Search

Scrub typhus infection is reemerging leading cause of acute febrile illnesses in post rainy or monsoon season in Southeast Asia. It is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi and spread by the bite of chiggers, larval forms of trombiculid mites. The clinical picture can range from simple acute febrile illness to multiorgan dysfunction. Neurological manifestations also vary from aseptic meningitis, meningoencephalitis, cerebral infarction, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, transverse myelitis, and psychiatric manifestations. Here, we present a case series of eight cases of scrub meningoencephalitis diagnosed based on clinical, laboratory, and radiological criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: SARSCoV-2, a coronavirus that causes COVID-19, is spreading rapidly. By the middle of August-2021, it has affected over 3 million confirmed cases in India. The main aim of this study was to examine the clinical profile of COVID-19 patients and their length of stay during treatment in a hospital. Materials and Methods: It was a hospital-based retrospective study conducted by using a total enumeration technique in July–August 2021 at Nehru Hospital, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in India. The present study was conducted on 72 COVID-19 patients who took treatment in 4C and 5C wards. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data, which included bio-demographic factors and questions about their treatment and length of stay. Results: The majority of the 72 COVID-19 positive patients were men (62%), belonged to the age group of 41–60 years (35%), had SpO2 levels ranging from 91%–95% (45%), and received room air O2 therapy (63%) during their treatment in the hospital. Female patients had a longer length of stay (7.33 days), patients under the age of 20 years had the longest hospital stay (11.5 days), patients with SpO2 less than 70% had the longest hospital stay (8 days), and patients who received oxygen using a non-rebreathing mask had the longest hospital stay (11 days). Conclusion: To avoid panic situations, regular admission and discharge of patients was essential due to the considerable increase in cases during the second wave. Patient length of stay was reduced as a consequence of collaboration and cooperation among all physicians, residents, staff nurses, and paramedics, with the goal of discharging the patient after a room air trial and follow up if needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the modern era, the relative ease and faster speed of travel have made the world a global village. An increasing number of people are traveling to distant and sometimes exotic locations for vacation/leisure or at times for business purposes. Along with the experiences of far-fetched lands, sometimes they bring bugs/organisms that are not native to their motherland. This makes the diagnosis and management of illnesses in a traveler challenging. In this review, we have tried to outline a management protocol for travelers returning with fever, with specific emphasis on trypanosomiasis and schistosomiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Geriatric anemia is a global health problem because of its high prevalence and associated significant morbidity and mortality. Aim: The objectives of this study were to estimate the pattern of anemia in the elderly patients and the underlying etiology of anemia. Research Design and Methods: This was a hospital-based prospective observational study, conducted in patients aged 60 years and above at PGIMER, Chandigarh, a tertiary care center of North India. Anemia is defined as hemoglobin level less than 13 g/dl in men and 12 g/dl in women. Results: Among the 105 older patients with anemia, the mean value of hemoglobin was 8.8 ± 2.3 g/dl. The etiological distribution of anemia was iron deficiency in 26 patients (24.8%), chronic disease in 24 patients (22.9%), hematological disorders in 21 (20%), chronic kidney disease in 13 (12.4%), multifactorial in 8 (7.6%), vitamin B12 deficiency in 2 (1.9%), folate deficiency in 1 (0.9%), and hypothyroidism in 1 patient (0.9%). No etiology could be found in 9 patients (8.6%). 57.6% of the iron-deficient patients had upper gastrointestinal lesions and 30.7% had a nutritional cause. Common chronic diseases causing anemia were malignancy (36.6%) and liver disease (29.1%). The myelodysplastic syndrome was the commonest hematological disorder. 53.35% of the patients had normocytic anemia, 40% had microcytic anemia, and 6.6% had macrocytic anemia. Conclusions: In most of the cases, anemia in the elderly had a treatable cause. Thus, a thorough investigation including gastrointestinal endoscopy is warranted. Unexplained progressive or unresponsive anemia requires bone marrow examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Schizophrenia is a life-shortening disease. The standardized mortality ratio has been higher than that of the general population, and it has doubled what it was 3-4 decades ago. This rise is mostly attributed to the increased cardiovascular risk associated with high second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) use. Evidence from the first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) era shows a lower prevalence of hypertension (HTN) but data regarding SGAs is scarce. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess the prevalence of HTN and related factors using standardized methodology in patients with schizophrenia on treatment with SGAs. Methods: A cross-sectional study through convenient sampling was done. Blood pressure, anthropometry, physical activity, and health-related lifestyle factors were assessed using the standard World Health Organization (WHO) methodology of cardiovascular survey methods and the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) version 2. The prevalence of HTN, obesity, inadequate physical activity, and other demographic and clinical correlates like antipsychotic use, duration of illness, and family history of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were studied. Results: The prevalence of HTN is 20.50%, and it increases with age. SGAs with the use of a single agent are the most common. In total, 45.50% of persons with schizophrenia have a positive family history of a NCD; 22.00% and 07.50% are current tobacco and alcohol users, respectively; and 70% have abdominal obesity, and 54% have generalized obesity. Waist circumference, obesity, and family history of NCDs are significant correlates of HTN. A family history of NCDs is the most significant predictor. Conclusion: The prevalence of HTN is lower than that of the general population despite the high prevalence of SGA use, obesity, and inadequate physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite an essential differential diagnosis for fever of unknown origin (FUO) in young adults, adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is infrequently considered and remained underdiagnosed in low-middle-income countries. The present study analyzed the clinical, serological, radiological, and pathological characteristics of AOSD presented as FUO in India. A hospital-based retrospective study of patients aged > 13 years admitted with FUO and later diagnosed with AOSD in Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh (India), was conducted between January 2014 and December 2020. Petersdorf and Beeson's criteria were used to define FUO. The diagnosis of AOSD was made based on Yamaguchi's criteria. Twenty-seven patients (median age 26 years, 14 females) were enrolled. All presented with intermittent fever with a median duration of 10 weeks. The typical features of AOSD at admission were arthralgia (n = 24), hepatosplenomegaly (n = 21), spiking fever ≥ 39 °C (n = 19), lymphadenopathy (n = 18), typical rash (n = 17), and sore throat (n = 11). Leukocytosis (n = 25) and neutrophilia (n = 19) were frequent. Hyperferritinemia was universal (range, 700–145,003 ng/ml; ≥ 2000, n = 23). At admission, AOSD was suspected in only nine FUO cases, while tuberculosis (n = 16), undifferentiated connective tissue disorder (n = 14), and lymphoproliferative disorder (n = 11) were common diagnostic possibilities. Crispin et al. clinical scale detected AOSD in only 15 (55.5%) FUO patients. Whole-body imaging (n = 