Necrotizing fasciitis: A highly fatal infection

BACKGROUNDS

Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe bacterial infection characterized by involvement of all skin's layers, including the superficial fascia. Diagnosis and treatment must be as quick as possible. Once suspected, extensive surgical debridement is required.

METHODS

All necrotizing fasciitis, managed in our hospital in Dijon, during the period from January 2011 to May 2021, were retrospectively analyzed. Demographics characteristics of patients, biological parameters, and type of bacteria were collected. Statistical analysis was performed on the cost of hospitalization, as well as on the death rate between type I and II NF and the speed of management. Student's t-test and Chi2 test were performed with a significant level P<0.05.

FINDINGS

A total of 65 patients were included over the period. The mean age was 68.8 years. The average length of stay was 32.4 days, with an average cost of 79,305 €. The main locations were the lower limbs (57%) and the perineum (35%). Cost of hospitalization did not differ between type I and II (P=0.21), unlike mortality rate (P=0.003). Furthermore, the mortality rate according to the speed of management did not vary in our series (P=0.45).

CONCLUSION

Necrotizing fasciitis is quickly fatal if left untreated. Early diagnosis, combined with surgical debridement and probabilistic antibiotic therapy are required. Our study shows the impact of necrotizing fasciitis in terms of cost to society and the importance of prevention of certain risk factors. A global management of the patient is necessary to increase the survival rate.

Time to return to work after total trapeziometacarpal prosthesis

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed return to work and prosthesis survival after trapeziometacarpal prosthesis surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study was carried out on patients operated on between 2002 and 2020. All working patients who had undergone trapeziometacarpal prosthesis surgery were included. Return to work was defined as resuming the same full-time position. Postoperative events and their specific treatment and failure to return to work were reported.

RESULTS

240 prostheses in 211 patients were included. The complications rate was 7.5%, with 97% prosthesis survival. 94.3% of patients returned to work, at a mean 48 days (range, 29-210 days; SD, 22.7 days), with no significant difference according to age. Twelve patients did not return to work, half of whom because of prosthetic complications.

CONCLUSION

Trapeziometacarpal arthroplasty enables most patients to return to work within 6 weeks. In this series, the prosthetic survival rate was 97%.

Observational study of a series of basal cell carcinomas: Evaluation of location as a risk factor for recurrence

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is locally aggressive and its prognosis depends on the risk of recurrence. The initial location of the tumor is a key criterion for calculating the risk of recurrence. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sites that appear to be most at risk of recurrence of BCC. All cases of BCC analyzed at the anatomopathology laboratory of the University Hospital of Montpellier for 1 year were retrospectively included. In case of recurrence on the same site, only carcinomas that had previously been completely removed were analyzed. Among 803 BCC, 37 (4.6%) were confirmed as recurrent, including 34 (92%) on the head. The locations statistically at higher risk of recurrence were the temporal and frontal/temporal areas (32.4%), the medial canthus and lower eyelid area (18.9%), the ala and tip of the nose (16.2%), and the ears (8.1%). The frontal/temporal regions appear to be an area of major interest in this series. A high risk of recurrence was confirmed in the periorificial locations for the ear, the nose, and periorbital area, but not for the perioral area. In addition, the entire nose did not appear to be at risk, only the tip and the ala.

The infragluteal fold: An appraisal by MRI combined with an anatomic study

PURPOSE

The gluteal region is a key element of beauty balance and sexual appearance. However, there is no clear anatomical description of the infragluteal fold, nor any classification exists allowing standardizing treatment of this area in case of jeopardisation. The purpose of this study was to perform an anatomical description of the infragluteal fold (IGF) matching radiological and anatomical findings in describing specifically raise of the fibrous component at the bone level.

METHODS

Six volunteers (three males and three females) underwent an MRI scan (Siemens Aera® 1.5 T) of the pelvic region. T1 Vibe Morpho T2, Sag Space 3D, and Millimetric slices were performed in order to obtain a more detailed selection of the gluteal landmark. Trabecular connective tissue of the region was analyzed using Horos® ROI (region of interest) segmentation function. Four fresh cadavers (two males, two females, accounting for 8 hemipelvis) were dissected in order to compare the radiological findings.

