, endometriosis, and complications after abdominal surgery, etc.

DISCUSSIONS

Although there are still many controversies about the etiology of tubal sterility with the advent of molecular diagnosis of infections there has been cleared the pathway of infection through endometriosis or through ciliary immobility towards the tubal obstruction.

Medical nutrition therapy in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease--a review of literature

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver disease worldwide, with a prevalence of 20%-40% in Western populations. The purpose of this article is to review data related to lifestyle changes in patients with NAFLD.

METHOD

We searched a public domain database (PubMed) with the following categories: disease (NAFLD, fatty liver, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH]) and intervention (lifestyle intervention, diet, nutrition) with each possible combination through 25 September 2014, for relevant articles. Review of articles was restricted to those published in English. We selected the studies involving adult patients only.

CONCLUSION

There is no consensus as to what diet or lifestyle approach is the best for NAFLD patients. However, patients with NAFLD may benefit from a moderate- to low-carbohydrate (40%-45% of total calories) diet, coupled with increased dietary MUFA and n-3 PUFAs, reduced SFAs. More CRT are needed to clarify the specific effects of different diets and dietary components on the health of NAFLD patients.

ABBREVIATIONS

NAFL = Non-alcoholic fatty liver, NAFLD = non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, NASH = non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, HCC = hepatocarcinoma, BEE = basal energy expenditure, CRT = A small clinical randomized trial showed that short-term carbohydrate restriction is more efficacious in reducing intrahepatic triglyceride, IHT = intrahepatic triglyceride, VLCD = Very low calorie diets, AST = aspartate aminotransferases, SFAs = saturated fatty acids.

Diabetes in the hospitalized patients with urological diseases

BACKGROUND

Diabetes and urological diseases are widespread health problems, whose incidence increases with age. The aim of this observational, retrospective study was to analyze the particularities of urinary disorders, which appeared in patients with diabetes, admitted in a urology ward.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 6910 patients admitted in "Th. Burghele" Hospital from January 2013 to July 2014 were analyzed. Only admissions in urology wards and the first hospitalization of the patient were elements that were taken into account. Data was taken from the Hipocrate medical information system and Easy Medical Pro laboratory medical software. Study variables were age and sex of patients, the main discharge diagnosis, the number of days of hospitalization and the laboratory analyses collected on the day of admission. The data of the whole lot was analyzed and then an analysis on subgroups of patients was done.

RESULTS

There were 16.52% (n=1142) patients with diabetes in the total group of analyzed patients. Urinary stones were the most frequent cause of hospitalization, both in patients with diabetes and in patients without diabetes (28.5%, respectively 37.5%). The average age was 60.01 years and the mean duration of hospitalization was 6.52 days. Patients with diabetes hospitalized for urinary stones, renal cancer, and infectious pathology were significantly older than patients without diabetes. The presence of diabetes prolonged hospitalization in the case of patients with kidney stones, kidney cancer and in those with infectious pathology. The most common malignancy was bladder cancer in both groups of patients. Malignancies were more common in diabetics (19.08% vs. 15.98%) and diabetes was a risk factor for malignancy in our study. In particular, patients with diabetes had a significantly increased risk of bladder cancer. In the analyzed group, diabetes was positively associated with prostate adenoma, genital infections, and prostate infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes increased the risk for certain urological diseases (bladder cancer, prostate adenoma, prostate and genital infections), it prolonged hospitalizations, and it was associated with certain features of laboratory analysis (leukocytosis, decreased glomerular filtration rate).

A rare case of multiple clear cell acanthoma with a relatively rapid development of the lower legs

Clear cell acanthoma, firstly described by Degos as "an epidermal tumor with a particular aspect", although quite a rare lesion, raised an important interest because it may be easily confused with other dermatologic lesions, in the absence of a histopathological examination. Its clinical aspect is of a solitary nodule, with a red-brown varying color, with a size of 3 mm to 2 mm, sometimes covered with a thin scall. We present a case of a multiple rare cell acanthoma (seven nodular formations), having a rapid development (about two months) diagnosed in a 71-year-old patient within the lower 1/3 of the right shin.

