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Validating the accuracy of deep learning for the diagnosis of pneumonia on chest x-ray against a robust multimodal reference diagnosis: a post hoc analysis of two prospective studies. Eur Radiol Exp 2024; 8:20. [PMID: 38302850 PMCID: PMC10834924 DOI: 10.1186/s41747-023-00416-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artificial intelligence (AI) seems promising in diagnosing pneumonia on chest x-rays (CXR), but deep learning (DL) algorithms have primarily been compared with radiologists, whose diagnosis can be not completely accurate. Therefore, we evaluated the accuracy of DL in diagnosing pneumonia on CXR using a more robust reference diagnosis. METHODS We trained a DL convolutional neural network model to diagnose pneumonia and evaluated its accuracy in two prospective pneumonia cohorts including 430 patients, for whom the reference diagnosis was determined a posteriori by a multidisciplinary expert panel using multimodal data. The performance of the DL model was compared with that of senior radiologists and emergency physicians reviewing CXRs and that of radiologists reviewing computed tomography (CT) performed concomitantly. RESULTS Radiologists and DL showed a similar accuracy on CXR for both cohorts (p ≥ 0.269): cohort 1, radiologist 1 75.5% (95% confidence interval 69.1-80.9), radiologist 2 71.0% (64.4-76.8), DL 71.0% (64.4-76.8); cohort 2, radiologist 70.9% (64.7-76.4), DL 72.6% (66.5-78.0). The accuracy of radiologists and DL was significantly higher (p ≤ 0.022) than that of emergency physicians (cohort 1 64.0% [57.1-70.3], cohort 2 63.0% [55.6-69.0]). Accuracy was significantly higher for CT (cohort 1 79.0% [72.8-84.1], cohort 2 89.6% [84.9-92.9]) than for CXR readers including radiologists, clinicians, and DL (all p-values < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS When compared with a robust reference diagnosis, the performance of AI models to identify pneumonia on CXRs was inferior than previously reported but similar to that of radiologists and better than that of emergency physicians. RELEVANCE STATEMENT The clinical relevance of AI models for pneumonia diagnosis may have been overestimated. AI models should be benchmarked against robust reference multimodal diagnosis to avoid overestimating its performance. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02467192 , and NCT01574066 . KEY POINT • We evaluated an openly-access convolutional neural network (CNN) model to diagnose pneumonia on CXRs. • CNN was validated against a strong multimodal reference diagnosis. • In our study, the CNN performance (area under the receiver operating characteristics curve 0.74) was lower than that previously reported when validated against radiologists' diagnosis (0.99 in a recent meta-analysis). • The CNN performance was significantly higher than emergency physicians' (p ≤ 0.022) and comparable to that of board-certified radiologists (p ≥ 0.269).
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[Diagnosis of asthma: new developments in general internal medicine]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2023; 19:1974-1977. [PMID: 37878096 DOI: 10.53738/revmed.2023.19.847.1974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Asthma, a chronic inflammatory lung disease affecting about 10 % of the population, involves both the general internist and the pulmonologist. The risk of over and underdiagnosis generates significant health costs and evitable clinical consequences. Improved screening through dedicated anamneses and questionnaires, as well as use of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) may improve the diagnosis of asthma in general internal medicine.
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Legionella longbeachae: A probably underdiagnosed etiology of severe community-acquired pneumonia in Switzerland. Infect Dis Now 2023; 53:104777. [PMID: 37673212 DOI: 10.1016/j.idnow.2023.104777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
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Atypical Pathogens in Adult Community-Acquired Pneumonia and Implications for Empiric Antibiotic Treatment: A Narrative Review. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122326. [PMID: 36557579 PMCID: PMC9783917 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical pathogens are intracellular bacteria causing community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in a significant minority of patients. Legionella spp., Chlamydia pneumoniae and psittaci, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Coxiella burnetii are commonly included in this category. M. pneumoniae is present in 5-8% of CAP, being the second most frequent pathogen after Streptococcus pneumoniae. Legionella pneumophila is found in 3-5% of inpatients. Chlamydia spp. and Coxiella burnetii are present in less than 1% of patients. Legionella longbeachae is relatively frequent in New Zealand and Australia and might also be present in other parts of the world. Uncertainty remains on the prevalence of atypical pathogens, due to limitations in diagnostic means and methodological issues in epidemiological studies. Despite differences between CAP caused by typical and atypical pathogens, the clinical presentation alone does not allow accurate discrimination. Hence, antibiotics active against atypical pathogens (macrolides, tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones) should be included in the empiric antibiotic treatment of all patients with severe CAP. For patients with milder disease, evidence is lacking and recommendations differ between guidelines. Use of clinical prediction rules to identify patients most likely to be infected with atypical pathogens, and strategies of narrowing the antibiotic spectrum according to initial microbiologic investigations, should be the focus of future investigations.
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Risks and benefits of urinary catheterisation during inpatient diuretic therapy for acute heart failure: a retrospective, non-inferiority, cohort study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e053632. [PMID: 37129085 PMCID: PMC9362793 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Patients with acute congestive heart failure (HF) regularly undergo urinary catheterisation (UC) at hospital admission. We hypothesised that UC has no clinical benefits with regard to weight loss during inpatient diuretic therapy for acute congestive HF and increases the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). Design Retrospective, non-inferiority study. Setting Geneva University Hospitals’ Department of Medicine, a tertiary centre. Participants In a cohort of HF patients, those catheterised within 24 hours of diuretic therapy (n=113) were compared with non-catheterised patients (n=346). Primary and secondary outcome measures The primary endpoint was weight loss 48 hours after starting diuretic therapy. Secondary endpoints were time needed to reach target weight, discontinuation of intravenous diuretics and resolution of respiratory failure. Complications included the time to a first UTI, first hospital readmission and death. Results A total of 48-hour weight loss was not statistically different between groups and the adjusted difference was below the non-inferiority boundary of 1 kg (0.43 kg (95% CI: −0.03 to 0.88) in favour of UC, p<0.01 for non-inferiority). UC was not associated with time to reaching target weight (adjusted HR 1.0; 95% CI: 0.7 to 1.5), discontinuation of intravenous diuretics (aHR 0.9; 95% CI: 0.7 to 1.2) or resolution of respiratory failure (aHR 1.1; 95% CI: 0.5 to 2.4). UC increased the risk of UTI (aHR 2.5; 95% CI: 1.5 to 4.2) but was not associated with hospital readmission (aHR 1.1; 95% CI: 0.8 to 1.4) or 1-year mortality (aHR 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0 to 2.1). Conclusion In this retrospective study, with no obvious hourly diuresis-based diuretic adjustment strategy, weight loss without UC was not inferior to weight loss after UC within 24 hours of initiating diuretic treatment. UC had no impact on clinical improvement and increased the risk of UTI. This evidence, therefore, argues against the systematic use of UC during a diuretic therapy for HF.
