INDUCE-2: A Phase I/II, open-label, two-part study of feladilimab in combination with tremelimumab in patients with advanced solid tumors

Combining immunotherapies with distinct mechanisms of action has the potential to overcome treatment resistance and improve outcomes. The inducible T-cell co-stimulator (ICOS) agonist feladilimab is directed at enhancing T-cell activation and function, thereby promoting an antitumor response. INDUCE-2 (NCT03693612) was a Phase I/II, open-label, two-part study evaluating the anti-ICOS agonist feladilimab in combination with the anti-CTLA-4 antibody tremelimumab in patients with select advanced solid tumors. Objectives of Part 1 were to determine the safety, tolerability, and recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of feladilimab in combination with tremelimumab. In Part 2, the antitumor activity of the combination (administered at the RP2D determined in Part 1) was to be assessed in patients with relapsed/refractory head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Primary endpoints included the rates of dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs), adverse events (AEs), AEs of special interest, and serious AEs. Secondary endpoints included overall response rate, while biomarker assessment was exploratory. A total of 26 patients were enrolled, 18 (69%) of whom had completed the study at end date. One patient, in the highest dose group (24/225 mg feladilimab/tremelimumab), experienced a DLT 18 days after the first dose of study treatment. All patients experienced at least one AE; AEs led to treatment discontinuation in four (15%) patients. Partial response was observed in one patient. Feladilimab in combination with tremelimumab was well-tolerated but showed limited efficacy. Based on the totality of data from Part 1, it was decided not to continue with Part 2.

Dyadic positive and negative religious coping among older Singaporean couples and marital satisfaction

Difficulties faced in life can affect marital relationships and such troubles may be dealt with in a multitude of ways, including coping religiously. The present study examined how religious coping, either in a positive or negative manner, may have an impact on marital satisfaction. Importantly, this association was studied dyadically in a sample of religiously diverse (Buddhists, 32.3%; Taoists, 17.6%; protestant Christians, 14.1%; and others who did not identify with a specific religion, 19.1%), married older Singaporean adults (N = 1928; 964 couples). Using actor-partner interdependence modeling, we found significant actor, partner, and combined actor-partner effects for positive and negative religious coping on marital satisfaction. Specifically, marital satisfaction was highest when both spouses reported high levels of positive religious coping and low levels of negative religious coping. Taken together, these findings suggest that it is the simultaneous act of either greater positive or lower negative religious coping by both spouses that is related to higher marital satisfaction. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals distinct T cell populations in immune-related adverse events of checkpoint inhibitors

PD-1 is an inhibitory receptor in T cells, and antibodies that block its interaction with ligands augment anti-tumor immune responses. The clinical potential of these agents is limited by the fact that half of all patients develop immune-related adverse events (irAEs). To generate insights into the cellular changes that occur during anti-PD-1 treatment, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of circulating T cells collected from patients with cancer. Using the K-nearest-neighbor-based network graph-drawing layout, we show the involvement of distinctive genes and subpopulations of T cells. We identify that at baseline, patients with arthritis have fewer CD8 TCM cells, patients with pneumonitis have more CD4 TH2 cells, and patients with thyroiditis have more CD4 TH17 cells when compared with patients who do not develop irAEs. These data support the hypothesis that different populations of T cells are associated with different irAEs and that characterization of these cells' pre-treatment has the potential to serve as a toxicity-specific predictive biomarker.

Baseline peripheral T-cell composition in relation to radiographic phenotypes of immune-related pneumonitis

