Effect of dynamic taping on neck pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain: a randomized sham-control trial

Background

In 2020, 203 million people experienced neck pain, with a higher prevalence in women. By 2050, it is predicted that neck pain will affect 269 million people, representing a 32.5% increase. Physical rehabilitation is often employed for the treatment of chronic non-specific neck pain (CNSNP) and the associated functional loss. Taping is frequently used as an adjunct treatment alongside primary physical rehabilitation. Unlike kinesio tape (KT), the therapeutic benefits of dynamic tape (DT) have not been thoroughly explored and documented in non-athletic conditions. Therefore, the aim of this trial was to determine the effects of DT on pain, disability, and overall well-being in individuals experiencing CNSNP.

Methods

A prospective parallel-group active controlled trial was conducted at a single center, involving 136 patients with CNSNP, randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio. The sham taping group (STC) received standard physiotherapy care (n = 67) alongside DT without tension, while the dynamic taping group (DTC) (n = 69) underwent standard cervical offloading technique with appropriate tension in addition to standard physiotherapy care. Demographic information and three patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), namely the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5), were collected for each participant at three time points (baseline, four weeks post-taping, and four weeks follow-up).

Results

At baseline, no significant differences were observed between the STC and DTC for any outcome measure. Notably, all three PROMs exhibited a significant improvement from baseline to four weeks post-intervention, with moderate to small effect sizes (NDI ηp2 = 0.21, VAS ηp2 = 0.23, and WHO-55 ηp2 = 0.05). The WHO-5 scores for both groups demonstrated improvement from baseline through follow-up (p < 0.001). The NDI and VAS scores ameliorated from baseline to the four weeks post-taping period, with marginal improvements observed during the four weeks follow-up.

Conclusion

The incorporation of DT as an adjunct to standard physiotherapy care yielded enhancements in pain levels, functional disability, and well-being among patients with CNSNP when compared to the sham group. However, the sustainability of these improvements beyond the taping period lacks statistical significance and warrants further validation.

CARDIAC REHABILITATION: IMPROVING OUTCOMES FOR PATIENTS WITH HEART DISEASE

To evaluate the extent to that blood pressure management objectives are fulfilled in patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT), as well as the impact of the Cardiac Rehabilitation plan on the patient's useful ability, mental health, and pathological risk factors. The Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) participants' anthropometric measurements, medications, lipid profiles, and medical and social backgrounds were all the subjects of the 19-month data collection. The parameters of the topics' minute walk test and Patient Health Questionnaire(PHQ) were further investigated. The Calvary Public Hospital in Canberra's CR program sessions required participants to show up for at least 10 of the sessions to be qualified. Seventy-nine people took part in the research. Significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood of participants, as well as gains in a patient health questionnaire and 6 min walk test (6MWT) scores, were seen. Additionally, people increased drug management. Results showed considerable improvements in diastolic blood pressure, physical capacity, depression, and anxiety in DM patients. A cardiac rehabilitation program may lower cardiovascular disease risk factors while enhancing participants' physical and emotional well-being. Results shown the cardiac rehabilitation program lowers the risk factors linked with DM patients' cardiovascular and renal disease via increased physical fitness and decreased levels of anxiety and despair.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels

There is continued interest in identifying dysregulated biomarkers that mediate associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and negative long-term health outcomes. However, little is known regarding how ACE exposure modulates neural biomarkers to influence poorer health outcomes in ACE-exposed children. To address this, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of ACE exposure on Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels - a neural biomarker involved in childhood and adult neurogenesis and long-term memory formation. Twenty-two studies were selected for inclusion within the systematic review, ten of which were included in meta-analysis. Most included studies retrospectively assessed impacts of childhood maltreatment in clinical populations. Sample size, BDNF protein levels in ACE-exposed and unexposed subjects, and standard deviations were extracted from ten publications to estimate the BDNF ratio of means (ROM) across exposure categories. Overall, no significant difference was found in BDNF protein levels between ACE-exposed and unexposed groups (ROM: 1.08; 95 % CI: 0.93-1.26). Age at sampling, analyte type (e.g., sera, plasma, blood), and categories of ACE exposure contributed to high between-study heterogeneity, some of which was minimized in subset-based analyses. These results support continued investigation into the impact of ACE exposure on neural biomarkers and highlight the potential importance of analyte type and timing of sample collection on study results.

Thyrotoxicosis and Impending Thyroid Storm: A Rare Paraneoplastic Syndrome in an Infant With Hepatoblastoma

Graves' disease is the most common cause of pediatric hyperthyroidism and thyrotoxicosis. Thyroid storm is a rare initial manifestation of Graves' disease and represents an endocrine emergency. We report a case of transient hyperthyroidism, possibly a paraneoplastic syndrome presenting as impending thyroid storm in a patient with undiagnosed hepatoblastoma. To our knowledge, this is the first case of this association reported in children. A previously healthy 21-month-old male presented with abdominal pain and unremitting tachycardia. He was managed for thyrotoxicosis and impending thyroid storm. He subsequently was found to have hepatomegaly leading to a diagnosis of hepatoblastoma. Autoimmune markers for Graves' disease were negative, along with a negative human chorionic gonadotropin. After initiation of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, he had complete resolution of thyrotoxicosis. Paraneoplastic syndromes may occur with any tumor. We present a unique case of a patient developing human chorionic gonadotropin-negative hyperthyroidism, possibly as a paraneoplastic syndrome from hepatoblastoma.

The Accuracy of Physical Examination to Diagnose Anemia Among Patients Five Years or Older: A Systematic Review

Anemia remains a significant public health challenge, disproportionately impacting lower-income patients residing in areas of lesser healthcare resources. We sought to evaluate the accuracy of physical exam techniques to diagnose anemia among patients 5 years of age or older. A systematic review of 5 databases (MEDLINE via OVID, EMBASE, Scopus, Global Health and Global Health Archives, and WHO Global Index Medicus) was conducted. Studies that (1) compared non-invasive physical exam techniques with anemia diagnoses using standard laboratory measurements and (2) solely assessed or separately reported the diagnostic accuracy of physical exam techniques for patients 5 years or older were considered for inclusion. The diagnostic accuracies of individual and combinatorial physical exam techniques todiagnose anemia were documented. This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO. The systemic literature search yielded 6,457 unique studies after removal of duplicates. Fourteen studies were ultimately selected for inclusion. Eight studies solely assessed pregnant females, 4 solely assessed hospitalized patients, and 2 evaluated the general population. The diagnostic accuracy ranged widely for pallor assessments of conjunctivae (sensitivity: 19-97%, specificity: 65-100%), nailbed (sensitivity: 41-65%, specificity: 58-93%), and palms (sensitivity: 33-91%, specificity: 54-93%). Examining 9 or more sites leads to higher sensitivity (73.8-82.9%) and specificity (76.0-90.9%). No individual examination technique is superior to others for diagnosing anemia. Combinatorial approachs are associated with more acceptable accuracy measures, but improvements need to be balanced with time available for examination.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12288-022-01543-z.

Physiological state gates sensorimotor cortical processing and goal-directed behavior

Goal-directed behavior is often studied under food- and water-restricted states. A study by Matteucci et al.¹ in this issue of Neuron reveals that task performance and sensorimotor cortical encoding are impaired under both low and high motivational states but improve with physiological adaption.

Molecular markers for early stratification of disease severity and progression in COVID-19

COVID-19 infections have imposed immense pressure on the healthcare system of most countries. While the initial studies have identified better therapeutic and diagnostic approaches, the disease severity is still assessed by close monitoring of symptoms by healthcare professionals due to the lack of biomarkers for disease stratification. In this study, we have probed the immune and molecular profiles of COVID-19 patients at 48-hour intervals after hospitalization to identify early markers, if any, of disease progression and severity. Our study reveals that the molecular profiles of patients likely to enter the host-immune response mediated moderate or severe disease progression are distinct even in the early phase of infection when severe symptoms are not yet apparent. Our data from 37 patients suggest that at hospitalization, IL6 (&gt;300pg/ml) and IL8 levels (&gt;200pg/ml) identify cytokine-dependent disease progression. Monitoring their levels will facilitate timely intervention using available immunomodulators or precision medicines in those likely to progress due to cytokine storm and help improve outcomes. Additionally, it will also help identify cytokine-independent progressive patients, not likely to benefit from immuno-modulators or precision drugs.

LBODP103 Ectopic Thyroid Tissue In A Pediatric Patient After Total Thyroidectomy

Introduction

Ectopic thyroid tissue is defined as any functional thyroid tissue outside the normal anatomical location. It is rare and occurs with a frequency of 1 in 100,000-300,000. Most commonly, it is located along the normal track of thyroid development along the floor of the primitive gut to the pre-tracheal region of the neck; however, rarely it has been found in other areas. Malignancy is very rare in ectopic thyroid tissue (&lt;1%) and when it occurs, papillary carcinoma is the most common type. Maki et al have reported multiple cases of lateral neck ectopic thyroid tissue in the presence of an orthotopic thyroid gland in the adult population. Only 2 pediatric cases have been reported in the literature so far.

Clinical Case

A 11-year-old male presented with concerns of morbid obesity and a neck swelling. He endorsed a previous history of thyroid nodules measuring over 2 cm that were being monitored by his previous endocrinologist. On exam, he was noted to have a goiter. Labs were obtained which indicated normal thyroid function tests (TSH 3. 040 uIU/mL, nl 0.45-4.5 uIU/mL and free T4 0.96 ng/dL, nl 0.93-1.6 ng/dL) and negative anti thyroid antibodies (TPO antibody &lt;9 IU/mL, nl 0-26 IU/mL and thyroglobulin ab &lt;1 IU/mL, nl 0. 0-0.9 IU/mL). His previous medical records revealed that a FNA was completed 2 years prior which was reported as benign. A repeat thyroid ultrasound revealed a multinodular goiter with 5 nodules measuring 3.3 x1.5×1.3cm and 5×6×5mm in the right lobe and 7×6×4cm, 2.4×2.1×1.8cm, and 5×6×5cm in the left lobe. After reviewing different management approaches, the family preferred thyroidectomy. He was referred to general surgery and subsequently underwent total thyroidectomy. Post-operatively, he was started on levothyroxine and calcium carbonate supplementation. The calcium supplementation was subsequently weaned and discontinued. Final pathology was reported as benign. Unfortunately, he was lost to follow up and presented to his primary care provider 6 months post-operatively with continued weight gain and a right sided neck mass. Labs obtained showed an elevated TSH (9.820 uIU/mL, nl 0.45-4.5 uIU/mL) and normal free T4 (1. 07 ng/dL, nl 0.93-1.6 ng/dL). Ultrasound of the neck revealed a 2.5 cm heterogeneous nodule in the right neck adjacent to the thyroid bed, concerning for recurrent/residual disease. FNA was completed and was consistent with normal appearing thyroid tissue. Ultrasound monitoring will continue to assess for change in size and need, if any for surgical removal in the future.

