Oxygen saturation levels and retinopathy of prematurity in extremely preterm infants - a case control study

PURPOSE

To investigate the association of risk factors, including oxygen exposure, for developing retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants at increased risk of ROP.

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted where each infant born at < 28 weeks gestation with ROP was matched with another without ROP over five years (July 2015 - June 2020). Clinical information about the infants was collected from electronic medical records, including method of oxygen delivery, oxygen saturation (SpO2), fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) and mean airway pressure (MAP) measurements. MATLAB was used for a time-averaged analysis. Stata/SE 16.0 was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

123 ROP/non-ROP pairs were included in this study. The time-averaged SpO2 analysis showed non-ROP group spent more time in hyperoxia than the ROP group (p < 0.001). The non-ROP group had lower respiratory severity scores and analysis when FiO2 > 21% showed that were was no difference in SpO2 between the two groups when the infants were receiving oxygen support. Conditional logistic regressions showed neonatal surgery significantly increased the risk of ROP (OR = 1.4347, p = 0.010), while the influence of birthweight (odds ratio of 0.9965, p = 0.001) and oxygen exposure (OR = 0.9983, p = 0.012) on ROP outcome was found to be negligible as their odds ratios indicated no influence.

CONCLUSIONS

At times when infants were receiving respiratory support (FiO2 > 21%) the SpO2 data indicated no difference in SpO2 between the ROP and non-ROP groups. Analysis of clinical variables found that neonatal surgery increased the odds of developing ROP.

Study protocol: Generation Victoria (GenV) special care nursery registry

Introduction

Newborn babies who require admission for specialist care can experience immediate and sometimes lasting impacts. For babies admitted to special care nurseries (SCN), there is no dataset comparable to that of the Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network (ANZNN), which has helped improve the quality and consistency of neonatal intensive care through standardised data collection.

Objectives

We aim to establish a proof-of-concept, Victoria-wide registry of babies admitted to SCN, embedded within the whole-of-Victoria Generation Victoria (GenV) cohort.

Methods

This prototype registry is a depth sub-cohort nested within GenV, targeting all babies born in Victoria from Oct-2021 to Oct-2023. Infants admitted to SCN are eligible. The minimum dataset will be harmonised with ANZNN for common constructs but also include SCN-only items, and will cover maternal, antenatal, newborn, respiratory/respiratory support, cardiac, infection, nutrition, feeding, cerebral and other items. As well as the dataset, this protocol outlines the anticipated cohort, timeline for this registry, and how this will serve as a resource for longitudinal research through its integration with the GenV longitudinal cohort and linked datasets.

Conclusion

The registry will provide the opportunity to better understand the health and future outcomes of the large and growing cohort of children that require specialist care after birth. The data would generate translatable evidence and could lay the groundwork for a stand-alone ongoing clinical quality registry post-GenV.

Vessel wall magnetic resonance and arterial spin labelling imaging in the management of presumed inflammatory intracranial arterial vasculopathy

Optimal criteria for diagnosing and monitoring response to treatment for infectious and inflammatory medium–large vessel intracranial vasculitis presenting with stroke are lacking. We integrated intracranial vessel wall MRI with arterial spin labelling into our routine clinical stroke pathway to detect presumed inflammatory intracranial arterial vasculopathy, and monitor disease activity, in patients with clinical stroke syndromes. We used predefined standardized radiological criteria to define vessel wall enhancement, and all imaging findings were rated blinded to clinical details. Between 2017 and 2018, stroke or transient ischaemic attack patients were first screened in our vascular radiology meeting and followed up in a dedicated specialist stroke clinic if a diagnosis of medium–large inflammatory intracranial arterial vasculopathy was radiologically confirmed. Treatment was determined and monitored by a multi-disciplinary team. In this case series, 11 patients were managed in this period from the cohort of young stroke presenters (<55 years). The median age was 36 years (interquartile range: 33,50), of which 8 of 11 (73%) were female. Two of 11 (18%) had herpes virus infection confirmed by viral nucleic acid in the cerebrospinal fluid. We showed improvement in cerebral perfusion at 1 year using an arterial spin labelling sequence in patients taking immunosuppressive therapy for >4 weeks compared with those not receiving therapy [6 (100%) versus 2 (40%) P = 0.026]. Our findings demonstrate the potential utility of vessel wall magnetic resonance with arterial spin labelling imaging in detecting and monitoring medium–large inflammatory intracranial arterial vasculopathy activity for patients presenting with stroke symptoms, limiting the need to progress to brain biopsy. Further systematic studies in unselected populations of stroke patients are needed to confirm our findings and establish the prevalence of medium–large artery wall inflammation.