2545

Background: Pneumonitis is one of the most morbid complications from immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment, but pathogenic mechanisms are unclear and no biomarkers permit pre-treatment risk assessment. We sought to characterize peripheral T cell subsets of pneumonitis patients on the single cell level. Methods: Blood was collected before and during ICI treatment in 24 patients. Cells were processed for single cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) employing CITEseq methodology using multiplexed cell surface markers labelled with a cocktail of oligonucleotide-tagged Total-Seq anti-human antibodies against CD4, CD8, CD45RA and CD27 followed by Chromium 10X sequencing. Principal Component Analysis was performed with iCellR, K-nearest-neighbor-based Network graph drawing Layout, and PhenoGraph clustering to assign cell types. CT scans were performed per standard of care and were reviewed by an experienced thoracic radiologist. Results: Seven of 24 patients developed pneumonitis; 9 did not experience an immune-related adverse event, and the remainder experienced arthritis (4), thyroiditis (3), or neurotoxicity (1). Pneumonitis patients had expanded proportions of TH2 TCF7+ T cells at baseline as compared to the other patients. Radiographically, two patients’ pneumonitis manifested as Chronic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (CHP), and four had Organized Pneumonia (OP). At baseline, CHP patients had significantly lower levels of CD8+ TCM cells (CXCR3+), double-positive T cells, gamma-delta T cells, and higher levels of naïve-like CD4+ TN TCF7+LEF1+ and CD4+ TH1/2 CXCR3+GATA3+ cells compared to OP. Gene expression levels also distinguished between these radiographic phenotypes. Conclusions: The peripheral T cell composition of patients who developed pneumonitis was distinct from those who did not in our cohort and unique by radiographic manifestation, suggesting potential pathogenic mechanisms and a prelude to circulating predictive markers of ICI toxicity.

Characteristics of patients with EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at a diverse metropolitan cancer center

e20593

Background: Epidermal growth factor receptor-mutated [ EGFR(+)] NSCLC has historically been associated with young, non-smoking patients, especially those of Asian descent. Our medical center serves a diverse population within New York City and includes patients from neighborhoods that are predominantly Hispanic/Latino. We therefore sought to describe the population of patients with EGFR(+) NSCLC treated at our cancer center. Methods: We used our single institution lung cancer database to identify 2092 patients diagnosed with NSCLC between 2013-2019; of these, 375 had EGFR(+) disease. We collected retrospective data on patient demographics and disease outcomes. The chi-square test and t-tests were performed to compare between subgroups of patients. Results: Between 2013-2019, 17.9% of patients diagnosed with NSCLC at our center had an identified EGFR mutation. Incidence of EGFR mutations was higher in Asian NSCLC patients (46.7%) compared to Black (13.1%), white (16.8%), and Hispanic (16.0%) NSCLC patients. Within the 375 patients diagnosed with EGFR(+) NSCLC, however, the distribution was 62.1% white (233 patients), 13.6% Asian (51 patients), 11.2% Hispanic (42 patients), 8.3% Black (31 patients), and 4.8% unknown/other race (18 patients). Over half (57.7%) of patients with EGFR(+) NSCLC had a history of smoking, and most (68.9%) were female. Median age at diagnosis was 71 years. Frequency of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-sensitive mutations (L858R and exon 19 deletion) was 85.7% in Hispanic patients, 91.7% in Asian patients, 76.4% in white patients, and 71.0% in Black patients. Significantly more Hispanic EGFR(+) patients were diagnosed at Stage IV (65.4%) compared to 40.4% of Asian patients, 36.7% of Black patients, and 25.7% of white patients (p < 0.02 for all comparisons). Among patients diagnosed with Stage IV disease, Hispanic patients had worse average survival compared to non-Hispanic patients (19.4 months vs. 27.9 months, p = 0.01). Conclusions: EGFR-mutant NSCLC is thought to be especially common among patients who are younger, Asian, and/or never smokers. Our population of EGFR(+) NSCLC, however, encompasses a racially diverse group of patients, most of whom were older at the time of diagnosis and many of whom had a history of smoking. This population of patients, most of whom harbor a TKI-sensitive mutation, supports the use of routine mutational testing that is agnostic to patient demographics. Our data also suggest that Hispanic patients in particular are diagnosed with more advanced disease and have shorter survival; the reasons for such disparities within the EGFR(+) NSCLC population warrant further study.

Characteristics and outcomes of lung cancer in solid organ transplant recipients

OBJECTIVES

Lung cancer is the third most common malignancy that develops in patients following solid organ transplantation and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the general population. The aims of this study are to examine the characteristics of patients who developed lung cancer following solid organ transplantation at our institution and to compare their outcomes to those of lung cancer patients without a history of transplant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a single-institution retrospective study of 44 solid organ transplant recipients who developed lung cancer and compared their characteristics to a cohort of 74 lung cancer patients without a history of transplant. We performed propensity score weighted analyses to compare outcomes between the two groups, including a cox proportional hazards model of overall survival.

