Search

Context: A total of 20% of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease(COPD) patients are non-smokers due to preventable causes, such as biomass fuel exposure, post tuberculous sequelae, occupational exposure, air pollution, persistent chronic asthma, and genetic predisposition. Aims: To compare smokers and non-smokers with COPD. Settings and Design: An observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital on 60 patients diagnosed with COPD, (GOLD criteria), who were divided into smoker and non-smoker groups. Subjects and Methods: Demographic data, clinical profile, smoking history, and radiological data were collected and compared. Exclusion criteria were individuals having active pulmonary tuberculosis and reversible air flow limitations. Statistical Analysis Used: Using STATA 14.2, quantitative and qualitative data were presented using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 100% of smokers were male, whereas 70% of non-smokers were female. Compared to non-smokers (16.67%), smokers (26.6%) presented with higher grade of dyspnea. A statistically significant difference was seen with more smokers diagnosed as severe (40%) and very severe (30%) COPD compared to non-smokers with mild (16.67%) and moderate (46.67%) COPD (P < 0.012), Post bronchodilator FEV1 among smokers (42.63) compared to non-smokers (56.63) (P < 0.01) and decrease in FEV1 as the grade of dyspnea increased (P < 0.002). Compared to 36.67% in non-smokers, 70% smokers showed emphysematous x-rays. Conclusions: In our study we found majority of non-smokers to be female, and smokers had a higher grade of dyspnea, more severe COPD, lower post bronchodilator FEV1, and more emphysematous changes on x-rays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A case of orbital emphysema associated with elevated intraorbital pressure, presenting as a complication of a paranasal sinus "blow-out" fracture after trauma to the orbit and globe is presented.Case Report: A 45-year-old man developed left globe rupture with orbital emphysema after blunt trauma. A large air pocket in the superior orbit with medial wall fracture and globe tenting was identified on noncontrast computed tomography. Direct needle drainage was performed using a 23-gauge needle attached to a saline-filled syringe with the plunger removed. Rapid release of air bubbles with prompt alleviation of pressure symptoms was observed. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Early diagnosis and management of orbital emphysema can salvage useful function of the globe. The knowledge of this clinical entity and its management can prevent delay and unnecessary referral. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health problem in India. Although several International guidelines for diagnosis and management of COPD are available, yet there are lot of gaps in recognition and management of COPD in India due to vast differences in availability and affordability of healthcare facilities across the country. The Indian Chest Society (ICS) and the National College of Chest Physicians (NCCP) of India have joined hands to come out with these evidence-based guidelines to help the physicians at all levels of healthcare to diagnose and manage COPD in a scientific manner. Besides the International literature, the Indian studies were specifically analyzed to arrive at simple and practical recommendations. The evidence is presented under these five headings: (a) definitions, epidemiology, and disease burden; (b) disease assessment and diagnosis; (c) pharmacologic management of stable COPD; (d) management of acute exacerbations; and (e) nonpharmacologic and preventive measures. The modified grade system was used for classifying the quality of evidence as 1, 2, 3, or usual practice point (UPP). The strength of recommendation was graded as A or B depending upon the level of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article the author presents perspective on the history of researches about vitamin C in India. Vitamin C is remarkably the focus of various research because of its precise biological function especially its capability of curing several diseases. The researches were conducted to determine the specific medical use of vitamin C as well as its other capabilities.