Fetal central nervous system anomalies: When should we offer exome sequencing?

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the detection of pathogenic variants using exome sequencing in an international cohort of fetuses with central nervous system (CNS) anomalies.

METHODS

We reviewed trio exome sequencing (ES) results for two previously reported unselected cohorts (Prenatal Assessment of Genomes and Exomes (PAGE) and CUIMC) to identify fetuses with CNS anomalies with unremarkable karyotypes and chromosomal microarrays. Variants were classified according to ACMG guidelines and association of pathogenic variants with specific types of CNS anomalies explored.

RESULTS

ES was performed in 268 pregnancies with a CNS anomaly identified using prenatal ultrasound . Of those with an isolated, single, CNS anomaly, 7/97 (7.2%) had a likely pathogenic/pathogenic (LP/P) variant. This includes 3/23 (13%) fetuses with isolated mild ventriculomegaly and 3/10 (30%) fetuses with isolated agenesis of the corpus callosum. Where there were multiple anomalies within the CNS, 12/63 (19%) had LP/P variants. Of the 108 cases with CNS and other organ system anomalies, 18 (16.7%) had LP/P findings.

CONCLUSION

ES is an important tool in the prenatal evaluation of fetuses with any CNS anomaly. The rate of LP/P variants tends to be highest in fetuses with multiple CNS anomalies and multisystem anomalies, however, ES may also be of benefit for isolated CNS anomalies.

Fetal exome sequencing for isolated increased nuchal translucency: should we be doing it?

Objective

To evaluate the utility of prenatal exome sequencing (ES) for isolated increased nuchal translucency (NT) and to investigate factors that increase diagnostic yield.

Design

Retrospective analysis of data from two prospective cohort studies.

Setting

Fetal medicine centres in the UK and USA.

Population

Fetuses with increased NT ≥3.5 mm at 11–14 weeks of gestation recruited to the Prenatal Assessment of Genomes and Exomes (PAGE) and Columbia fetal whole exome sequencing studies (n = 213).

Methods

We grouped cases based on (1) the presence of additional structural abnormalities at presentation in the first trimester or later in pregnancy, and (2) NT measurement at presentation. We compared diagnostic rates between groups using Fisher exact test.

Main outcome measures

Detection of diagnostic genetic variants considered to have caused the observed fetal structural anomaly.

Results

Diagnostic variants were detected in 12 (22.2%) of 54 fetuses presenting with non‐isolated increased NT, 12 (32.4%) of 37 fetuses with isolated increased NT in the first trimester and additional abnormalities later in pregnancy, and 2 (1.8%) of 111 fetuses with isolated increased NT in the first trimester and no other abnormalities on subsequent scans. Diagnostic rate also increased with increasing size of NT.

Conclusions

The diagnostic yield of prenatal ES is low for fetuses with isolated increased NT but significantly higher where there are additional structural anomalies. Prenatal ES may not be appropriate for truly isolated increased NT but timely, careful ultrasound scanning to identify other anomalies emerging later can direct testing to focus where there is a higher likelihood of diagnosis.

Prenatal ES has a low diagnostic rate (<2%) for isolated increased NT but is significantly more likely to yield a diagnosis where there are additional fetal structural anomalies.

Linked article This article is commented on by AN Talati and NL Vora, p. 61–62 in this issue. To view this mini commentary visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.16942.

Severe jejunitis masquerading as intussusception in a case of Henoch-Schönlein purpura

Intussusception is a well-known complication of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP).1 Diagnosis of intussusception is based on well-defined clinical and radiological features, but certain conditions can mimic intussusception, both clinically and radiologically, so closely as to result in unnecessary invasive procedures. Authors here present a case of HSP complicated by severe acute jejunitis, masquerading as jejuno-jejunal intussusception on ultrasound.

Application of Calcium Silicate Materials After Acid Etching May Preserve Resin-Dentin Bonds

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the application of calcium silicate materials (CSMs), after acid etching, on the longevity of the hybrid layer and marginal adaptation of composite restorations.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Eighty human permanent molars received an intrapulpal pressure of 15 cm H₂O. Sixty teeth received a mesial proximal slot preparation with the gingival margin extending 1 mm below the cemento-enamel junction. The samples were divided into two groups. Group 1 received restorations using two types of etch-and-rinse adhesives: ethanol based (Single Bond, 3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA) and acetone based (Prime & Bond NT, Dentsply, DeTrey GmbH, Germany). In group 2 samples, a commercially available CSM (ProRoot MTA) was allowed to set before grinding and placing into a distilled water solution. This solution was applied on the cavity floor after acid etching. The surface was washed after 30 seconds followed by application of adhesives and restorations as in group 1. The samples were stored in phosphate-buffered saline for six months, maintaining the intrapulpal pressure. An epoxy replica was made, and the marginal adaptation was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. The percentage of continuous margin (CM) was recorded for each group. Another 20 samples were used for hybrid layer evaluation. The crowns were ground to expose dentin. Intrapulpal pressure was applied. The samples were divided into two groups and restored similar to samples restored for marginal adaptation evaluation. The samples were longitudinally cut in 1-mm slices. The slices were stored under 15 cm of phosphate-buffered saline to simulate the pulpal pressure. After six months, the adhesive interface was evaluated using a scanning electron microscope. Statistical analysis was done with two-way analysis of variance with Holm-Sidak's correction for multiple comparisons.