Discussion

Ectopic thyroid tissue with an orthotopic thyroid is a very rare finding in the pediatric population. Ectopic thyroid tissue outside of the thyroglossal duct is rare as well. We present an 11-year-old male who underwent thyroidectomy for multiple large thyroid nodules and subsequently developed a new neck mass diagnosed as ectopic thyroid tissue.

Presentation: No date and time listed

P-270 Assisted gamete treatment to pinpoint acquired meiotic maturity and overcome oocyte activation deficiency contributed by both gametes

Study question

How can we treat couples with complete and persistent fertilization failure with ICSI linked to a combination of oocyte- and sperm-related oocyte activation deficiency (OAD)?

Summary answer

By targeting spindle presence, we optimized oocyte response to chemical activation and enhanced fertilization. Genomic assessment confirmed gamete contribution.

What is known already

Total fertilization failure occurs in 1-3% of all intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cases. In sperm-factor OAD, the lack of phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) prevents the spermatozoon from initiating downstream calcium oscillation in the oocyte. In these cases, assisted gamete treatment (AGT), which exposes gametes to calcium ionophore, has been adopted to artificially trigger the influx of calcium ions and has been shown to effectively improve fertilization. However, AGT is limited to triggering an intracytoplasmic calcium influx and still requires optimal ooplasmic maturity.

Study design, size, duration

Over the past 17 months, we identified couples with compromised PLCζ and reported persistent fertilization failure with ICSI despite AGT treatment. We then devised a treatment plan comprising an extended in vitro culture (IVC) to pinpoint meiotic oocyte maturity confirmed by the presence of a meiotic II spindle and followed by AGT post-ICSI. Genomic assessment was also carried out.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Two couples with recurrent and total fertilization failure even after AGT were included. PLCζ expression was assessed using immunofluorescence on ≥ 200 cells/specimen with a 30% threshold. In the follow-up cycles, IVC was extended for at least 8 hours between retrieval and ICSI. Metaphase II spindles were visualized by Oosight®. AGT was performed by exposing both spermatozoa and oocytes to calcium ionophore. NGS was performed on spermatozoa to identify gene mutations involved in fertilization.

Main results and the role of chance

We identified 2 couples (couple A: 37-year-old female, 39-year-old male; couple B: 32-year-old female, 33-year-old male) with the following semen parameters: average volume of 2.6 ml, concentration of 82.0x106/ml, 44% motility, and normal morphology of 3%. The oocyte maturation rate was 76.3% (45/59) but resulted in zero fertilized out of a total of 45 MII oocytes injected. In-house PLCζ assessment revealed a deficiency of oocyte activation factor at 12.9%. AGT treatment alone failed to enhance fertilization on a subsequent cycle, resulting in 0% (0/8) and 5.6% (1/18) fertilization rates for couples A and B, respectively. Couple A then underwent 3 ICSI cycles with extended IVC and AGT; upon examination of nuclear maturity, 91.4% (32/35) of oocytes displayed normal metaphase II spindle and achieved an overall fertilization rate of 43.8% (14/32). To date, 12 blastocysts were cryopreserved. In couple B, 27 oocytes out of 34 retrieved presented normal metaphase II spindles after extended IVC; ICSI with AGT yielded a fertilization rate of 63.0% (17/27). All 17 zygotes were cryopreserved. Overall, our treatment improved fertilization to an overall rate of 52.5% (31/59, P  &lt;0.00001). Genomic assessment of spermatozoa identified gene mutations involved in fertilization (ADAM15, ADAM30) and calcium channel activity (CATSPER1).

Limitations, reasons for caution

Assisted gamete treatment can enhance fertilization in cases of deficiency in PLCζ. However, chemical activation requires a responsive ooplasm that has reached meiotic maturity. These rare cases require precise diagnoses and tailored treatment techniques to address each aspect of sperm- and/or oocyte-factor OAD.

Wider implications of the findings

Our study has demonstrated the usefulness of extended IVC by targeting spindle presence to enhance chemical responses to AGT. Our findings show that although calcium ionophore can trigger the release of intracellular calcium and allow fertilization, a fully mature ooplasm is required.

Trial registration number

N/A

Retinal Vein Occlusion with COVID-19: A Case Report and Review of Literature

OBJECTIVES

To provide a case report of Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) with COVID-19 infection.

CASE

A 15-year-old healthy male presented with blurring of vision, 2+ vitreous cells, retinal haemorrhages and dilated and tortuous retinal vessels in the left eye within 28 days of a positive COVID-19 reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. He was diagnosed with left non-ischaemic CRVO, with a suspected aetiology of COVID-19.

DISCUSSION

A literature review found 12 reported cases of RVO associated with COVID-19. All but one patient was younger than 60, with a mean age of 42 years. Management varied, but in the majority (8/12), visual acuity (VA) improved with follow-up, and five (42%) had a final VA of 20/20.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of other known aetiological factors, ophthalmologists should consider COVID-19 as a cause of RVO. The outcome can vary, but the majority can expect improvement in VA with time.

Microenvironment and drug resistance in acute myeloid leukemia: Do we know enough?

Acute myeloid leukemia (AMLs), as the name suggests, often develop suddenly and are very progressive forms of cancer. Unlike in acute promyelocytic leukemia, a subtype of AML, the outcomes in most other AMLs remain poor. This is mainly attributed to the acquired drug resistance and lack of targeted therapy. Different studies across laboratories suggest that the cellular mechanisms to impart therapy resistance are often very dynamic and should be identified in a context-specific manner. Our review highlights the progress made so far in identifying the different cellular mechanisms of mutation-independent therapy resistance in AML. It reiterates that for more effective outcomes cancer therapies should acquire a more tailored approach where the protective interactions between the cancer cells and their niches are identified and targeted.

Erratum: Feasibility of Implementing a Pediatric Diabetes Clinic via Telehealth. Diabetes Spectrum 2021;34:190-197 (https://doi.org/10.2337/ds20-0060)

[This corrects the article on p. 190 in vol. 34, PMID: 34149260.].

Thyroid Storm: A Rare Paraneoplastic Syndrome in an Infant With Hepatoblastoma

Background: Graves disease (GD) is the most common cause of pediatric hyperthyroidism. Thyroid storm (TS) is a rare initial manifestation of GD and is typically triggered by an underlying stressor such as infection, trauma or surgery in a patient with underlying GD and poorly controlled hyperthyroidism. Clinical Case: A previously healthy 21-month-old Hispanic male presented to our ER due to concerns of acute abdominal pain. He was noted to have diffuse abdominal tenderness, unremitting anxiety and mild exophthalmos. Vital signs revealed tachycardia and hypertension. Initial lab evaluation was suggestive of primary hyperthyroidism (TSH&lt;0.02 mcU/mL, n 0.5-4.5 mcU/mL, and free T4 at 5.8 ng/dL, n 0.8-2 ng/dL). His Burch-Wartofsky point scale score was 45, indicating high likelihood of TS. He was aggressively treated with methimazole, potassium iodide and propranolol. Five days later, there was a significant improvement in symptoms and labs (TSH&lt;0.02 mcU/mL, n 0.5-4.5 mcU/mL, and free T4 2.3 ng/dL, n 0.8-2 ng/dL) and he was discharged home on methimazole and propranolol. Interestingly, all thyroid autoantibodies were negative including TSI, TRAb, anti-thyroglobulin and anti-TPO antibodies. His thyroid function continued to improve and propranolol was discontinued. Three weeks after his initial hospital admission, he developed a diffuse urticarial rash and the methimazole was held and propranolol restarted. Within a few days, he developed persistent fevers for which he was readmitted. His

total T4 at that time was elevated at 23 mcg/dL (n 4.5-11 mcg/dL) and because the rash was improving, methimazole was restarted. In the following weeks, the patient continued to have intermittent fevers, diffuse waxing and waning rash, decreased activity, and reduced appetite. He was seen by his pediatrician who noted hepatomegaly. Abdominal CT and ultrasound revealed a liver mass (11 x 10 x 10 cm) and a 7 mm peripherally placed pulmonary nodule in the left lower lobe. The patient was admitted to the hematology/oncology unit for further evaluation. He was found to have an elevated alpha-fetoprotein level (AFP) of 43,051 ng/mL, n&lt;6 ng/mL, which was concerning for hepatoblastoma (HB) that was confirmed by tissue biopsy. He was subsequently initiated on neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Methimazole dose requirements gradually decreased with eventual discontinuation 1 week after initiation of chemotherapy. He has remained clinically euthyroid off methimazole for almost 3 months with normal thyroid function. Conclusion: We report an unusual case of transient hyperthyroidism that initially presented as TS in a 21 month old male who was subsequently diagnosed with HB. Paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS) may occur with any tumor. Hyperthyroidism is occasionally associated with non-seminomatous germ-cell tumors with elevated HCG. We believe this is the first report of pediatric thyroid storm as a PNS in HB.

Successful Use of Intragastric Dextrose in a Unique Presentation of Congenital Hyperinsulinism

Introduction: Congenital hyperinsulinism (HI) is the most common cause of persistent hypoglycemia in infants and can pose challenges if unresponsive to diazoxide. HI can be caused by monogenic mutations or can be associated with genetic syndromes. Macrocephaly Capillary malformation (MCAP) is a rare overgrowth syndrome, caused by heterozygous variants in the PIK3CA gene. A small number of pathologic variants in this gene have been reported to cause HI.