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Kinetics of inflammatory biomarkers to predict one-year mortality in older patients hospitalized for pneumonia: a multivariable analysis. Int J Infect Dis 2022; 122:63-69. [PMID: 35550179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Long-term mortality is increased in older patients with pneumonia. We aimed to test whether residual inflammation is predictive of one-year mortality after pneumonia. METHODS Inflammation biomarkers (C-reactive protein [CRP], interleukin [IL]-6 and IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-α, serum amyloid A, neopterin, myeloperoxidase, anti-apolipoprotein A-1, and anti-phosphorylcholine IgM) were measured at admission and discharge in older patients hospitalized for pneumonia in a prospective study. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted using absolute level at discharge and relative and absolute differences between admission and discharge for all biomarkers, along with usual prognostic factors. RESULTS In the 133 included patients (median age, 83 years [interquartile range: 78-89]), one-year mortality was 26%. In univariate analysis, the relative difference of CRP levels had the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.70; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60-0.80). A decrease of CRP levels of more than 67% between admission and discharge had 68% sensitivity and 68% specificity to predict survival. In multivariate analysis, lower body mass index (hazard ratio=0.87 [CI 95% 0.79-0.96], P-value=0.01), higher IL-8 (hazard ratio=1.02 [CI 95% 1.00-1.04], P-value=0.02), and higher CRP (1.01 [95% CI 1.00-1.02], P=0.01) at discharge were independently associated with mortality. CONCLUSION Higher IL-8 and CRP levels at discharge were independently associated with one-year mortality. The relative CRP difference during hospitalization was the best individual biomarker for predicting one-year mortality.
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LOw-dose CT Or Lung UltraSonography versus standard of care based-strategies for the diagnosis of pneumonia in the elderly: protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial (OCTOPLUS). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055869. [PMID: 35523502 PMCID: PMC9083386 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality and a common indication for antibiotic in elderly patients. However, its diagnosis is often inaccurate. We aim to compare the diagnostic accuracy, the clinical and cost outcomes and the use of antibiotics associated with three imaging strategies in patients >65 years old with suspected pneumonia in the emergency room (ER): chest X-ray (CXR, standard of care), low-dose CT scan (LDCT) or lung ultrasonography (LUS). METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a multicentre randomised superiority clinical trial with three parallel arms. Patients will be allocated in the ER to a diagnostic strategy based on either CXR, LDCT or LUS. All three imaging modalities will be performed but the results of two of them will be masked during 5 days to the patients, the physicians in charge of the patients and the investigators according to random allocation. The primary objective is to compare the accuracy of LDCT versus CXR-based strategies. As secondary objectives, antibiotics prescription, clinical and cost outcomes will be compared, and the same analyses repeated to compare the LUS and CXR strategies. The reference diagnosis will be established a posteriori by a panel of experts. Based on a previous study, we expect an improvement of 16% of the accuracy of pneumonia diagnosis using LDCT instead of CXR. Under this assumption, and accounting for 10% of drop-out, the enrolment of 495 patients is needed to prove the superiority of LDCT over CRX (alpha error=0.05, beta error=0.10). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval: CER Geneva 2019-01288. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04978116.
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Accuracy of a score predicting the presence of an atypical pathogen in hospitalized patients with moderately severe community-acquired pneumonia. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:424. [PMID: 35505308 PMCID: PMC9066797 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07423-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atypical pathogens (AP), present in some patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), are intrinsically resistant to betalactam drugs, the mainstay of empirical antibiotic treatment. Adding antibiotic coverage for AP increases the risk of adverse effects and antimicrobial selection pressure, while withholding such coverage may worsen the prognosis if an AP is causative. A clinical model predicting the presence of AP would allow targeting atypical coverage for patients most likely to benefit. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of a multicentric randomized controlled trial that included 580 adults patients hospitalized for CAP. A predictive score was built using independent predictive factors for AP identified through multivariate analysis. Accuracy of the score was assessed using area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC), sensitivity, and specificity. RESULTS Prevalence of AP was 5.3%. Age < 75 years (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2-6.2), heart failure (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.1-6.1), absence of chest pain (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.1-8.2), natremia < 135 mmol/L (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.4-6.6) and contracting the disease in autumn (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3-5.9) were independently associated with AP. A predictive score using these factors had an AUROC of 0.78 (95% CI 0.71-0.85). A score of 0 or 1 (present in 33% of patients) had 100% sensitivity and 35% specificity. CONCLUSION Use of a score built on easily obtained clinical and laboratory data would allow safe withholding of atypical antibiotic coverage in a significant number of patients, with an expected positive impact on bacterial resistance and drug adverse effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT00818610.
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Prognosis of Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Acute Heart Failure. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10194546. [PMID: 34640562 PMCID: PMC8509592 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Concomitant respiratory viral infections may influence clinical outcomes of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) but this association is based on indirect observation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and impact of laboratory-confirmed influenza or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection on outcomes in patients hospitalised for ADHF. Prospective cohort of patients hospitalised for ADHF with systematic influenza and RSV screening using real-time PCR on nasopharyngeal swabs. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality or readmission at 90 days. Among 803 patients with ADHF, 196 (24.5%) patients had concomitant flu-like symptoms of influenza. PCR was positive in 45 patients (27 for influenza, 19 for RSV). At 90 days, PCR positive patients had lower rates of all-cause mortality or readmission as compared to patients without flu-like symptoms (HR 0.40, 95% CI 0.18–0.91, p = 0.03), and non-significantly less all-cause mortality (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.04–2.20, p = 0.24), or HF-related death or readmission (HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.13–0.99, p = 0.05). The prevalence of influenza or RSV infection in patients admitted for ADHF was low and associated with less all-cause mortality and readmission. Concomitant viral infection with ADHF may not in itself be a predictor of poor outcomes. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02444416).
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[Chronic meningitis: etiologies and diagnostic work-up]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2021; 17:1475-1480. [PMID: 34468099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We describe the case of a 62-year-old woman who presented with insidious onset and slowly progressive neurological complaints. This case illustrates the diagnostic challenges clinicians face because the lack of specific symptomatology and numerous complementary exams. The broad differential diagnosis of this disease requires a diagnostic strategy to be developed. Clinical reasoning is based on clinical, biological and radiological information and highlights the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to patient care.
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[Diagnostic and therapeutic management of medium and long-term sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2021; 17:842-849. [PMID: 33908722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Somatic or psychological sequelae after a SARS-CoV-2 infection are common. Specific organ damage should be investigated to explain persistent symptomatology and propose a treatment. A specialized consultation for the follow-up of patients after a SARS-CoV-2 infection is useful to clinically assess the patient, organized further investigations, offer treatment options and refer the patient to other specialists or to a rehabilitation program. Such a consultation is also intended to reduce the public health burden of long Covid and to collect data that can improve our management in the future.