27), including fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (n = 12), demonstrated reticuloendothelial organ-system involvement and serositis. Seventeen (63%) patients had macrophage activation syndrome at the time of AOSD diagnosis. AOSD FUO presents with typical but nonspecific features; thus, early differentiation from common causes (e.g., tuberculosis, lymphoma) is difficult. Macrophage activation syndrome is common in AOSD with FUO presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) or acute febrile encephalopathy is a clinical condition characterized by altered mental status occurring after or along with a short febrile illness. In developing countries, infections are the predominant cause of AES. Prominent infections known to cause AES include viruses (such as herpes simplex virus [HSV], Japanese Encephalitis [JE] virus, dengue, enteroviruses [EVs]), bacteria, fungus, and parasites. In the present study, we aim to analyze the etiology, clinical features, and predictors of mortality in patients presenting with acute febrile encephalopathy or acute encephalitic syndrome. The present study was a prospective observational study conducted at Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research a tertiary care center in Chandigarh, India. Methods: A total of 105 patients with ≥18 years of age with fever (body temperature >101° F for duration ≤14 days) and altered sensorium (Glasgow coma scale [GCS] score ≤10) lasting for more than 24 h, either accompanying the fever or following it were enrolled. Demographic and clinical details were recorded on pro forma. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was performed for all the enrolled patients at admission for cytology, CSF glucose to blood glucose ratio, protein levels, gram stain and culture sensitivity, adenosine deaminase levels, polymerase chain reaction for HSV/EV/mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) and immunoglobulin M Enzyme‑linked immune assay for JE. Computed tomography of the brain was done in all patients while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain was carried out in 75 patients. Results: Among the 105 patients, tubercular meningitis was seen in 27 (25.7%) patients followed by acute pyogenic meningitis in 18 (17.1%) patients. Probable viral encephalitis was present in 12 (11.4%) cases. Septic encephalopathy (n = 10) and scrub typhus encephalitis (n = 8), HSV encephalitis (n = 6), dengue encephalitis (n = 4), leptospirosis(n = 3) were the other infections causing acute febrile encephalitis in our study. In addition to fever and altered sensorium common symptoms observed were headache (52.4%), vomiting (35.2%), and seizures (29.5%). The factors predicting increased mortality were female gender, fever of more than 38°C at admission, GCS <7, MRI showing disease‑related findings like altered signal intensity bilateral medial temporal and insular area in herpes simplex encephalitis, etc., changes, and the group of patients where a definite diagnosis could not be established during the hospital stay. Conclusions: Tubercular meningitis/central nervous system TB is the predominant cause of acute febrile encephalopathy in developing countries. Scrub and dengue encephalitis are emerging as an important cause of acute febrile encephalopathy and occur predominantly in postmonsoon seasons. Acute febrile encephalopathy remains an important cause of mortality in patients presenting to Emergency Department (ER). The strongest predictors of mortality are low GCS and undiagnosed cases of AES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bungarus caeruleus (common krait) bite during monsoon season is common in northwest India. Respiratory failure is responsible for high mortality in the victims. In this study we report our experience with manual ventilation using bag valve mask (BVM) in patients with neuroparalysis due to common krait bite. Methods: This prospective study was conducted between June 2009 and December 2009. All consecutive patients with diagnosis of common krait bite who were manually ventilated by BVM were studied. The duration of ventilation and complications associated with ventilation were noted. Polyvalent anti snake venom was administered as per the "national snake bite protocol" and patients were followed up until final outcome. Results: Thirty-four patients (70.6% men) were studied. All patients except two came from rural areas and they were hospitalized between June and September. Majority of patients were bitten during the night while sleeping on the floor. The mean time interval between bite and arrival to hospital was 4.4 hours. Ptosis (100%) was he most common clinical finding followed by ophtalmoplegia (80%) and limb muscle weakness (74%). Twenty-four patients (70%) developed respiratory symptoms and 20 (59%) were intubated and manually ventilated by BVM. Mean duration of assisted ventilation was 34.6 ± 12.8 hours. Hoarseness of voice and throat pain were noted in all intubated patients following extubation, which responded to conservative therapeutic measures. The mean duration of hospitalization was 6 ± 1.6 days. All patients except one survived. Conclusion: Manual ventilation with BVM in patients with neuroparalysis due to common krait bite is a safe and effective modality in resource constraint settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bal A, Suri V, Mishra B, Bhalla A, Agarwal R, Abrol A, Ratho R K & Joshi K (2012) Histopathology 60, 326-335 Pathology and virology findings in cases of fatal influenza A H1N1 virus infection in 2009-2010 Aims: To describe the pathological findings, immunohistochemical localization of viral antigen and tissue reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) findings of different organs in cases of fatal H1N1 influenza virus infection from North India. Methods and results: Nine patients positive for H1N1 virus by a throat swab real-time RT-PCR (rRT-PCR) were included. Underlying risk factors included pregnancy, respiratory diseases, rheumatic heart disease, and chronic kidney disease. Pathological evidence of tracheitis, necrotizing bronchiolitis and diffuse alveolar damage was noted in all of the cases. Influenza viral antigen was observed by immunohistochemistry in the epithelium of the tracheobronchial tree, bronchial glands, gland ducts, and, less frequently, the alveolar epithelial cells. Viral particles were confirmed by electron microscopy in three autopsy cases. Tissue rRT-PCR for H1N1 viral RNA was positive in lung samples, but negative in other organs. Secondary bacterial pneumonia, cytomegalovirus infection and angio-invasive zygomycosis were detected. Conclusions: The pulmonary findings are similar to those described in past pandemics. Secondary fungal and viral infections, which have not been reported previously, were noted. Although the number of cases in this study is small, the findings reinforce the notion that changes in extrapulmonary organs are attributable to multiorgan dysfunction syndrome rather than a viral cytopathic effect, and that there is no transplacental transmission of virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background To study the clinical profile and outcome of adult patients presenting with Scrub typhus ARDS in emergency at our institute. Methods Prospective observational study which included 126 adult patients presenting to emergency department at, PGIMER Chandigarh, a tertiary care referral institute in northwestern India with acute febrile illness with ARDS (acute onset respiratory distress within one week of fever or new/worsening respiratory symptoms with PaO2/FiO2 ratio less than 300 with PEEP or CPAP more than 5 cm H2O from January 2016 to December 2017.All the patients consenting for the study underwent detailed clinical evaluation and investigated for the etiology as per standard protocol followed at our institute with special emphasis to rule out tropical illnesses like scrub typhus, malaria, leptospirosis, dengue and H1N1 influenza. Patients were followed till discharge. Results Out of 126 patients eligible for the study, 45.2% were males and 54.8% were females. 