RESULTS

Application of CSMs improved the marginal adaptation values in both adhesive groups. In group 1, there were areas of incomplete penetration of resins along with evidence of partial degradation of resin tags. Samples receiving CSM application after acid etching demonstrated long and regular resin tags with very few signs of degradation.

CONCLUSIONS

Application of CSMs after acid etching can be a potential avenue in preserving the resin-dentin bonds.

Does the volume of supplemental intraligamentary injections affect the anaesthetic success rate after a failed primary inferior alveolar nerve block? A randomized-double blind clinical trial

AIM

To investigate the efficacy of 0.2 mL vs. 0.6 mL of 2% lidocaine when given as a supplementary intraligamentary injection after a failed inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB).

METHODOLOGY

Ninety-seven adult patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpits received an IANB and root canal treatment was initiated. Pain during treatment was recorded using a visual analogue scale (Heft-Parker VAS). Patients with unsuccessful anaesthesia (n = 78) randomly received intraligamentary injection of either 0.2 mL or 0.6 mL of 2% lidocaine with 1 : 80 000 epinephrine. Root canal treatment was reinitiated. Success after primary injection or supplementary injection was defined as no or mild pain (HP VAS score ≤54 mm) during access preparation and root canal instrumentation. Heart rate was monitored using a finger pulse oximeter. The anaesthetic success rates were analysed with Pearson chi-square test at 5% significance levels. The heart rate changes were analysed using t-tests.

RESULTS

The intraligamentary injections with 0.2 mL solution gave an anaesthetic success rate of 64%, whilst the 0.6 mL was successful in 84% of cases with failed primary IANB. (χ²  = 4.3, P = 0.03). There was no significant effect of the volume of intraligamentary injection on the change in heart rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing the volume of intraligamentary injection improved the success rates after a failed primary anaesthetic injection.

Influence of instrument size and varying electrical resistance of root canal instruments on accuracy of three electronic root canal length measurement devices

AIM

To evaluate the influence of instrument size and the effect of the electrical resistance of endodontic instruments on the accuracy of three electronic root canal length measurement devices (ERCLMDs).

METHODOLOGY

Thirty single-rooted extracted human teeth were divided into three groups (n = 10) on the basis of the ERCLMD used: Root ZX II (J. Morita, Kyoto, Japan); ProPex (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland); and iPex II (NSK, Tochigi, Japan). The electronic working length measurements (EWL) were made with K-files in the sequence sizes 08, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30. The actual working length (AWL) was calculated by fixing a size 30 K-file in the canal and exposing the apical 5 mm of the root. The minor foramen was identified under an optical microscope, and its distance from the file tip was calculated. The accuracy of the ERCLMDs was evaluated in terms of percentages of accurate measurements (0.0 mm tolerance) and measurements with tolerance limits of ±0.5 mm and ±1.0 mm. The findings were analysed with the McNemar test, Pearson's chi-square tests and two-way analysis of variance. The multiple comparison procedures were carried out using Holm-Sidak method. The maximum electrical resistance tolerated by ERCLMDs was evaluated by connecting commercially available resistors between the file clip and the root canal instrument. The resistance was gradually increased until it started to affect the ERCLMD readings.

RESULTS

The ERCLMDs were able to actually locate the minor foramen in 7% of samples. File size did not affect the accuracy of ERCLMDs (P > 0.05). Overall, the ERCLMDs gave 65% readings within a tolerance limit of ±0.5 mm and 90% within a tolerance of ±1.0 mm. The electrical resistance of endodontic files was less than the maximum electrical resistance tolerated by ERCLMDs (0.6-1 Ω vs. 2500-4000 Ω).

CONCLUSIONS

The size of the root canal instrument did not affect the accuracy of ERCLMDs in this laboratory study.

