DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.620
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in pre-habilitation, post-operative care, and rehabilitation to reduce postoperative pulmonary complications. The use of various devices like incentive spirometers, and respiratory muscle training devices is an integral part of chest physiotherapy. Currently, there are many devices available in the market, which have been used in physiotherapy. Despite their regular use in the clinical setup, many clinical practitioners do not have thorough knowledge about their functioning and effect. This article intends to make physiotherapists aware of the types, components, teaching techniques, and uses of such devices, to have optimal and specific benefits. The knowledge of these devices may help professionals to select the best device to be used. To select the most appropriate one, it is also necessary to consider the specific health condition, the nature of the impairments, the purpose of the training, and whether its use is within a research or clinical context.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.641
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.642
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.643
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.645
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.644
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.650
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.651
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) develops when fluid accumulates in your lungs' small, elastic air sacs (alveoli). Because the fluid prevents your lungs from filling with enough air, less oxygen reaches your circulation. This deprives your organs of the oxygen they require to perform properly. ARDS is a potentially fatal form of respiratory failure that affects around 200,000 individuals in the United States each year, resulting in nearly 75,000 deaths. Globally, ARDS accounts for 10% of intensive care unit admissions, resulting in about 3 million ARDS patients each year.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.652
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.653
Awareness among clinicians about idiopathic Pleuroparenchymal Fibroelastosis (PPFE) is lacking and by the time patients are diagnosed with it, they were seen by multiple physicians and misdiagnosed multiple times. It is a rare condition that is characterized by fibrosis of the pleura and subpleural lung parenchyma, predominantly affecting the upper lobes. Most common cause of fibrosis in other processes is collagen predominant but in PPFE fibrosis is usually caused by elastic fibers. Verhoeff van Gieson stain from lung biopsies in patients who presented with fibrosis in the upper pleural and parenchymal areas will help in establishing the diagnosis by demonstrating the elastic fibers. We also need to rule out the possibility of other lung parenchymal conditions like usual interstitial pneumonia, nonspecific interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary apical cap etc. We have presented a case report on PPFE to bring attention to clinicians so that patients are diagnosed early.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X. 2023.13.648
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.664
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP) poses diagnostic challenges due to its rarity, heterogeneous presentation and similarity to other lung diseases. Despite advances in diagnostic techniques, several limitations persist, hindering accurate and timely diagnosis. This review explores the diagnostic challenges in PAP, including clinical presentation variability, imaging findings, bronchoalveolar lavage and emerging biomarkers. It examines recent advances in diagnostic approaches while discussing existing limitations, aiming to provide insights into optimizing the diagnostic process for PAP. Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) poses significant diagnostic challenges due to its rarity, heterogeneous clinical presentation and resemblance to other lung diseases. Despite recent advancements in diagnostic techniques, including imaging modalities and biomarkers, several diagnostic pitfalls persist, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. This review explores the diagnostic challenges encountered in PAP, synthesizing recent advances and limitations. By examining current knowledge, it aims to provide insights to guide clinicians in navigating the complexities of diagnosing PAP effectively, ultimately improving patient care outcomes and enhancing understanding of this complex pulmonary disorder.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.656
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.657
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.658
Living with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) presents unique challenges for patients, impacting various aspects of their lives, including physical health, emotional well-being and social interactions. This review explores patient perspectives on the experience of living with PAP and examines coping strategies employed to navigate the challenges associated with this rare lung disorder. By shedding light on the lived experiences of individuals with PAP and highlighting effective coping mechanisms, this article aims to provide insights that can support patients, caregivers and healthcare providers in optimizing the quality of life for those affected by PAP.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.659
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.660
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.661
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.662
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disorder characterized by the accumulation of surfactant proteins and lipids within the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory symptoms. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of PAP, including its etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions. By elucidating the underlying mechanisms and exploring current treatment modalities, this article seeks to enhance awareness and improve management strategies for patients with PAP.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.663
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) remains a rare and enigmatic lung disorder characterized by the abnormal accumulation of surfactant proteins within the alveoli. Despite its rarity, PAP presents significant challenges in diagnosis and management, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its underlying mechanisms and therapeutic approaches. This review aims to elucidate recent research insights into the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of PAP. Through a critical analysis of current literature, we explore the molecular pathways, diagnostic modalities and emerging therapeutic strategies that hold promise for improving clinical outcomes in patients with PAP. By synthesizing the latest findings, this review provides valuable guidance for clinicians and researchers involved in the care and investigation of this complex respiratory condition.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.620