47.6% were admitted in the monsoon/post-monsoon period. In addition to fever and dyspnea, cough (75.8%), hepatomegaly (56%), myalgia (63%), splenomegaly (31.3%), pedal edema (34.2%), pallor (40.4%), and vomiting (48.4%) were the common symptoms observed. Scrub typhus in 33.3%, followed by H1N1 influenza in 15.8%, co-infections in 12.6%, leptospirosis in (4.76%), dengue in (3.96%) and malaria in 3.17% of the patients, were the most common etiologies encountered. In 26.9% patients, no definite infective etiology could be found. Among the scrub typhus patients, 16 required ventilation. SOFA score of more than 6 was noted in 24 (57.14%) patients with scrub typhus as compared 9 (47.3%) patients with H1N1 infection. 12.1% of patients with scrub typhus succumbed to their illness when compared with 36.8% of patients with H1N1 infection. At admission in emergency female sex (P = 0.048), age less than 45 years, (P = 0.020), abdominal pain (P = 0.011), presence of hepatosplenomegaly (P = 0.001/0.010), thrombocytopenia <150,000 (P = 0.001), transaminitis (P = 0.00) were significant predictors of a diagnosis of scrub typhus when compared with a non-scrub typhus etiology of patients with fever and ARDS. Conclusion Scrub typhus is an important, treatable tropical infection causing ARDS especially in monsoon/post-monsoon seasons in Northwestern India. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is emerging as the mainstay in the treatment of many autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus. IVIg has been found to be beneficial in myocarditis due to dermatomyositis/polymyositis, Kawasaki disease, and viral myocarditis in children. We report an 18-year-old man of active lupus with worsening cardiac systolic function who did not respond to pulse methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide, but subsequently showed an improvement in his cardiac function after IVIg administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work was carried out during the emergence of Delta Variant of Concern (VoC) and aimed to study the change in SARS CoV-2 viral load in Covishield vaccinated asymptomatic/mildly symptomatic health-care workers (HCWs) to find out the optimum isolation period. The SARS CoV-2 viral load was carried out in sequential samples of 55 eligible HCWs which included unvaccinated (UnV; n = 11), single-dose vaccinated (SDV, n = 20) and double-dose vaccinated [DDV, n = 24; short-interval (<6 weeks)] subjects. The mean load of envelope (E) gene on day 5 in SDV [0.42 × 105 copies/reaction] was significantly lower as compared to DDV [6.3 × 105 copies/reaction, P = 0.005] and UnV [6.6 × 105 copies/reaction, P = 0.001] groups. The rate of decline of SARS CoV-2 viral load in the initial 5 days of PCR positivity was significantly higher in SDV as compared to that in DDV (Mean log decline 0.39 vs. 0.19; P < 0.001). This was possibly due to interference of adenoviral immunity of first dose of adenovirus-vectored vaccine in double-dose vaccinated HCWs who had received vaccines within a shorter interval (<6 weeks). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mycobacterium w (Mw), an immunomodulator, resulted in better clinical status in severe coronavirus infectious disease 19 (COVID-19) but no survival benefit in a previous study. Herein, we investigate whether Mw could improve clinical outcomes and survival in COVID-19. Materials and Methods: In a multicentric, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial, we randomized hospitalized subjects with severe COVID-19 to receive either 0.3 mL/day of Mw intradermally or a matching placebo for three consecutive days. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. The co-primary outcome was the distribution of clinical status assessed on a seven-point ordinal scale ranging from discharged (category 1) to death (category 7) on study days 14, 21, and 28. The key secondary outcomes were the change in sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score on days 7 and 14 compared to the baseline, treatment-emergent adverse events, and others. Results: We included 273 subjects (136 Mw, 137 placebo). The use of Mw did not improve 28-day survival (Mw vs. placebo, 18 [13.2%] vs. 12 [8.8%], P = 0.259) or the clinical status on days 14 (odds ratio [OR], 1.33; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 0.79-2.3), 21 (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 0.83-2.7) or 28 (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 0.79-2.8) between the two study arms. There was no difference in the delta SOFA score or other secondary outcomes between the two groups. We observed higher injection site reactions with Mw. Conclusion: Mw did not reduce 28-day mortality or improve clinical status on days 14, 21 and 28 compared to placebo in patients with severe COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The primary objective of the study was to assess maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnancies affected with dengue fever. Methods: This was a prospective, observational and descriptive study carried out over a period of 1 year. 216 pregnant women with fever were screened. Of these, 44 women tested positive for dengue (non-structural protein antigen 1 or dengue IgM antibodies in the sera). The clinical and laboratory characteristics of women with dengue were recorded. Maternal outcomes, pregnancy outcomes and fetal outcomes were studied. Results: Mean period of gestation was 31.89 ± 7.31 weeks. Thrombocytopenia was seen in 23 (52.3%) women. Of 40 women, 10 (25%) developed post-partum haemorrhage. The incidence of maternal systemic complications was high: eight (18.2%) women developed acute kidney injury and two (4.5%) required haemodialysis support; eight (18.2%) women developed ARDS and seven (15.9%) women required ventilatory support; four (9.1%) women developed acute liver failure. 18 (40.9%) women had evidence of shock. Seven (15.9%) women died and another seven (15.9%) were classified as WHO maternal near-miss cases. Two (4.5%) pregnancies suffered from miscarriages, four (9%) from still births and two (4.5%) from neonatal deaths. Preterm babies were delivered in 15 (34.1%) and low birth weight babies in 13 (29.5%). Conclusions: Dengue in pregnancy adversely affects maternal and fetal outcomes with high maternal mortality of 15.9%. Prematurity and postpartum haemorrhage are significant risks to mother and baby. Vector control strategies should be implemented with vigour in affected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: In India, spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR) are an underdiagnosed cause of acute febrile illness (AFI). The non-specific Weil-Felix test is the first diagnostic modality for the diagnosis of SFGR in many laboratories due to the lack of advanced diagnostic facilities in developing countries. The aim of this study was to detect SFGR using molecular methods in the patients, presenting with AFI in a tertiary care centre in north India. Methods: Consecutive patients (>14 yr of age) with AFI were enrolled over a six month period. Standard investigations for common pathogens causing AFI in India (malaria, dengue, scrub typhus, leptospirosis and enteric fever) were carried out. In patients who were negative for all of the above investigations, blood was subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting outer membrane protein A (ompA) gene of Rickettsia. Results: Of the 51 patients with an undiagnosed aetiology, three were positive by ompA PCR. Two of the PCR products produced good sequences and BLAST identification confirmed them as Rickettsia conorii. The sequences of R. conorii reported from south India clustered with two previously reported novel rickettsial genotypes. The study sequences clustered in a group different from that of Rickettsia spp. of the south Indian sequences reported earlier. Interpretation & conclusions: This study showed the existence of R. conorii in north India. Testing for SFGR may be included in the diagnostic workup of AFI for better disease management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (AHCT) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. There has been a rapid advancement and evolution in MM treatment landscape in the last decade. There is limited information on post‐AHCT infectious complications among MM patients with or without levofloxacin prophylaxis from developing countries. Materials and methods: We performed a retrospective study to explore the incidence, pattern, and clinical