RESULTS

52 % of post-transplant patients who developed lung cancer were diagnosed with stage III or IV disease. In the propensity score weighted analysis that accounted for age at diagnosis, sex, lung cancer stage at diagnosis, Charlson comorbidity index score, and ECOG performance score, post-transplant patients were more likely to have squamous cell histology (p < 0.01) and had worse overall survival compared to the non-transplant cohort (HR = 1.88, 95 % CI 1.13-3.12, p = 0.02). The difference in survival remained significant after accounting for differences in lung cancer histology and treatment (HR = 2.40, 95 % CI 1.27-3.78, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

When compared to non-transplant patients with lung cancer, post-transplant patients have worse overall survival after accounting for differences in age, sex, lung cancer stage, comorbidities, and performance status. This survival difference is not solely attributable to differences in tumor histology and treatments received. This may suggest that post-transplant malignancies are more aggressive and difficult to treat.

Updated analysis of the inducible T-cell co-stimulatory receptor (ICOS) agonist, GSK3359609 (GSK609), combination with pembrolizumab (PE) in patients (pts) with anti-PD-1/L1 treatment-naïve head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)

6517

Background: INDUCE-1 (NCT02723955) is a first-in-human study investigating GSK609, an IgG4 ICOS agonist non-T-cell depleting antibody, as monotherapy and combination therapy with anti-cancer agents that includes PE. A range of GSK609 dose levels (≥0.1–1 mg/kg) having biological and clinical activity were identified and evaluated in the expansion phase with GSK609 0.3 mg/kg selected as the dose for further investigation. Results from the HNSCC expansion cohorts (ECs) showed GSK609 has single agent activity in pts with relapsed/refractory disease, and early clinical activity in combination with PE in pts with anti-PD-1/L1 treatment-naïve disease (Rischin, et al. Annals of Oncol 2019;30[Supplement_5]:v454–5). Updated results from the GSK609/PE HNSCC EC are presented. Methods: Eligible pts for the HNSCC EC had anti-PD-1/L1 treatment-naïve disease, ≤5 prior lines of therapy, measurable disease, and no active autoimmune disease. Pts received GSK609 0.3 mg/kg + PE 200 mg every 3 weeks (wks) until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, up to 2 years (yrs)/35 cycles. Disease assessments were performed every 9 wks through wk 54 then every 12 wks thereafter. Pts were followed for survival and subsequent anti-cancer therapy. Results: As of 11 October 2019, 34 pts were enrolled and evaluable for efficacy analyses. The median age of this population was 61.5 yrs (range: 37–77); 85% were male; 53% received ≥1 prior line of therapy in the metastatic setting. ORR was 26% (95% CI: 12.9, 44.4; n = 9 with 4 complete and 5 partial responses); disease control rate was 68% (95% CI: 49.5, 82.6; n = 23). Among pts with PD-L1 IHC status by 22C3 pharmDx assay (n = 24; 71%), the majority of pts with a response or stable disease (SD) had PD-L1 CPS status < 20 (11 of 15 pts including 1 SD pt with CPS < 1). Median PFS was 5.6 months (95% CI: 3.9, 6,2). Median OS was not reached at time of analysis (95% CI: 8.2, NR); 6-month OS rate was 84% (95% CI: 66, 93). Treatment-related adverse events were reported in 66% of pts; the majority of events were Grades 1 or 2 with < 10% of pts experiencing ≥ Grade 3 events. Conclusions: This updated analysis with a more mature dataset shows promising clinical activity that supports further randomized investigation of GSK609 in combination with PE with an OS endpoint in HNSCC. Clinical trial information: NCT02723955 .

ApricityRx companion digital therapeutic for evidence-based mitigation and phenotype-linked molecular characterization of irAEs in patients receiving immune checkpoint therapy (ICT)