Acute respiratory failure is a life-threatening condition that can result from various diseases and injuries affecting the respiratory system. Traditional mechanical ventilation, while effective, can lead to complications and prolonged hospital stays. In recent years, Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) has emerged as an innovative and less invasive approach for managing acute respiratory failure. This article explores the advancements in noninvasive ventilation techniques, including the development of novel interfaces, intelligent algorithms, and the application of non-invasive strategies for specific patient populations. Additionally, the article discusses the evidence supporting the effectiveness of NIV and its potential to revolutionize the management of acute respiratory failure.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.621
Air pollution is a pressing global issue that significantly affects public health, especially in urban areas. With the rapid industrialization and urbanization of cities, the levels of air pollutants have risen dramatically, posing severe risks to respiratory health. This paper aims to evaluate the impact of air pollution on lung health in urban environments, exploring the major pollutants, mechanisms of action, and the epidemiological evidence linking air pollution to respiratory diseases. Additionally, it will discuss the current regulatory measures and potential solutions to mitigate the detrimental effects of air pollution on lung health in urban settings. Air pollution is a complex mixture of various particulate matter (PM) and gaseous substances released from natural sources, industrial activities, and transportation systems. The primary pollutants include nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.622
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.623
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.624
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.625
Respiratory diseases constitute a significant global health burden, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The understanding of the genetic underpinnings of these conditions has rapidly evolved over the years, thanks to advances in genomic technologies and research. This comprehensive review delves into the latest genetic insights into respiratory diseases, exploring how bench research has translated into clinical applications at the bedside. We will discuss key respiratory conditions, such as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and interstitial lung diseases, with a focus on genetic predisposition, risk factors, and personalized therapies. Moreover, we will analyze the impact of genetic discoveries on disease management and future prospects for precision medicine in the field of respiratory medicine.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.626
Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a complex and life-threatening condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, leading to increased workload on the right ventricle and eventual heart failure. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosing, and managing PH. This comprehensive review aims to explore the current trends in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension, focusing on the latest research, technological innovations, and therapeutic strategies. By discussing the various diagnostic tools, classification systems, and treatment options available, this paper endeavors to shed light on the advancements that have improved the outlook for patients with PH.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.627
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.628
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.629
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.630
Pulmonary Embolism (PE) is a life-threatening medical condition that occurs when a blood clot, usually originating from the deep veins of the legs, travels to the lungs and obstructs blood flow. It remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Over the years, advancements in medical technology and research have improved the diagnosis and management of PE. This article aims to explore the current trends in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary embolism, highlighting the various diagnostic modalities, risk stratification methods, and treatment options available to healthcare professionals. Pulmonary embolism is a serious medical condition that poses a significant challenge to healthcare providers due to its elusive nature. PE can range from asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic cases to life-threatening conditions requiring immediate intervention. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. In this article, we will delve into the latest trends in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary embolism.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.631
Respiratory viral infections represent a significant burden on public health worldwide, causing a wide range of illnesses that vary in severity from mild common colds to severe respiratory syndromes, including influenza and COVID-19. Understanding the transmission mechanisms of these viruses and implementing effective containment strategies are critical to mitigating their impact on global health. This article aims to explore the key aspects of respiratory viral infections, including the transmission routes, risk factors, and containment measures that have been employed to control their spread. By synthesizing the latest research and public health efforts, we hope to provide valuable insights into combatting these infections and improving our overall preparedness for future outbreaks. Respiratory viral infections pose a continuous threat to public health, affecting millions of individuals every year. These infections are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets and aerosols, making personto- person transmission the primary mode of spread. The most common respiratory viral infections include influenza viruses, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), rhinoviruses, and more recently, the novel coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we delve into the mechanisms of transmission for these viruses and explore the containment strategies that have been employed to combat their spread.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.632
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.633
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.634
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.635
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a debilitating and progressive lung disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a significant public health concern and one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of COPD, shedding light on its impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly known as COPD, is a group of progressive lung disorders characterized by obstructed airflow in and out of the lungs. The primary subtypes of COPD include chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis is defined by inflammation of the airways, leading to a persistent cough with mucus production, while emphysema involves damage to the air sacs in the lungs, leading to reduced lung elasticity.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.636