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Accuracy of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, serum amyloid A and neopterin for low-dose CT-scan confirmed pneumonia in elderly patients: A prospective cohort study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239606. [PMID: 32997689 PMCID: PMC7526885 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The diagnosis of pneumonia based on semiology and chest X-rays is frequently inaccurate, particularly in elderly patients. Older (C-reactive protein (CRP); procalcitonin (PCT)) or newer (Serum amyloid A (SAA); neopterin (NP)) biomarkers may increase the accuracy of pneumonia diagnosis, but data are scarce and conflicting. We assessed the accuracy of CRP, PCT, SAA, NP and the ratios CRP/NP and SAA/NP in a prospective observational cohort of elderly patients with suspected pneumonia. Methods We included consecutive patients more than 65 years old, with at least one respiratory symptom and one symptom or laboratory finding suggestive of infection, and a working diagnosis of pneumonia. Low-dose CT scan and comprehensive microbiological testing were done in all patients. The index tests, CRP, PCT, SAA and NP, were obtained within 24 hours. The reference diagnosis was assessed a posteriori by a panel of experts considering all available data, including patients’ outcome. We used area under the curve (AUROC) and Youden index to assess the accuracy and obtain optimal cut-off of the index tests. Results 200 patients (median age 84 years) were included; 133 (67%) had pneumonia. AUROCs for the diagnosis of pneumonia was 0.64 (95% CI: 0.56–0.72) for CRP; 0.59 (95% CI: 0.51–0.68) for PCT; 0.60 (95% CI: 0.52–0.69) for SAA; 0.41 (95% CI: 0.32–0.49) for NP; 0.63 (95% CI: 0.55–0.71) for CRP/NP; and 0.61 (95% CI: 0.53–0.70) for SAA/NP. No cut-off resulted in satisfactory sensitivity or specificity. Conclusions Accuracy of traditional (CRP, PCT) and newly proposed biomarkers (SAA, NP) and ratios of CRP/NP and SAA/NP was too low to help diagnosing pneumonia in the elderly. CRP had the highest AUROC. Clinical Trial Registration NCT 02467092
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EUS-guided gastrogastrostomy and gastroduodenal stenting for gastric cancer after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (with video). Endosc Ultrasound 2020; 9:345-346. [PMID: 32883922 PMCID: PMC7811722 DOI: 10.4103/eus.eus_53_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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Prognosis of patients eligible for dapagliflozin in acute heart failure. Eur J Clin Invest 2020; 50:e13245. [PMID: 32306388 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, was shown in the DAPA-HF study to reduce the risk of worsening heart failure or death in symptomatic patients with left ejection fraction <40%, irrespective of diabetes. The aim of this study was to evaluate eligibility status for dapagliflozin in non-selected patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), as well as prognostic implications of this status. MATERIALS AND METHODS Analysis of 815 patients recruited in a prospective cohort of acute heart failure at the University Hospitals of Geneva, consisting of consecutive patients admitted with ADHF. Eligibility for dapagliflozin was determined using criteria described DAPA-HF. RESULTS Of 815 patients, 220 (27%) were eligible for dapagliflozin treatment. In survival analysis, patients who were eligible for dapagliflozin had better clinical outcomes with respect to all-cause mortality and rehospitalization as compared to those who were not eligible. In multivariate analysis, the hazard ratio for all-cause mortality or readmission in patients eligible for dapagliflozin was 0.82 (95% CI 0.68-0.999, P = .049) as compared to the non-eligible. CONCLUSIONS Using DAPA-HF criteria, only 27% of non-selected patients admitted for ADHF are theoretically eligible for dapagliflozin. This eligibility for dapagliflozin is associated with better outcomes. Further evaluation of the benefits of dapagliflozin in selected HF patients may be of interest. This may have implications for selection criteria in future randomized effectiveness studies.
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Eligibility for sacubitril-valsartan in patients with acute decompensated heart failure. ESC Heart Fail 2020; 7:1282-1290. [PMID: 32167679 PMCID: PMC7261587 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.12676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Large‐scale clinical trials have demonstrated clinical benefits of sacubitril–valsartan in symptomatic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients (PARADIGM‐HF), with potential benefits in patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) (PIONEER‐HF) and fewer benefits in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (PARAGON‐HF). The aim of this study was to evaluate eligibility for sacubitril–valsartan using criteria described in PIONNER‐HF in non‐selected patients hospitalized for ADHF. Methods and results Between November 2014 and May 2019, 799 patients were recruited in a prospective registry of acute heart failure at the University Hospitals of Geneva (http://ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02444416). The cohort consists of consecutive patients admitted to the Department of Medicine with ADHF. Eligibility for sacubitril–valsartan was determined using criteria described in PIONEER‐HF, including left ventricular ejection fraction, clinical parameters, and co‐morbidities. Of 799 patients, 123 (15.39%) were eligible for sacubitril–valsartan treatment. Clinical outcomes including all‐cause mortality and readmission were similar in eligible and non‐eligible groups, hazard ratio 1.02 (95% confidence interval 0.81–1.29, P = 083). Conclusions Using current criteria from randomized controlled trials, only 15% of non‐selected patients admitted for ADHF are theoretically eligible for sacubitril–valsartan. Eligibility for sacubitril–valsartan using published criteria is not associated with worse outcome, suggesting that further evaluation of benefits of sacubitril–valsartan in heart failure patients based on parameters other than left ventricular ejection fraction may be of interest.
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MON-PO560: Sterility Testing of Total Parenteral Nutrition Solutions. Clin Nutr 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/s0261-5614(19)32393-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Community-acquired pneumonia in the emergency department: an algorithm to facilitate diagnosis and guide chest CT scan indication. Clin Microbiol Infect 2019; 26:382.e1-382.e7. [PMID: 31284034 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2019.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim was to create and validate a community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) diagnostic algorithm to facilitate diagnosis and guide chest computed tomography (CT) scan indication in patients with CAP suspicion in Emergency Departments (ED). METHODS We performed an analysis of CAP suspected patients enrolled in the ESCAPED study who had undergone chest CT scan and detection of respiratory pathogens through nasopharyngeal PCRs. An adjudication committee assigned the final CAP probability (reference standard). Variables associated with confirmed CAP were used to create weighted CAP diagnostic scores. We estimated the score values for which CT scans helped correctly identify CAP, therefore creating a CAP diagnosis algorithm. Algorithms were externally validated in an independent cohort of 200 patients consecutively admitted in a Swiss hospital for CAP suspicion. RESULTS Among the 319 patients included, 51% (163/319) were classified as confirmed CAP and 49% (156/319) as excluded CAP. Cough (weight = 1), chest pain (1), fever (1), positive PCR (except for rhinovirus) (1), C-reactive protein ≥50 mg/L (2) and chest X-ray parenchymal infiltrate (2) were associated with CAP. Patients with a score below 3 had a low probability of CAP (17%, 14/84), whereas those above 5 had a high probability (88%, 51/58). The algorithm (score calculation + CT scan in patients with score between 3 and 5) showed sensitivity 73% (95% CI 66-80), specificity 89% (95% CI 83-94), positive predictive value (PPV) 88% (95% CI 81-93), negative predictive value (NPV) 76% (95% CI 69-82) and area under the curve (AUC) 0.81 (95% CI 0.77-0.85). The algorithm displayed similar performance in the validation cohort (sensitivity 88% (95% CI 81-92), specificity 72% (95% CI 60-81), PPV 86% (95% CI 79-91), NPV 75% (95% CI 63-84) and AUC 0.80 (95% CI 0.73-0.87). CONCLUSION Our CAP diagnostic algorithm may help reduce CAP misdiagnosis and optimize the use of chest CT scan.