TPS2089

Background: Presentation of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) is heterogeneous and unpredictable in patients receiving immune checkpoint therapy (ICT). ICT has been approved for cancer patients as single agent, combination of dual ICT, ICT plus chemotherapy, and ICT plus targeted therapy. Given the ever increasing complexity in recognizing and managing irAEs, coupled with the lack of skilled resources and clinical experience in real world practice, there is increasing demand for digital solutions that can detect early toxicity and support evidence-based interventions in real world practice. To this end, we have developed ApricityRx, a companion digital therapeutic for end-to-end irAE management. In addition to (i) teaching patients about immune-related toxicities and (ii) empowering them to monitor key symptoms and vital signs, ApricityRx continuously analyzes the combined patient-reported data and longitudinal EMR data to (iii) detect symptom-triggers and lab test-triggers of irAEs, and (iv) activate the clinical team to triage, evaluate and treat in a timely fashion, while (v) providing access to synthesized longitudinal patient information and expert guidance on evidence-based management and care. In a feasibility trial conducted in a community setting, we demonstrated two-thirds of the study participants completed on average 5 eCheck-ins per calendar week (overall average 4 times per week), with 5% of the check-ins resulting in notifications alerting the clinical team to evaluate for the early signs of an irAE. Methods: To accelerate translational research in irAEs and to develop predictive biomarkers for risk stratification, we are launching a single-arm, open-label study that utilizes ApricityRx in patients receiving ICT alone or in combination. The objectives of the study will include (i) defining the operative characteristics of ApricityRx as an irAE mitigation strategy; (ii) identifying patients and time points for phenotype-triggered biospecimen collection and molecular characterization. The study aims to enroll initially up to 100 participants per site, with a total target of 1,000.

An Unusual Association of Renal Cell Carcinoma and Renal Malakoplakia with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis in an Elderly Patient

The association of malignancy and glomerulonephritis may be missed, especially in elderly patients. Here, we report a case of eosinophilic variant of renal cell carcinoma and renal parenchymal malakoplakia discovered on renal biopsy in a patient with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome. The presence of malakoplakia in our biopsy was probably due to systemic steroid therapy for glomerulonephritis, presence of concomitant asymptomatic urinary tract infection, and/or history of diabetes mellitus. The patient had remission of proteinuria following laparoscopic removal of the tumor, indicating probable remission of glomerulonephritis.

Interpretation of Kidney Biopsy in Indian Patients Older than 60 Years: A Tertiary Care Experience

The adult population above the age of 60 years has significantly increased in India, with a life expectancy of 68.4 years in 2016. Data regarding the renal histopathology in these patients are scarce though the number of native kidney biopsies done in this subset of population is increasing. The present study is a retrospective analysis of 231 biopsies from a total of 700 biopsies, from patients above 60 years of age (M = 65.8%; F = 34.2%) with a mean age of 64 ± 6.03 years. The indications for kidney biopsy included nephrotic syndrome (NS) (30.4%), nephritic syndrome (19.1%), rapidly progressive renal failure (11.7%), acute kidney injury (AKI) (15.7%), and acute worsening of preexisting chronic kidney disease (CKD) (23%). The median percentage of glomerulosclerosis was 22% (5%–45%), and interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy was 30% (10%–50%). The most common cause for nephrotic syndrome was membranous nephropathy (31.4%) and for nephritic syndrome was benign arterionephrosclerosis (22.7%). Postinfectious glomerulonephritis (29.6%) was the leading cause for rapidly progressive renal failure. Acute injury on CKD was notable in patients with diabetic nephropathy (30.2%). The predominant causes for AKI were acute tubulointerstitial nephritis (33.3%), acute tubular necrosis (22.2%), and acute pyelonephritis (19.4%). The biopsy proven histopathological features enabled us in tailoring the therapy. None of the patients developed life-threatening complications following ultrasonography-guided biopsy.

Bone marrow aspirate quality assessment

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Background: Bone marrow evaluation is the cornerstone of diagnosis, staging, and measurement of treatment response for many hematologic diseases. Aspirate adequacy is defined by whether the procedure results in a specimen of sufficient quality for pathologic review. Between July 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015, 49.3% of inpatient bone marrow aspirates performed by Hematology/Oncology fellows at Columbia University Medical Center were classified as suboptimal. Methods: We used the Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology to 1) understand the factors contributing to suboptimal aspirates, 2) evaluate the scope of the problem at both fellowship and institutional levels, 3) develop a training seminar to educate fellows on the procedure techniques, and 4) monitor for improvement post-intervention. We identified inpatient bone marrow biopsies performed by Hematology/Oncology fellows between July 1, 2015 and June 30, 2016 and tabulated aspirate adequacy as noted in the reports. A faculty-led educational seminar was held on February 1, 2016. Fellows completed a pre- and post-intervention survey to assess knowledge and experience with bone marrow aspirates. Bone marrow biopsy billing data was used as a surrogate marker for attending supervision. Results: All Hematology/Oncology fellows (n = 19) at Columbia University Medical Center participated. The pre-intervention survey (18 responses; 94.7%) revealed 76.5% of fellows had formal bone marrow aspirate training, 66.6% had supervision 25% to 75% of the time, and 52.9% were uncomfortable performing the procedure alone. Of the 43 aspirates from the pre-intervention period, 22 (51.2%) were adequate. 94.7% of fellows attended the training seminar. Post-intervention, 27 of 50 (54%) bone marrow aspirates were adequate. The post-intervention survey (16 responses; 84.2%) showed 93.3% of fellows were confident performing the procedure alone. There were fewer procedures billed in the post-intervention period (20.9% pre vs 8% post). Conclusions: A formal educational seminar on bone marrow aspirate technique increased fellow comfort with the procedure and trended toward improved aspirate adequacy. The next study phase will institute an annual training session for incoming fellows and create a bone marrow specimen preparation checklist.