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a debilitating and progressive respiratory disorder affecting millions worldwide. Among the numerous risk factors, smoking is considered the primary causative agent for COPD development and progression. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate relationship between smoking and COPD, examining its pathophysiological mechanisms, genetic predisposition, impact on disease severity, and potential interventions. By analyzing the latest scientific literature and clinical studies, this paper aims to provide a profound understanding of how smoking influences the progression of COPD and its implications for public health policies.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.637
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.638
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.639
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.640
Lung diseases have become a significant public health concern worldwide. With the rise of air pollution, smoking, and unhealthy lifestyles, the prevalence of lung diseases has increased significantly. From chronic conditions like asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to more severe ailments such as lung cancer, proper management and prevention are crucial to maintaining lung health. This article aims to explore various lung diseases, their risk factors, effective management strategies, and preventive measures to help individuals breathe easy and lead healthier lives.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.641
The lungs are vital organs that facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, playing a pivotal role in sustaining life. Unfortunately, various lung diseases can compromise this essential function, leading to severe health issues and, in some cases, even life-threatening conditions. Understanding the nature of lung diseases, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial in promoting lung health and managing these conditions effectively. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify lung diseases, providing readers with essential information to recognize, prevent, and address these ailments. Before delving into the intricacies of lung diseases, it is essential to grasp the anatomy and function of these vital organs. The lungs consist of two main lobes, the left and right, enclosed within the thoracic cavity. The diaphragm, a muscular partition, forms the base of the thoracic cavity and is instrumental in the process of breathing.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.642
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.643
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.644
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.645
Cancer, particularly pulmonary cancer or lung cancer, remains one of the leading causes of death globally. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer growth and progression. Traditional treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy have played pivotal roles in managing pulmonary cancer, but they often come with substantial side effects and limited success rates, especially in advanced stages. In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising and revolutionary approach in the management of pulmonary cancer. This article delves into the role of immunotherapy in pulmonary cancer treatment, its mechanisms, challenges and future prospects.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.646
Lung cancer remains one of the most prevalent and deadliest malignancies worldwide, contributing significantly to cancer-related morbidity and mortality. Traditional treatment approaches have primarily focused on generalized therapies that may not be optimally effective for all patients due to the inherent heterogeneity of lung cancer. However, advancements in genomic profiling and personalized medicine have opened new avenues for tailoring treatment strategies to individual patients, enhancing treatment outcomes and potentially revolutionizing the landscape of pulmonary cancer treatment.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.647
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.648
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.649
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.650
Pulmonary Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) are a complex and heterogeneous group of neoplasms that arise from the neuroendocrine cells of the respiratory epithelium. These tumors are relatively rare, accounting for only a small percentage of all lung malignancies, but their management presents unique challenges due to their diverse clinical behavior and varied treatment responses. Over the years, significant progress has been made in understanding the biology of pulmonary NETs, leading to breakthroughs in their diagnosis, treatment, and overall management. In this article, we will explore the challenges associated with managing pulmonary NETs and highlight the recent breakthroughs that have revolutionized their management strategies.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.651
Pulmonary Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) represent a diverse group of neoplasms arising from neuroendocrine cells in the respiratory tract. These tumors are relatively rare, accounting for only about 20% of all lung malignancies. Despite their rarity, managing pulmonary NETs presents unique challenges due to their heterogeneity, variable clinical behavior, and limited treatment options. Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in understanding these tumors, leading to breakthroughs in diagnosis, classification, and treatment approaches. This article explores the challenges associated with managing pulmonary NETs and highlights the recent breakthroughs that are shaping the field.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.652
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.653
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2023.13.654
Mohammad Hamid Uddin*, Mohammad Aftab Haleem, Mahmudur Rahman, Imteaz Mahbub, Mohammad Masud Rana and Rosemeri Maurici
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.666
Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, lymphoreticular, central nervous, musculoskeletal, reproductive, and hepatic systems. Intestinal TB, primarily affecting the ileocecal region, can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, constipation, blood in stool, and potential complications. Intestinal TB diagnosis is challenging due to limited diagnostic techniques. Typical approaches include radiological scans and histopathological examinations, but their sensitivity limits their accuracy. Therapeutic response is proposed as a significant factor. Microbiological analysis, including polymerase chain reaction and acid-fast bacilli, is another measure. The GeneXpert Tuberculosis Nucleic Acid Amplification Test has low sensitivity for intestinal TB diagnosis. The National TB Control Program in Bangladesh focuses on timely identification and prevention of TB cases, with the aim of establishing GeneXpert as a diagnostic tool for intestinal tuberculosis, despite limited studies in Bangladesh.