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Biomarkers for acute kidney injury in decompensated cirrhosis: A prospective study. Nephrology (Carlton) 2019; 24:170-180. [PMID: 29369449 DOI: 10.1111/nep.13226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIM Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication in cirrhotic patients. As serum creatinine is a poor marker of renal function in this population, we aimed to study the utility of several biomarkers in this context. METHODS A prospective study was conducted in hospitalized patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Serum creatinine (SCr), Cystatin C (CystC), NGAL and urinary NGAL, KIM-1, protein, albumin and sodium were measured on three separate occasions. Renal resistive index (RRI) was obtained. We analyzed the value of these biomarkers to determine the presence of AKI, its aetiology [prerenal, acute tubular necrosis (ATN), or hepatorenal (HRS)], its severity and a composite clinical outcome at 30 days (death, dialysis and intensive care admission). RESULTS We included 105 patients, of which 55 had AKI. SCr, CystC, NGAL (plasma and urinary), urinary sodium and RRI at inclusion were independently associated with the presence of AKI. SCr, CystC and plasma NGAL were able to predict the subsequent development of AKI. Pre-renal state showed lower levels of SCr, NGAL (plasma and urinary) and RRI. ATN patients had high levels of NGAL (plasma and urinary) as well as urinary protein and sodium. HRS patients presented an intermediate pattern. All biomarkers paralleled the severity of AKI. SCr, CystC and plasma NGAL predicted the development of the composite clinical outcome with the same performance as the MELD score. CONCLUSIONS In patients with decompensated cirrhosis, early measurement of renal biomarkers provides valuable information on AKI aetiology. It could also improve AKI diagnosis and prognosis.
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Rational Use of CT-Scan for the Diagnosis of Pneumonia: Comparative Accuracy of Different Strategies. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8040514. [PMID: 30991716 PMCID: PMC6518125 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8040514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Diagnosing pneumonia in emergency departments is challenging because the accuracy of symptoms, signs and laboratory tests is limited. As a confirmation test, chest X-ray has significant limitations and is outperformed by CT-scan. However, obtaining a CT-scan in all cases of suspected pneumonia has significant drawbacks. We used a cohort of 200 consecutive elderly patients admitted to the hospital for suspected pneumonia to build a simple prediction score, which was used to determine indication for performing a CT-scan. The reference diagnosis was adjudicated by experts considering all available data, including evolution until discharge and CT scan in all patients. Results were externally validated in a second cohort of 319 patients. Pneumonia was confirmed in 133 patients (67%). Area under the receiver operator curve (AUROC) of physician evaluation was 0.55 (0.46–0.64). The score incorporated four variables independently predicting confirmed pneumonia: male gender, acute cough, C-reactive protein >70 mg/L, and urea <7 mmol/L. AUROC of the score was 0.68 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.60–0.76). When a CT-scan was obtained for patients at low or intermediate predicted risk (108 patients, 54% of the cohort), AUROC was 0.71 (0.63–0.80) and 0.69 (0.64–0.74) in the derivation and validation cohort, respectively. A simple prediction score for pneumonia had moderate accuracy and could guide the performance of a CT-scan.
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Accuracy of comprehensive PCR analysis of nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs for CT-scan-confirmed pneumonia in elderly patients: a prospective cohort study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2019; 25:1114-1119. [PMID: 30641227 PMCID: PMC7172172 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to assess the accuracy of PCR detection of viruses and bacteria on nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs (NPS) for the diagnosis of pneumonia in elderly individuals. METHODS We included consecutive hospitalized elderly individuals suspected of having pneumonia. At inclusion, NPS were collected from all participants and tested by PCR for the presence of viral and bacterial respiratory pathogens (index test, defined as comprehensive molecular testing). Routine diagnostic tests (blood and sputum culture, urine antigen detection) were also performed. The reference standard was the presence of pneumonia on a low-dose CT scan as assessed by two independent expert radiologists. RESULTS The diagnosis of pneumonia was confirmed in 127 of 199 (64%) included patients (mean age 83 years, community-acquired pneumonia in 105 (83%)). A pathogen was identified by comprehensive molecular testing in 114 patients (57%) and by routine methods in 22 (11%). Comprehensive molecular testing was positive for viruses in 62 patients (31%) and for bacteria in 73 (37%). The sensitivity and specificity were 61% (95% CI 53%-69%) and 50% (95% CI 39%-61%) for comprehensive molecular testing, and 14% (95% CI 82%-21%) and 94% (95% CI 86%-98%) for routine testing, respectively. Positive likelihood ratio was 2.55 for routine methods and 1.23 for comprehensive molecular testing. CONCLUSION Comprehensive molecular testing of NPS increases the number of pathogens detected compared with routine methods, but results are poorly predictive of the presence of pneumonia. Hence, comprehensive molecular testing is unlikely to impact clinical decision-making (NCT02467192). CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT02467192.
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Physicochemical compatibility of dexmedetomidine with total parenteral nutrition. Clin Nutr 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2018.06.2089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Low-dose computed tomography for the diagnosis of pneumonia in elderly patients: a prospective, interventional cohort study. Eur Respir J 2018; 51:13993003.02375-2017. [PMID: 29650558 PMCID: PMC5978575 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.02375-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of pneumonia is challenging. Our objective was to assess whether low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) modified the probability of diagnosing pneumonia in elderly patients. We prospectively included patients aged over 65 years with a suspicion of pneumonia treated with antimicrobial therapy (AT). All patients had a chest radiograph and LDCT within 72 h of inclusion. The treating clinician assessed the probability of pneumonia before and after the LDCT scan using a Likert scale. An adjudication committee retrospectively rated the probability of pneumonia and was considered as the reference for diagnosis. The main outcome was the difference in the clinician's pneumonia probability estimates before and after LDCT and the proportion of modified diagnoses which matched the reference diagnosis (the net reclassification improvement (NRI)). A total of 200 patients with a median age of 84 years were included. After LDCT, the estimated probability of pneumonia changed in 90 patients (45%), of which 60 (30%) were downgraded and 30 (15%) were upgraded. The NRI was 8% (NRI event (−6%) + NRI non-event (14%)). LDCT modified the estimated probability of pneumonia in a substantial proportion of patients. It mostly helped to exclude a diagnosis of pneumonia and hence to reduce unnecessary AT. Low-dose CT modified the estimated probability of pneumonia in a substantial proportion (45%) of elderly patientshttp://ow.ly/V1ha30jvOMk
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[Not Available]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2018; 14:187-189. [PMID: 29380972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
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Differential Association of Cx37 and Cx40 Genetic Variants in Atrial Fibrillation with and without Underlying Structural Heart Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E295. [PMID: 29351227 PMCID: PMC5796240 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) appears in the presence or absence of structural heart disease. The majority of foci causing AF are located near the ostia of pulmonary veins (PVs), where cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells interdigitate. Connexins (Cx) form gap junction channels and participate in action potential propagation. Genetic variants in genes encoding Cx40 and Cx37 affect their expression or function and may contribute to PV arrhythmogenicity. DNA was obtained from 196 patients with drug-resistant, symptomatic AF with and without structural heart disease, who were referred for percutaneous catheter ablation. Eighty-nine controls were matched for age, gender, hypertension, and BMI. Genotyping of the Cx40 -44G > A, Cx40 +71A > G, Cx40 -26A > G, and Cx37 1019C > T polymorphisms was performed. The promoter A Cx40 polymorphisms (-44G > A and +71A > G) showed no association with non-structural or structural AF. Distribution of the Cx40 promoter B polymorphism (-26A > G) was different in structural AF when compared to controls (p = 0.03). There was no significant difference with non-structural AF (p = 0.50). The distribution of the Cx37 1019C > T polymorphism was different in non-structural AF (p = 0.03) but not in structural AF (p = 0.08) when compared to controls. Our study describes for the first time an association of drug-resistant non-structural heart disease AF with the Cx37 1019C > T gene polymorphism. We also confirmed the association of the Cx40 - 26G > A polymorphism in patients with AF and structural disease.