[Results of a Questionnaire-Based Study on Guideline Adherence Regarding Adjuvant Treatment Recommendations for Patients with Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Just a Disturbing Sidelight?]

BACKGROUND

The EAU guidelines on non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) provide for risk stratification in low, intermediate and high risk based on infiltration depth, grading, concomitant carcinoma in situ, recurrence status, focality and tumour size. The aim of this study was to evaluate guideline adherence regarding risk stratification and risk-adapted treatment recommendations in NMIBC.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An email-based survey distributed over the urological professional associations of Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Western-Pomerania, Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein assessed field of activity (doctor's office vs. clinic) and the presence of the additional qualification "Medical Tumour Therapy" (aqMtt). Also it inquired about the tools used for risk stratification in NMIBC. Finally, 3 scenarios were given, 2 of them corresponding to high-risk NMIBC and one corresponding to intermediate-risk NMIBC. Respondents were asked to provide a treatment recommendation. The results were presented comparatively for field of activity (doctor's office vs. clinic) and presence of aqMtt.

RESULTS

74 responses were received (response rate of 12.3%). 57 (77.0%) of respondents had aqMtt. 52 (70.3%) worked in doctor's offices or medical care centres, 12 (16.2%) in a urology clinic, and for 10 (13.5%) respondents this information was lacking. The most frequently used tool for risk stratification was the EAU guideline. Accordingly, treatment recommendations for the three scenarios were considered to be correct if according to EAU guideline. In high-risk NMIBC, an average 29.3% (19.3-37.5%) of adequate treatment recommendations were made depending on the comparison group. An average of 69.8% (62.5-77.2%) and 0.9% (0.0-3.9%) treatment recommendations would lead to under- or overtreatment, respectively. The corresponding values for intermediate-risk NMIBC were 56.8% (52.6-62.5%) for adequate treatment, 43.2% (37.5-47.4%) for undertreatment and 0.0% for overtreatment. Field of activity and the presence of aqMtt had no significant impact on the accuracy of treatment recommendations.

CONCLUSION

The results of our survey provide strong evidence of poor guideline adherence with a consecutive risk for undertreatment of patients with NMIBC. This requires joint efforts of all those involved in the treatment of NMIBC to improve quality of care.

Conservative management of twisted ischemic adnexa in early pregnancy

Diagnosis of adnexal torsion can be difficult, especially during pregnancy. Delay in diagnosis can lead to necrosis and loss of the affected ovary compromising the reproductive capacity, especially in young women. A 22-year-old primigravida presented to the emergency room at 10 weeks of gestation with acute onset left iliac fossa pain. Ultrasound examination showed a live intra-uterine gestation of 10 weeks, enlarged and edematous left ovary with a clear cyst of 76 mm × 63 mm with flow to the ovary. She underwent emergency surgery with a provisional diagnosis of torsion of left adnexa. Mini-laparotomy, detorsion of the twisted adnexa and ovarian cystectomy with reconstruction was performed thus conserving the tube and ovary. The pregnancy progressed normally; follow-up ultrasound scans showed normal functioning ovaries. Clinical appearance of torted adnexa does not correlate well with the residual function. Ovarian function can be preserved by untwisting, even if ovary appears necrotic.

Management of melioidosis osteomyelitis and septic arthritis

Little information is available about several important aspects of the treatment of melioidosis osteomyelitis and septic arthritis.

We undertook a retrospective review of 50 patients with these conditions in an attempt to determine the effect of location of the disease, type of surgical intervention and duration of antibiotic treatment on outcome, particularly complications and relapse.

