COVID-19 generates systematic alterations in humans both in active stages of infection and over time, called post-COVID syndrome. Cortisol is a hormone that is overexpressed in inflammation and cellular stress process...COVID-19 generates systematic alterations in humans both in active stages of infection and over time, called post-COVID syndrome. Cortisol is a hormone that is overexpressed in inflammation and cellular stress processes. Its main function is to return to physiological homeostasis, so its evaluation together with other clinical parameters can allow us to determine the degree of systemic affectation by COVID-19. Objective: To evaluate changes in clinical parameters and plasma cortisol concentrations in patients with active COVID-19 and post-COVID syndrome. Material and Methods: Healthy patients, in stages of mild infection, critical and with post-COVID syndrome, were recruited, obtaining, through clinical diagnoses and interviews, their main clinical characteristics, in addition to plasma, in which cortisol concentrations were determined using competitive ELISA. Results: The critical stage group had higher frequencies of comorbidities, clinical symptoms, as well as more altered laboratory parameters compared to the other subgroups. In the post-COVID syndrome group after the initial infection, most laboratory parameters recovered, however, several clinical symptoms remained latent over time. The determination of cortisol showed an increase in its concentration, being higher in patients in critical stage and with post-COVID syndrome. Conclusion: COVID-19 disease generates clinical alterations that trigger an increase in plasma cortisol. These alterations increase as the stages of infection become more severe and some of them remain altered in patients with post-COVID syndrome.展开更多
BACKGROUND During the second wave of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic,a subset of critically ill patients developed delayed respiratory deterioration in the absence of new infection,fluid overload or ext...BACKGROUND During the second wave of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic,a subset of critically ill patients developed delayed respiratory deterioration in the absence of new infection,fluid overload or extra-pulmonary organ dysfunction.AIM To describe the clinical and laboratory characteristics,outcomes,and management of these patients,and to contrast this entity with other post COVID-19 immune dysregulation related inflammatory disorders.METHODS This was a retrospective observational study of adult patients admitted to the medical intensive care unit of a 2200-bed university affiliated teaching hospital,between May and August 2021,who fulfilled clearly defined inclusion and exclusion criteria.Outcome was assessed by a change in PaO_(2)/FiO_(2) ratio and levels of inflammatory markers before and after immunomodulation,duration of mechanical ventilation after starting treatment,and survival to discharge.RESULTS Five patients developed delayed respiratory deterioration in the absence of new infection,fluid overload or extrapulmonary organ dysfunction at a median interquartile range(IQR)duration of 32(23-35)d after the onset of symptoms.These patients had elevated inflammatory markers,required mechanical ventilation for 13(IQR 10-23)d,and responded to glucocorticoids and/or intravenous immunoglobulin.One patient died(20%).CONCLUSION This delayed respiratory worsening with elevated inflammatory markers and clinical response to immunomodulation appears to contrast the well described Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome–Adults by the paucity of extrapulmonary organ involvement.The diagnosis can be considered in patients presenting with delayed respiratory worsening,that is not attributable to cardiac dysfunction,fluid overload or ongoing infections,and associated with an increase in systemic inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein,inteleukin-6 and ferritin.A good response to immunomodulation can be expected.This delayed inflammatory pulmonary syndrome may represent a distinct clinical entity in the spectrum of inflammatory syndromes in COVID-19 infection.展开更多
This project paper is to give a prediction for the future of other viral pandemics and to provide recommendations for preparing therapies that could help in the success of effective treatments and benefits for patient...This project paper is to give a prediction for the future of other viral pandemics and to provide recommendations for preparing therapies that could help in the success of effective treatments and benefits for patients in life-threatening situations. The theory of prediction was proposed by Huu S. TIEU on March 25, 2019, and he hypothesized that any malfunctioning cell in the body could have a damaging effect. This paper discusses the prediction that Localized Oxygen Deprivation could be a contributing factor for a future epidemic or other viral pandemics that could affect body function. This paper is based on opinion and does not have sufficient evidence to support the claims made. Therefore, further in-depth study is needed to prove the findings. The author cites Hypoxia to support his idea, but he is not claiming that Hypoxia-Inducible Factor (HIF) has worked on his predictions. The author also tested a theory using cow blood curd for body function, but this test was not a structured test and the findings were not supported by other evidence. To further prove the idea or theory, further study into the subject should be conducted.展开更多