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Time to antibiotics administration and outcome in community-acquired pneumonia: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Intern Med 2017. [PMID: 28648477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between early antibiotic administration and outcomes remains controversial in patients hospitalized for community-acquired pneumonia. METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial comparing two antibiotic treatment strategies for patients hospitalized for moderately severe CAP. The univariate and multivariate associations between time to antibiotic administration (TTA) and time to clinical stability were assessed using a Cox proportional hazard model. Secondary outcomes were death, intensive care unit admission and hospital readmission up to 90days. RESULTS 371 patients (mean age 76years, CURB-65 score≥2 in 52%) were included. Mean TTA was 4.35h (SD 3.48), with 58.5% of patients receiving the first antibiotic dose within 4h. In multivariate analysis, number of symptoms and signs (HR 0.876, 95% CI 0.784-0.979, p=0.020), age (HR 0.986, 95% CI 0.975-0.996, p=0.007), initial heart rate (HR 0.992, 95% CI 0.986-0.999, p=0.023), and platelets count (HR 0.998, 95% CI 0.996-0.999, p=0.004) were associated with a reduced probability of reaching clinical stability. The association between TTA and time to clinical stability was not significant (HR 1.009, 95% CI 0.977-1.042, p=0.574). We found no association between TTA and the risk of intensive care unit admission, death or readmission up to 90days after the initial admission. CONCLUSION In patients hospitalized for moderately severe CAP, a shorter time to antibiotic administration was not associated with a favorable outcome. These findings support the current recommendations that do not assign a specific time frame for antibiotics administration.
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Intérêt du scanner thoracique low-dose dans le diagnostic de la pneumonie du sujet âgé. Rev Med Interne 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2017.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abstract
Background Acute exacerbations are the leading causes of hospitalization and mortality in patients with COPD. Prognostic tools for patients with chronic COPD exist, but there are scarce data regarding acute exacerbations. We aimed to identify the prognostic factors of death and readmission after exacerbation of COPD. Methods This was a retrospective study conducted in the Department of Internal Medicine of Geneva University Hospitals. All patients admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of exacerbation of COPD between 2008 and 2011 were included. The studied variables included comorbidities, Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) severity classification, and biological and clinical parameters. The main outcome was death or readmission during a 5-year follow-up. The secondary outcome was death. Survival analysis was performed (log-rank and Cox). Results We identified a total of 359 patients (195 men and 164 women, average age 72 years). During 5-year follow-up, 242 patients died or were hospitalized for the exacerbation of COPD. In multivariate analysis, age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.03, 95% CI 1.02–1.05; P<0.0001), severity of airflow obstruction (forced expiratory volume in 1 s <30%; HR 4.65, 95% CI 1.42–15.1; P=0.01), diabetes (HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.003–2.16; P=0.048), cancer (HR 2.79, 95% CI 1.68–4.64; P<0.0001), creatinine (HR 1.003, 95% CI 1.0004–1.006; P=0.02), and respiratory rate (HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.003–1.05; P=0.028) on admission were significantly associated with the primary outcome. Age, cancer, and procalcitonin were significantly associated with the secondary outcome. Conclusion COPD remains of ominous prognosis, especially after exacerbation requiring hospitalization. Baseline pulmonary function remains the strongest predictor of mortality and new admission. Demographic factors, such as age and comorbidities and notably diabetes and cancer, are closely associated with the outcome of the patient. Respiratory rate at admission appears to be the most prognostic clinical parameter. A prospective validation is, however, still required to enable the identification of patients at higher risk of death or readmission.
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Predictors and Implications of Early Clinical Stability in Patients Hospitalized for Moderately Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157350. [PMID: 27305046 PMCID: PMC4909239 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Assessment of early response to treatment is crucial for the management of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Objective To describe the predictors and the outcomes of early clinical stability Methods We did a secondary analysis of a multicentre randomized controlled trial on CAP treatment in which 580 patients hospitalized for moderately severe CAP were included. The association between demographic, clinical and biological variables available at inclusion and early clinical stability (stabilization of vital signs within 72 hours with predetermined cut-offs) was assessed by multivariate logistic regression. The association between early clinical stability and mortality, severe adverse events, and length of stay was also tested. Results Younger age (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96–0.99), lower platelet count (OR per 10 G/L increment 0.96, 95% CI 0.94–0.98), lower respiratory rate (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90–0.97), absence of hypoxemia (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.40–0.85), lower numbers of co-morbid conditions (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69–0.98) and signs or symptoms (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.68–0.90) were significantly associated with early clinical stability. Patients with early clinical stability had lower 90-days mortality (3.4% vs. 11.9%, p<0.001), fewer admissions to the intensive care unit (2.7% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.005) and a shorter length of stay (6.0 days, IQR 4.0–10.0 vs. 10.0 days, IQR 7.0–15.0, p<0.001). Conclusions Patients with younger age, less co-morbidity, fewer signs or symptoms, less respiratory compromise, and a lower platelet count are more likely to reach early clinical stability. Patients without early clinical stability have a worse prognosis and warrant close scrutiny.