Amperometric determination of serum total cholesterol with nanoparticles of cholesterol esterase and cholesterol oxidase

We describe the preparation of glutaraldehyde cross-linked and functionalized cholesterol esterase nanoparticles (ChENPs) and cholesterol oxidase nanoparticles (ChOxNPs) aggregates and their co-immobilization onto Au electrode for improved amperometric determination of serum total cholesterol. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of ChENPs and ChOxNPs showed their spherical shape and average size of 35.40 and 56.97 nm, respectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies of Au electrode confirmed the co-immobilization of enzyme nanoparticles (ENPs). The biosensor exhibited optimal response at pH 5.5 and 40°C within 5 s when polarized at +0.25 V versus Ag/AgCl. The working/linear range of the biosensor was 10-700 mg/dl for cholesterol. The sensor showed high sensitivity and measured total cholesterol as low as 0.1 mg/dl. The biosensor was evaluated and employed for total cholesterol determination in sera of apparently healthy and diseased persons. The analytical recovery of added cholesterol was 90%, whereas the within-batch and between-batch coefficients of variation (CVs) were less than 2% and less than 3%. There was a good correlation (r = 0.99) between serum cholesterol values as measured by the standard enzymic colorimetric method and the current method. The initial activity of ENPs/working electrode was reduced by 50% during its regular use (200 times) over a period of 60 days when stored dry at 4°C.

Rational Design of Nanoparticle Platforms for "Cutting-the-Fat": Covalent Immobilization of Lipase, Glycerol Kinase, and Glycerol-3-Phosphate Oxidase on Metal Nanoparticles

The aggregates of nanoparticles (NPs) are considered better supports for the immobilization of enzymes, as these promote enzyme kinetics, due to their unusual but favorable properties such as larger surface area to volume ratio, high catalytic efficiency of certain immobilized enzymes, non-toxicity of some of the nanoparticle matrices, high stability, strong adsorption of the enzyme of interest by a number of different approaches, and faster electron transportability. Co-immobilization of multiple enzymes required for a multistep reaction cascade on a single support is more efficient than separately immobilizing the corresponding enzymes and mixing them physically, since products of one enzyme could serve as reactants for another. These products can diffuse much more easily between enzymes on the same particle than diffusion from one particle to the next, in the reaction medium. Thus, co-immobilization of enzymes onto NP aggregates is expected to produce faster kinetics than their individual immobilizations on separate matrices. Lipase, glycerol kinase, and glycerol-3-phosphate oxidase are required for lipid analysis in a cascade reaction, and we describe the co-immobilization of these three enzymes on nanocomposites of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs)-chitosan (CHIT) and gold nanoparticles-polypyrrole-polyindole carboxylic acid (AuPPy-Pin5COOH) which are electrodeposited on Pt and Au electrodes, respectively. The kinetic properties and analytes used for amperometric determination of TG are fully described for others to practice in a trained laboratory. Cyclic voltammetry, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infra-red spectra, and electrochemical impedance spectra confirmed their covalent co-immobilization onto electrode surfaces through glutaraldehyde coupling on CHIT-ZnONPs and amide bonding on AuPPy/Pin5COOH. The combined activities of co-immobilized enzymes was tested amperometrically, and these composite nanobiocatalysts showed optimum activity within 4-5s, at pH 6.5-7.5 and 35°C, when polarized at a potential between 0.1 and 0.4V. Co-immobilized enzymes showed excellent linearity within 50-700mg/dl of the lipid with detection limit of 20mg/dl for triolein. The half life of co-immobilized enzymes was 7 months, when stored dry at 4°C which is very convenient for practical applications. Co-immobilized biocatalysts measured triglycerides in the sera of apparently healthy persons and persons suffering from hypertriglyceridemia, which is recognized as a leading cause for heart disease. The measurement of serum TG by co-immobilized enzymes was unaffected by the presence of a number of serum substances, tested as potential interferences. Thus, co-immobilization of enzymes onto aggregates of NPs resulted in improved performance for TG analysis.

Comparison of the anaesthetic efficacy of different volumes of 4% articaine (1.8 and 3.6 mL) as supplemental buccal infiltration after failed inferior alveolar nerve block

AIM

To compare the anaesthetic efficacy of different volumes (1.8 mL vs. 3.6 mL) of 4% articaine with 1 : 100 000 epinephrine injected as buccal infiltrations after a failed inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

METHODOLOGY

Two hundred and thirty-four adult patients, diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis in a mandibular tooth, participated in this multicentre, randomized double-blinded trial. Patients received IANB with 1.8 mL of 4% articaine with 1 : 100 000 epinephrine. Pain during treatment was recorded using the Heft-Parker visual analogue scale (HP VAS). The primary outcome measure, and the definition of 'success', was the ability to undertake pulp chamber access and canal instrumentation with no or mild pain (HP VAS score <55 mm). Patients who experienced 'moderate-to-severe' pain (HP VAS score ≥ 55 mm) were randomly allocated into two groups and received buccal infiltrations with either 1.8 mL or 3.6 mL of 4% articaine with 1 : 100 000 epinephrine. Root canal treatment was re-initiated after 10 min. Success was again defined as no pain or weak/mild pain during endodontic access preparation and instrumentation. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