RESULTS

The infragluteal fold is a connectival fibrous band extending from the ramus of the ischium (but not involving the ischial tuberosity, for a length of 21 mm ± 2 and 21 mm ± 3), the apex of the sacrum (for a length of 13 ± 2 and 11 mm ± 2), and the coccyx (for a length of 19 mm ± 2 and 20 mm ± 2, all measures referring to volunteers and cadavers, respectively) reaching superficially the dermis of the medial one-third of the cutaneous fold. No significant difference was found between volunteer and cadaver group in MRI measurement of bony origins, or between MRI and cadaveric dissection measurements.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge of this structure will define novel surgical techniques in infragluteal fold restoration.

Traumatic atlanto-axial rotatory subluxation after surgical correction of prominent ears: Case report and review of the literature

Corrective surgery of prominent ears may be justified for social or aesthetic reasons during childhood or adulthood. Post-operative complications occur in approximately 0 to 8.4% of cases. This case describes a rare atlanto-axoid rotatory subluxation after bilateral surgical correction of prominent ears under general anesthesia. Orthopedic treatment was done after two months of medical roaming outside of our center. The one-year post-operative clinic consultation and radiological exam were normal. Only the psychological impact of the episode remained. Traumatic atlanto-axial rotatory subluxation is a rare complication but should be considered after post-operative torticollis in order to aid with diagnosis and allow doctors to implement the appropriate course of treatment.

[Recurrent nevus: Case-report about a pagetoid form occurring from a congenital nevus in infancy]

INTRODUCTION

Recurrent nevus (RN) is a cutaneous benign tumour with similarities with malignant lesions. Typically, it occurs after a partial resection of commun-acquired nevus. Its incidence varies from 0.3 to 27% according to the studies. We present here a pediatric case of a pagetoid form of a recurrent nevus occurring from a congenital nevus.

CASE REPORT

A congenital nevus was removed from a 9-month-old girl. Pathologists concluded to a commun-acquired nevus of complete exeresis. Two other cutaneous lesions appeared and we decided to realise a total removal. Analysis showed a recurrent nevus with some atypical histological features. No recurrence has occurred during the three post-operative of follow-up.

DISCUSSION

It is an interesting case because of the occurrence of a RN after the removal of a congenital nevus in a child. Furthermore, it displayed some atypical histological features. Practicians, such as surgeons, dermatologists or pathologists, have to be aware of the risk of misdiagnosis with this lesion, which presents some similarities with SSM melanoma. It would be interesting to determinate some markers to statuate about its benign feature. There is no management recommendation about this lesion but it seems to be necessary to remove it to eliminate a malignant tumour.

Isolated unilateral temporalis muscle hypertrophy: First case in an 8-year-old boy and review

INTRODUCTION

Isolated unilateral temporalis muscle hypertrophy (IUTMH) was first described in 1990 and few cases have been published since then. This disease occurs mainly in adults. There is no clear etiology of IUTMH, but bruxism is one of the risk factors. Only two cases have been described before the age of 20 years. To our knowledge, no cases have been described in persons younger than 15 years old. We report the first case of IUTMH in an 8-year-old and review the literature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This section is separated into 3 parts: (1) search for and description of clinical cases of IUTMH in our department; (2) literature search to find similar cases; (3) data analysis of all cases found.

RESULTS

Ten patients, including our case, were found over a period of 23 years: five females and five males with a mean age of 32.8 years. One patient was 15 years old. Time between onset and diagnosis was 16.7 months. Half of the patients reported pain and three had experienced bruxism. Most of the patients had non-surgical treatment. One patient evolved favorably with no treatment. One recurrence occurred 10 years later.

DISCUSSION

IUTMH can occur in childhood in a high-stress environment. Diagnosis is based on the history and clinical and imaging findings. Biopsy helps to confirm the diagnosis, but electromyograms and neurological tests contribute little. Bruxism should be taken into account. The treatment with the least inconvenience must be given.