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 55 suspected intestinal TB patients aged 18 years and above in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews and a questionnaire. Participants were given anti-TB drugs for a two-month trial and underwent colonoscopy with biopsy. Histologically confirmed and non-caseating colitis patients were diagnosed with intestinal TB. Patients not responding to the trial were diagnosed as without TB. Additional mucosal biopsies were sent for the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay. Obtained data was analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.
A study involving 45 individuals diagnosed with intestinal TB found that common symptoms included abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, and fever. The study also found a significant relationship between ESR and intestinal TB, with a mean of 56.6 mm. Colonoscopy revealed that 60% of patients had mucosal ulceration, while histopathological findings showed granuloma in 84.4% of cases. Ultrasonography revealed abnormal findings in 33 participants, with 54.5% having ascites and 30.3% having bowel wall thickening. The study found that GeneXpert was effective in detecting intestinal tuberculosis, with positive outcomes in 11 instances and 34 false negatives. All ten individuals without the disease were accurately classified as negative. The GeneXpert test had a sensitivity of 24.4% and a specificity of 100%, making it a valuable tool for detecting the condition.
The study, establishes the role of GeneXpert in diagnosing intestinal TB, despite the absence of endoscopy, contrast radiology tests, Acid-Fast Bacilli culture, and a small sample size of suspected cases in a tertiary health facility.
Leticia A. Okoli, Oikere Collins Otoikhila and Samuel A. Seriki*
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.667
Background/Aim: Face masks are physical barriers to respiratory droplets that may enter through the nose and/or mouth and to the expulsion of muco-salivary droplets from infected individuals. The present study aimed at measuring lung function indices and oxygen saturation in subjects who wear surgical masks compared with cloth masks. Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of face masks is now widely recommended by international, national, and local authorities as a key strategy to reduce the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome 2 (SARS-2) coronavirus.
Method: Fifty (50) male and female healthy adult volunteers (ages between 25-35 years) without any pulmonary or cardiac disease, and nonsmokers were recruited and grouped into three (3); Group 1 – (Control)- Subjects who did not wear any type of face masks; Group 2 – Subjects who wore surgical face masks; Group 3 – Subjects who wore cloth face masks Oxygen saturation and lung function indices were measured before the use of face masks and immediately after face masks were removed. The subjects wore the face masks for two (2) hours. In a standing position, the subjects’ oxygen saturation was recorded using a pulse oximeter on the subjects’ index fingers of their right hands, while the lung function indices (FVC1, FEV1, and PEFR) were measured three times using a spirometer, with the highest value chosen. Data were analyzed statistically using Graph Prism 8.1 version. Results were presented as mean+SEM, ANOVA, and Tukey’s Multiple Comparison Test were used to compare the means obtained, and P-values less than 0.05 (p<0.05) were considered statistically significant.
Results: The results showed that oxygen saturation was significantly decreased by both surgical and cloth masks compared with control, while ventilatory functions were significantly decreased by cloth masks but not by surgical masks compared with control. The decrease in oxygen saturation and ventilatory functions were however not clinically important since their decrease was minimal and not sufficient to induce hypoxia and breathing-related problems.