Clinical Case: A 4-month-old boy presented with a hypoglycemic seizure while fasting for an MRI. His history was notable for being born LGA and having macrocephaly, segmental infantile hemangioma, and ventriculomegaly requiring VP shunt. Critical labs were consistent with HI: plasma glucose (PG) of 23 mg/dL (54-117), inappropriately detectable insulin (2.7 mIU/mL) and c-peptide (1.6 ng/mL), low beta hydroxybutyrate (0.1 mmol/L) and low free fatty acids (0.16 mmol/L), and a positive glucagon stimulation test (increase in PG from 48 to 101 mg/dL in 30 minutes). Diazoxide was started at 5 mg/kg/day and titrated to 15 mg/kg/day, but he was unable to maintain PG >70 mg/dL. He was deemed unresponsive and the diazoxide was discontinued. His intravenous glucose infusion rate (GIR) was 14.4 mg/kg/min. An octreotide trial (8 mcg/kg/day) revealed a robust response: PG 64 mg/dL before initial dose, 105 mg/dL 3 hours later. However, he developed tachyphylaxis to the octreotide and it was discontinued. To further evaluate the etiology of his HI, he underwent an ¹⁸F-DOPA PET scan, which showed diffuse uptake. Genetic sequencing for the 9 known HI genes was negative. At 6-months-old, he was evaluated by genetics who based on his clinical features diagnosed him with MCAP.

After failure of diazoxide and octreotide therapies, he was slowly transitioned from IV dextrose to continuous intragastric dextrose (IGD) using D20W. He was managed with a GIR of 10 mg/kg/min during the day (while receiving bolus feeds) and 5 mg/kg/min while on continuous feeds overnight. The continuous IGD allowed him to maintain euglycemia and develop his oral feeding skills. By 17-months-old, feeds by mouth improved and GIR had decreased to 6.5 mg/kg/min during the day and 2.5 mg/kg/min overnight. Genetic analysis eventually revealed a heterozygous p.Glu365Lys (c.1093 G>A) variant in the PIK3CA gene as the likely cause of the HI.

Conclusion: Genetic syndromes should be considered in infants with persistent hyperinsulinism and multiple congenital anomalies. Clinical work-up may provide important clues to the diagnosis. Diazoxide unresponsive HI can be treated with continuous IGD to prevent hypoglycemia-induced brain damage. Continuous IGD likely leads to better oral skills and decreased oral aversion compared to using continuous formula feeds.

Feasibility of Implementing a Pediatric Diabetes Clinic via Telehealth

OBJECTIVE

In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and social distancing guidelines, our pediatric diabetes team rapidly changed the format of conducting diabetes clinic from in person to telehealth. We compared the actual number and rate of completed, canceled, and no-show visits between an 8-week period in 2019, when we exclusively conducted visits in person and the same 8-week period in 2020, during the COVID-19 quarantine, when we exclusively conducted visits via telehealth.

METHODS

We used electronic health record data for all patients, as well as Dexcom continuous glucose monitoring data collected for a subset of youths during the COVID-19 quarantine and the immediate pre-COVID-19 period.

RESULTS

Although there was a difference in the absolute number of in-person versus telehealth visits canceled during these two time periods, there was no difference in the rates of completed, canceled, and no-show visits completed in person or via telehealth. This finding suggests that, despite a rapid shift to a completely new health care delivery model, our providers completed a similar rate of patient care via telehealth during the COVID-19 quarantine and that telehealth may be a feasible method for providing diabetes care. However, our results also suggested that youths' glucose management was less optimal during the quarantine period.

CONCLUSION

COVID-19 presented an opportunity to adopt and test the feasibility of using a telehealth delivery model for routine diabetes care. Yet, to make telehealth a viable treatment delivery alternative will likely involve the uptake of new clinic procedures, investment in institutional infrastructure, and team-based flexibility.

Evaluation of Hemoglobin A1c before and after initiation of continuous glucose monitoring in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

The development of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems has allowed for identification of blood sugar variations and trends in real-time that is not feasible with conventional self-monitoring of blood glucose. However, there is inconsistent data to show that the use of CGM leads to better glycemic control as measured by Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Our study aimed to compare the average HbA1c level in the 1-2 years prior to starting a CGM to the average HbA1c level in the 1-2 years immediately following CGM initiation in a sample of 1-20 year olds with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Participants were 90 youth (ages 1-20) followed for type 1 diabetes care at our institution who used a CGM for at least a 6 month time period. We performed a retrospective chart review to obtain up to four HbA1c values pre and post-CGM initiation each. We evaluated pre- and post-CGM initiation changes in mean HbA1c via dependent samples t-tests using IBM SPSS 24.0.

RESULTS

The mean HbA1c was 8.7% pre-CGM and decreased to 8.27% 9-12 months after CGM initiation in the overall sample. A statistically significant decrease in HbA1c was seen in patients who used multiple daily injections (p=0.02), those with a pre-CGM HbA1c greater than 9% (p=0.01), and those with a diabetes duration of 5-10 years (p=0.02).

CONCLUSION

CGM use was associated with a decrease in HbA1c over time which was statistically significant in some subgroups.

Exovesicular-Shh confers Imatinib resistance by upregulating Bcl2 expression in chronic myeloid leukemia with variant chromosomes

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients with complex chromosomal translocations as well as non-compliant CML patients often demonstrate short-lived responses and poor outcomes on the current therapeutic regimes using Imatinib and its variants. It has been derived so far that leukemic stem cells (LSCs) are responsible for Imatinib resistance and CML progression. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling has been implicated in proliferation of this Imatinib-resistant CD34(+) LSCs. Our work here identifies the molecular mechanism of Shh-mediated mutation-independent Imatinib resistance that is most relevant for treating CML-variants and non-compliant patients. Our results elucidate that while Shh can impart stemness, it also upregulates expression of anti-apoptotic protein—Bcl2. It is the upregulation of Bcl2 that is involved in conferring Imatinib resistance to the CD34(+) LSCs. Sub-toxic doses of Bcl2 inhibitor or Shh inhibitor (<<IC50), when used as adjuvants along with Imatinib, can re-sensitize Shh signaling cells to Imatinib. Our work here highlights the need to molecularly stratify CML patients and implement combinatorial therapy to overcome the current limitations and improve outcomes in CML.

Improved biofilm removal using cavitation from a dental ultrasonic scaler vibrating in carbonated water

The use of cavitation for improving biofilm cleaning is of great interest. There is no system at present that removes the biofilm from medical implants effectively and specifically from dental implants. Cavitation generated by a vibrating dental ultrasonic scaler tip can clean biomaterials such as dental implants. However, the cleaning process must be significantly accelerated for clinical applications. In this study we investigated whether the cavitation could be increased, by operating the scaler in carbonated water with different CO₂ concentrations. The cavitation around an ultrasonic scaler tip was recorded with high speed imaging. Image analysis was used to calculate the area of cavitation. Bacterial biofilm was grown on surfaces and its removal was imaged with a high speed camera using the ultrasonic scaler in still and carbonated water. Cavitation increases significantly with increasing carbonation. Cavitation also started earlier around the tips when they were in carbonated water compared to non-carbonated water. Significantly more biofilm was removed when the scaler was operated in carbonated water. Our results suggest that using carbonated water could significantly increase and accelerate cavitation around ultrasonic scalers in a clinical situation and thus improve biofilm removal from dental implants and other biomaterials.

How does ultrasonic cavitation remove dental bacterial biofilm?

Bacterial biofilm accumulation is problematic in many areas, leading to biofouling in the marine environment and the food industry, and infections in healthcare. Physical disruption of biofilms has become an important area of research. In dentistry, biofilm removal is essential to maintain health. The aim of this study is to observe biofilm disruption due to cavitation generated by a dental ultrasonic scaler (P5XS, Acteon) using a high speed camera and determine how this is achieved. Streptococcus sanguinis biofilm was grown on Thermanox™ coverslips (Nunc, USA) for 4 days. After fixing and staining with crystal violet, biofilm removal was imaged using a high speed camera (AX200, Photron). An ultrasonic scaler tip (tip 10P) was held 2 mm away from the biofilm and operated for 2 s. Bubble oscillations were observed from high speed image sequences and image analysis was used to track bubble motion and calculate changes in bubble radius and velocity on the surface. The results demonstrate that most of the biofilm disruption occurs through cavitation bubbles contacting the surface within 2 s, whether individually or in cavitation clouds. Cleaning occurs through shape oscillating microbubbles on the surface as well as through fluid flow.

The effect of standoff distance and surface roughness on biofilm disruption using cavitation

Effective biofilm removal from surfaces in the mouth is a clinical challenge. Cavitation bubbles generated around a dental ultrasonic scaler are being investigated as a method to remove biofilms effectively. It is not known how parameters such as surface roughness and instrument distance from biofilm affect the removal. We grew Strepotococcus sanguinis biofilms on coverslips and titanium discs with varying surface roughness (between 0.02-3.15 μm). Experimental studies were carried out for the biofilm removal using high speed imaging and image analysis to calculate the area of biofilm removed at varying ultrasonic scaler standoff distances from the biofilm. We found that surface roughness up to 2 μm does not adversely affect biofilm removal but a surface roughness of 3 μm caused less biofilm removal. The standoff distance also has different effects depending on the surface roughness but overall a distance of 1 mm is just as effective as a distance of 0.5 mm. The results show significant biofilm removal due to an ultrasonic scaler tip operating for only 2s versus 15-60s in previous studies. The technique developed for high speed imaging and image analysis of biofilm removal can be used to investigate physical biofilm disruption from biomaterial surfaces in other fields.

MON-625 Utility of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Children with Type 1 Diabetes: Is HbA1c Enough?

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition resulting in insulin deficiency that requires daily insulin therapy and self-monitoring of blood glucose. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems allow for measurement of interstitial fluid glucose levels in a continuous fashion to identify variations and trends that are not feasible with conventional self-monitoring. Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) is the method used to assess adequate glycemic control and relates to future risk of developing complications. Current evidence has shown improvement in HbA1C with concomitant use of CGM in adults over 25 years of age with Type 1 diabetes, whereas studies in children and adolescents have failed to show this. However, it is important to note the limitations in HbA1C use as it is a marker of average blood glucose over 3 months but does not reflect glycemic variability. More recent data has suggested that factors such as time in range (TIR), which can be determined with CGM use, are also associated with decrease risk of diabetes complications.