Classification proposed of malignant intraosseous odontogenic tumors (MIOT)

Malignant intraosseous odontogenic tumors (MIOT) of the jaws are very rare. The diagnosis is difficult. Clinical, paraclinical and histological diagnostic criteria, strict are well established. But the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) does not provide TNM classification that will allow harmonization of the treatment. Indeed, despite their location, they cannot be classified as primary tumors of the oral cavity because of their localization in the bone marrow, making them systematically classified as T4. We propose a classification taking into account the clinical and radiological data.

[Custom-made implant for complex facial reconstruction: A case of total replacement of temporo-mandibular joint, zygomatic arch and malar bone]

INTRODUCTION

Total prosthetic replacement of the temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) has become a common procedure, but it is usually limited to the TMJ itself. We report about one case of complex prosthetic joint reconstruction extending to the neighbouring bony structures.

CASE

A 57-year-old patient, operated several times for a cranio-facial fibrous dysplasia, presented with a recurring TMJ ankylosis and a complexe latero-facial bone loss on the right side. We performed a reconstruction procedure including the TMJ, the zygomatic arch and the malar bone by mean of custom made composite prosthesis (chrome-cobalt-molybdenum-titanium and polyethylene). Five years postoperatively, mouth opening, nutrition, pain and oral hygiene were significantly improved.

DISCUSSION

Nowadays technical possibilities allow for complex facial alloplastic reconstructions with good medium term results.

[Traumatic superior orbital fissure syndrome: Update]

The traumatic superior orbital fissure syndrome is an uncommon complication of craniomaxillofacial trauma. The diagnosis is clinical and associates ophtalmoplegia (constantly at initial clinical examination), ptosis and anaesthesia of the forehead. Young men victim of road traffic accidents are most often affected. CT-scan usually shows facial and/or craniofacial fractures more or less spreading towards the superior orbital fissure. The absence of fracture seen at the X-rays does not eliminate the diagnosis. Initial management should be multidisciplinary (maxillofacial surgeons, ophthalmologists and neurosurgeons) and conducted early if possible. It combines high-dose corticosteroids and decompression surgery if necessary. Abstention may be indicated in cases of delayed diagnosis with spontaneous improvement. Symptoms improve early but follow-up should be extended over several months given the recovery time.

[Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJSTEN) related to insecticide: Second case in the literature and potential implications]

INTRODUCTION

Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJSTEN) is a rare acute drug reaction characterized by the brutal destruction of the superficial layer of the skin and mucosa. SJSTEN is favoured by some drugs (90 % of cases) and genetic factors. It occurs at any age in both sexes. The pathophysiology is not completely understood. To our knowledge, only one case linked to an insecticide has been described. We present the second case involving a combination of lambdacyhalothrin and thiamethoxam.

OBSERVATION

A 34-year-old farmer was admitted in emergency for a severe allergic reaction occurring few days after the use of an insecticide to treat his field with no particular precaution. The disease progression was swift: deterioration of general condition, generalized itching, blisters, bubbles, hyperthermia, tachycardia, significant oral pain and oral lesions and dysphagia. Hands, feet were concerned and external genitalia was responsible for burning urination. Oral lesions have rapidly evolved from edema to infected lesions. The diagnosis of SJSTEN was confirmed by histopathology. After complete assessment and adequate treatment, the patient was discharged after 17 days of hospitalization. The etiological research concluded to a probable poisoning by lambdacyhalothrin and thiamethoxam.

DISCUSSION

This is the second published case of a SJSTEN linked to an insecticide combining lambdacyhalothrin and thiamethoxam. Manufacturers, users, regulators and physicians should take these data into account.

Functional and radiographic evaluation of the treatment of traumatic bone loss of the hand using the Masquelet technique