outcome of infections following AHCT in MM patients from 2010 to 2019 at our center. Patient‐specific, disease‐specific, and transplant‐specific details were retrieved from the case files. The characteristics of infectious complications (site, intensity, organism, treatment, and outcomes) were analyzed. All patients who underwent transplantation from 2010 to 2016 received levofloxacin antibiotic prophylaxis. Common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) criteria (v5.0) were used for the grading of infections and regimen‐related toxicity. International Myeloma Working Group updated criteria were used for the assessment of disease response before transplant and at day +100. Results: Ninety‐five consecutive patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) (n = 85), RRMM (n = 7), plasma cell leukemia (n = 2), and Polyneuropathy, Orgaomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Monoclonal gammopathy, skin abnormalities (POEMS) syndrome (n = 1) underwent AHCT during the study period. Their median age was 55 years (range 33–68); 55.8% were males. Immunoglobulin IgG kappa was the most common monoclonal protein (32.6%), International Staging System stage III disease was present in 45.3%, and 84.2% of patients achieved more than very good partial response before AHCT. The median time from diagnosis to AHCT was 10 months (range 4–144). Eighty‐nine patients (93.7%) developed fever after AHCT. Fever of unknown focus, microbiologically confirmed infections, and clinically suspected infections were found in 50.5%, 37.9%, and 5.3% of patients, respectively. Clostridiodes difficile‐associated diarrhea was observed in eight patients (8.4%). Neutrophil and platelet engraftment occurred after a median of 11 days (range 9–14) and 12 days (range 9–23), respectively. The median duration of hospital stay was 16 days (range 9–29). Only two patients (2.1%) required readmission for infections within 100 days of AHCT. Transplant‐related mortality (TRM) in the study population was 4.2% (n = 4). The levofloxacin prophylaxis group (n = 32, 33.7%) had earlier neutrophil engraftment (day +10 vs. day +11) and platelet engraftment (day +11 vs. day +12), but time to fever onset, duration of fever, hospital stay, TRM, and day +100 readmission rates were not significantly different from those of patients without levofloxacin prophylaxis. There was no significant difference in the spectrum of infections between patients with and without levofloxacin prophylaxis. The overall survival and progression‐free survival of the study population at 5 years were 72.7% and 64.8%, respectively. Conclusion: This study shows that the incidence of infections and TRM are higher in MM patients from lower‐middle income countries after AHCT than in those from developed countries. The majority of such patients lack clinical localization and microbiological proof of infection. There was no significant difference in the spectrum of infections and their outcomes in patients with and without levofloxacin prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native valve infective endocarditis during pregnancy or the peripartum period is a rare entity with significant morbidity and mortality. Rheumatic heart disease was previously considered a significant risk factor, changing to intravenous drug abuse in recent decades. We hereby report a case of tricuspid native valve endocarditis complicating the peripartum period in a young female without underlying traditional risk factors, who improved with medical therapy alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastrointestinal strictures impact clinical presentation in abdominal tuberculosis and are associated with significant morbidity. Aim: To conduct a systematic review of the prevalence of stricturing disease in abdominal and gastrointestinal tuberculosis and response to antitubercular therapy (ATT). Methods: We searched Pubmed and Embase on 13th January 2022, for papers reporting on the frequency and outcomes of stricturing gastrointestinal tuberculosis. The data were extracted, and pooled prevalence of stricturing disease was estimated in abdominal tuberculosis and gastrointestinal (intestinal) tuberculosis. The pooled clinical response and stricture resolution (endoscopic or radiologic) rates were also estimated. Publication bias was assessed using the Funnel plot and Egger test. The risk of bias assessment was done using a modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Results: Thirty-three studies reporting about 1969 patients were included. The pooled prevalence of intestinal strictures in abdominal tuberculosis and gastrointestinal TB was 0.12 (95%CI 0.07–0.20, I2 = 89%) and 0.27 (95% CI 0.21–0.33, I2 = 85%), respectively. The pooled clinical response of stricturing gastrointestinal tuberculosis to antitubercular therapy was 0.77 (95%CI 0.65–0.86, I2 = 74%). The pooled stricture response rate (endoscopic or radiological) was 0.66 (95%CI 0.40–0.85, I2 = 91%). The pooled rate of need for surgical intervention was 0.21 (95%CI 0.13–0.32, I2 = 70%), while endoscopic dilatation was 0.14 (95%CI 0.09–0.21, I2 = 0%). Conclusion: Stricturing gastrointestinal tuberculosis occurs in around a quarter of patients with gastrointestinal tuberculosis, and around two-thirds of patients have a clinical response with antitubercular therapy. A subset of patients may need endoscopic or surgical intervention. The estimates for the pooled prevalence of stricturing disease and response to ATT had significant heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guillain‐Barré Syndrome (GBS), an autoimmune neurological disease of peripheral nerves, has been causally associated with COVID‐19 vaccination in adults. However, no such report has been published so far in children. We describe a 13‐year‐old female child who presented to the emergency department with complaints of bilateral upper limb, lower limb and truncal weakness over 3 days following first dose of recombinant protein subunit COVID‐19 vaccine (Corbevax). Clinical examination and nerve conduction studies showed pure motor axonal polyneuropathy with absent compound muscle action potential (CMAP) in all sampled nerves of upper and lower limbs which was consistent with the diagnosis of GBS after ruling out possible alternative aetiologies. A temporal association between first dose of protein subunit COVID‐19 vaccine administered a day prior and symptom onset was noted. The causality assessment using the World Health Organization (WHO) tool for adverse event following immunization (AEFI) assessment indicated vaccine product‐related reaction categorized as A1. The patient's clinical condition improved after seven sessions of plasmapheresis. The purpose of this report is to create awareness among health care professionals about COVID‐19 vaccine‐induced GBS in children as early diagnosis and management can be critical in avoiding complications and improving patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Back ground Haemoptysis is a life threatening condition irrespective of aetiology. Tranexamic acid (TA), a potent anti-fibrinolytic agent, has been shown to control bleeding, decrease transfusion requirement in knee & hip arthroplasty, coronary artery bypass grafting and heavy menstrual bleeding. TA also has mortality benefit in bleeding from surgical and trauma patients. But the studies, regarding efficacy and safety of TA in controlling haemoptysis are conflicting. Method In this single blinded, prospective study, total 66 patients with sub-massive haemoptysis were randomized into treatment (T) and placebo control (C) groups. Group-T received intravenous (IV) TA in a loading dose of 1 g, followed by 1 g TA over 8 h infusion and group-C received IV 0.9% normal saline. The severity of haemoptysis was assessed by quantity, frequency and visual analogue scale (VAS) score. Results On day 2, frequency, quantity and VAS score of haemoptysis were 2.23 ± 2.11/day, 34.19 ± 67.0 ml and 14.72 ± 15.7 respectively in Group-T and 2.29 ± 2.0/day, 90.4 ± 79.0 ml and 31.33 ± 22.12 respectively in group-C. In group-T 16.27% patients needed intervention as compared to 38.1% in group-C (p 0.053). The mean blood transfusion (1.58 ± 0.88 & 1.67 ± 0.669 units) and hospital stay (4.14 ± 3.18 & 5.48 ± 3.26 days) was also lower in group-T as compared to