Methods: The goal of our study was to analyze the change in HbA1C levels after using a CGM (DEXCOM G4, G5, G6) over a 6-month period in pediatric patients with Type I diabetes. Two HBA1c levels 3 months apart from 92 patients were collected before using a CGM and two while using a CGM. Results were compared by using a dependent samples t-test. IBM SPSS 25.0 was used for data analysis.

Results: Preliminary analysis indicates the average change in HBA1C among the patients (N=92) before (-0.08 ± 1.16) and while using the CGM (0.12 ± 1.00) was not significantly different (t (79) = -1.27, p = 0.21). The average change in HBA1C was also not significantly different (p>0.05) among the patients before and while using the CGM for gender (males and females), age groups (0-7 years, 8-14 years, and 15-24 years), and generations of DEXCOM used (G4, G5, and G6).

Conclusion: As has been shown in other studies, we did not find a significant change in HbA1c after CGM use for 6 months in our patients. While HbA1C is a reflection of blood sugars over a 3-month period, it does not provide information about glycemic excursions. Metrics derived from CGM use, such as TIR, can provide actionable information which we did not address in our study. There have been reports of the association between TIR and long-term complications of diabetes. Most data comes from studies in adults and pediatric data is lacking. We propose that future studies must look into CGM metrics such as TIR to better define glycemic control in pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus.

Numerical investigation of cavitation generated by an ultrasonic dental scaler tip vibrating in a compressible liquid

Bacterial biofilm accumulation around dental implants is a significant problem leading to peri-implant diseases and implant failure. Cavitation occurring in the cooling water around ultrasonic scaler tips can be used as a novel solution to remove debris without any surface damage. However, current clinically available instruments provide insufficient cavitation around the activated tip surface. To solve this problem a critical understanding of the vibro-acoustic behaviour of the scaler tip and the associated cavitation dynamics is necessary. In this research, we carried out a numerical study for an ultrasound dental scaler with a curved shape tip vibrating in water, using ABAQUS based on the finite element method. We simulated the three-dimensional, nonlinear and transient interaction between the vibration and deformation of the scaler tip, the water flow around the scaler and the cavitation formation and dynamics. The numerical model was well validated with the experiments and there was excellent agreement for displacement at the free end of the scaler. A systematic parametric study has been carried out for the cavitation volume around the scaler tip in terms of the frequency, amplitude and power of the tip vibration. The numerical results indicate that the amount of cavitation around the scaler tip increases with the frequency and amplitude of the vibration. However, if the frequency is far from the natural frequency, the cavitation volume around the free end decreases due to reduced free end vibration amplitude.

The primary cilium dampens proliferative signaling and represses a G2/M transcriptional network in quiescent myoblasts

BACKGROUND

Reversible cell cycle arrest (quiescence/G0) is characteristic of adult stem cells and is actively controlled at multiple levels. Quiescent cells also extend a primary cilium, which functions as a signaling hub. Primary cilia have been shown to be important in multiple developmental processes, and are implicated in numerous developmental disorders. Although the association of the cilium with G0 is established, the role of the cilium in the control of the quiescence program is still poorly understood.

RESULTS

Primary cilia are dynamically regulated across different states of cell cycle exit in skeletal muscle myoblasts: quiescent myoblasts elaborate a primary cilium in vivo and in vitro, but terminally differentiated myofibers do not. Myoblasts where ciliogenesis is ablated using RNAi against a key ciliary assembly protein (IFT88) can exit the cell cycle but display an altered quiescence program and impaired self-renewal. Specifically, the G0 transcriptome in IFT88 knockdown cells is aberrantly enriched for G2/M regulators, suggesting a focused repression of this network by the cilium. Cilium-ablated cells also exhibit features of activation including enhanced activity of Wnt and mitogen signaling and elevated protein synthesis via inactivation of the translational repressor 4E-BP1.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our results show that the primary cilium integrates and dampens proliferative signaling, represses translation and G2/M genes, and is integral to the establishment of the quiescence program.

Stromal cells downregulate miR-23a-5p to activate protective autophagy in acute myeloid leukemia

Complex molecular cross talk between stromal cells and the leukemic cells in bone marrow is known to contribute significantly towards drug-resistance. Here, we have identified the molecular events that lead to stromal cells mediated therapy-resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Our work demonstrates that stromal cells downregulate miR-23a-5p levels in leukemic cells to protect them from the chemotherapy induced apoptosis. Downregulation of miR-23a-5p in leukemic cells leads to upregulation of protective autophagy by targeting TLR2 expression. Further, autophagy inhibitors when used as adjuvants along with conventional drugs can improve drug sensitivity in vitro as well in vivo in a mouse model of leukemia. Our work also demonstrates that this mechanism of bone marrow stromal cell mediated regulation of miR-23a-5p levels and subsequent molecular events are relevant predominantly in myeloid leukemia. Our results illustrate the critical and dynamic role of the bone marrow microenvironment in modulating miRNA expression in leukemic cells which could contribute significantly to drug resistance and subsequent relapse, possibly through persistence of minimal residual disease in this environment.

Wnt and Hedgehog: Secretion of Lipid-Modified Morphogens

Morphogens are signaling molecules produced by a localized source, specifying cell fate in a graded manner. The source secretes morphogens into the extracellular milieu to activate various target genes in an autocrine or paracrine manner. Here we describe various secreted forms of two canonical morphogens, the lipid-anchored Hedgehog (Hh) and Wnts, indicating the involvement of multiple carriers in the transport of these morphogens. These different extracellular secreted forms are likely to have distinct functions. Here we evaluate newly identified mechanisms that morphogens use to traverse the required distance to activate discrete paracrine signaling.

Imaging and analysis of individual cavitation microbubbles around dental ultrasonic scalers

Cavitation is a potentially effective and less damaging method of removing biofilm from biomaterial surfaces. The aim of this study is to characterise individual microbubbles around ultrasonic scaler tips using high speed imaging and image processing. This information will provide improved understanding on the disruption of dental biofilm and give insights into how the instruments can be optimised for ultrasonic cleaning. Individual cavitation microbubbles around ultrasonic scalers were analysed using high speed recordings up to a million frames per second with image processing of the bubble movement. The radius and rate of bubble growth together with the collapse was calculated by tracking multiple points on bubbles over time. The tracking method to determine bubble speed demonstrated good inter-rater reliability (intra class correlation coefficient: 0.993) and can therefore be a useful method to apply in future studies. The bubble speed increased over its oscillation cycle and a maximum of 27ms^-1 was recorded during the collapse phase. The maximum bubble radii ranged from 40 to 80μm. Bubble growth was observed when the ultrasonic scaler tip receded from an area and similarly bubble collapse was observed when the tip moved towards an area, corresponding to locations of low pressure around the scaler tip. Previous work shows that this cavitation is involved in biofilm removal. Future experimental work can be based on these findings by using the protocols developed to experimentally analyse cavitation around various clinical instruments and comparing with theoretical calculations. This will help to determine the main cleaning mechanisms of cavitation and how clinical instruments such as ultrasonic scalers can be optimised.

Penetration of sub-micron particles into dentinal tubules using ultrasonic cavitation

OBJECTIVES

Functionalised silica sub-micron particles are being investigated as a method of delivering antimicrobials and remineralisation agents into dentinal tubules. However, their methods of application are not optimised, resulting in shallow penetration and aggregation. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of cavitation occurring around ultrasonic scalers for enhancing particle penetration into dentinal tubules.

METHODS

Dentine slices were prepared from premolar teeth. Silica sub-micron particles were prepared in water or acetone. Cavitation from an ultrasonic scaler (Satelec P5 Newtron, Acteon, France) was applied to dentine slices immersed inside the sub-micron particle solutions. Samples were imaged with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess tubule occlusion and particle penetration.

RESULTS

Qualitative observations of SEM images showed some tubule occlusion. The particles could penetrate inside the tubules up to 60μm when there was no cavitation and up to ∼180μm when there was cavitation.

CONCLUSIONS

The cavitation bubbles produced from an ultrasonic scaler may be used to deliver sub-micron particles into dentine. This method has the potential to deliver such particles deeper into the dentinal tubules.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Cavitation from a clinical ultrasonic scaler may enhance penetration of sub-micron particles into dentinal tubules. This can aid in the development of novel methods for delivering therapeutic clinical materials for hypersensitivity relief and treatment of dentinal caries.

Exosomes: mobile platforms for targeted and synergistic signaling across cell boundaries

Intercellular communications play a vital role during tissue patterning, tissue repair, and immune reactions, in homeostasis as well as in disease. Exosomes are cell-derived secreted vesicles, extensively studied for their role in intercellular communication. Exosomes have the intrinsic ability to package multiple classes of proteins and nucleic acids within their lumens and on their membranes. Here, we explore the hypothesis that exosomal targeting may represent a cellular strategy that has evolved to deliver specific combinations of signals to specific target cells and influence normal or pathological processes. This review aims to evaluate the available evidence for this hypothesis and to identify open questions whose answers will illuminate our understanding and applications of exosome biology.

A quantitative method to measure biofilm removal efficiency from complex biomaterial surfaces using SEM and image analysis

Biofilm accumulation on biomaterial surfaces is a major health concern and significant research efforts are directed towards producing biofilm resistant surfaces and developing biofilm removal techniques. To accurately evaluate biofilm growth and disruption on surfaces, accurate methods which give quantitative information on biofilm area are needed, as current methods are indirect and inaccurate. We demonstrate the use of machine learning algorithms to segment biofilm from scanning electron microscopy images. A case study showing disruption of biofilm from rough dental implant surfaces using cavitation bubbles from an ultrasonic scaler is used to validate the imaging and analysis protocol developed. Streptococcus mutans biofilm was disrupted from sandblasted, acid etched (SLA) Ti discs and polished Ti discs. Significant biofilm removal occurred due to cavitation from ultrasonic scaling (p < 0.001). The mean sensitivity and specificity values for segmentation of the SLA surface images were 0.80 ± 0.18 and 0.62 ± 0.20 respectively and 0.74 ± 0.13 and 0.86 ± 0.09 respectively for polished surfaces. Cavitation has potential to be used as a novel way to clean dental implants. This imaging and analysis method will be of value to other researchers and manufacturers wishing to study biofilm growth and removal.