Introduction: Anxiety disorders have a lifetime prevalence of 34% with a similar level of heritability (31%) yet lack objective markers that could differentiate patients with underlying conditions. Up to 60%-70% of pa...Introduction: Anxiety disorders have a lifetime prevalence of 34% with a similar level of heritability (31%) yet lack objective markers that could differentiate patients with underlying conditions. Up to 60%-70% of patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome have anxiety that meets criteria of generalized anxiety disorder, their clinical-DNA findings worth examining as biomarkers for patients with generalized anxiety. Method: Of the 1899 patients diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, 1261 were systematically evaluated for 80 history and 40 physical findings and separated into 826 who reported anxiety and 435 who did not. The most consistently reported or management-directing 60 of these clinical findings were, along with variations in genes relevant to these disorders, examined for association with anxiety. Results: Among the 30 anxiety- associated findings judged most predictive of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in patients with anxiety were expected ones of adrenergic stimulation (difficulty concentrating-87% frequency and 1.26 anxiety/no anxiety ratio;chronic fatigue-84%, 1.17;sleep issues 69%, 1.52 that are criteria for generalized anxiety disorder) or of cholinergic suppression (e.g., frequent nausea 64%, 1.26). Less associated but more discriminating for underlying disease were those reflective of neuromuscular impact (e.g., chronic daily headaches 76%, 1.12);hypermobility (e.g., awareness of flexibility 72%, 1.03), or skin changes (e.g., elasticity around jaw 71%, 1.06). Anxiety-associated DNA variants included 54 of 88 in collagen type I/V/VII/IX genes, 14 of 16 in sodium channel SCN9A/10A/ 11A genes, 59 of 85 in POLG/MT-DNA genes, and 21 of 28 in profilaggrin- FLG genes that respectively impacted tissue laxity, sensory neural, autonomic-mitochondrial, and autonomic-inflammatory functions. Conclusion: Analysis of pathogenetic mechanisms in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome selected some 50 clinical-DNA findings useful for its diagnosis in those with generalized anxiety disorders.展开更多
Aim: To detect risk and preventive factors associated with the Omicron variant infection in university students, a combination of a web-based survey and multivariate logistic regression analysis was introduced as the ...Aim: To detect risk and preventive factors associated with the Omicron variant infection in university students, a combination of a web-based survey and multivariate logistic regression analysis was introduced as the front-line initiatives by the school health practitioners. Design: Questionnaire survey. Methods: The school-wide web-based questionnaire survey was conducted among our university students as a part of the annual health check-up in April, 2023. The positive outcome was confined to the first symptomatic COVID-19 onset during the Omicron variant outbreak. Results: In this self-administered survey, risk or protective associations were merely estimated statistically in university students (n = 5406). In measured factors, karaoke and club/group activities could maintain the statistical significance in adjusted odds ratios (ORs) as relative risk factors, and science course, measles/ rubella (MR) vaccination, and COVID-19 vaccination remained as relative protective factors in adjusted OR analyses. Club/group activities with member gathering and karaoke sing-along sessions in university students may frequently have WHO’s three Cs. These risk factors are still important topics for the infection control of COVID-19 in university students. Together with some recent reports from other researchers, the significant protective role of MR vaccine in our survey warrants further clinical investigation. If the breakthrough infection continuously constitutes the majority of infection, real data in test-negative case-control or web-based questionnaire design continue to be important for statistical analysis to determine the minimal requirement of our strategies which may be equivalent to or replace COVID-19 vaccines.展开更多
Coronaviruses are pathogens thought to primarily affect the respiratory tracts of humans.The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)in 2019 was also marked mainly by its symptoms of res...Coronaviruses are pathogens thought to primarily affect the respiratory tracts of humans.The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)in 2019 was also marked mainly by its symptoms of respiratory illness,which were named coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Since its initial discovery,many other symptoms have been linked to acute SARS-CoV-2 infections as well as to the long-term outcomes of COVID-19 patients.Among these symptoms are different categories of cardiovascular diseases(CVDs),which continue to be the main cause of death worldwide.The World Health Organization estimates that 17.9 million people die from CVDs each year,accounting for~32%of all deaths globally.Physical inactivity is one of the most important behavioral risk factors for CVDs.The COVID-19 pandemic has affected CVDs as well as the physical activity in different ways.Here,we provide an overview of the current status as well as future challenges and possible solutions.展开更多