group-C. Group-T had better outcomes as compared to group-C, but statistically significant only for VAS score (p 0.001). During study no adverse event of the drug was noted. Conclusion TA decreases severity of haemoptysis and can be used as a bridging therapy in acute haemoptysis before definitive intervention can be under taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for the prevention of COVID-19 was contentious. In this randomized control double-blind clinical trial, asymptomatic individuals with direct contact with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases were randomized into PEP/HCQ (N = 574) and control/placebo (N = 594) group. The PEP/HCQ group received tablet HCQ 400 mg q 12 hourly on day one followed by 400 mg once weekly for 3 weeks, and the control/Placebo group received matching Placebo. The incidence of COVID-19 was similar (p = 0.761) in PEP [N = 24 out of 574, (4.2%)] and control [N = 27 out of 594, (4.5%)] groups. Total absolute risk reduction for the incidence of new-onset COVID-19 was -0.3% points with an overall relative risk of 0.91 (95% confidence interval, 0.52 to 1.60) and the number needed to treat (NNT) was 333 to prevent the incident of one case of COVID-19. The study found that, PEP with HCQ was not advantageous for the prevention of COVID-19 in asymptomatic individuals with high risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Though HCQ is a safer drug, the practice of irrational and indiscriminate use of HCQ for COVID-19 should be restrained with better pharmacovigilance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monkeypox is a zoonotic virus belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus. Previously endemic to Africa, outbreaks have been reported from all over the world, the largest of which is currently ongoing. Dermatologists are principally involved in recognition and diagnosis of the infection. This narrative review primarily focuses on clinical manifestations and highlights the unique epidemiological features of current outbreak. Lesions observed during the current outbreak lack the evolution described in endemic disease. Polymorphic lesions are common and may be confined to anogenital area. Onset of "prodromal" symptoms may coincide with onset of skin rash, and these may be altogether absent. Mortality rates observed are low. The exanthem should be differentiated from other infections such as herpes, molluscum contagiosum, smallpox, and other poxvirus infections. Presentation as an isolated genital lesion warrants differentiation from syphilis, chancroid, and other sexually transmitted diseases. Close intimate contact during sexual encounters is the primary mode of transmission, and other coexisting sexually transmitted infections are frequently diagnosed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The inflammatory state that characterizes COVID-19 may contribute to depression, anxiety, other morbidities, and mortality. Interleukin-6 blocker tocilizumab has been used as a treatment modality in COVID-19 as an anti-inflammatory agent. Tocilizumab has also been studied for its potential use in preventing depression in other patient groups, with mixed results. This study was designed to study subsequent depression, anxiety, and quality of life (QOL) in patients treated with tocilizumab plus standard care versus standard care alone, for moderate to severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Methods: Patients admitted with moderate to severe COVID pneumonia, treated with tocilizumab plus standard treatment, and discharged from the hospital were identified. Age- and gender-matched controls who had received standard treatment alone for COVID-19 pneumonia during the same time frame were identified. After obtaining consent, these patients were followed up and assessed at 3 and 6 months on measures of depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and QOL (EQ-5D-5L). Results: 39 patients in the tocilizumab group and 41 in the control group were followed up at 3 and 6 months. Patients in both groups were comparable in sociodemographic and clinical parameters. The prevalence of clinically significant depression in the tocilizumab group at 3 and 6 months was 33.33% and 5.12%, respectively, whereas in control group it was 31.7% and 4.87%, respectively. Analysis of EQ-5D health profiles revealed that the maximum problems were reported in the dimension of mobility: 43.7% at 3 months and 35% at 6 months. Conclusions: Depressive and anxiety symptoms and impairment in QOL were reported more frequently and with greater severity in patients in the tocilizumab group at three months but not at six months. Psychological morbidity and impairment in QOL were modest and improved from 3 to 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In recent years, scrub typhus has rapidly emerged to become the major cause of acute febrile illness (AFI) in India. The commonest tests used for diagnosis are serology and PCR. Therefore, the present study was planned to compare these two techniques in the diagnosis of scrub typhus. Aim of the study: To compare IgM ELISA and PCR for diagnosis of scrub typhus as a causative agent of AFI. Material and Methods: Patients with acute undiagnosed febrile illness presenting to the outpatient (OPD) or inpatient services of PGIMER Chandigarh between August 2013 and March 2014 were included in this study. Blood was collected for further analysis by IgM ELISA and nested PCR followed by Sanger sequencing. Result: Of 176 patients, 29 (16.4%) were positive for scrub typhus by nested PCR while 162 (92%) were positive by IgM ELISA. There was 59 % concordance between the two tests. Conclusion: This study report shows that the concordance between PCR and ELISA for the diagnosis of scrub typhus is less than 60%. Ideally, both tests should be performed to diagnose scrub typhus depending on the day of presentation to hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is usually considered a rapidly progressive fatal illness with poor outcomes. It is of two types: primary or familial and secondary. In patients with HIV, opportunistic infections are the secondary triggers of HLH. First line of management of infection associated HLH is treatment of the underlying infection. Here, we present a case of HLH in HIV infection due to disseminated histoplasmosis managed with liposomal amphotericin B, who required immunosuppressive therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin and dexamethasone due to nonresponse to primary therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: The response rate of hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is variable. Increasing dose or accelerated schedule is the suggested strategy to improve seroconversion. Aim: We performed a meta‐analysis to determine the pooled response rate of HBV vaccination and to identify the predictors of seroconversion. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library databases. Studies reporting the response of HBV vaccination in IBD patients were included. Response was recorded as adequate immune response (AIR, >10 IU/L) and Effective immune response (EIR, >100 IU/L). Pooled AIR and EIR rates were calculated for different doses (10–20 μg or 40 μg) and schedules (standard: 0, 1 and 6 months or accelerated: 0, 1 and 2 months). Meta‐analysis was performed to identify the predictors of response. Results: Twenty‐one studies including 2602 patients were eligible. Pooled AIR and EIR rates after HBV vaccination were 62% (95% CI, 55–68) and 42% (95% CI, 37–48), respectively. Pooled AIR and EIR rates for standard and double dose were similar. Pooled AIR and EIR rates were also comparable for different schedules of HBV vaccination. Gender, IBD subtype and disease activity did not affect the response rate. Use of immunosuppression [immunomodulators (RR: 0.73, 95% CI, 0.62–0.87) and anti‐TNFs (RR: 0.72, 95% CI, 0.60–0.87)] was a predictor of poor immune response compared to no immunosuppressive therapy. Conclusion: Patients with IBD have a poor serological response after HBV vaccination. HBV screening and vaccination should preferably be done before starting the immunosuppressive drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chikungunya fever is an arboviral illness caused by chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and transmitted by the bite of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. It is an RNA virus belonging to the genus Alphavirus and family Togaviridae. We present a case series of three patients with chikungunya illness developing para/post-infectious myeloradiculoneuropathy.These patients developed neurological symptoms in the form of bilateral lower limb weakness with sensory and bowel involvement after the recovery from the initial acute episode of chikungunya fever. Clinical examination findings suggested myeloradiculoneuropathy with normal Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Spine, with the nerve conduction study showing sensorimotor axonal polyneuropathy. All the patients were treated with 1 g of methylprednisolone once a day for five days, and case 2 was given intravenous immunoglobulin also. In the follow-up, cases 1 and 2 showed complete recovery without recurrence, and case 3 did not show improvement at one month. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methotrexate is an antimetabolite commonly used in clinical practice for a variety of indications ranging from rheumatoid arthritis and other connective tissue disorders to high dose regimens in many malignancies. This folate antagonist has got a spectrum of toxicities among which gastrointestinal effects predominate. Lung injury is a well described but rare event and has been reported most often in patients who have been on long term oral therapy for rheumatic disorders. Acute lung injury in a patient receiving a high dose regimen for haematological malignancies has not been reported previously. We present one such case of methotrexate related acute lung injury in a patient of primary CNS lymphoma receiving high dose methotrexate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is a close association between the use of broad‐spectrum antibiotics, gut microbiome alteration, multidrug resistant (MDR) gram‐negative bacilli (GNB) bacteremia, graft versus host disease (GVHD), and mortality post‐allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT). This study reports the impact of the high use of carbapenems and colistin and MDR bacteremia pre‐ and post‐HCT on HCT outcomes. Methods: This was a single‐center, partial retrospective, and prospective study from 2016 to 2020. Both pre‐ and post‐HCT antibiotic exposures and blood culture/sensitivity were recorded. MDR GNB was defined as either non‐susceptibility to third‐generation cephalosporin or carbapenems. In the absence of positive cultures, the treating physician escalated antibiotics from third‐generation cephalosporins to carbapenem and/or colistin as per clinical discretion. De‐escalation policy was not strictly enforced. Results: MDR GNB bacteremia was seen in 29 of 76 (38%) of patients peri‐HCT. The utilization rates for carbapenems and colistin was significantly higher in the cohort with MDR GNB bacteremia pre‐HCT (70% vs. 32%, p = 0.002 and 31% vs. 6.4%, p = 0.007, respectively) and post‐HCT (100% vs. 74.5%, p = 0.002, and 55.2% vs. 8.5%, p < 0.0001, respectively). The cohort with MDR GNB bacteremia had significantly more severe acute GVHD at day+100 (45% vs. 17.5%, p = 0.009). The median survival was 204 days compared to not reached in the cohort without any MDR GNB bacteremia (p = 0.005). Conclusion: This study shows pre‐ and post‐HCT MDR GNB bacteremia is associated with an increased risk of severe acute GVHD and mortality. Patients with MDR GNB bacteremia had higher exposure to pre‐ and post‐HCT carbapenems and colistin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The role of pre‐HCT chest high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and serum galactomannan index (GMI) in predicting the post‐allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is debatable. Methods: This was a single‐center, prospective study from 2014 to 2019. The primary objective was to study if pre‐HCT chest HRCT and serum GMI predicted IPA post‐HCT. The secondary objective was day +100 mortality. All consecutive, consenting patients of ≥12 years of age undergoing allo‐HCT were included and had pre‐HCT chest HRCT and serum GMI. All patients received mold active antifungal prophylaxis. The EORTC/MSG criteria were used for the diagnosis of IPA. Results: A total of 82 patients with median age 27 years (12‐59 years) were included. The underlying diagnoses included hematological malignancies (79%) and aplastic anemia (21%). Fifteen percent of patients was treated for prior history of probable IPA (>6 weeks before HCT). Pre‐HCT chest HRCT satisfied EORTC clinical criteria in 24% patients. Serum GMI ≥0.5 was seen in 27% of patients. Post‐HCT probable IPA was seen in 24% of patients. There were more patients with pre‐HCT chest HRCT findings satisfying EORTC clinical criteria (45% vs. 18%, P =.014) and GMI ≥0.5 (45% vs. 21%, P =.03) in the group with post‐HCT IPA compared to those without IPA. There was higher day+100 mortality in patients with post‐HCT IPA (55% vs. 18%, P =.001). Conclusions: The presence of EORTC clinical criteria on pre‐HCT chest HRCT, serum GMI ≥0.5, and prior history of IPA predicted post‐HCT IPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The correlation of SARS-CoV-2 viral load with disease severity in different population subsets is still elusive. There is a scarcity of literature regarding this aspect in Indian Population. Aim: To study retrospectively the risk factors and the role of viral load with disease severity among different age groups of North Indian population. Methods: Here we quantified the viral load of 239 positive participants and collected data retrospectively from April 2020 to May 2020 and categorised the patients as per disease severity and population subsets. Results: Asymptomatic patients were found to have higher viral load than the symptomatic patients, though the difference was not found to be statistically significant. The logistic regression analysis showed that contact with laboratory confirmed cases, SARI and ILI were independent risk factors for acquiring COVID-19 infection. Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2 viral load is not significantly associated with disease severity among different population subsets. However, there is a need to carry out more studies with a larger number of patients to validate and confirm the above findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with a variety of unforseen psychosocial consequences. Many health care providers (HCP) report experiencing stigmatisation and perceived changes in the quality and quantity of emotional and social connections with peers, community and family. Perceived feelings of emotional and social distancing may contribute to lower morale among HCP. We designed a brief internet survey based on findings of studies examining this phenomenon in Ebola epidemics in Africa. We circulated this study among various categories of HCP in a tertiary training hospital in North India. Quantitative and qualitative data were obtained and analysed. 574 HCP responded to the survey. A majority of respondents across different categories of HCP experienced the social and emotional impact of working in a health care setting in the COVID-19 pandemic. This was experienced at the workplace, community and family (in decreasing order). The phenomenon of the social and emotional impact as manifested as distancing in HCP from peers, community members and family needs to be better recognised and studied. Specific measures to counter this are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computed tomography (CT) of the chest plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but it should not be used indiscriminately. This review provides indications of CT chest in COVID-19 suspect, positive and recovered patients based on the current scientific evidence and our personal experience. CT chest is not indicated as a routine screening modality due to its poor sensitivity and specificity. However, it is useful in a small subset of COVID-19 suspects who test negative on reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with normal/indeterminate chest X-ray (CXR) but have moderate-to-severe respiratory symptoms and high index of clinical suspicion. CT chest is not indicated in every RT-PCR–positive patient and should be done only in specific clinical