We found that there was a 27.5% risk of osteomyelitis of the adjacent bone in patients with septic arthritis in the lower limb. Patients with septic arthritis and osteomyelitis of an adjacent bone were in hospital significantly longer (p = 0.001), needed more operations (p = 0.031) and had a significantly higher rate of complications and re-presentation (p = 0.048).

More than half the patients (61%), most particularly those with multifocal bone and joint involvement, and those with septic arthritis and osteomyelitis of an adjacent bone who were treated operatively, needed more visits to theatre.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:277–82.

Knowledge, attitudes and intended behaviours towards HIV testing and self-protection: a survey of Omani pregnant women

Routine HIV testing of all pregnant women in Oman has been introduced without prior knowledge of women's attitudes towards testing or their behaviour in the event of a positive test. This study recruited 1000 Omani pregnant women from antenatal clinics to explore their knowledge of HIV/AIDS, attitudes towards HIV testing and intended behaviours in the event of a positive test. Mother-to-child transmission was recognized by 86.6% of the women but only 21.0% knew that it was preventable and a few acknowledged the important role of antiviral drugs. Half of the women (51.9%) reported having been tested for HIV and 75.8% agreed about routine HIV testing for all pregnant women. A higher level of knowledge was significantly associated with a favourable intended behaviour related to voluntary testing, disclosure and seeking professional assistance in the event of a positive HIV test. The results are discussed in relation to opt-in and opt-out approaches to voluntary testing during pregnancy.

A clinicopathological study of women with adnexal masses presenting with acute symptoms

Background:

Abdominal pain is one of the most common presentations of adnexal pathology in gynecology. Early diagnosis and intervention is essential especially in adolescent girls and reproductive age group women to conserve reproductive function.

Aim:

The purpose of the following study is to assess the clinicopathologic outcome of women with adnexal masses presenting with acute pain.

Subjects and Methods:

A retrospective study of women with adnexal masses who had surgical intervention for acute symptoms from June 2007 to May 2012 was undertaken. During the study period, a total of 57 women were operated for adnexal masses as emergency.

Results:

Of the 57 women operated for adnexal masses as emergency, the most common pathology was teratoma 26% (15/57) followed by corpus luteal hemorrhage (16%) and endometriosis (14%). Laparoscopy was the initial surgical approach in just over 50% of patients, but surgery was completed laparoscopically only in about one-third of patients. Conservative surgery in the form of ovarian cystectomy was possible in 70% of patients.

Conclusion:

Complications of adnexal masses such as torsion and hemorrhage are common causes of acute abdominal pain. Timely diagnosis of the adnexal pathology and surgical intervention will help to preserve the reproductive outcome. Conservative surgery was possible in 70% of our study group.

Reversible acute kidney injury due to bilateral papillary necrosis in a patient with leptospirosis and diabetes mellitus

A 60-year-old lady with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension was referred for fever, bilateral loin pain, and renal failure. Investigations showed severe acute renal failure, bilateral renal papillary necrosis (RPN), urinary tract infection (E. coli), and infection with leptospirosis: Leptospira icterohemorrhagica; serovar hardjo. Renal biopsy showed tubulointerstitial nephritis with mesangial proliferation. The diagnosis was bilateral RPN in a diabetic lady with acute renal failure due to leptospirosis. The patient was successfully treated with hemodialysis, injection ceftriaxone, and benzyl penicillin.

A multicenter cross-sectional study of mental and physical health depression in MHD patients

Depression is ranked fourth among the disabling diseases affecting people worldwide and is the most common psychological problem in patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). The aim of this study is to assess the physical and emotional health status of renal dialysis patients, based on the SF-36 scale in relation to their economic status. Sixty maintenance hemodialysis patients, with a mean age of 40±13 years were included in this cross-sectional study using the SF-36 scale. It comprises 36 questions regarding physical and mental functions, body pain, vitality, etc. An SF-36 score of 50 or less was considered as moderate to severe depression and 51–100 as mild depression to good health. 56.81% of the patients who are below poverty line under dialysis had moderate to severe depression with regard to their health status. A physical health score of up to 50 was seen in 63.63% of patients below poverty line 63.63% (P= 0.16). A mental health score of 0–50 was observed in 61.63% of the cohort studied (P = 0.22). Among the patient with diabetes (28.33%) 55.56% had depression. Dialysis duration was directly associated with deteriorating physical health status and inversely proportional to their mental health status (P<0.05). There are problems in other regular activities due to depressed physical and mental health. The factors that were identified in this study that influence depression such as poverty status, increasing age, vintage and frequency of dialysis and treatment with erythropoietin dosage should be addressed and treated accordingly to improve the quality of life. Improving self-esteem with fruitful employment opportunities, concerted rehabilitation by professionals and easing of economic burden by private–public partnership is an achievable goal.