ID: 28: ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME RELATED KAPOSI SARCOMA A RARE INTRUDER AFFECTING THE STOMACH

Introduction

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a vascular tumor that is commonly associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). The epidemic type of KS is associated with the most common tumor arising in HIV infected people, which is considered by CDC guidelines an AIDS defining illness. Lesions on the skin are the most common initial presentation in patients unlike the involvement of visceral sites. We present a unique case of KS affecting the stomach, initially presenting as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Case

Patient is a 34 year old female with past medical history of AIDS/HIV with a CD4 count of 143 cells/μL, VL 46 copies/mL on HAART therapy diagnosed with visceral and cutaneous manifestations presents to the ED with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and diffuse abdominal pain for three days. The symptoms have progressively gotten worse. Patient denies any history of fevers, recent travel, sick contacts or recent antibiotic use. On examination, the patient had stable vitals and evidence of dark brown, papular skin lesions of various sizes over face, torso and upper extremity. Abdominal examination revealed tenderness in the epigastric area. Laboratory studies and initial abdominal cat-scan with contrast were unremarkable. All infectious workup was negative. However, EGD revealed esophageal nodule in the mid-distal esophagus (figure 1A), non-obstructive lower esophageal (LE) stricture (figure 1B), and a gastric ulcer raised with heaped margins (figure C). Biopsy of the gastric ulcer reveals KS with necrosis. Throughout hospital course, patient received 12 rounds of Doxirubicin for treatment, continued with HAART therapy. Patient is tolerating chemotherapy well, cutaneous lesions are improving and signs and symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal pain have alleviated.

Discussion

Cutaneous manifestation is usually the initial presentation of KS and visceral involvement is typically a later manifestation of disease. What is interesting in this case is the involvement of both cutaneous and visceral sites. It can be observed in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, but rarely seen in the stomach. GI lesions may be asymptomatic or may cause weight loss, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and obstruction, which is seen in our case. EGD revealed distal LE stricture and gastric ulcer biopsy showing KS with necrosis. For AIDS patients who have KS, HAART therapy should be initiated to induce regression. For systemic treatment chemotherapy with Doxirubicin should be considered when there is symptomatic visceral or mucosal involvement and extensive cutaneous KS. We suggest the KS be included in the differential in AIDS patients with diarrhea and non-specific GI symptoms. Moreover, EGD should be considered for symptomatic patients because untreated GI KS includes hemorrhage and perforation.

Abstract ID: 28 Figure 1

ID: 17: GRAVES DISEASE INDUCED DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY

Introduction

Graves' thyrotoxicosis has many cardiovascular complications; however, the most cardiac complication is atrial fibrillation but rarely causes heart failure. Less than 1% develops dilated cardiomyopathy with impaired left ventricular systolic function. In this case report we describe a case of Graves' hyperthyroidism-induced reversible cardiomyopathy.

Case presentation

45 year old female with a history of previously treated Graves' disease who presented to hospital for altered mental status and severe hypoglycemia. The hospital course complicated by Atrial fibrillation with RVR. Patient states that recently started feeling fatigue, orthopnea, decrease exercise intolerance, lower extremities edema and distended abdomen. In emergency department, patient found to have hypotension and tachycardic. She was given IV fluids but her blood pressure didn't respond. Patient was started on Levophed for hypotension. Physical examination demonstrated impressive proptosis, positive jugular venous distension, irregular irregularity of her plus and +2 lower extremities edema .

Patient found to have Graves storm (TSH: 0.07 uIU/ml, Free T4: 1.89 ng/dL, T3: 36.6 ng/dL, cortisol level: 59.36 Ug/dL). She was started on methimazole, steroids and lugols iodine drops. Hypoglycemia that she had most likely was related to lack of glycogen stores and increased metabolic demand with graces. After the patient stabilized, echocardiogram obtained which showed severe left ventricular dysfunction (LVEF 30%), bi-atrial dilatation, LV dilated, moderate MR and TR. So, patient was transferred to CCU for acute dilated cardiomyopathy secondary to graves storm. She was started on Lasix 40 mg IV then switched to 20 mg PO twice a day, Metoprolol 25 mg twice a day and Digoxin 0.125 mg daily and Apixaban 5 mg twice daily. Ophthalmology consulted for proptosis who recommended artificial tears, ocular lubricant and decompression.

Abstract ID: 17 Figure 1

ID: 74: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE IN PATIENTS WITH BODY MASS INDEX ≥30

Introduction

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and although mortality is decreasing, prevalence of CAD is increasing. A number of modifiable risk factors (smoking) and non-modifiable risk factors (gender, age) have well established association with CAD, whereas other potential risk factors (such as obesity) are less well established. In this study, we evaluated the obesity as a single risk factor for CAD and evaluated the synergistic effect of obesity with the other risk factors.

Method

A retrospective study of 7,567 patients admitted to hospital for chest pain from 2005–2014 and underwent cardiac catheterization. Patients were divided into two groups: obese and normal with body mass index (BMI) calculated as ≥30 kg/m2 and ≤25, respectively. Patients with BMIs between 26 and 29 were excluded. We assessed the modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors in obese patients and the degree of CAD with coronary angiography as obstructive CAD (left main stenosis of ≥50% or any stenosis of ≥70%), non-obstructive CAD (≥1 stenosis ≥20% but no stenosis ≥70%) and normal coronaries.

Results

Of the 7,567 patients who underwent cardiac catheterization, 414 (5.5%) had a BMI ≥30. Of 414 obese patients, 332 (80%) had evidence of CAD. Obese patients displayed evidence of CAD at the age of 57 versus 63.3 in non-obese patients (p<0.001).

Of the 332 patients with CAD and obesity, 55.4% had obstructive CAD versus 44.6% with non-obstructive CAD. In obese patients with CAD, Male gender and history of smoking were major risk factors for development of obstructive CAD (p=0.001 and 0.01, respectively) while dyslipidemia was a major risk factor for non-obstructive CAD (p 0.01). Additionally, obese patients with more than one risk factor; developed obstructive CAD compared to non-obstructive CAD (p=0.003). Approximately 40% presented with STEMI, 30% with NSTEMI and 30% had stable angina as a primary diagnosis.

Of the 332 obese patients with CAD, 24% received medical treatment, 58% underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and 18% obtained coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

In a gender comparison, average age of CAD in obese males were 55 years of age compared to 59 in females (p <0.001). Approximately 67% of males underwent PCI (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.5–3.6, p<0.001) and 24% obtained CABG (OR: 3, 95% CI: 1.6–5.6, p<0.001), whereas in obese females 43% received medical therapy (OR: 9, 95% CI: 5–17, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Having a BMI ≥30 appears to correlate as a risk factor for early development of CAD. Severity of CAD in obese patients is depicted on non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors such as the male gender and smoking or greater than one risk factor, respectively. Early lifestyle modification and education may provide benefit in striving to aid decreasing incidents of CAD and possibly lowering cardiovascular events.

ID: 37: SILENT BUT DEADLY CYTOMEGALOVIRUS TRIGGERING AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS

Introduction

To consider that viruses, more specifically cytomegalovirus (CMV), can trigger autoimmune hepatitis.

Case Report

54 year-old female presents with new onset jaundice, which was associated with abdominal distension, lower extremity edema and 10 pound weight gain. She has no history of intravenous drug use, blood transfusions, any new sexual partners in over 8 years or a family history of liver disease. The physical examination was remarkable for spider angiomata, icteric sclera, ascites, and edema.

The results of the biochemical analysis of the blood were the following: Liver enzymes were all elevated ALP 162 U/L, GGT 65 U/L, AST 154 U/L, ALT 72 U/L. Furthermore, her autoimmune workup was significant for an elevated ANA titer of 1:640, anti-smooth muscle ab titer 1:40 and a significant increase in immunoglobulins specifically IgG which was 4100 mg/dL. Interestingly, CMV Ab IgM was positive at 36.6 u/mL as well as CMV Ab IgG, which was positive at >10.00 u/mL. The rest of the work up was unremarkable in regards to hepatitis A, B, C, HIV, HSV, Epstein Barr virus (EBV), alpha1 antitrypsin, ceruloplasmin, iron level, ferritin and antimitochondrial ab. A liver biopsy was performed which showed heavy infiltration with lymphoplasmacytic inflammatory cells, interface hepatitis, bridging necrosis, and fibrosis. These pathologic and laboratory findings led us to a definitive diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) Type 1. In the setting of positive CMV IgG and IgM ab titers, we suggest that the trigger for AIH in this case was a preceding CMV infection. Her evolution was satisfactory under corticosteroid and azathioprine therapy.

Discussion

Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic hepatocellular inflammation and necrosis of unknown cause. The most supported pathogenesis of AIH postulates that a combination of environmental triggers, failure of immune system tolerance and a genetic predisposition that may induce a T cell–mediated immune attack against the liver. Case studies in the literature report AIH being triggered by virus and drugs. There is evidence of cross-reactivity between anti-LKM1 and antibodies against homologous regions of cytomegalovirus (exon CMV130-135). This case could explain an association between cytomegalovirus infection and autoimmune hepatitis.

As clinicians, it is difficult to diagnose autoimmune hepatitis because its presentation can be acute, severe, asymptomatic or chronic. Diagnosis requires multiple findings and exclusions of similar diseases. When excluding, make sure viral etiologies are part of the differential, which in this case is CMV. If indeed a trigger is required to set off a sequence of events leading to autoimmune hepatitis in these predisposed individuals, viruses are among the most likely candidates.

Abstract ID: 37 Figure 1

ID: 34: ASSOCIATION BETWEEN VITAMIN D AND GASTRIC CANCER

Background and Objectives

Vitamin D deficiency is linked to several gastrointestinal malignancies including gastric cancer and affects a multitude of cellular processes involved in tumorigenesis. Vitamin D is presumed to have anticancer actions by inducing differentiation and cell cycle arrest in malignant cells. Furthermore, it significantly promotes apoptosis in the undifferentiated gastric cancer cell line HGC-27. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an increased risk of gastric adenocarcinoma (GA) associated with vitamin d deficiency.