This study was a retrospective evaluation of 18 patients with traumatic bone loss affecting the fingers, hand and wrist who were treated using the induced-membrane technique. Sixteen men and two women, mean age 54years (27-74) presented a hand injury including bone loss. Sixteen patients were treated on an emergency basis and two following nonunion of their fractures. There were 13 cases of open fracture of the phalanx and 5 cases of metacarpal fractures. These patients were treated with debridement and the injuries were covered when necessary. To address the bone loss, the first step of the induced-membrane technique involved placing a cement spacer (polymethylmethacrylate [PMMA]) without antibiotics in the defect. During the second step, the cement spacer was removed and replaced by autologous cancellous bone graft. The graft was placed within the biological tube left empty after removal of the cement. For each patient, bone union was assessed with radiographs and/or CT scan. Failure was defined as nonunion at 1year. In 16 patients, the fractures had healed after 4months (1.5-12months) on average. Two failures were noted (one nonunion treated using a PIP prosthesis and one case of delayed union). Mobility of the fingers, evaluated using the Total Active Motion (TAM) was 145° (75°-270°). The Kapandji score reached 8 for the thumb. Grip strength reached 21kg/F and pinch strength was 5kg/F; these values were 50% of those in the healthy hand. The induced-membrane technique is simple and can be used to treat traumatic bone loss in an emergency, thus avoiding amputation and limb shortening, while preserving limb function. It provides immediate stability and allows early mobilization.

[Delayed endoscopic reconstruction of the anterior wall of the frontal sinus: Technical note]

INTRODUCTION

Reconstruction of the anterior wall of the frontal sinus usually requires a coronal incision. This extended approach may lead to paresthesia, unsightly scars, bruises and cicatricial alopecia. These complications encouraged several authors to endoscopic management of this kind of fractures. We present a delayed technique of reconstruction of the anterior wall of the frontal sinus by means of endoscopic hydroxyapatite filling.

TECHNICAL NOTE

Two incisions were performed behind the hair line. Subperiosteal dissection using a periosteal elevator was performed. A 30° angled endoscope was used to visualize the depression. The latter was filled by Hydroset® (Stryker, USA) as a bone substitute.

DISCUSSION

In the absence of contra-indication, the reconstruction of the anterior wall of the frontal sinus by means of endoscopic hydroxyapatite filling has many advantages including uneventful outcome, reduction of the hospital stay and a fast learning curve.

[Pathomimia and plastic surgery, a case report]

Pathomimia is defined as a dummy pathology self-induced deliberately and is neither associated with mental confusion nor disturbance of consciousness. This article reports a case of pathomimia in plastic surgery. One of our patients had intentionally injected physiological saline solution into her breast implants in order to increase their volume. Implants removal was necessary because of severe local inflammatory signs. Psychiatric assessment revealed body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) developed on an hysterical personality, which explained the self-induced injuries. This nosologic entity must be promptly identified because it's diagnosis remains problematic and a multidisciplinary medical management is essential.

[Noma]

Noma is a necrotizing ulcerative stomatitis known since Antiquity. It occurs mostly in poor countries, the Sahel countries being the most affected. Each year, several hundred thousand cases are reported. Noma affects especially malnourished children who are less than 6 years old and rarely adults with acquired immunodeficiency (HIV, cancer). Ulcerative lesion is occurring rapidly due to the production of endotoxins by bacteria from oral commensal, telluric and animal origin. Necrotic debridement leads to huge defects: loss of soft tissue (skin, nerves, vessels, eye), bone (maxilla, mandible) and teeth. Death occurs rapidly in a few weeks in 80 % of the cases. In case of survival, the consequences are functional, aesthetic, psychological and social. The goal of the treatment in the acute phase is the patient's survival and the fight against limited mouth opening. The management of the phase of sequela is an anaesthetic, surgical and physiotherapy challenge. Its purpose is the social reintegration of the patient.

[Two cases of sinus histiocytosis with massive cervical lymphadenopathy (Destombes-Rosai-Dorfman disease)]

INTRODUCTION

Sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy is a rare disease. Its location is ubiquitous, but the most frequent is cervical lymph nodes.

OBSERVATION

We report 2 cases of sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy. The patients were respectively 9 and 30 years of age. They both presented with bilateral cervical polylymphadenopathy with a cervical compression syndrome in the first patient. The diagnosis was made histologically by demonstrating histiocyte emperipolesis, in the first case, and by immuno-histochemistry in the second. The treatment was corticosteroids, resulting in an almost total involution.

DISCUSSION

Sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy is a clinical and a specific pathology, but its etiopathogenesis remains to be elucidated. The cervical localization is common. The definitive diagnosis is histological. There is currently no codified treatment. The outcome is usually favorable, apart from mechanical and systemic complications that are important prognostic factors.