BACKGROUND The Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19)caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus is an international health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality.COVID-associated cystiti...BACKGROUND The Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19)caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus is an international health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality.COVID-associated cystitis(CAC),presents as new onset or exacerbated urinary symptoms,resembling overactive bladder(OAB)symptoms.AIM To examines the long-term outcomes of patients with CAC in the context of Long COVID.METHODS A cohort of 350 patients admitted to Detroit Hospitals with COVID-19 between May and December 2020,displaying CAC symptoms following discharge,was prospectively followed.Initial urologic evaluations occurred at 10-14 wk and were repeated at 21-28 mo postdischarge.Symptoms were managed conservatively,employing behavioral modifications and standard OAB medications.Participants completed surveys assessing urinary symptoms and quality of life(QoL)at both time points.The primary outcome was the Urology Care Foundation Overactive Bladder Assessment Tool.RESULTS 87%of the final cohort(n=310)reported symptom improvement at 21-28 mo post-discharge.Patients with new onset CAC symptoms showed a median decrease of 9-10 points in OAB and QoL scores,while those with existing symptoms experienced a decrease of 6 points.Overall,95.4%of patients with new onset symptoms reported symptom improvement at follow-up,contrasting with 60.7%among those with existing symptoms.CONCLUSION This study presents the first long-term follow-up of adult patients with CAC,revealing a promising prognosis with conservative management measures in the context of Long COVID.These findings provide reassurance to patients regarding symptom resolution and underscore the need for further research into this evolving aspect of COVID-19's impact on urological health.展开更多
The topic of the long-term effects of COVID-19, so-called “long-COVID”, has gained increased attention. The US federal government announced plans to develop an interagency national research action plan to uncover mo...The topic of the long-term effects of COVID-19, so-called “long-COVID”, has gained increased attention. The US federal government announced plans to develop an interagency national research action plan to uncover more insights into the long-term effects of COVID-19. This study contributes to our understanding of the long-term effects of COVID-19 by quantifying patterns of healthcare utilization up to 360 days after an initial COVID-19 diagnosis occurring during the beginning of the pandemic (March-August 2020) in a very large nationally representative population of insured adults. We quantify actual COVID-19-related utilization (as opposed to reported symptoms) by accessing claims data to calculate average medical visits per patient per month by type of encounter (e.g. inpatient stay, physician visit). In contrast to many recent reports in the media, our results show that COVID-19-related utilization declines substantially after the first-month post-diagnosis and continues to decline throughout the study period to very low levels.展开更多
We report the case of a 39-year-old patient with a history of chronic gastritis, functional colopathy and appendectomy, referred by another public institution for severe abdominal pain. He had been admitted 6 days pre...We report the case of a 39-year-old patient with a history of chronic gastritis, functional colopathy and appendectomy, referred by another public institution for severe abdominal pain. He had been admitted 6 days previously for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, asthenia since the onset of dyspnea with 89% desaturation in ambient air and a dry cough. A diagnosis of gastroenteritis was made and treated without success. The appearance of abdominal distension and bloating motivated his transfer to the CTPI where the rRT-PCR was carried out positive and an X-ray of the abdomen without preparation which had demonstrated a significant aerocoly with agglutination of handle. Surgical management under general anesthesia found a clean cavity after coeliotomy, multiple intestino-intestinal, intestino-parietal and omentum-parietal adhesions. The gesture consisted of an adhesiolysis, omentectomy. The postoperative follow-up was favorable with resumption of transit on D5 postoperative. Put under the COVID-19 treatment protocol, the rRT-PCR was negative on D13, output on D14 and removal of the D19 files without postoperative complications.展开更多
COVID-19 is a new challenge in clinical medicine. Although typical presentations include fever and pneumonia, we describe a case of COVID-19 presenting with neurological symptoms of encephalitis and infectious-related...COVID-19 is a new challenge in clinical medicine. Although typical presentations include fever and pneumonia, we describe a case of COVID-19 presenting with neurological symptoms of encephalitis and infectious-related syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone secretion. Because of the epidemic health problems, it is crucial to identify these patients as early as possible to follow the isolation procedures. We suggest that unclear neurological clinical presentations of patients should be considered for COVID-19.展开更多
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection typically presents with respiratory symptoms. Additionally, there are a number of less frequent neurological manifestations of infection with the coronavir...The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection typically presents with respiratory symptoms. Additionally, there are a number of less frequent neurological manifestations of infection with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with case reports suggesting an association with the Guillain-Barre syndrome. Most patients present with the typical upper respiratory symptoms in association with these neurological symptoms. We present a case of an unvaccinated gentleman with none of the typical respiratory symptoms of COVID-19 who presented with the Guillain Barre syndrome and myalgia. His symptoms settled following treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins. This case highlights the importance of testing for COVID-19 in patients without typical symptoms but who present with neurological illness and supports the use of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.展开更多