Methodology

A retrospective case-control study was conducted at Elmhurst Hospital Center from 2005–2015. Three hundred and four patients who were diagnosed with GA were selected as cases. Of 304 individuals with GA, 255 were excluded, because they did not have vitamin D levels, 49 patients were included in our study. The data was compared to a matched control group of 49 patients with no known malignancies who had vitamin D levels. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was compared between cases and controls using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The mean age of the case sample was 63.96 vs 60.43% in the control group. The gender distribution was the same, 49% male and 51% female. Hispanic patients were predominant in both samples accounting for 61.2% of the groups (table 1). Of 49 patients with GA included in our study, 20.48% were stage I; 36.7% were stage II; 24.9% were stage III, and 18.4% were stage IV. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the case group (GA) was significantly higher than in the control group 19[38.8%] vs 7[14.3%] respectively (OR: 3.8, 95% CI 1.42–10.18, P value 0.0079) figure 1.

Conclusion

The results of our study suggest that there is a positive correlation between vitamin D deficiency and gastric adenocarcinoma. More specifically patients with vitamin D deficiency have an increased association with GA. Additional multicenter randomized double blind clinical trials are required to further assess this association and the potential benefit of vitamin D supplementation in preventing gastric adenocarcinoma.

Abstract ID: 34 Figure 1

ID: 33: ACUTE PANCREATITIS WITH NORMAL LIPASE AND AMYLASE ENZYMES

Case Report

A 44 year-old Male with no significant past medical history presented to the Emergency Department complaining of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upper abdominal pain and fever. For the past one week prior to presentation, patient developed pressure-like epigastric pain, radiating to the back, worsened with lying down, and associated with non-bloody, non-bilious vomiting, followed by anorexia, nausea and fever to 102F. Patient had not eaten several days prior to arrival to the hospital; hence he was brought in by his family for evaluation. Notably, two months prior to presentation, patient was evaluated in an outside hospital for abdominal pain similar in quality, but not in intensity, and reportedly had normal blood tests and imaging.

Physical examination: vital signs significant for hypertension of 150/90, tachycardia to 108 and fever of 101.5; abdomen notable for tenderness to palpation over epigastrium, with mild guarding, but no rebound or Murphy's sign; the rest of the exam, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, integumentary and neurological exam, unremarkable. Initial laboratory findings are: WBC of 10.1, with 81% neutrophils, amylase of 47 (N 28–100 U/L), lipase level of 14 (N 11–82 U/L), and unremarkable basic metabolic panel. Liver function tests notable for normal AST and ALT, elevated GGT to 277 (N <50 U/L), LDH: 681 (N 90–225 U/L), Total bilirubin: 0.9(N 0–1.5 mg/dl). Lipid panel: Total Cholesterol 201 (N<200 mg/dL), Triglycerides 80 (N<150 mg/dL), LDL 68 (<100 mg/dL). Chest X-ray showed a small left-sided pleural effusion.

Patient was admitted to medicine service for treatment of gastroenteritis, and was started on intravenous fluids and symptomatic management. On day three of hospitalization, patient developed worsening abdominal pain, associated with inability to tolerate per oral intake secondary to vomiting of food contents, and due to worsening abdominal pain, underwent further workup. CBC revealed leukocytosis with a left shift, WBC count of 15.3, with 81.5% neutrophils. Basic metabolic panel notable for sodium of 124, potassium of 3.2, calcium of 7.4, magnesium of 1.7, phosphate of 1.9. Repeat lipase was 67(N 11–82 U/L). An abdominal CT scan (figure 1) with IV and oral contrast was performed, and showed extensive pancreatic edema, especially involving the pancreatic head and uncinate process, and peripancreatic stranding; these changes deemed consistent with acute pancreatitis; no calcifications or pseudocysts were observed on the CT. Abdominal ultrasound showed multiple gallbladder stones, however, common bile duct was of normal diameter (2.5 mm), and no intrabiliary duct dilatation was noted.

Based on clinical presentation and radiological findings, the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis was made. The patient started on aggressive intravenous fluid hydration, pain management and bowel rest, with good improvement in symptoms. On day 5, patient was able to tolerate a regular diet, and noted an almost complete resolution of pain, and therefore was discharged home.

Abstract ID: 33 Figure 1

ID: 8: 30-DAY READMISSION RATE OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING CORONARY CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION IN THE AMBULATORY VERSUS IN-HOSPITAL SETTING

Background

Cardiac Catheterizationis increasingly performed in an outpatient setting. No study has been large enough to detect differences in the major complication rate which occur infrequently in whichever setting, and there is considerable variation between studies in the incidence of minor complications after outpatient procedures.

Objective

To investigate the 30-days readmission rate of ambulatory and in-hospital coronary cardiac Catheterization.

Method

A retrospective study of 9053 patients who had coronary cardiac angiography between 2005 and 2014. We divided the patients in to two groups, patients who had cardiac Catheterizationin ambulatory setting versus in-hospital setting.

Results

Of 9053 patients, 5998 (66%) patients had in-hospital cardiac Catheterizationand 3,055 (34%) had ambulatory cardiac catheterization. Patients who had ambulatory coronary cardiac Catheterizationhad a higher 30-days readmission rate comparing to in-hospital setting (Odd ratio: 3.2, 95% CI: 2.8–3.7, p<0.0001).

Gender analysis, 27% of males who had ambulatory coronary cardiac Catheterizationreadmitted within 30-days of discharge versus 12% of females (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 2–2.9, p<0.0001). Among in-hospital setting, no statistically significant between males and females (p=0.6).

Conclusion

Our study showed that ambulatory coronary cardiac Catheterization associated with a higher 30-days readmission rate comparing to in-hospital setting. Furthermore, males who had ambulatory cardiac Catheterization seem to have more 30-days readmission rate.

ID: 35: ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE AND ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION: A RETROSPECTIVE CHART ANALYSIS

Introduction

Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection is known to target the gastrointestinal system and is associated with extra gastrointestinal manifestations, but there is limited literature on cardiac associations. The most supported pathogenesis uses chronic inflammation as a risk factor causing atherosclerosis resulting in cardiovascular disease. Our aim is to evaluate whether there is an association between HP infection and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and coronary artery disease (CAD).

Method

We performed a retrospective single center study at our medical center from 2005 to 2014 consisting of 1,671 patients who underwent Coronary Angiography (CA). We divided these patients into two groups based on CA reports. Patients with CAD defined as left main stenosis of ≥50% or any stenosis of ≥70% versus normal coronaries. We reviewed each patient chart to determine the prevalence of positive serum HP IgG antibody. Smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia and obesity were also considered in each group.

Results

Of 1,671 patients, 1,237 had evidence of CAD vs 434 with normal coronary arteries. Twelve percent of CAD patients were found to have seropositive HP (SPHP) versus 1% in the control group (OR: 7.3, 95% CI: 3.5–15, p<0.0001) as depicted in figure 1. When we looked at the CAD group and compared SPHP patients to seronegative HP (SNHP) patients we found a greater amount of multiple coronary vessels disease in the SPHP group (OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–2, P=0.04). With regards to AMI, 30% of the SPHP group presented with AMI versus 10% seen in the SNHP group (OR: 4.3, 95% CI: 3–6.5, p<0.0001). In the CAD group with SPHP there was more hyperlipidemia and a higher BMI than in the CAD SNHP group (p<0.0001 and <0.0001, respectively), but there was no statistical difference between the two groups for the risk factors of smoking, hypertension and diabetes.

Conclusion

According to this study, the results showed a correlation with SPHP patients and CAD. Patients with HP seropositivity also tend to have multiple coronary artery vessel disease. In addition, our results also confirmed that there is an association between with HP infection and AMI. We hypothesize that the associated maybe secondary to inflammatory reaction associated with HP. Additional studies with larger sample groups are needed to investigate the possible role of this pathogen as a risk factor for heart disease.

Abstract ID: 35 Figure 1

Twelve percent of CAD patients were found to have seropositive HP (SPHP) versus 1% in the control group (OR: 7.3, 95% CI: 3.5–15, p<0.0001).

ID: 76: AVOIDING TRANSTHORACIC ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY (TTE) AND TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY (TEE) FOR PATIENTS WITH VARIABLE BODY MASS INDEXES (BMI) IN INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS

Background

Echocardiography has been a popular modality used to aid in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE) with the modified Dukes' criteria. We evaluated the necessity between the uses of either a transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) or transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in patients with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 25 kg/m2 and less than 25.

Methods

A single-centered, retrospective study of 198 patients between the years of 2005 and 2012 diagnosed with IE based on modified Dukes' criteria. Patients were required to be above the age of 18, undergone an echocardiogram study and had blood cultures to be included in the study.

This study was conducted at a major hospital in one of the most diverse communities in the United States, providing a cultural and epidemiologically significant advantage. An approved chart analysis using QuadraMed Computerized Patient Record (QCPR) was retrospectively accessed with data-input and calculations formulated in computerized software.

Results

Among 198 patients, two echocardiographic groups were evaluated as 158 patients obtained a TTE, 143 obtained a TEE, and 103 overlapped with TEE and TTE. 167 patients were included in the study as 109 (65%) were discovered to have native valve vegetations on TEE and 58 (35%) with TTE. TTE findings were compared to TEE results for true negative and positives to isolate valvular vegetations Overall sensitivity of TTE was calculated to be 67% with a specificity of 93%. Patients were further divided into two groups with the first group having a BMI less than or equal to 25 kg/m2 and the subsequent group with a BMI<25. Patients with a BMI less than or equal to 25 that underwent a TTE study had a sensitivity and specificity of 54% and 92, respectively. On the contrary, patients with a BMI<25 had a TTE sensitivity and specificity of 78% and 95, respectively. Furthermore, we obtained the sensitivities of specific valves diseased from vegetations, visualized by TTE (figure 1). Lastly, we were able to demonstrate a correlation between the different modalities of echocardiography used to the specific organism identified on blood cultures (figure 2).

Conclusion

Calculating a BMI in patients with suspicion for IE may provide benefit in reducing further diagnostic imaging. Our study demonstrated that patients having a BMI <25 kg/m2 with a negative TTE should refrain from further diagnostic studies with TEE, given the findings of increased sensitivities (figure 3). Patients with a BMI less than or equal to 25 may proceed directly to a TEE, possibly avoiding an additional study with a TTE given the low sensitivities identified in this population. Clinicians should be aware that this study has several limitations, one of which a small sample size that may be increased with a multi-centered study. Further investigations with a larger population may improve and possibly provide similar findings, reinforcing the study.