The initial IANB of 4% articaine gave an overall success rate of 37%. The success rate of supplementary buccal infiltration with 1.8 and 3.6 mL volumes was 62% and 64%, respectively. The difference between the success rates of the two volumes was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing the volume of 4% articaine with 1 : 100 000 epinephrine from 1.8 to 3.6 mL, given as supplementary buccal infiltrations after a failed primary IANB with 1.8 mL of 4% articaine with 1 : 100 000, did not improve the anaesthetic success rates in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

Comparison of the anaesthetic efficacy of epinephrine concentrations (1 : 80 000 and 1 : 200 000) in 2% lidocaine for inferior alveolar nerve block in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial

AIM

The aim of this randomized controlled, double-blind trial was to comparatively evaluate the anaesthetic efficacy and injection pain of 1.8 mL of 2% lidocaine with different concentrations of epinephrine (1 : 80 000 and 1 : 200 000) in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

METHODOLOGY

Sixty-two adult volunteers, actively experiencing pain, were randomly allocated into 2 groups and received 1.8 mL of 2% lidocaine with either 1 : 80 000 or 1 : 200 000 epinephrine concentration. Endodontic access preparation was initiated 15 min after the initial IANB. Pain during treatment was recorded using the Heft-Parker visual analogue scale (HP VAS). The primary outcome measure, and the definition of 'success', was the ability to undertake pulp access and canal instrumentation with no or mild pain (HP VAS score <55 mm). Secondary outcome measure was the pain experienced during LA solution deposition. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U-test and chi-square test.

RESULTS

The anaesthetic success rates of 2% lidocaine solutions containing 1 : 80 000 and 1 : 200 000 epinephrine concentrations were 20% and 28%, respectively. The difference was not statistically significant. There was also no significant difference in the pain experienced during deposition of the solutions.

CONCLUSIONS

Two percent lidocaine solution used for IANB achieved similar success rates when used with 1 : 80 000 or 1 : 200 000 epinephrine concentration.

Esophageal Foreign Body in a Neonate: An Unusual Age of Presentation

Ingestion of foreign bodies in neonates is very rare and can be life threatening. We describe a 20 days old neonate presented with vomiting, drooling of saliva and poor feeding tolerance. Chest radiograph showed a metallic foreign body in superior mediastinum. Foreign body was removed by rigid oesophagoscopy. The case describes the unusual age of presentation of foreign body and options available to remove these foreign bodies in neonates. Key words: Esophagus; Foreign body; Neonate DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v32i1.5306   J. Nepal Paediatr. Soc. Vol.32(1) 2012 79-80

Complicated crown fractures - management and treatment options

AIM

Complicated crown fractures involve enamel, dentine and the pulp. The incidence of complicated crown fractures ranges from 2% to 13% of all dental injuries and the most commonly involved tooth is the maxillary central incisor. Various treatment modalities are available depending upon the clinical, physiological and radiographic status of the involved tooth. The aim of this article was to discuss techniques for the management of complicated crown fractures.

SUMMARY

Management of complicated crown fractures depends upon several factors with the result that various clinical modalities have been suggested. Seven case reports of complicated crown fractures are presented and risks/benefits of the treatment plans are discussed.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

Proper diagnosis, treatment planning and follow-up care are important factors in the prognosis of complicated crown fractures. Thorough understanding of the available treatment modalities and their specific indications is critical. The risks and benefits of each treatment option should be carefully evaluated during the treatment planning process.

Predictive tool for estimating the potential effect of water fluoridation on dental caries

OBJECTIVE

To provide a tool for public health planners to estimate the potential improvement in dental caries in children that might be expected in a region if its water supply were to be fluoridated.

BASIC RESEARCH DESIGN

Recent BASCD (British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry) dental epidemiological data for caries in 5- and 11-year-old children in English primary care trusts in fluoridated and non-fluoridated areas were analysed to estimate absolute and relative improvement in dmft/DMFT and caries-free measures observed in England. Where data were sufficient for testing significance this analysis included the effect of different levels of deprivation.