VIM-4 carbapenemase-producing Enterobacter cloacae in the United Arab Emirates

Screening 34 carbapenem non-susceptible Enterobacteriaceae recovered in Abu Dhabi hospitals identified an Enterobacter cloacae strain carrying bla(VIM-4) , bla(CMY-4) and bla(CTX-M-15) . It was isolated from the urine of an Egyptian patient repeatedly hospitalized and treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, including carbapenems, in the United Arab Emirates. The bla(VIM-4) coding class I integron, highly similar to In416, was carried on a 175-kilobase non-conjugative incA/C type plasmid also hybridizing with the bla(CMY-4) probe. This is the first detailed report on the isolation of a Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM) -producing enteric bacterium in the Arabian Peninsula with characteristics suggestive of spreading from the Mediterranean region.

Late post transplant HIV infection with BK viremia and allograft tuberculosis in a renal transplant recipient with Kaposi sarcoma

In this report, we discuss a case of a 51-year-old African renal transplant who presented with metastatic Kaposi sarcoma 1 year after transplant. The Kaposi sarcoma was treated with a switch of immunosuppressants and chemotherapy. Six years after transplant, he presented with chronic allograft nephropathy, allograft tuberculosis, BK viremia, and was diagnosed to have contracted HIV infection.

Intracranial hypertension with delayed puberty: a rare presentation of juvenile onset systemic lupus erythematosus

An adolescent boy presented with headache, bilateral papilloedema, growth retardation and absent secondary sexual characteristics. The diagnosis of intracranial hypertension was confirmed by increased intracranial pressure and normal neuroimaging of the brain except for partial empty sella and prominent perioptic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces. Evaluation showed an erythrocyte sedimentation rate of 150 mm/hr, positive antinuclear antibody, anti-dsDNA and antiribosomal P protein. Renal biopsy revealed diffuse segmental proliferative lupus nephritis (LN) class IV-S (A), which confirmed the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Treatment of LN with intravenous pulse methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide normalised the patient's CSF pressure and symptoms. In cases of intracranial hypertension, SLE must be considered. Growth retardation and absence of secondary sexual characteristics could coexist and may be presenting features of SLE. These manifestations point to advanced grades of LN, which could be asymptomatic and may be missed without a renal biopsy.

Selective surgical management of penetrating anterior abdominal wounds at the Angau Memorial Hospital: a prospective study

Trauma is a leading cause of admissions to the surgical ward in Papua New Guinea (PNG), accounting for about 35% of cases. Of these, 15% of cases are abdominal injuries, of which 19% are penetrating injuries. Selective surgical management of patients with a low-velocity anterior abdominal wound (AAW) is beneficial in some patients.

AIM

To determine if selective surgical management is a viable therapeutic option in PNG.

METHODS

A non-random prospective study of consecutive cases was done on 60 patients with an AAW based entirely on clinical symptoms and signs. The outcome measures were length of hospital stay, morbidity and mortality. Data were analysed using SPSS 10.0 for Windows and Microsoft Excel.

RESULTS

Immediate laparotomy was done on 24 (40%) of cases and 36 (60%) had nonoperative conservative management, of which 6 (17%) failed and went on to have laparotomy on demand. The average hospital stay was 4 days shorter (p = 0.0001) for the nonoperative group, which had significantly fewer complications (p = 0.01). No deaths were recorded in either of the two groups of patients.

CONCLUSION

Selective nonoperative management of stable patients with an AAW with or without omental signs is a safe therapeutic option in PNG.

Nutritional supplementation in HIV-infected individuals in South India: a prospective interventional study

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals is associated with faster disease progression, higher mortality rates, and suboptimal response to antiretroviral therapy (ART).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective interventional study to evaluate the effects of an oral macronutrient supplement among HIV-infected adults in South India. Patients attending Tuberculosis Research Centre clinics from June 2005 through December 2007 had baseline nutritional assessment and laboratory investigations performed. Patients at 1 center received nutritional counseling and standard care, whereas patients at 2 centers additionally received a macronutrient providing 400 cal and 15 g of protein daily. Study outcomes were changes in anthropometry, body composition, blood chemistry, and immune status at 6 months.