ID: 99: PREVELNACE, MORBIDTY AND MORTALITY OF INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS IN THE MOST DIVESE AREA OF USA IN NEW YORK CITY

Background

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious illness associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the mortality and morbidity of IE in a community public hospital of the most diverse area in New York.

Methods

An analysis of 209 patients that were admitted to hospital from 2000 to 2012, found to have IE based on Duke's criteria.

Results

The incidence rate of IE is trending down since 2000 (figure 1A).

Among our study population, the overall mortality rate of IE was 20.1% (95% CI: 9.84–19.56%), readmission rate within 30 days after discharge was 21.5% (95% CI: 16.22–27.58%) with an average age of 59 years (95% CI: 57.63–60.37%). The most common causative organisms were staphylococcus aureus (43.7%), followed by streptococcus viridians (17%) and Group D enterococcus (14.7%). We divided the patients into two groups; male (n=107) versus female (n=102). And the same aspects were identified and studied in each gender group.

The incidence of IE has a slight female predominance, except two age groups with male significant predominance; 40–49 and 50–59 years. (figure 1-B).

The mortality rate in males was 17% vs 23% in females (p=0.09) and Readmission rate within 30 days after discharge from the hospital was 20% in males vs 22% in females (p=0.1).

Of the 209 patients, 188 patients were with native hearts and 21 patients had non-native heart valves. Of the 188 native heart valves, 114 had risk factors such as: CABG surgeries, were active drugs users, had pacemakers, valves disease or CHF. Mortality rate in non-native hearts and/or patients with risk factors were 27.7% compared to patients with native heart without risk factors of 8.11%(OR:3, P<0.0001).

The causative organism of IE was evaluated in our study and we found that S. aureus is the most common cause in males and females among all age groups. The only exception to that is a slightly higher prevalence of S. viridians in males between the ages of 30–39 (figure1-C). Similarly, the prevalence of group D enterococcus appeared higher in females aged 70–79 years. (figure 1-D).

Approximately 71% of males' patient with S. aureus IE between ages 50–49 had DM. Also, 80% of female patients with IE between ages 60–69 had DM which could explain the high prevalence of IE with S. aureus in this age groups as DM may complicated with skin infections which is mostly Staphylococcus infection that led to IE.

The highest incidences of IE in our study were in Hispanic ethnicity group (38%) follow by white (29%). However, the lowest incidences were observed in South Asia population (5%).

Conclusion

Despite appropriate prophylaxis and treatment of IE patients, high rates of incidences, morbidity and mortality remained especially in population >50 years. Risk factors for developing IE such as Diabetes Mellitus which might complicated with skin infection and lead to IE, raising the importance of controlling and monitoring risk factors for IE in patients older than 50 years of age.

Abstract ID: 99 Figure 1

ID: 68: CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE AND ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME IN PATIENTS ≤40 YEAR OLD

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) in the younger adult population has been commonly under-represented in clinical practice and research studies given its early latent asymptomatic course, in addition to the underestimation of this population's CHD lifetime risk by commonly used CHD risk predictors such as Framingham's score.

Objective

To assess the risk factor profile for premature coronary artery disease CAD and ACS presentation in younger adults.

Methods

Retrospective chart analysis of 393 patient's ≤40 years old admitted from 2005 to 2014 for chest pain and underwent coronary angiography. The implication of modifiable risk factors and non-modifiable risk factors were evaluated in those with obstructive CAD (LM stenosis of ≥50% or stenosis of ≥70% in a major epicardial vessel), non-obstructive CAD (≥1 stenosis ≥20% but no stenosis ≥70%) and normal coronaries (no stenosis >20%). Additionally we evaluated the impact of the same risk factors on ACS presentation (NSTEMI vs STEMI) and the extent of CAD (single-vessel/multi vessel).

Results

Of 9012 patients who underwent cardiac catheterization, 393 (4.3%) patients were ≤40 years old.

Out of 393, 212 (54%) had CAD (153 obstructive versus 59 non-obstructive) while 185 (46%) had normal coronaries.

Fifty two (25%) patients presented with STEMI while 140 (66%) patients presented with NSTEMI.

Of 153 patients with obstructive CAD, 87 (57%) patients had single vessel disease vs 66 (43%) multiple vessel disease.

When compared to patients with normal coronaries patients with CAD were more likely to be smokers (p<0.0001), dyslipidemia (p<0.0001), Diabetic (p<0.0001) cocaine users (p 0.4) have a family history of premature CHD (<0.0001) and be males (p<0.0001) (figure=1).

Smokers were more likely to present with acute coronary syndrome; 5 times more likely to present with STEMI (p<0.0001) and 1.7 with NSTEMI (p 0.0003) compared to the control group.

When compared head to head, smokers were 2.2 times more likely to present with STEMI compared to NSTEMI (p<0.001).

Smoking also, alone and with another risk factor increased the risk of obstructive versus no obstructive CAD (p=0.04 and 0.015, respectively).

No significant difference was noted in the single vessel vs multi vessel CAD subgroups.

Coronary artery disease was highest in South Asian population (38.4%), followed by Hispanic (13.7%), African-American (10%) and Caucasian (9%). The main in risk factors in African–American was Hyperlipidemia +/− Diabetes (47.8%) while the main risk factors in Hispanic and white were smoking alone (24.14% and 47.4% respectively). In East Asia population, Smoking with hyperlipidemia was the main risk factors (44%).

Conclusion

In our population of young adults, smoking as a single risk factor was the most prevalent for earlier CAD. It was also associated with more STEMIs and obstructive CAD. Healthcare intervention in the general population through screening, counseling and education regarding smoking cessation is warranted to reduce premature coronary artery disease.

Abstract ID: 68 Figure 1

ID: 38: PRIMARY SQUAMOS CELL CARCINOMA OF THE RECTUM

Introduction

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is an uncommon occurrence, as it usually involves the esophagus or anal canal. Approximately 90% of cases of rectal malignancy are adenocarcinoma and other rectal cancers include lymphoma (1.3%), carcinoid (0.4%), and sarcoma (0.3%). We are presenting a rare and unique case of patient with SCC of the rectum presenting with lower abdominal pain and significant weight loss.

Case

A 52 year old female was admitted with a two month history of diffuse lower abdominal pain and hematochezia. The pain was constant and pressure like. The patient was a nonsmoker and nondrinker. Review of systems was pertinent for an unintentional weight loss of 10lbs. Physical examination revealed diffuse lower abdominal tenderness and a firm, irregular anterior rectal mass. She had no lymphadenopathy and her skin exam was normal. Laboratory results a normocytic anemia with a hemoglobin of 8.8 g/dl and a CEA of 1.35 ng/ml. Abdominal CT scan revealed a 7 cm irregular rectal mass with extra luminal compression to the rectosigmoid area, (figure 1). The mass did not extend from uterus and confirmed with transvaginal ultrasound. Patient underwent a flex sigmoidoscopy which revealed a lesion 5 cm from anal verge extending distally. There is a semi-circumferential narrowing occupying 7% of lumen and a dense layer of mass tissue with superficial friability of mucosa. Biopsy was taken from the mass, histology shows invasive moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (figure 1).

Discussion

SCC of the rectum has a very similar presentation to colon adenocarcinoma. Diagnoses can be established by proctoscopy/colonoscopy and more specifically, a biopsy to get a definitive histological analysis. The latter is a used to differentiate from SCC of the anus, which presents similarly. Immunohistochemistry has proved useful in characterizing lesions, especially when using cytokeratin stains. Pathogenesis is unclear due to its rarity; however one of the proposed mechanisms suggests that inflammation or infection results in squamous metaplasia from which carcinoma develops. Thus there is an association with HPV and various squamous cancers. In conclusion, SCC of rectum is a distinct entity and it is important to shed some light on this rare condition because it has different epidemiology, etiology, pathogenies and requires a different treatment approach than other colorectal carcinomas. Surgery is the primary treatment which consists of local excision versus radical resection and the need for adjuvant therapy.

Abstract ID: 38 Figure 1

ID: 50: PERFORATED DIVERTICULOSIS COMPLICATED WITH ACTINOMYCOSIS INFECTION AND PRESENTED AS PELVIC MALIGNANCY

Case Presentation

A 48-year-old female with no significant past medical history who presented with fatigue, and lower abdominal pain, unintentionally weight lost and yellowish vaginal discharge. Physical examination was remarkable for a palpable mass extending from supra-pubic to supra-umbilical area and vaginal examination remarkable for foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Initial laboratory studies indicated Hemoglobin 5.8 mg/dl and white blood counts 15,000/µL. Computerized tomography of Abdomen/Pelvis CT with contrast which demonstrating an infiltrative process or mass like structure involving the pelvis measuring 10×12×6 cm. The initial impression was Gynecological cancer which could be uterine/cervix/ovarian cancer. However, Pap-smear was negative. Biopsy was obtained which showed acute inflammatory exudates fragments of benign appearing smooth muscle proliferation and fibro-adipose tissue infiltrated with histiocytes. The decision for exploratory laparotomy was made which revealed a large pelvic abscess. The surgery resulted in modified radical hysterectomy, resection of left and right tubo-ovarian abscess complexes, recto-sigmoid resection with end-sigmoid colostomy and Hartmann's pouch, and ileo-colic resection with a primary anastomosis. Pathology examination revealed a segment of colon with perforated diverticulosis and a tubo-ovarian complex with acute and chronic inflammations, granulation tissue formation and bacterial colonies morphologically suggestive of Actinomyces. Patient started on Intra-venous Penicillin-G. After 4 weeks, CT abdomen/Pelvic repeated which showed post-surgical changes and decreased in size of abscess/fluid collections.

Discussion

Actinomycosis is a rare and insidious disease. The most common etiologic organism is the anaerobic, Gram-positive bacterium, Actinomyces israelii. Actinomycetes are prominent among the normal flora of the oral cavity but less prominent in the lower gastrointestinal and female genital tract. Because these microorganisms are not virulent, they require a break in the integrity of the mucous membranes and the presence of devitalized tissue to invade deeper body structures and to cause human illness.