Intra-mandibular adenoid cystic carcinoma

Intra-mandibular localization of adenoid cystic carcinoma is rare. This tumor is characterized by progressive local, regional, and distant aggressiveness. We reviewed the latest data on this rare type of cancer with a small number of reported cases, alack of consensus for its treatment, and its bad prognosis.

Biangular fractures of the mandible

INTRODUCTION

Bifocal fractures of the mandible often associate the angle and condyle or symphysis. Little data is available on biangular fractures. The authors had for aim to study their characteristics and to suggest an adapted management.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients operated on for a biangular fracture from January 2005 to December 2009. The impact of a third molar was evaluated using Pell and Gregory's and Shiller's classifications.

RESULTS

Six hundred and forty patients underwent surgery for a mandibular fracture, seven of whom (1.1%) for biangular fractures. The patients' mean age was 27.6 years. Patients were predominantly men (85.7%). Assaults or brawls were the most frequent etiology (85.7%). The mechanism was direct impact in every case. The inferior alveolar nerve was injured in 57.1% of cases. There was an impacted third molar in 71.4% of cases. Most of the time, a single miniplate was sufficient for each angle. Two cases of postoperative infection were noted. The mean follow-up was 52.2months. The occlusion was restored in every case. Three patients presented with neurological sequels in the V3 area.

DISCUSSION

Biangular fractures are rare and present a high risk of infection and neurological sequels. The presence of a mesioangular impacted third molar seems to be a predisposing factor. The risk of neurological sequels requires performing surgery rapidly.

Capillary measurement of lactate and glucose for free flap monitoring

BACKGROUND

It is reported that the salvage rate of free flaps is inversely related to the time interval between the onset of pedicle impairments and their clinical recognition. Monitoring of free flaps is therefore of major importance and clinical monitoring remains the most used technique because of lack of low-cost and non-invasive techniques. The authors suggested an efficient, simple and cheap technique to detect early thrombotic events in monitoring free flaps with skin paddle.

METHODS

In this multicentre prospective study, measurements of capillary glucose and lactate in the flaps were done. These parameters were compared to standardized clinical monitoring during the first five days. Two sets of data (eventful versus uneventful postoperative period) were analyzed to define the thresholds of lactate and glucose values for diagnosis of pedicle complications, and to establish parameters for this screening test.

RESULTS

Over a period of 19 months, 37 patients were included. With 5 pedicle impairments, complication thresholds were defined as lactate ≥ 6.4 mmol L(-1) and glucose ≤ 3.85 mmol L(-1), in order to obtain a sensitivity of 98.5% and a specificity of 99.5% for the test. Modifications of capillary glucose and lactate measurements appeared in average 5.7 hours earlier than clinical symptoms in pedicle impairments. The mean cost of a five-day monitoring was about 90 USD.

CONCLUSION

This simple and cheap technique could be used as a routine technique in monitoring free flaps to improve safety of this reconstructive technique.

[Functional results after temporomandibular joint reconstruction using a total joint prosthesis (part II)]

INTRODUCTION

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are usually managed medically. But partial or total reconstruction may be indicated according to the severity and the functional impairment. We assessed the functional results after total TMJ reconstruction using the Biomet Microfixation® prosthesis (Jacksonville, FL, USA).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We reviewed the files of patients having undergone reconstruction, between 2009 and 2010, with a total TMJ prosthesis. We analyzed the pre- and postoperative mouth opening, the pre- and postoperative occlusion, pre- and postoperative pain according to a simple spoken scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 4 (severe pain).

RESULTS

Twelve total TMJ prostheses were placed in five women and three men (mean age 49.2 years). Restriction of mouth opening was the first cause of consultation. The etiology was trauma for four patients. Three patients had preoperative malocclusion. Four patients had bilateral reconstruction. Preoperative pain ranged between 2 and 4. The average initial mouth opening was 17.8mm. There was neither infection nor any major complication. No prosthesis was removed. The mean follow-up was 18.5 months. At the end of the study, pain ranged between 0 and 2. All patients with preoperative malocclusion resumed an Angle class I postoperatively. The average postoperative mouth opening was 39.5mm.