scenarios, where it is expected to significantly contribute in the clinical management such as COVID-19 patients showing unexplained clinical deterioration and/or where other concurrent lung pathology or pulmonary thromboembolism needs exclusion. Serial CXR and point-of-care ultrasound are usually sufficient to evaluate the progression of COVID-19 pneumonia. CT chest is also indicated in COVID-19–positive patients with associated co-morbidities (age >65 yr, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, immune-compromise, etc.) who, despite having mild symptoms and normal/indeterminate CXR, record oxygen saturation of <93 per cent at rest while breathing room air or de-saturate on six-minute walk test. Finally, CT chest plays a crucial role to rule out lung fibrosis in patients recovered from COVID-19 infection who present with hypoxia/impaired lung function on follow up. In conclusion, though CT chest is an indispensable diagnostic tool in COVID-19, it should be used judiciously and only when specifically indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Convalescent plasma (CP) therapy is one of the promising therapies being tried for COVID-19 patients. This passive immunity mode involves separating preformed antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 from a recently recovered COVID-19 patient and infusing it into a patient with active disease or an exposed individual for prophylaxis. Its advantages include ease of production, rapid deployment, specificity against the target infectious agent, and scalability. In the current pandemic, it has been used on a large scale across the globe and also in India. However, unequivocal proof of efficacy and effectiveness in COVID-19 is still not available. Various CP therapy parameters such as donor selection, antibody quantification, timing of use, and dosing need to be considered before its use. The current review attempts to summarize the available evidence and provide recommendations for setting up CP protocols in clinical and research settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic emerged as a major public health emergency affecting the healthcare services all over the world. It is essential to analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with COVID-19 in different parts of our country. This study highlights clinical experience in managing patients with COVID-19 at a tertiary care centre in northern India. Methods: Clinical characteristics and outcomes of consecutive adults patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital at Chandigarh, India, from April 1 to May 25, 2020 were studied. The diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on throat and/or nasopharyngeal swabs. All patients were managed according to the institute's consensus protocol and in accordance with Indian Council of Medical Research guidelines. Results: During the study period, 114 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were admitted. The history of contact with COVID-19-affected individuals was available in 75 (65.8%) patients. The median age of the patients was 33.5 yr (13-79 yr), and there were 66 (58%) males. Of the total enrolled patients, 48 (42%) were symptomatic. The common presenting complaints were fever (37, 77%), cough (26, 54%) and shortness of breath (10, 20.8%). Nineteen (17%) patients had hypoxia (SpO2<94%) at presentation and 36 (31%) had tachypnoea (RR >24). Thirty four (29.8%) patients had an accompanying comorbid illness. Age more than 60 yr and presence of diabetes and hypertension were significantly associated with severe COVID-19 disease. Admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) was needed in 18 patients (52%), with three (2.6%) patients requiring assisted ventilation. Mortality of 2.6 per cent (3 patients) was observed. Interpretation & conclusions: Majority of the patients with COVID-19 infection presenting to our hospital were young and asymptomatic. Fever was noted only in three-fourth of the patients and respiratory symptoms in half of them. Patients with comorbidities were more vulnerable to complications. Triaged classification of patients and protocol-based treatment resulted in good outcomes and low case fatality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to elucidate the demographics, symptoms and outcome of sick persons visiting coronavirus (COVID) screening OPD of a tertiary institute in North India. Study Design: The present descriptive, prospective study was done on 1030 patients and information about presenting symptoms, demographics (age, sex, nationality, residence), contact and travel history, comorbidities etc., were recorded. On the basis of criteria given by Indian Council of Medical Research, patients were divided into suspected (SARS-CoV-2) and non-suspected group. Of the suspected patients, with RT-PCR test positive were classified as confirmed COVID-19 case and negative RT-PCR symptomatic individual were defined as negative COVID-19 case. Results: Out of the total patients, 65.6% were male and 34.4% were females. The mean age was 37.04 years. Fever 49.3%, cough 57.1% and sore throat 43.5% were the main symptoms. Comorbidities were seen in 8.5% patients with hypertension (3.5%) and diabetes mellitus (3.4%). Forty patients were positive. Highly significant correlation (P < 0.01) was found between COVID-19 positive status and in patients without any symptoms, between COVID-19 and cough and sore throat, between COVID-19 and comorbidity (diabetes mellitus), between COVID-19 and high-risk exposures (resident of hot spot and history of contact with confirmed case). Our study also found COVID-19 positive status, shortness of breath and tachycardia as independent predictors of mortality (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Most of the patients were young adults and males were mainly affected. Main presentation was cough followed by fever. Infectivity was higher in patients who had underlying comorbid diseases, especially diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Critical patients with decreased oxygen saturation, tachypnoea and tachycardia had strong predictability for COVID-19 positivity. COVID-19 positive status, shortness of breath and tachycardia are important predictors of mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many recent studies have reported that patients infected with novel coronavirus 2019 or SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) might have a liver injury. However, few studies have focussed on the levels of Gamma glutamyl-transferase (GGT) alone and the variations associated with it. We retrospectively analysed the GGT levels of 476 admitted patients with confirmed COVID-19 in a tertiary care centre, PGIMER (Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research), Chandigarh. Out of the total 476 COVID-19 patients studied, 35% had elevated GGT levels. ICU care was required for 51.19% (P <0.0001) of these patients and their hospital stay was of longer duration as compared to the patients with normal GGT levels. The incidence of GGT elevation was found to be more pronounced in males and elderly patients. The male population displayed higher GGT levels with 52% having raised levels compared to females where only 21.6% had elevated GGT levels. Although the number of COVID-19 cases was majorly from young age groups, the elevation in GGT levels has been reported more in elderly patients. GGT levels can therefore serve as a predictor for the extent of liver injury and severity in COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which detected the presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA in toothbrushes. Topics include how the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected, sensitivity of toothbrushes which is comparable to the sensitivities reported with saliva, and conclusion on the role of toothbrushes as sampling methodology for the detection of SARS-CoV-2.