RESULTS

A table of observed improvements was produced, together with an example of how that table can be used as a tool for estimating the expected improvement in caries in any specific region of England. Observed absolute improvements and 95% confidence intervals were: for 5-year-olds reduction in mean dmft 0.56 (0.38, 0.74) for IMD 12, 0.73 (0.60, 0.85) for IMD 20, and 0.94 (0.76, 1.12) for IMD 30, with 12% (9%, 14%) more children free of caries; for 11-year-olds reduction in mean DMFT 0.12 (0.04, 0.20) for IMD 12, 0.19 (0.13, 0.26) for IMD 20, 0.29 (0.18, 0.40) and for IMD 30, with 8% (5%, 11%) more children free from caries.

CONCLUSIONS

The BASCD data taken together with a deprivation measure are capable of yielding an age-specific, 'intention to treat' model of water fluoridation that can be used to estimate the potential effect on caries levels of a notional new fluoridation scheme in an English region.

Tumoral calcinosis (Teutschlander disease) in a dialysis patient

Tumoral calcinosis is an uncommon and severe complication of hemodialysis therapy. It is generally associated with the presence of the high serum calcium-and-phosphorus product. We report here a case of a patient on hemodialysis who presented with progressively increasing, multiple, tumor-like, subcutaneous swellings. These are rare manifestations of extraosseous calcification in uremic patients that are termed as tumoral calcinosis. A 25 year-old male presented with multiple, nodular, painful, cutaneous swellings all over his body that had been progressively increasing over the last four years. He was a known case of chronic glumerulonephritis who was on regular hemodialysis. The patient was investigated and diagnosed as having tumoral calcinosis and was treated with a low calcium dialysate of pure reverse osmosis water.

Indirect hyperbilirubinemia with indinavir

Indinavir is a protease inhibitor used in the treatment of HIV infected individuals and as post-exposure prophylaxis. Indinavir is associated with various adverse effects including gastrointestinal, a lipodystrophy syndrome and nephrolithiasis. We describe indirect hyperbilirubinemia as an adverse effect of indinavir in a person on post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

Effect of intraesophageal acid instillation on airway reactivity in patients with asthma

OBJECTIVE

To study the change in airway reactivity due to presence of acid in lower esophagus and its reversibility by antacid.

METHOD

In this double blind study 12 subjects with asthma and gastroesophageal reflux received acid (N/10 hydrochloric acid) and antacid (mixture of magnesium trisilicate and aluminum hydroxide) perfusion in lower esophagus via a nasogastric tube. The four combinations were antacid-antacid (control), antacid-acid, acid-antacid and acid-acid. Airway reactivity (Histamine PD20) was recorded after each perfusion.

RESULTS

Histamine PD20 significantly decreased (airway reactivity increased) (p < 0.05) with all three combinations containing acid as compared to control. No significant difference in airway reactivity was observed if the antacid was given before or after the acid.

CONCLUSION

Presence of acid in lower esophagus can increase airway reactivity. This effect lasts longer than the presence of acid in esophagus itself.

Aetiology of chronic diarrhoea in tropical children

AIM

We studied the causes and presentations of chronic diarrhoea in post-weaned children.

METHODS

Forty seven children (6 months to 12 years) with diarrhoea of more than 2 weeks duration were recruited and subjected to detailed clinical examination and investigations.

RESULTS

Primarily on the basis of history, clinical examination and duodenal biopsy, children could be classified into 5 groups namely tropical enteropathy (46.8%), irritable bowel syndrome (10.6%), giardiasis (14.8%), celiac disease (6.8%) and non specific diarrhoea (21.8%). Children with tropical enteropathy improved with broad spectrum antimicrobial therapy, those with irritable bowel syndrome and non specific chronic diarrhoea with dietary interventions while children with celiac disease required definite withdrawal of gluten from diet.

Poisoning in children: Indian scenario

The retrospective data on childhood poisoning from eight regional hospitals in India has been reviewed. The demographic features and types of poisonings encountered have been compared. The analysis of the data indicated that pediatric poisonings constituted 0.23-3.3% of the total poisoning. The mortality ranged from 0.64-11.6% with highest being from Shimla. Accidental poisoning was common involving 50-90% of children below 5 years of age and males outnumbered the females. Suicidal poisoning was seen after 13 years of age and was due to drugs and household chemicals. One of the hospitals in Delhi recorded a very high incidence (66.6%) of drug poisoning in children. The drugs consumed belonged to phenothiazines, antiepileptics and antipyretics. Iron poisoning was seen in younger children. Kerosene was one of the causes of accidental poisoning at all hospitals except Shimla and rural Maharashtra were probably wood charcoal is widely used. Pesticide poisoning was more prevalent in Punjab and West Bengal whereas plant poisoning was very common in Shimla. Significant number of snake envenomation has been recorded from rural Maharashtra. Other less common accidental poisonings in children included alcohol, corrosives, heavy metals, rodenticides, detergents and disinfectants. Thus various regions in the country showed some variation in types and frequency of childhood poisoning which could be attributed to different geographical and socio-economic background.