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Adjunctive Corticotherapy for Community Acquired Pneumonia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144032. [PMID: 26641253 PMCID: PMC4671611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) induces lung and systemic inflammation, leading to high morbidity and mortality. We systematically reviewed the risks and benefits of adjunctive corticotherapy in the management of patients with CAP. METHODS We systematically searched Pubmed, Embase and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials comparing adjunctive corticotherapy and antimicrobial therapy with antimicrobial therapy alone in patients with CAP. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes were length of hospital stay, time to clinical stability and severe complications. RESULTS 14 trials (2077 patients) were included. The reported 30-day mortality was 7.9% (80/1018) among patients treated with adjunctive corticotherapy versus 8.3% (85/1028) among patients treated with antimicrobial therapy alone (RR 0.84; 95%CI 0.55 to1.29). Adjunctive corticotherapy was associated with a reduction of severe complications (RR 0.36; 95%CI 0.23 to 0.56), a shorter length of stay (9.0 days; 95%CI 7.6 to 10.7 vs 10.6 days; 95%CI 7.4 to 15.3) and a shorter time to clinical stability (3.3 days; 95% CI 2.8 to 4.1 vs 4.3 days; 95%CI 3.6 to 5.1). The risk of hyperglycemia was higher among patients treated with adjunctive corticotherapy (RR 1.59; 95%CI 1.06 to 2.38), whereas the risk of gastro-intestinal bleeding was similar (RR 0.83; 95%CI 0.35 to 1.93). In the subgroup analysis based on CAP severity, a survival benefit was found among patients with severe CAP (RR 0.47; 95%CI 0.23 to 0.96). CONCLUSION Adjunctive corticotherapy is associated with a reduction of length of stay, time to clinical stability, and severe complications among patients with CAP, but the effect on mortality remains uncertain.
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Impact of a Dedicated Noninvasive Ventilation Team on Intubation and Mortality Rates in Severe COPD Exacerbations. Respir Care 2015; 60:1404-8. [PMID: 26152474 PMCID: PMC9993760 DOI: 10.4187/respcare.03844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared with usual care, noninvasive ventilation (NIV) lowers the risk of intubation and death for subjects with respiratory failure secondary to COPD exacerbations, but whether administration of NIV by a specialized, dedicated team improves its efficiency remains uncertain. Our aim was to test whether a dedicated team of respiratory therapists applying all acute NIV treatments would reduce the risk of intubation or death for subjects with COPD admitted for respiratory failure. METHODS We carried out a retrospective study comparing subjects with COPD admitted to the ICU before (2001-2003) and after (2010-2012) the creation of a dedicated NIV team in a regional acute care hospital. The primary outcome was the risk of intubation or death. The secondary outcomes were the individual components of the primary outcome and ICU/hospital stay. RESULTS A total of 126 subjects were included: 53 in the first cohort and 73 in the second. There was no significant difference in the demographic characteristics and severity of respiratory failure. Fifteen subjects (28.3%) died or had to undergo tracheal intubation in the first cohort, and only 10 subjects (13.7%) in the second cohort (odds ratio 0.40, 95% CI 0.16-0.99, P = .04). In-hospital mortality (15.1% vs 4.1%, P = .03) and median stay (ICU: 3.1 vs 1.9 d, P = .04; hospital: 11.5 vs 9.6 d, P = .04) were significantly lower in the second cohort, and a trend for a lower intubation risk was observed (20.8% vs 11% P = .13). CONCLUSIONS The delivery of NIV by a dedicated team was associated with a lower risk of death or intubation in subjects with respiratory failure secondary to COPD exacerbations. Therefore, the implementation of a team administering all NIV treatments on a 24-h basis should be considered in institutions admitting subjects with COPD exacerbations.
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Life-Threatening Adverse Reaction after Self-Initiated, Off-Label Use of High Dose Nicotinamide for the Treatment of Friedreich’s Ataxia. Eur J Case Rep Intern Med 2015. [DOI: 10.12890/2015_000234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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[Does treatment improve prognosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction?]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2015; 11:199-205. [PMID: 25831613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HF-PEF) represents half of all heart failure. Morbi-mortality for HF-PEF is similar to that of reduced ejection fraction HF (HF-REF). Diagnosis of HF-REF is difficult because of the lack of highly specific criteria. It is based on the presence of signs and symptoms of heart failure, associated with a preserved or moderately decreased left ventricular function, the absence of left ventricular dilatation, and the presence of relevant structural disease such as left ventricular hypertrophy. Despite the use of prognosis modifying drugs commonly used for HF-REF, no therapeutic strategy has been shown to reduce morbi-mortality of HF-PEF. Evidence based guidelines are limited. Management of HF-PEF therefore resides in treatment of high blood pressure and cardiac rate, that of comorbidities, and the use of diuretics in case of congestion.
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β-Lactam monotherapy vs β-lactam-macrolide combination treatment in moderately severe community-acquired pneumonia: a randomized noninferiority trial. JAMA Intern Med 2014; 174:1894-901. [PMID: 25286173 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.4887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The clinical benefit of adding a macrolide to a β-lactam for empirical treatment of moderately severe community-acquired pneumonia remains controversial. OBJECTIVE To test noninferiority of a β-lactam alone compared with a β-lactam and macrolide combination in moderately severe community-acquired pneumonia. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Open-label, multicenter, noninferiority, randomized trial conducted from January 13, 2009, through January 31, 2013, in 580 immunocompetent adult patients hospitalized in 6 acute care hospitals in Switzerland for moderately severe community-acquired pneumonia. Follow-up extended to 90 days. Outcome assessors were masked to treatment allocation. INTERVENTIONS Patients were treated with a β-lactam and a macrolide (combination arm) or with a β-lactam alone (monotherapy arm). Legionella pneumophila infection was systematically searched and treated by addition of a macrolide to the monotherapy arm. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Proportion of patients not reaching clinical stability (heart rate <100/min, systolic blood pressure >90 mm Hg, temperature <38.0°C, respiratory rate <24/min, and oxygen saturation >90% on room air) at day 7. RESULTS After 7 days of treatment, 120 of 291 patients (41.2%) in the monotherapy arm vs 97 of 289 (33.6%) in the combination arm had not reached clinical stability (7.6% difference, P = .07). The upper limit of the 1-sided 90% CI was 13.0%, exceeding the predefined noninferiority boundary of 8%. Patients infected with atypical pathogens (hazard ratio [HR], 0.33; 95% CI, 0.13-0.85) or with Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) category IV pneumonia (HR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.59-1.10) were less likely to reach clinical stability with monotherapy, whereas patients not infected with atypical pathogens (HR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.80-1.22) or with PSI category I to III pneumonia (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.82-1.36) had equivalent outcomes in the 2 arms. There were more 30-day readmissions in the monotherapy arm (7.9% vs 3.1%, P = .01). Mortality, intensive care unit admission, complications, length of stay, and recurrence of pneumonia within 90 days did not differ between the 2 arms. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE We did not find noninferiority of β-lactam monotherapy in patients hospitalized for moderately severe community-acquired pneumonia. Patients infected with atypical pathogens or with PSI category IV pneumonia had delayed clinical stability with monotherapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00818610.