Conclusion: Thus, the use of face masks is safe, especially surgical facemasks. Consequently, the use of face masks is advised and recommended during an outbreak of airborne disease, but the duration of use, condition of use, and choice of mask may be important factors that should be put into consideration since masks are associated with discomfort. However, the life-saving benefits of wearing masks seem to outweigh the discomfort.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.674
Tuberculosis (TB) is an ancient disease that continues to plague humanity, causing significant morbidity and mortality. Despite significant progress in its diagnosis and management, TB remains a global health concern. The emergence of drug-resistant strains and co-infection with HIV has complicated the control of TB. Recent advances in diagnostic tools and treatment strategies have provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics of TB infection within the lungs. This article explores the evolving landscape of TB diagnosis and management, with a focus on insights gained from studying the lungs.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.673
Pulmonary tuberculosis, a bacterial infection primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, has been a major public health concern for centuries. Despite significant advances in medical science and global efforts to control the disease, tuberculosis continues to affect millions of people worldwide, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. This article aims to delve into the mysteries of pulmonary tuberculosis from both a research and clinical perspective, shedding light on the latest developments, challenges, and prospects for managing this ancient disease. Pulmonary tuberculosis, often referred to as TB or consumption, has a long and storied history. The bacterium responsible for this disease was first discovered in 1882 by Robert Koch, a German physician, earning him a Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. The isolation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis paved the way for a better understanding of the disease, but its impact on human populations dates back millennia.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.672
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.671
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.670
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.669
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.668
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.675
Imren Nesil Taskiran*, Pervin Korkmaz, Figen Yargucu Zihni, Adnan Yuksel Guruz, Seray Toz, Nevin Turgay and Abdullah Sayiner
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.686
Background: Pneumocystis Jirovecii Pneumonia (PCP) remains a significant cause of pneumonia in non-HIV immunosuppressed patients. There are no established guidelines on PCP prophylaxis in patients with rheumatic diseases. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with PCP infection with the aim of guiding prophylaxis in patients with rheumatic disease.
Method: Patients with rheumatic diseases diagnosed with PCP in a single tertiary care center were included as cases. Control patients were selected from patients followed up by the Division of Rheumatology. The ratio of case to control was 1:3. Demographic characteristics, clinical and laboratory findings of patients, systemic involvement of rheumatic disease and recent treatment history were recorded.
Results: Seventeen patients were diagnosed with PCP during the study period. A total of 51 patients completed clinical data were included in the control group. Rheumatoid arthritis (33.8%) was the most common disease, followed by systemic lupus erythematosus. None of the patients received PCP prophylaxis. The recent treatment of all patients consisted of methylprednisolone, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, other immunosuppressive drugs, and biological agents (55.9%, 35.3%, 19.1%, and 11.8% of the patients, respectively). None of the PCP patients had active arthritis, but 52.9% of the control group had. Regarding treatment, PCP patients more frequently used glucocorticoids at a dose of 16 mg or higher (58.8% vs. 11.8%, p<0.001). Similarly, PCP developed more frequently in patients who had received pulse treatment in the preceding six months (47.1% vs. 2%, p<0.001). None of the patients receiving biological agents developed PCP, all patient used biologic agent were in the control group (p=0.056)
Conclusion: PCP develops more frequently in patients with rheumatic diseases receiving moderate-to-high doses of glucocorticoids and/or who have received pulse immunosuppressive therapy in the last six months. These patients should be strongly considered for PCP prophylaxis.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.688
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.689
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.690
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.691
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.692
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.693
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.694
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.695
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2024.14.696
Ramadevi Bhogireddy, Dinesh Annamalai, Swetha Manohar, Chitikela P Pullaiah, Venkataraman Krishnamurthy and S. Sugin Lal Jabaris*
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2022.12.618
Omicron is a new variant of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and globally it created a challenging and hostile situation. it is highly contagious and has spread to more than 150 countries. Omicron variant has critical mutations in the spike protein than other Variants of Concern (VoC) -Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta and Variants of Interest (VoI) – Mu, Lambda. According to the latest WHO report, the United Kingdom has reported the highest number of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant cases. Unlike the previous SARS-CoV-2 variants including Delta, the present variant, Omicron does not lead to severe respiratory infection. The variant’s spike protein has a higher affinity for the human Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The present context explores the details about the epidemiology, risk assessment and the genetic comparison of Omicron with other SARS-CoV-2 variants along with the impact of vaccines on Omicron infection.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2022.12.616
A small amount of the drug is delivered to the lung because to poor absorption or gastrointestinal degradation in the vast majority of ongoing antiviral/hostile to SARS-CoV-2 specialists that are taken orally. In order to treat pneumonic diseases like the Coronavirus, breathed-in treatment by pneumonic medicine conveyance could be considered an expected strategy. It is possible to directly deliver pharmaceuticals to the lung using pneumonic conveyance, which ensures higher medication fixation in the lung and avoids unpleasant side effects because lesser dosages are needed.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2022.12.617
DOI: 10.37421/2157-7145.2022.12.619
Objective: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease characterized by increased pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance that can lead to right heart failure. Connective Tissue Disease-Associated PAH (CTD-PAH) often has a worse outcome than idiopathic or Hereditary PAH (I/HPAH), suggesting the presence of non-PAH factors that may affect the prognosis of CTD-PAH patients. This study aimed to identify prognostic factors for CTD-PAH.