DISCUSSION

Total TMJ reconstruction with the Biomet Microfixation® prosthesis improves mouth opening and reduces pain.

[Computer-assisted temporomandibular joint reconstruction]

Prosthetic replacement of TMJ is gradually becoming a common procedure because of good functional and aesthetic results and low morbidity. Prosthetic models available can be standard or custom-made. Custom-made prosthesis are usually reserved for complex cases, but we think that computer assistance for custom-made prosthesis should be indicated for each case because it gives a greater implant stability and fewer complications. Computer assistance will further enlarge TMJ prosthesis replacement indications.

[Induced membrane technique in oral & maxillofacial reconstruction]

Maxillofacial defects reconstruction represents a formidable challenge to achieve both functional and aesthetic goals. To succeed, numerous parameters must be taken into account: patient's general conditions, defect's location, width and type of the defect and eventual donor sites which can provide the tissues. Routine reconstructions include bone transplantation (autologous, homologous or heterologous), implantation of biomaterials and osteogenic distraction. The advantages of these techniques are evident, but they are usually limited by their complexity in patients with bad general health. The technique of induced membranes needs to be more known in maxillofacial surgery.

Reconstruction of large mandibular and surrounding soft-tissue defects using distraction with bone transport

Reconstruction of large bone and soft-tissue defects of the inferior third of the face is possible using various surgical techniques. Patients who require these procedures need to be in good general health, may have sequelae linked to donor sites, and require several interventions to achieve good aesthetic and functional results. The aim of this study was to report outcomes in patients with large mandibular and soft-tissue defects treated using osteogenic distraction with bone transport. Between 2001 and 2008, 14 patients had distraction with bone transport. Most patients were men (92.1%). The mean age was 43.1 years. The average mandibular bone reconstruction was 13.6 cm. The mean duration of distraction was 2.3 months. No infections occurred, and in all cases reconstruction of soft tissues was obtained. Two patients had non-union and underwent reconstruction using an iliac bone graft. Patients with sufficient bone height (57.1%) had dental implants. 44 implants were inserted, two of which were lost. 36 implants were activated. Six patients had satisfactory oral rehabilitation with implant-supported prostheses. Osteogenic distraction with bone transport allows total or partial restoration of oral function, provides an acceptable appearance, and enables patients to resume a reasonable quality of life.

[Keloid scars of the head and neck]

A keloid scar is a benign proliferative lesion of dermic collagen. It is predominant in black skin patients. It is most commonly located on the head and neck. Skin trauma and a genetic predisposition may be responsible for the keloid scar. Nevertheless, the pathogenesis of keloid scar is still unclear, and no currently available treatment is 100% effective. The authors had for aim to review the current data on keloid scar pathogenesis and treatment for an optimal management of this condition.

[Sentinel node procedure in head and neck cutaneous melanoma]

INTRODUCTION

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is frequently discussed in the management of cutaneous melanoma, especially in head and neck localizations where SLN biopsy is much more demanding. The benefits of SLN protocol are not proved yet. The aim of our study was to present our experience of SLN biopsy in head and neck cutaneous melanoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included all patients managed for head and neck malignant melanoma from 2002 to 2006. We reviewed the technique, implementation and difficulties of the procedure, postoperative outcome, and complications.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients were included. An average of 2.2 lymph nodes were localized per patient using lymphoscintigraphy. Biopsy was impossible for one patient because the deep spinal node was not found. An average of 1.2 nodes was biopsied per patient. One patient presented with micrometastases. Another presented with lymphorrhea.

DISCUSSION

Sentinel node biopsy is widely performed in the management of cutaneous melanoma but remains an option for these indications in the last update of the French Society of Dermatology. SLN biopsy is difficult to implement because of the complexity of head and neck lymphatic system.

[Aneurysmal bone cysts of the mandible]

The aneurysmal bone cyst is a rare, expansive, osteolytic, pseudocystic lesion with an unknown etiology. It usually affects long bones and the spine. Two to 5 % of cases have mandibular localization (between 75 and 100 % present on the mandible) accounting for 1 % of all mandibular cysts. Less than 200 cases have been reported in English and French literature.