The new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) broke out in Wuhan in China in December 2019, causing severe pneumonia and deaths, soon in March 2020, it reached pandemic level, affecting several countries including Brazil. The dise...The new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) broke out in Wuhan in China in December 2019, causing severe pneumonia and deaths, soon in March 2020, it reached pandemic level, affecting several countries including Brazil. The disease was named COVID-19, with characteristics of most infected having mild and moderate symptoms and a part severe symptom. The disease has already reached 158 ethnic groups, which have high vulnerability and limited access to health services. The objective is to investigate the clinical and spatial characteristics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome of COVID-19 in the indigenous peoples of Brazil. It is an epidemiological, cross-sectional, analytical ecological study, based on data from the OpenDataSUS platform from 01/01/2020 to 31/08/2020. Profile variables, signs and symptoms and risk factors/comorbidities. The data were analyzed by Bioestat 5.3. There were 1,207 cases and 470 deaths. Profile: male gender (59.48%) means age 53 years. Signs and symptoms: fever (74.23%), cough (77.71%), sore throat (35.62%), dyspnea (69.34%), respiratory discomfort (62.80%), O<sub>2</sub> saturation < 95% (56.42%);and associated with mortality: dyspnea (80.0%) and O<sub>2</sub> saturation < 95% (69.36%). Risk factors and comorbidities (45.89%) were associated with deaths (54.04%). About comorbidities, chronic cardiovascular diseases represented (18.97%) and Diabetes Mellitus (18.97%), and associated with deaths: Chronic Cardiovascular Disease (24.46%). Being admitted to the ICU has a risk of death in (OR-3.96- < 0.0001-CI-2913/5383) followed by not being vaccinated against influenza (OR-1.85- < 0.0001-CI-1358/2528). The public and health policies of Brazil should be directed to control the dissemination of COVID-19 in this population, that COVID-19 evolves in the same intensity, however, the indigenous have vulnerabilities that can increase the impact of the pandemic in this population.展开更多
A 17-year-old male with no significant past medical history presented to the emergency department with severe sepsis of unknown etiology. The patient was found to have septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular v...A 17-year-old male with no significant past medical history presented to the emergency department with severe sepsis of unknown etiology. The patient was found to have septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein with multiorgan dysfunction and septic embolization to both lungs. The patient was also noted to have COVID-19 IgM antibodies and multiple close COVID-19 exposures prior to the patient’s emergency department presentation. Here, we present the prolonged and complicated hospitalization of this patient and a review of this rare but important disease.展开更多
BACKGROUND It is common for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infection to occur in the gastrointestinal tract,which can present itself as an initial symptom.The severity of coronavirus diseas...BACKGROUND It is common for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infection to occur in the gastrointestinal tract,which can present itself as an initial symptom.The severity of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)is often reflected in the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms.COVID-19 can damage the nerve supply to the digestive system,leading to gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction.There is still much to learn about how COVID-19 affects the autonomic nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.AIM To thoroughly explore the epidemiology and clinical aspects of COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction,including its manifestations,potential mechanisms,diagnosis,differential diagnosis,impact on quality of life,prognosis,and management and prevention strategies.METHODS We conducted a thorough systematic search across various databases and performed an extensive literature review.Our review encompassed 113 studies published in English from January 2000 to April 18,2023.RESULTS According to most of the literature,gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction can seriously affect a patient's quality of life and ultimate prognosis.Numerous factors can influence gastrointestinal autonomic nervous functions.Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 has a well-documented affinity for both neural and gastrointestinal tissues,and the virus can produce various gastrointestinal symptoms by reaching neural tissues through different pathways.These symptoms include anorexia,dysgeusia,heartburn,belching,chest pain,regurgitation,vomiting,epigastric burn,diarrhea,abdominal pain,bloating,irregular bowel movements,and constipation.Diarrhea is the most prevalent symptom,followed by anorexia,nausea,vomiting,and abdominal pain.Although COVID-19 vaccination may rarely induce autonomic dysfunction and gastrointestinal symptoms,COVID-19-induced autonomic effects significantly impact the patient's condition,general health,prognosis,and quality of life.Early diagnosis and proper recognition are crucial for improving outcomes.It is important to consider the differential diagnosis,as these symptoms may be induced by diseases other than COVID-19-induced autonomic dysfunction.Treating this dysfunction can be a challenging task.CONCLUSION To ensure the best possible outcomes for COVID-19 patients,it is essential to take a multidisciplinary approach involving providing supportive care,treating the underlying infection,managing dysfunction,monitoring for complications,and offering nutritional support.Close monitoring of the patient's condition is crucial,and prompt intervention should be taken if necessary.Furthermore,conducting thorough research on the gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction caused by COVID-19 is vital to manage it effectively.展开更多