RESULTS

In total, 636 ART-naive patients were enrolled in the study; 361 completed 6 months of follow-up (282 received supplements and 79 received standard care). Mean age +/- standard deviation (SD) was 31 +/- 7 years, mean weight +/- SD was 50 +/- 10 kg, and 42% were male. Significant increases in body weight, body mass index, midarm circumference, fat-free mass, and body cell mass were observed in the supplement group but not in the control group at 6 months; gains were greater in patients with CD4 cell counts <200 cells/microL. No changes were observed in lipid levels, whereas the CD4 cell count decreased in the control group. However, after adjusting for baseline differences, these changes were not statistically significantly different between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Macronutrient supplementation did not result in significantly increased weight gain compared with standard care (including nutritional counseling) among patients with moderately advanced HIV disease. The effect of supplementation on specific subsets of patients and on preserving immune function needs further research.

Is there an effect of perioperative blood pressure on intraoperative complications during phacoemulsification surgery under local anaesthesia?

PURPOSE

The practice of deferring phacoemulsification procedure on recording raised blood pressure (BP) in the immediate perioperative period is based on the perception of increased intraoperative risk. The significance of perioperative BP recordings on the surgical complications during phacoemulsification procedure was evaluated.

SETTING

Hairmyres Hospitals, Lanarkshire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were classified as hypertensive on the basis of the British Hypertension Society Guidelines. BP recordings during preoperative assessment, admission, and 1-hour postoperatively were recorded in 734 hypertensives and 740 normotensives undergoing phacoemulsification procedure. In addition, BP recordings in the holding area before giving local anaesthesia were noted in the 734 hypertensives. Patient's peri- and intraoperative complications during the procedure were noted.

RESULTS

The mean age was 72+/-10.5 years and 74+/-11.6 years among the hypertensives and normotensives. There was a significant increase in the number of hypertensives who developed isolated systolic hypertension in the holding area (95% confidence interval=2.82, P<0.001) where the mean BP was 171.38/78.31 mm Hg (+/-30.55/16.29). A total of 21 hypertensives and 18 normotensives developed intraoperative complications during the phacoemulsification procedure. There was no significant difference (P=0.41) in the intraoperative complications between the hypertensives and normotensives.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative increase in BP noted in the holding area among hypertensives did not increase the risk of surgical complications during phacoemulsification procedure when compared with normotensives. We recommend that BP should not be routinely measured in the holding area before phacoemulsification surgery under local anaesthesia.

Modulation of angiotensin II-mediated cardiac remodeling by the MEF2A target gene Xirp2

RATIONALE

The vasoactive peptide angiotensin II (Ang II) is a potent cardiotoxic hormone whose actions have been well studied, yet questions remain pertaining to the downstream factors that mediate its effects in cardiomyocytes.

OBJECTIVE

The in vivo role of the myocyte enhancer factor (MEF)2A target gene Xirp2 in Ang II-mediated cardiac remodeling was investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Here we demonstrate that the MEF2A target gene Xirp2 (also known as cardiomyopathy associated gene 3 [CMYA3]) is an important effector of the Ang II signaling pathway in the heart. Xirp2 belongs to the evolutionarily conserved, muscle-specific, actin-binding Xin gene family and is significantly induced in the heart in response to systemic administration of Ang II. Initially, we characterized the Xirp2 promoter and demonstrate that Ang II activates Xirp2 expression by stimulating MEF2A transcriptional activity. To further characterize the role of Xirp2 downstream of Ang II signaling we generated mice harboring a hypomorphic allele of the Xirp2 gene that resulted in a marked reduction in its expression in the heart. In the absence of Ang II, adult Xirp2 hypomorphic mice displayed cardiac hypertrophy and increased beta myosin heavy chain expression. Strikingly, Xirp2 hypomorphic mice chronically infused with Ang II exhibited altered pathological cardiac remodeling including an attenuated hypertrophic response, as well as diminished fibrosis and apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings reveal a novel MEF2A-Xirp2 pathway that functions downstream of Ang II signaling to modulate its pathological effects in the heart.