Telephone mouthpiece as a possible source of hospital infection

A bacterial culture from telephone mouthpiece showed that 47 percent of the instruments carried pathogenic bacteria. Wiping with a disinfectant swab reduced the number of contaminated telephones. But for complete elimination of bacterial contamination changes in design of mouthpiece holes or type of instrument or using a polythene plastic cover over mouthpiece is recommended.

Prevalence of transfusion associated infections in multitransfused children in relation to mandatory screening of HIV in donated blood

Any change in risk behavior related to acquisition of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is likely to reduce simultaneously the risk for other agents transmitted through identical routes. A study carried out in the city of Delhi, India on the load of transfusion associated infections among multitransfused (MT) children in relation to mandatory screening of HIV infection in donated blood indicated unchanged prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV) infections among the group of MT children transfused after the implementation of mandatory screening of HIV infections in blood banks, i.e. post-implementation period (prevalence of HBV, HCV and HDV being 32.8%, 31.3% and 1.6% respectively) compared to a group of MT children transfused over a similar duration before the implementation of mandatory screening i.e. pre-implementation period (prevalence of HBV, HCV and HDV being 28.1%, 26.6% and 1.6% respectively). However, reduction could be recorded in the prevalence of IgM and IgG classes of antibodies to both CMV and HSV-2 infections among MT children receiving transfusion during the post-implementation period (prevalence of 3.1% and 37.1% for CMV IgM and CMV IgG respectively; prevalence of 3.1% and 25% for HSV-2 IgM and HSV-2 IgG, respectively) compared to the group of MT children transfused in the pre-implementation period (prevalence of 15.6% and 56.3% for CMV IgM and CMV IgG respectively; prevalence of 18.8% and 45.2% for HSV-2 IgM and HSV-2 IgG, respectively). These reductions were statistically significant (p values < 0.02 and < 0.05 for CMV IgM and CMV IgG; p values < 0.01 and < 0.02 for HSV-2 IgM and HSV-2 IgG respectively). These observations were in accordance with the recorded reduction in the prevalence of CMV and HSV-2 infections and unaltered prevalence of HBV, HCV and HDV infections in the group of donors donating blood during the post-implementation period compared to those donating in the pre-implementation period. Study of epidemiological risk factors among blood donors showed a change in behavior towards safer sex practice with only 13.0% of donors in the post-implementation period having history of sex with one or more female commercial sex workers during their donation periods compared to 41.5% of donors in the pre-implementation period having similar history (p < 0.001). However no change could be recorded in the proportion of donors donating at frequency higher than the permissible guidelines among the two groups. The present study points out nosocomial transmission as well as limitations in the existing guidelines for screening of infectious agents in blood banks as possible incriminating factors towards acquisition of hepatitis virus infections in blood donors as well as in MT children.

Clinical spectrum of chronic liver disease in north Indian children

Recent advances in serodiagnosis of hepatotropic viruses have revolutionized the approach to diagnosis and understanding of chronic liver disease (CLD). There are few studies on CLD in children from India. The present study was planned to define the clinical spectrum of CLD in children, its histopathology and seroepidemiology. Forty children with clinical features satisfying the criteria for diagnosing chronic liver disease were studied. All underwent routine laboratory investigations, liver function tests and ultrasound scan of the abdomen. Liver biopsy, upper GI endoscopy and other special investigations were done wherever indicated. The most common presenting features were jaundice (70%), fever (67%), and abdominal distention (60%). On examination hepatomegaly and icterus (80% each) and splenomegaly (67%) were the commonest findings. Serum transaminases were raised in 62.5% of children while prothrombin time was prolonged in 75% patients. Oesophageal and/or gastric varices were seen in 13 out of 29 patients subjected to upper GI endoscopy. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg) was positive in 5 children (12.5%) while 3 (7.5%) tested positive for anti HCV antibody. The commonest histopathological diagnosis was infantile cholangiopathy (20%) followed by cryptogenic cirrhosis and idiopathic chronic active hepatitis (17.5% each). The study suggests that the incidence of chronic hepatitis B and C is rather low in childhood. However larger and longer studies are required to delineate the exact incidence of these conditions in childhood and their progression in adolescence and early adulthood.

Does B.C.G. vaccination prevent or postpone the occurrence of tuberculous meningitis?