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Is cognitive impairment associated with suicidality? A population-based study. Eur J Public Health 2014. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cku166.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Acute respiratory and cardiovascular admissions after a public smoking ban in Geneva, Switzerland. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90417. [PMID: 24599156 PMCID: PMC3944023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many countries have introduced legislations for public smoking bans to reduce the harmful effects of exposure to tobacco smoke. Smoking bans cause significant reductions in admissions for acute coronary syndromes but their impact on respiratory diseases is unclear. In Geneva, Switzerland, two popular votes led to a stepwise implementation of a state smoking ban in public places, with a temporary suspension. This study evaluated the effect of this smoking ban on hospitalisations for acute respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Methods This before and after intervention study was conducted at the University Hospitals of Geneva, Switzerland, across 4 periods with different smoking legislations. It included 5,345 patients with a first hospitalisation for acute coronary syndrome, ischemic stroke, acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia and acute asthma. The main outcomes were the incidence rate ratios (IRR) of admissions for each diagnosis after the final ban compared to the pre-ban period and adjusted for age, gender, season, influenza epidemic and secular trend. Results Hospitalisations for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease significantly decreased over the 4 periods and were lowest after the final ban (IRR = 0.54 [95%CI: 0.42–0.68]). We observed a trend in reduced admissions for acute coronary syndromes (IRR = 0.90 [95%CI: 0.80–1.00]). Admissions for ischemic stroke, asthma and pneumonia did not significantly change. Conclusions A legislative smoking ban was followed by a strong decrease in hospitalisations for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a trend for reduced admissions for acute coronary syndrome. Smoking bans are likely to be very beneficial for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
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Prevalence and clinical characteristics of the DSM IV major depression among general internal medicine patients. Eur J Intern Med 2013; 24:763-6. [PMID: 23816277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2013.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2012] [Revised: 05/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of the DSM IV major depressive disorder (MDD) among patients admitted to the General Internal Medicine Service of the Geneva University Hospital. METHOD 557 patients admitted to the IM of the Geneva University Hospital aged 18 to 70 were investigated. Each subject was assessed by a clinical psychologist using the SCID (Structured Clinical Interview Depression for DSM-IV) questionnaire. RESULTS 69 patients (12.4%) met diagnostic criteria for MDD (men: 8.8%, women: 16.9%, p=.004). Among subjects with major depression, depressed mood (97%), fatigue (91%), and diminished interest and pleasure (81%) were the most prevalent symptoms. Recurrent thoughts of death were present in 48% of depressed patients. CONCLUSIONS This study raises further evidence that an elevated proportion of patients admitted to an acute care general internal medicine facility meet DSM IV criteria for MDD with nearly half of depressed patients suffering from recurrent thoughts of death. It emphasizes the necessity of a targeted, continuous, and active support given by the psychiatry liaison service in the internal medicine setting.
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[Viscosity changes in thickened water due to the addition of highly prescribed drugs in geriatrics]. NUTR HOSP 2013; 27:1298-303. [PMID: 23165577 DOI: 10.3305/nh.2012.27.4.5838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2012] [Accepted: 03/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder with a high incidence in the geriatric patient related with an increased risk for undernutrition and pneumonia due to bronchial aspiration. In this condition, it is usual to add commercial thickeners in liquids, as well as the addition of drugs in this mixture to improve their administration. However, there are no studies regarding the possible change in viscosity produced by their addition. OBJECTIVES To assess the change in viscosity of water thickened with commercial products by adding the drugs frequently used in elderly patients. METHODS Samples of water mixed with the commercial thickener Resource (modified corn starch) or Nutilis (modified corn starch, maltodextrin, and gums: tara, xhantan, and guar) to achieve an intermediate consistence as "honey". The viscosity of these samples was measured as well as for similar samples to which one of the following drugs was added: galantamine, rivastigmin, ciprofloxacin, cholecalciferol, memantine, fosfomycin, calcium, and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. RESULTS In the samples with Resource thickener we observed decreased viscosity by adding galantamine, memantine, fosfomycin or calcium, and increased viscosity with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. The viscosity of the samples with Nutilis® decreased with galantamine, rivastigmine, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, fosfomycin and calcium. CONCLUSION The viscosity of water with commercial thickeners may be affected by some drugs or their preservatives, which may influence the swallowing capability. It is recommended to perform further in vitro and in vivo studies in order to adjust these formulations if necessary.
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[Threshold for allogeneic red cell transfusions in adult patients]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2013; 9:1892-1897. [PMID: 24298713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Red cell concentrate is a life-saving but expensive and sometimes limited resource. Its use is associated with a wide range of rare but potentially severe complications. Adequate red cell transfusion is critical in terms of costs, resource utilization and safety. Transfusion thresholds have been widely debated and recent evidence suggest that a restrictive transfusion strategy may allow safely reducing the use of red cell concentrates and even improving clinical outcomes in some situations. The aim of this article is to review the physiologic adaptive responses to anemia and to discuss the clinical evidence about erythrocyte transfusion strategies in adult patients in order to provide evidence-based transfusion recommendations.
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Abstract
Reaction of the linear thorocene with NC(-), N3(-) and H(-) led to the bent derivatives [(Cot)2Th(X)](-) (X = CN, N3) and the bimetallic [{(Cot)2Th}2(μ-H)](-), whereas only [(Cot)2U(CN)](-) could be formed from (Cot)2U.
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Revisiting the Chemistry of the Actinocenes [(η8-C8H8)2An] (An = U, Th) with Neutral Lewis Bases. Access to the Bent Sandwich Complexes [(η8-C8H8)2An(L)] with Thorium (L = py, 4,4′-bipy, tBuNC, R4phen). J Am Chem Soc 2013; 135:10003-6. [DOI: 10.1021/ja4036626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Inclusion into a heart failure critical pathway reduces the risk of death or readmission after hospital discharge. Eur J Intern Med 2012; 23:760-4. [PMID: 23122393 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Revised: 05/30/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence-based therapies can lower the risk of death or hospital admission in heart failure (HF) patients, but are underprescribed. Critical pathways are one means of supporting systematic use of evidence-based recommendations. METHODS Patients admitted for HF in one hospital in 2009 and included in a critical pathway were compared with a control group of patients admitted in 2007. The primary endpoint was the risk of death or readmission within 90 days after discharge. The hazard ratio of death or readmission was evaluated in a multivariate Cox proportional hazard model adjusting for age, sex, co-morbidities, and length of stay. RESULTS Three hundred and sixty-three patients were evaluated (151 in the critical pathway and 212 in the control group). Adjusted hazard ratio for death or readmission at 90 days was 0.72 (95 CI 0.51-1.00, p=0.049). Adhesion to guidelines was significantly better for patients included in the critical pathway (p=0.004), with more frequent prescription of beta-blockers (70.9% (95% CI 62.9-78.0) vs. 56.6% (95% CI 49.6-63.4), p=0.006), and evaluation of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF, 73.5% (95% CI 65.7-80.3) vs. 57.5% (95% CI 50.6-64.3), p=0.002). Patients with reduced LVEF seem to have benefited the most from the inclusion in the critical pathway. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of a critical pathway for patients hospitalized for HF was associated with a 28% reduction of the relative risk of death or readmission and improved adhesion to guidelines.
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[Q fever: a cause of fever of unknown origin in Switzerland]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2012; 8:1921-1924. [PMID: 23130422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
We describe two cases of Q fever in previously healthy women presenting with fever of unknown origin. The diagnosis was made after several days of investigations. Symptoms and signs of acute or chronic Coxiella burnetii infection are protean and non-specific. Q fever should be included in the differential diagnosis of fever of unknown origin and appropriate serologic studies should be done. We review the clinical presentation of Q fever. Use of serology for the diagnosis and the follow-up is discussed.