[The management of postoperative pancreatic fistulas]

Postoperative pancreatic fistula is the most common major complication after pancreatic surgery and it can lead to prolonged hospital stay, increased costs and mortality. Its incidence is between 2 and 30%. We present a series of 100 successive patients, operated in our clinic for different pancreatic diseases. Among them, 21 had pancreaticoduodenectomies, 24- enucleation procedures for insulinomas or pancreatic adenomas, 31- distal pancreato-spleenectomies and in 24 cases a pancreatic abcess or pseudocyst was drained. A pancreatic fistula occurred in 21 patients (21%); we analyzed the treatment and outcome of these fistulas, according to our experience and to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPF) classification. 10 patients needed only medical treatment, while in 11 cases one/more new surgical procedure(s) was/were required. 15 patients had a favourable evolution and 6 other patients deceased. In persistent fistulas, as well as in those with a high output, the resection of the pancreatic remnant appears to be the best surgical option.

Delayed cell cycle kinetics and chromosome aberrations induced by girostan in human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) in vitro. Note 1. Modified S-phase traverse

Human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) maintained in vitro for 72 hours were labeled with 5-Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) at 50 microliters/ml and concomitantly treated with girostan at 1.5; 2 and 2.5 micrograms/ml during the last 13; 11; 9; 7; 5 and 3 hours before cells gathering for incorporation banding analysis in metaphase spreads. Similar untreated cultures, labeled with BrdU for the same time intervals were set up as controls in order to determine the phase of cell cycle traverse in the moment when girostan was given to the cultures. When compared with controls, incorporation banding pattern in treatment samples revealed the effect induced by girostan on cell cycle kinetics during different time intervals before mitosis. Cells with entirely dark chromosomes at metaphase [were] considered in G1/G2 phase, while metaphases with a clear banding on the chromosome were presumed to be at different moments within S-phase. Connected to the observed type of banding (R or G), early S, middle S and late S-phase metaphases were identified. A dose-related delay of cell cycle traverse was induced as revealed by the increased frequency of cells that lasted in S-phase and did not reach the G2-phase. More than that, within S-phase population, an evident accumulation of cells traversing middle S-phase was observed at the same time with the decrease of cells in late S. This effect of girostan on cell kinetics is also correlated with the moment during the cell cycle traverse when cytostatic treatment is gives.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Vitamin D3, a possible nuclear protector in normal hepatic and medullar tissue in white Wistar rats treated with cytostatics. Radioisotopic and cytogenetic aspects

Vitamin D3 was given to male Wistar rats in 3 doses totalling 10,000 IU/kg b.w. then, within 24 hrs, girostan (10 mg/kg b.w.), lomustin or CCNU (10 mg/kg b.w.), all cytostatic substances, were injected in a single dose. Association of vitamin D3 with these cytostatics was found to reduce incorporation of 3H thymidine and a return to normal of RNA synthesis. This suggests that vitamin D3 has a protective effect by maintaining the stability of the double helix. Cytogenetically, the level of the recombinations and of the lesions themselves changes in relation to the structure of the alkylant used, and the damage is smaller if vitamin D3 is given before cytostatics.

Micronucleus test applied in patients with acute leukemia, before and at different intervals during the cytostatic treatment

The micronucleus test was applied in a group of 36 patients with malignant disease of the blood (acute lymphoblastic leukemia, ALL, and acute non-lymphocytic leukemia, ANLL) in order to evaluate to what extent it may be relevant for the efficiency of the cytostatic treatment. To this end, the test was applied at the onset of the disease (when diagnosed) and at different intervals after initiating the cytostatic therapy. Determination of the incidence of micronucleated cells and immature cells (blasts) at the two moments of the study established a correlation between the frequency of micronucleated cells and blast cells, the response to the anticancerous treatment and survival duration, the data obtained reflecting the prognostic value of the test in some malignant hemopathies.