• Scrub typhus shows a great diversity in its strains over a large geographical area of north India. • Most common strain in north India is Karp, followed by Gilliam. • Kato-like strains found in South of India were not found in the present study. Scrub typhus has emerged as a major cause of acute febrile illness in India in recent years. The causative agent, Orientia tsutsugamushi has more than 20 prototype strains due to a variable 56-kDa outer membrane protein. It is crucial to know the prevailing types in India for the success of diagnostic immunoassays and prospective vaccine candidates. In north India, the principal types circulating are largely unknown. Our tertiary care hospital caters to a large area of north India (around 7 states and one union territory). Therefore, the current study was planned to identify the genotypes of O. tsutsugamushi strains circulating in this wide area of north India. Adults and children presenting with suspected scrub typhus between July 2013 and December 2013 were included in this study. DNA was extracted from whole blood and a nested PCR was used to amplify a 483-bp region of the 56-kDa antigen gene of O. tsutsugamushi. The PCR products were purified and DNA sequencing was performed and aligned using the CLUSTAL_X2 program. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using neighbour- joining algorithms and analysed using the sequences obtained in this study and those obtained from the GenBank database. A total of 34 samples were positive for PCR. The amplicons were sequenced and analyzed. Karp-like strains predominated in all states studied (64.7%) followed by Gilliam-like (26.47 %) and 8.82% similar to Hualien 1 or S072. We did not find any Kato or Kawasaki-like strain. Karp like strains showed >99% similarity to TH2033, TH2191, TH2208, Xinjiang & Neimeng strains and Gilliam-like strains showed >99% similarity to Clone ISS -11. Orientia tsutsugamushi shows a great diversity in its strains over a large geographical area of north India. This has implications in the production of both diagnostic assays and vaccine for scrub typhus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Deep vein thrombosis is a multifactorial disease with many acquired and genetic risk factors. Polymorphism in the APOE gene is an upcoming potential pathogenic factor whose role is unclear in deep vein thrombosis. Methods: An equal number of deep vein thrombosis cases and controls (N¼100, each) were investigated for APOE gene polymorphisms along with known acquired and hereditable thrombophilic risk factors. APOE genotyping was done by polymerase chain reaction. Results: The e3/e4 and e2/e3 APOE genotypes were commoner in deep vein thrombosis cases than controls but not statistically significant (e3/e4 ! 18% versus 11%, OR¼1.776, CI¼0.792-3.984, p¼0.16; e2/e3 !10% versus 9%, OR¼1.123, CI¼0.436-2.895, p¼0.809). However, the following risk factors were found to be laterally associated with APOE genotypes in cases of deep vein thrombosis: pregnancy with e2/e3 genotype positivity (N¼29; p¼0.019), recurrent pregnancy loss with e3/e3 genotype (N¼29; p¼0.016), normal antithrombin levels with e3/e3 genotype (N¼62; p¼0.03) and non-O blood group with e3/e4 genotype (N¼100; p¼0.023). Conclusion: APOE genotypes have shown only a modest association with deep vein thrombosis and were not statistically significant. A lateral association of these genotypes with thrombophilic risk factors was observed which may be investigated further for the possible pathogenetic mechanisms and their therapeutic implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study was performed to investigate the presence of SARSCoV-2 virus in wounds of COVID-19 positive patients. Methods This is a single-center observational study. COVID-19 patients with wounds (traumatic/infective/surgical) were included in this study. Preoperative, intraoperative, or postoperative specimens were collected and analyzed with real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) to know the presence of the virus. Results A total of eight patients were included in this study. Eleven samples were collected (seven wound swabs, two peritoneal fluids, and two tissue specimens) and analyzed. None of the samples from the wound tested positive for the virus while they were tested positive for nasal swab taken simultaneously or within 3 days prior. Conclusion The wounds of COVID-19 patients are considered negative and can be managed with routine wound precautions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recently discovered SARS-CoV2 virus produces a influenza like illness named Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The usual presentation is with upper/lower respiratory tract symptoms and rarely gastrointestinal symptoms. Although some of the clinical features of this novel disease like fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath have been well documented in literature, we report hitherto infrequently reported clinical features of this disease, namely Anosmia and Ageusia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Short‐term mucocutaneous adverse effects are well documented with imatinib. However, studies on long‐term adverse effects and in the ethnic population are lacking. Objective: To study the long‐term mucocutaneous adverse effects of imatinib and factors predicting these adverse effects. Methods: In this cross‐sectional study, consenting adult chronic myeloid leukemia patients on imatinib for more than 250 days were recruited. The details of imatinib treatment were retrieved from hematology clinic records. Results: Four hundred and thirty‐eight patients who were on imatinib for a mean duration of 1820 days were recruited. A mean number of 1.42 ± 0.98 cutaneous adverse effects were seen per patient. Melasma‐like pigmentation, periorbital edema, oral lichenoid reaction, cutaneous hypopigmentation, and vesicobullous eruptions were seen in 236 (53.9%), 81 (18.5%), 70 (16%), 42 (9.6%), and 12 (2.7%) patients, respectively. Drug‐induced cutaneous eruptions (9.1%) and cutaneous hypopigmentation (9.6%) were seen less frequently. Cutaneous hyperpigmentation was more likely seen in younger patients (P = 0.001) and females (P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, female gender was a significant risk factor for developing cutaneous hyperpigmentation and periorbital edema. Conclusion: Cutaneous hyperpigmentation and periorbital edema are common long‐term adverse effects of imatinib in Indian patients. Female gender is a significant risk factor for the development of both these adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors has transformed the care of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia, with survival approaching that of healthy individuals. Current-day challenges in chronic myeloid leukemia care include adherence to tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy.Westudied adherence from resource-constrained settings and tried to analyze the factors responsible for nonadherence in these individuals. We also correlated adherence to current molecular status. Patients and Methods This was a single-center, cross-sectional, observational study from north India. It consisted of a questionnaire-based survey in which a one-to-one interview technique was used by trained nursing staff administering the Modified Morisky Adherence Scale (MMAS-9) questionnaire. Adherence was also measured on the basis of physician’s assessment. JMP 13.0.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results A total of 333 patients with a median age of 42 years were included in the study. The median BCRABL/ ABL ratio (IS) was 0.175 (0.0 to 98.0). The mean MMAS-9 score was 1162. Adherence was seen in 54.95% on the basis of MMAS-9, whereas physician’s assessment reported adherence in 90.39% of patients. Using the x2 test, no relationship was found between the two assessment techniques. There was a significant relationship between major molecular response status and adherence by physician’s assessment and MMAS-9 (P < .001). Bivariate analysis by logistic fit showed a good relation between the MMAS-9 score and the BCR-ABL/ABL ratio (IS), x2 (1,220) = 135.45 (P < .001). On multivariate analysis, enrolment in the Novartis Oncology Access program (a patient assistance program) was significantly associated with adherence (P = .012). Conclusion This study highlights the lack of adherence in real-world settings and the various factors responsible. Such studies are important from a public health services perspective in various settings around the world because they may lead to corrective action being taken at the institutional level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]