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[Dyspnea in adults]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2012; 8:1732-1738. [PMID: 23029987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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Prediction of severe community-acquired pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. CRITICAL CARE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CRITICAL CARE FORUM 2012; 16:R141. [PMID: 22839689 PMCID: PMC3580727 DOI: 10.1186/cc11447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Severity assessment and site-of-care decisions for patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) are pivotal for patients' safety and adequate allocation of resources. Late admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) has been associated with increased mortality in CAP. We aimed to review and meta-analyze systematically the performance of clinical prediction rules to identify CAP patients requiring ICU admission or intensive treatment. Methods We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials registry for clinical trials evaluating the performance of prognostic rules to predict the need for ICU admission, intensive treatment, or the occurrence of early mortality in patients with CAP. Results Sufficient data were available to perform a meta-analysis on eight scores: PSI, CURB-65, CRB-65, CURB, ATS 2001, ATS/IDSA 2007, SCAP score, and SMART-COP. The estimated AUC of PSI and CURB-65 scores to predict ICU admission was 0.69. Among scores proposed for prediction of ICU admission, ATS-2001 and ATS/IDSA 2007 scores had better operative characteristics, with a sensitivity of 70% (CI, 61 to 77) and 84% (48 to 97) and a specificity of 90% (CI, 82 to 95) and 78% (46 to 93), but their clinical utility is limited by the use of major criteria. ATS/IDSA 2007 minor criteria have good specificity (91% CI, 84 to 95) and moderate sensitivity (57% CI, 46 to 68). SMART-COP and SCAP score have good sensitivity (79% CI, 69 to 97, and 94% CI, 88 to 97) and moderate specificity (64% CI, 30 to 66, and 46% CI, 27 to 66). Major differences in populations, prognostic factor measurement, and outcome definition limit comparison. Our analysis also highlights a high degree of heterogeneity among the studies. Conclusions New severity scores for predicting the need for ICU or intensive treatment in patients with CAP, such as ATS/IDSA 2007 minor criteria, SCAP score, and SMART-COP, have better discriminative performances compared with PSI and CURB-65. High negative predictive value is the most consistent finding among the different prediction rules. These rules should be considered an aid to clinical judgment to guide ICU admission in CAP patients.
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Sensitivity and predictive value of 15 PubMed search strategies to answer clinical questions rated against full systematic reviews. J Med Internet Res 2012; 14:e85. [PMID: 22693047 PMCID: PMC3414859 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2011] [Revised: 03/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinicians perform searches in PubMed daily, but retrieving relevant studies is challenging due to the rapid expansion of medical knowledge. Little is known about the performance of search strategies when they are applied to answer specific clinical questions. Objective To compare the performance of 15 PubMed search strategies in retrieving relevant clinical trials on therapeutic interventions. Methods We used Cochrane systematic reviews to identify relevant trials for 30 clinical questions. Search terms were extracted from the abstract using a predefined procedure based on the population, interventions, comparison, outcomes (PICO) framework and combined into queries. We tested 15 search strategies that varied in their query (PIC or PICO), use of PubMed’s Clinical Queries therapeutic filters (broad or narrow), search limits, and PubMed links to related articles. We assessed sensitivity (recall) and positive predictive value (precision) of each strategy on the first 2 PubMed pages (40 articles) and on the complete search output. Results The performance of the search strategies varied widely according to the clinical question. Unfiltered searches and those using the broad filter of Clinical Queries produced large outputs and retrieved few relevant articles within the first 2 pages, resulting in a median sensitivity of only 10%–25%. In contrast, all searches using the narrow filter performed significantly better, with a median sensitivity of about 50% (all P < .001 compared with unfiltered queries) and positive predictive values of 20%–30% (P < .001 compared with unfiltered queries). This benefit was consistent for most clinical questions. Searches based on related articles retrieved about a third of the relevant studies. Conclusions The Clinical Queries narrow filter, along with well-formulated queries based on the PICO framework, provided the greatest aid in retrieving relevant clinical trials within the 2 first PubMed pages. These results can help clinicians apply effective strategies to answer their questions at the point of care.
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[Clinical itinerary for heart failure: a program designed by primary care practitioners in Geneva]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2012; 8:1056-1060. [PMID: 22730641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Episodes of heart failure impact on patients' quality of life as well as their morbidity and mortality. This article describes a series of interventions designed by a group of primary care practitioners in Geneva. Some interventions aim to improve patients' autonomy in identifying the first signs of heart failure to act immediately. Others focus on patients' motivation to adopt appropriate behaviours (physical activity, etc.). And finally others have the objective to improve coordination between ambulatory and hospital care, as well as the transmission of clinical information. The implementation of these interventions highlights the need for individualised objectives of care in complex cases where patients have several co-morbidities and/or complicated social situations. In these situations an interdisciplinary approach is also essential.
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[Usefulness of medical history and physical findings in the diagnosis of pneumonia]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2011; 7:2026-2029. [PMID: 22073698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Pneumonia is a frequent concern in the ambulatory setting. Diagnosis should be prompt, as delays in the instauration of the treatment are associated with a worse prognosis. However, empiric antibiotic treatment of all patients suspected of having pneumonia is unwarranted, and can affect adversely bacterial ecology. Chest X-ray remains the gold standard, and should always be obtained to confirm the diagnosis, as clinical findings are non-specific. Conversely, some clinical findings can be used to rule out pneumonia with sufficient negative predictive value in a low-prevalence setting. A chest X-ray can be omitted for these patients. We aimed to point which symptoms and signs are useful in assessing the clinical probability of pneumonia, and review clinical rules proposed for this purpose.
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[Beta-blocker therapy during acutely decompensated heart failure]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2011; 7:2035-2040. [PMID: 22073700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The well established benefits of beta-blocker therapy in chronic heart failure include improved survival and quality of life and decreased morbidity and hospitalizations. In acute heart failure, evidence supports early initiation of beta-blocker therapy within the same hospitalization. Beta-blocker therapy seldom has to be withdrawn if patients are already on this medication as maintaining beta-blockers throughout these episodes is not deleterious and increases ulterior therapeutic adhesion. Possible indications for temporarily discontinuing therapy are a worsening clinical condition or cardiogenic shock. Potential benefits of maintaining beta-blockers on mortality still have to be confirmed by larger prospective trials.
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[Management of acute alcoholic steatohepatitis]. REVUE MEDICALE SUISSE 2011; 7:2030-2034. [PMID: 22073699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Alcoholic steatohepatitis is an acute inflammatory liver disorder that often complicates the course of underlying cirrhosis. Severe alcoholic steatohepatitis, defined as a Maddrey's discriminant function greater than 32 or association with hepatic encephalopathy, carries a high short-term mortality that is significantly reduced by corticosteroids. A comprehensive work-up is necessary for the presence of concomitant infection or associated viral hepatitis. A liver biopsy must be performed to confirm the diagnosis prior to initiation of steroids. This article summarizes the management of alcoholic steatohepatitis.
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