Long COVID symptoms typically occur within 3 months of an initial COVID-19 infection,last for more than 2 months,and cannot be explained by other diagnoses.The most common symptoms include fatigue,dyspnea,coughing,and...Long COVID symptoms typically occur within 3 months of an initial COVID-19 infection,last for more than 2 months,and cannot be explained by other diagnoses.The most common symptoms include fatigue,dyspnea,coughing,and cognitive impairment.The mechanisms of long COVID are not fully understood,but several hypotheses have been put forth.These include coagulation and fibrosis pathway activation,inflammatory and autoimmune manifestations,persistent virus presence,and Epstein-Barr virus reactivation.Hyperbaric oxygen therapy(HBOT)is a therapeutic method in which a person inhales 100%oxygen under pressure greater than that of the atmosphere.HBOT has some therapeutic effects,including improvement of microcirculation,inhibition of cytokine release leading to a reduction in inflammatory responses,inhibition of autoimmune responses,and promotion of neurological repair.Several clinical trials have been carried out using HBOT to treat long COVID.The results suggest that HBOT helps to improve symptom severity,reduce symptom duration,and enhance patients’quality of life.It is believed that HBOT is an effective option for patients with long COVID,which is worth actively promoting.展开更多
文摘COVID-19 generates systematic alterations in humans both in active stages of infection and over time, called post-COVID syndrome. Cortisol is a hormone that is overexpressed in inflammation and cellular stress processes. Its main function is to return to physiological homeostasis, so its evaluation together with other clinical parameters can allow us to determine the degree of systemic affectation by COVID-19. Objective: To evaluate changes in clinical parameters and plasma cortisol concentrations in patients with active COVID-19 and post-COVID syndrome. Material and Methods: Healthy patients, in stages of mild infection, critical and with post-COVID syndrome, were recruited, obtaining, through clinical diagnoses and interviews, their main clinical characteristics, in addition to plasma, in which cortisol concentrations were determined using competitive ELISA. Results: The critical stage group had higher frequencies of comorbidities, clinical symptoms, as well as more altered laboratory parameters compared to the other subgroups. In the post-COVID syndrome group after the initial infection, most laboratory parameters recovered, however, several clinical symptoms remained latent over time. The determination of cortisol showed an increase in its concentration, being higher in patients in critical stage and with post-COVID syndrome. Conclusion: COVID-19 disease generates clinical alterations that trigger an increase in plasma cortisol. These alterations increase as the stages of infection become more severe and some of them remain altered in patients with post-COVID syndrome.
文摘BACKGROUND During the second wave of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic,a subset of critically ill patients developed delayed respiratory deterioration in the absence of new infection,fluid overload or extra-pulmonary organ dysfunction.AIM To describe the clinical and laboratory characteristics,outcomes,and management of these patients,and to contrast this entity with other post COVID-19 immune dysregulation related inflammatory disorders.METHODS This was a retrospective observational study of adult patients admitted to the medical intensive care unit of a 2200-bed university affiliated teaching hospital,between May and August 2021,who fulfilled clearly defined inclusion and exclusion criteria.Outcome was assessed by a change in PaO_(2)/FiO_(2) ratio and levels of inflammatory markers before and after immunomodulation,duration of mechanical ventilation after starting treatment,and survival to discharge.RESULTS Five patients developed delayed respiratory deterioration in the absence of new infection,fluid overload or extrapulmonary organ dysfunction at a median interquartile range(IQR)duration of 32(23-35)d after the onset of symptoms.These patients had elevated inflammatory markers,required mechanical ventilation for 13(IQR 10-23)d,and responded to glucocorticoids and/or intravenous immunoglobulin.One patient died(20%).CONCLUSION This delayed respiratory worsening with elevated inflammatory markers and clinical response to immunomodulation appears to contrast the well described Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome–Adults by the paucity of extrapulmonary organ involvement.The diagnosis can be considered in patients presenting with delayed respiratory worsening,that is not attributable to cardiac dysfunction,fluid overload or ongoing infections,and associated with an increase in systemic inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein,inteleukin-6 and ferritin.A good response to immunomodulation can be expected.This delayed inflammatory pulmonary syndrome may represent a distinct clinical entity in the spectrum of inflammatory syndromes in COVID-19 infection.