Cervicofacial actinomycosis is the most common type of the infections followed by Thoracic actinomycosis and less common in abdomen and pelvis. The most common cause of abdominal/pelvic actinomycosis is acute perforated appendicitis. Also, most of Abdomen/Pelvis cases have a history of recent or remote bowel surgery (e.g.perforated appendicitis, perforate colonic diverticulitis). Pelvic actinomycosis has become more common in females who use an Intra-Uterine Devices, which may increase the risk of infection through injury to the normal uterine mucosa. Diagnosis of Abdomen/Pelvic actinomycosis is usually established postoperatively, following exploratory laparotomy for a suspected malignancy. Involvement of any abdominal organ, including the abdominal wall, can occur by direct spread, with eventual formation of draining sinuses.

Abstract ID: 50 Figure 1

ID: 36: PEGASPARGASE INDUCED SEVERE PANCREATITIS. FRIEND OR FOE?

Introduction

Pegaspargase (Oncaspar) is a modified version of L-asparaginase conjugated with polyethylene glycol. In leukemic cells, asparaginase hydrolyzes L- asparagine to ammonia and L-aspartic acid leading to depletion of asparagine. Despite its potential benefits there are a wide range of side effects. One rare but potentially deadly complication is severe pancreatitis.

Case

The patient was a 24 year old Mexican male with a history of Acute T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) on recent chemotherapy including pegaspargase, admitted for abdominal pain, found to have acute pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia. Heart rate was 127 bpm, chest revealed decreased air entry in right lung bases, and a distended severely tender abdomen. Laboratory tests were remarkable for elevated liver enzymes ALP 360 U/L, AST 310 U/L, GGT 216 U/L, ALT 44 U/L, LDH 829 U/L, elevated lipase 228 U/L, and hypertriglyceridemia >3,000 mg/dL. Abdominal CT showed pancreatitis with necrosis; peripancreatic, intraperitoneal and extensive retroperitoneal fluid. Subsequently his severe pancreatitis was associated with acute kidney injury and respiratory failure which is illustrated by his (BUN 22 Creatinine 2.16, and persistent hypoxia.) According to the Atlanta Classification, patient is classified under severe acute pancreatitis.

Discussion

Pegaspargase is used for treatment of ALL and is gaining in popularity over Asparaginase therapy due to it having fewer incidences of hypersensitivity reactions and because of its long half life (367 hrs) allowing dosing every 14 days as opposed to Asparaginase which is dosed daily. Pegaspargase definitely has its benefits but we can't lose sight of one of its rare, but potentially deadly complications, pancreatitis. In one study nine of the 50 patients (18%) with ALL treated with pegaspargase were diagnosed to have pancreatitis. In contrast, only one out of 52 (1.9%) ALL patients who received native E. coli L-asparaginase during the same time period developed pancreatitis. One proposed mechanism of this drug-induced pancreatitis is hypertriglyceridemia, which is seen in our case. It is suggested that apolipoprotein E polymorphism may influence the development of hyperlipidemia in ALL patients receiving pegaspargase therapy.

We report a case to increase the awareness of higher incidence of pegaspargase-induced pancreatitis, which is a rare but potentially deadly complication. Clinicians should monitor triglycerides while on treatment and suspect pancreatitis if patient develops abdominal pain. If pancreatitis occurs, therapy should be stopped and not reinstituted. For patients with hypertriglyceridemia without pancreatitis discontinuation of therapy should be considered.

Abstract ID: 36 Figure 1

Impression: Severe acute pancreatitis. Significant interval worsening.

ID: 2: VITAMIN D AND ITS ASSOCIATION IN OBSTRUCTIVE, NON-OBSTRUCTIVE CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE, AND NORMAL CORONARIES ASSESSED ON CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY

Background

Pro-atherosclerotic nature of vitamin D deficiency has been shown to increase cardiovascular events. To further demonstrate this phenomenon, we evaluated the degree of coronary artery disease (CAD) with varying levels of vitamin D.

Method

A retrospective, single-center study of 9,399 patients admitted between 2005 and 2014 for chest pain who underwent coronary angiography. Patients without a vitamin D level, measured as 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) were excluded from our study. 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency were defined by having serum concentration levels of less than 20 ng/ml and 20 to 29.9 ng/ml, respectively, while normal levels were defined as greater than or equal to 30 ng/ml. We assessed the degree of 25(OH)D and the extent of coronary disease with coronary angiography as obstructive CAD (left main stenosis of ≥50% or any stenosis of ≥70%), non-obstructive CAD (≥1 stenosis ≥20% but no stenosis ≥70%) and normal coronaries (no stenosis >20%).

Results

Among 9,399 patients, 1,311 qualified, of which 308 patients (23%) had normal 25(OH)D levels, 552 patients (42%) had 25(OH)D deficiency and 451 patients (35%) had 25(OH)D insufficiency. In an analysis for the extent of coronary disease we identified 259 patients (20%) having normal coronaries, 720 patients (55%) with obstructive CAD and 291 patients (25%) with non-obstructive CAD.

Baseline clinical risk factors, and co-morbidities did not differ in either groups. Patients with 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency (n=1003) developed symptomatic CAD at a mean age of 63-years-old versus 67 with normal 25(OH)D (n=308, p<0.0001).

Patients with normal 25(OH)D levels were found to have normal coronaries compared to patients with 25(OH)D deficiency or insufficiency (OR: 7, 95% CI: 5.2–9.5, p<0.0001). Comparing patients with normal 25(OH)D levels, in patients with 25(OH)D deficiency or insufficiency (<29 ng/ml), 65% were found to have obstructive CAD (n=612, OR: 2.9, 95% CI: 2.3–3.7, p<0.0001) and 24% had non-obstructive CAD (n=237, OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1–2, p=0.02).

In a head-to-head, sub-grouped comparison, patients with 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency were found to have obstructive CAD (n=394, OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 2–3.4, p<0.0001) and non-obstructive CAD (n=169, OR: 2.6, 95% CI: 2–3.4, p<0.0001), respectively.

Conclusion

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency correlate with obstructive and non-obstructive CAD, respectively. Normal coronaries were shown to be related with normal levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D levels may provide benefit in improving risk stratification for patients with CAD as a possible modifiable risk factor. Further studies may be needed to enhance our findings.

ID: 4: OUTCOMES IN CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE PATIENTS UNDERGOING TRANSFEMORAL VERSUS TRANSRADIAL CARDIAC CATHETRIZATION: RESTROSPECTIVE CHART ANALYSIS

Background

Several studies addressed outcomes in terms of NACE and MACE in patients undergoing transradial vs tranfemoral cardiac catheterization. However, data on core quality measures such as length of stay and rehospitalization rates is lacking in the congestive heart failure population.

Method

A retrospective chart analysis of 9,320 patients who were admitted to the hospital for chest pain and underwent cardiac catheterization. Based on ICD-9 codes, we included only patients with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) with an Ejection Fracture ≤40 (HFrEF). We compared readmission rate and Length of stay in patients who underwent Transradial cardiac catheterization vs Transfemoral cardiac catheterization.

Results

Of a total 9,320 patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography, 800 patients had HFrEF. Four hundred patients underwent Transradial cardiac catheterization and 400 patients underwent Transfemoral cardiac catheterization. In the transfemoral cardiac catheterization group, 37 (9%) were readmitted within 30 days of discharge while 17 (4%) patients of 400 patients who underwent transradial cardiac catheterization were readmitted within 30 days of discharged (Odds ratio: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.8–3, p value 0.005).

Length of stay was ∼5.2 days in transradial catheterization vs. ∼6 days in Transfemoral catheterization group (p 0.4).

Conclusion

In our study population, transradial cardiac catheterization in HFrEF patients seemed to have a better outcome when compared to transfemoral cardiac catheterization in terms of 30-days readmission rate. Length of hospital stay was higher in the transfemoral group but did not achieve statistical significance, however. Larger studies that may also include patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are needed to investigate factors that may contribute to such outcomes.

A Rare Case Report of Immobility-Induced Hypercalcemia in an Infant

Immobility-induced hypercalcemia is a rare cause of hypercalcemia in children, and to our knowledge it has never been reported in an infant. Infants and children are in a state of high bone turnover. Therefore, they are prone to the imbalance of osteoblastic and osteoclastic activity that occurs with prolonged immobilization, leading to hypercalcemia. Here we present the case of an infant with hypercalcemia who presented with fatigue, irritability, and failure to thrive after prolonged immobilization. Therapeutic interventions were conservative and included hydration and increased mobility leading to complete resolution. This case highlights the importance of including this rare entity in a differential diagnosis of hypercalcemia as well as screening postsurgical patients with prolonged immobility for hypercalcemia.

Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Parotid Gland: Report of a Case With Review of Literature

Background

Pleomorphic adenomas are benign salivary gland tumors, which predominantly affect the superficial lobe of the parotid gland. The “pleomorphic” nature of the tumor can be explained on the basis of its epithelial and connective tissue origin. The tumor has a female predilection between 30–50 years of age. Slowly progressing asymptomatic swelling is the usual presentation of the tumor. Surgical excision of the tumor mass forms the mainstay of treatment, with utmost care taken to preserve the facial nerve.

Case Details

This case report aims to throw light on an interesting case of pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland in a 50 years old female patient. The patient presented with a slowly progressing asymptomatic swelling on the left side of the face. There is also a special emphasis to a detailed review of literature.

Conclusion

Salivary gland neoplasms can occur at any site where salivary tissue is present. Pleomorphic adenoma is the commonest salivary gland tumor characterized by diverse histomorphological features. Early diagnosis and treatment plan entails thorough history taking, clinical examination, coupled with radiographic and histopathological findings.

Oligomerization and endocytosis of Hedgehog is necessary for its efficient exovesicular secretion

Hedgehog (Hh) is a secreted morphogen involved in both short- and long-range signaling necessary for tissue patterning during development. It is unclear how this dually lipidated protein is transported over a long range in the aqueous milieu of interstitial spaces. We previously showed that the long-range signaling of Hh requires its oligomerization. Here we show that Hh is secreted in the form of exovesicles. These are derived by the endocytic delivery of cell surface Hh to multivesicular bodies (MVBs) via an endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ECSRT)-dependent process. Perturbations of ESCRT proteins have a selective effect on long-range Hh signaling in Drosophila wing imaginal discs. Of importance, oligomerization-defective Hh is inefficiently incorporated into exovesicles due to its poor endocytic delivery to MVBs. These results provide evidence that nanoscale organization of Hh regulates the secretion of Hh on ESCRT-derived exovesicles, which in turn act as a vehicle for long-range signaling.