The reported efficiency of B.C.G. vaccine in prevention of primary childhood or sputum positive adult tuberculosis vary widely but it is believed to offer significant protection against hematogenous forms of tuberculosis. The present hospital-based, case control study was aimed at evaluation of impact of B.C.G. vaccination on one of the hematogenous forms of tuberculosis i.e. Tuberculous meningitis (TBM). Records of cases of TBM admitted in the pediatric wards of Lok Nayak Hospital, Delhi, over one year were analyzed retrospectively for B.C.G. positivity status and age distribution. The results were compared with similar data obtained from a control group comprising of non-TBM cases in pediatric wards of same hospital, recruited on 2 days, separated by an interval of three weeks. No statistically significant difference was found in B.C.G. positivity status of cases and control groups. However, there was an obvious trend in age distribution among cases of TBM with respect to the B.C.G. status, with a significantly higher proportion of B.C.G. vaccinated children in over 5-year age group, as compared to those in under 5 year age group. The results, therefore, indicate probable effectiveness of B.C.G. against TBM only for a limited duration i.e. single B.C.G. immunization only postpones rather than prevent the occurrence of TBM.

Hepatitis B--potential of perinatal transmission in India

To estimate the frequency of perinatal hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, 850 pregnant females were tested for HBsAg and HBeAg using RPHA kits. Frequency of HBsAg positivity was 4.6% by RPHA and 6.34% by micro-ELISA. HBeAg was detected in 18% of the HBsAg positive pregnant females. Presuming a perinatal HBV infection rate of 90% amongst infants born to HBsAg and HBeAg positive pregnant females and 17% amongst infant born to HBsAg positive but HBeAg negative mothers, we estimated that 1.17% to 1.64% infants out of 24 million births occurring annually in this country would be infected with HBV. In other words every year 2.8 to 3.9 lakh infants are being infected by HBV perinatally, 90% of whom will eventually develop chronic HBV infection. Urgent control measures are necessary to circumvent this problem.

Visceral leishmaniasis control in India through primary health care system--a successful experiment of district level planning

A model district action plan for control of Visceral Leishmaniasis a serious public health problem in north-east Bihar was developed in late 1989 and implemented in 1992 in district Vaishali. A two years implementation resulted in decline in cases and deaths due to Visceral Leishmaniasis to the extent of 65.32% and 46.51% respectively in 1993 as compared to 1992 and 41.13% and 44.93% respectively in 1994 as compared to 1993 with an overall decrease of 79.58% in case and 70.54% in deaths in 1994 as compared to 1992. The implementation of action plan not only established declining trends in morbidity and mortality due to Visceral Leishmaniasis in the district but also successfully contained the cases unresponsive to first line treatment with Sodium Stibogluconate by reducing the prevalence of such cases from 12.42% in 1992 to 8.59% in 1994. Various components of the action plan, implementation strategy and consequent impact on disease situation are presented in this paper.

Determinants of symptomatic giardiasis in childhood

Giardia has been frequently implicated as a causative agent for acute as well as chronic diarrheal diseases in children. The present study was aimed at exploring the determinants of manifestations of Giardiasis in childhood, in relation to various host and parasite related factors. A total of 200 children with acute (100), chronic (50) or without (50) diarrhea in last 15 days were recruited for the study and evaluated with regards to nutritional status, serum immunoglobulins, secretory IgA levels, presence of Giardia in stool/duodenal aspirate/duodenal biopsy specimen and for associated infections. Lysates from acute giardiasis cases were further studied for zymodeme (banding) pattern. After correlation of all investigations, humoral immune defect in the host was found to be the major determinant of whether the Giardial infestation would be symptomatic or not, while associated bacterial infections and zymodeme patterns were not found to be important in determining the pathogenicity or presentation of giardiasis.

Does Rota virus infection cause persistent diarrhoea in childhood?

Rota virus is the commonest agent for infectious diarrhoea in childhood. Whether an acute diarrhoea episode due to Rota virus constitutes a risk factor for persistence of diarrhoeal episode has not been well evaluated. This study aimed at evaluating the role of antecedent Rota virus infection in the causation of persistent diarrhoea. One hundred twenty children with acute watery diarrhoea were investigated for evidence of recent Rota virus infection and were followed up for 2 weeks to determine the proportion developing persistent diarrhoea. Rota virus antigen in stool and IgM class antibodies in serum were detected in 33 (27.5%) of the cases, only 2 (6.06%) of whom developed persistent diarrhoea. On the other hand 11.3% children without evidence for antecedent Rota virus infection developed persistent diarrhoea. The prevalence of Rota virus antigen in stools of children who developed persistent diarrhoea was 16.7%. In another group of 25 children with persistent diarrhoea definite evidence for a Rota virus infection was detected in only 2 (8%) cases. It was therefore concluded that antecedent Rota virus infection does not increase the risk for abnormal prolongation of an episode of acute diarrhoea.