Methods: Medical records from the April 1999 through November 2014 period were reviewed to determine the time from treatment initiation to occurrence of a clinically worsening event (hospitalization for PAH exacerbation, progression to WHO Functional Class III or worse, decrease in 6-min walking distance by ≥ 15% from baseline, initiation of parenteral prostanoid therapy, or death), and the time elapsed until death. Data at baseline and final assessment were used to identify prognostic factors associated with these events.
Results: In 36 CTD-PAH patients analyzed, the proportions with no clinically worsening events at 1, 2 and 3 years after treatment initiation were 62, 52 and 45%, with survival rates of 88, 77 and 77%, respectively. In multivariate analysis for survival rate, no variable was identifiable as a prognostic factor. However, baseline hemoglobin, QR pattern in electrocardiogram lead V1, 60-min erythrocyte sedimentation rate and mean pulmonary artery pressure at the final assessment were identified as factors significantly associated with clinical worsening.
Conclusion: Not only hemodynamic status, but also non-PAH factors such as anemia, nutritional status and inflammatory activity of the underlying CTD were suggested to influence the prognosis of CTD-PAH patients. Development of a more multifactorial treatment strategy is necessary.
DOI: 10.37421/2161-105X.2022.12.001
The pursuit of a safe and effective HIV vaccine holds lifesaving potential for people globally; unfortunately, a number of ongoing HIV vaccine safety and efficacy trials are being shortened paused or postponed amidst the Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) crisis. The COVID-19 outbreak that started in Wuhan, megacity of China late December, 2019, has spread to 188 countries and territories, with more than 9 million total confirmed cases and 470,061 total deaths globally as at 22 June, 2020 and still counting. Currently, no approved vaccines exist to prevent infection with the novel Coronavirus; however, the impact of the pandemic has been enormous with devastating effects on the global health and economy, with many countries introducing stringent response measures to de-escalate the spread of the virus. Recruiting and retaining volunteers for HIV vaccine trials this period has become very challenging due to a lot of factors including fear of potential exposure to the new coronavirus, ethical issues and safety concerns. The protection and safety of participants and clinic staff remain a priority for HIV vaccine investigators worldwide. They are at the moment making conscious efforts to implement measures necessary to prevent potential exposure and transmission of COVID-19 among study participants and clinic staff in various study sites. To this end, the pursuit of a safe and effective HIV vaccine must continue to follow global best practices, devoid of any form of political, religious or racial bias. The pursuit for vaccine to curb the HIV pandemic is on and should not be at the expense of ethical principles such as informed consent and medical privacy. Despite the draw backs experienced so far, it is very important that virologists and vaccine developers do not relent in their quest for safe and effective HIV vaccines. Instead, they should redouble their efforts and build on past lessons. The scientific integrity of each clinical trial must not be compromised for political or economic gains, rather the World Health Organization with other important stakeholders must continue to monitor and ameliorate the impact of COVID-19 on the conduct of the early and large-scale HIV vaccine clinical trials globally.
Pulmonary & Respiratory Medicine received 1690 citations as per Google Scholar report
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