文摘This project paper is to give a prediction for the future of other viral pandemics and to provide recommendations for preparing therapies that could help in the success of effective treatments and benefits for patients in life-threatening situations. The theory of prediction was proposed by Huu S. TIEU on March 25, 2019, and he hypothesized that any malfunctioning cell in the body could have a damaging effect. This paper discusses the prediction that Localized Oxygen Deprivation could be a contributing factor for a future epidemic or other viral pandemics that could affect body function. This paper is based on opinion and does not have sufficient evidence to support the claims made. Therefore, further in-depth study is needed to prove the findings. The author cites Hypoxia to support his idea, but he is not claiming that Hypoxia-Inducible Factor (HIF) has worked on his predictions. The author also tested a theory using cow blood curd for body function, but this test was not a structured test and the findings were not supported by other evidence. To further prove the idea or theory, further study into the subject should be conducted.
文摘Introduction: Anxiety disorders have a lifetime prevalence of 34% with a similar level of heritability (31%) yet lack objective markers that could differentiate patients with underlying conditions. Up to 60%-70% of patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome have anxiety that meets criteria of generalized anxiety disorder, their clinical-DNA findings worth examining as biomarkers for patients with generalized anxiety. Method: Of the 1899 patients diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, 1261 were systematically evaluated for 80 history and 40 physical findings and separated into 826 who reported anxiety and 435 who did not. The most consistently reported or management-directing 60 of these clinical findings were, along with variations in genes relevant to these disorders, examined for association with anxiety. Results: Among the 30 anxiety- associated findings judged most predictive of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in patients with anxiety were expected ones of adrenergic stimulation (difficulty concentrating-87% frequency and 1.26 anxiety/no anxiety ratio;chronic fatigue-84%, 1.17;sleep issues 69%, 1.52 that are criteria for generalized anxiety disorder) or of cholinergic suppression (e.g., frequent nausea 64%, 1.26). Less associated but more discriminating for underlying disease were those reflective of neuromuscular impact (e.g., chronic daily headaches 76%, 1.12);hypermobility (e.g., awareness of flexibility 72%, 1.03), or skin changes (e.g., elasticity around jaw 71%, 1.06). Anxiety-associated DNA variants included 54 of 88 in collagen type I/V/VII/IX genes, 14 of 16 in sodium channel SCN9A/10A/ 11A genes, 59 of 85 in POLG/MT-DNA genes, and 21 of 28 in profilaggrin- FLG genes that respectively impacted tissue laxity, sensory neural, autonomic-mitochondrial, and autonomic-inflammatory functions. Conclusion: Analysis of pathogenetic mechanisms in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome selected some 50 clinical-DNA findings useful for its diagnosis in those with generalized anxiety disorders.
文摘Aim: To detect risk and preventive factors associated with the Omicron variant infection in university students, a combination of a web-based survey and multivariate logistic regression analysis was introduced as the front-line initiatives by the school health practitioners. Design: Questionnaire survey. Methods: The school-wide web-based questionnaire survey was conducted among our university students as a part of the annual health check-up in April, 2023. The positive outcome was confined to the first symptomatic COVID-19 onset during the Omicron variant outbreak. Results: In this self-administered survey, risk or protective associations were merely estimated statistically in university students (n = 5406). In measured factors, karaoke and club/group activities could maintain the statistical significance in adjusted odds ratios (ORs) as relative risk factors, and science course, measles/ rubella (MR) vaccination, and COVID-19 vaccination remained as relative protective factors in adjusted OR analyses. Club/group activities with member gathering and karaoke sing-along sessions in university students may frequently have WHO’s three Cs. These risk factors are still important topics for the infection control of COVID-19 in university students. Together with some recent reports from other researchers, the significant protective role of MR vaccine in our survey warrants further clinical investigation. If the breakthrough infection continuously constitutes the majority of infection, real data in test-negative case-control or web-based questionnaire design continue to be important for statistical analysis to determine the minimal requirement of our strategies which may be equivalent to or replace COVID-19 vaccines.
基金supported by the MWK Lower Saxony,Germanythe COVID-19 Forschungsnetzwerk Niedersachsen(COFONI)。
文摘Coronaviruses are pathogens thought to primarily affect the respiratory tracts of humans.The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)in 2019 was also marked mainly by its symptoms of respiratory illness,which were named coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Since its initial discovery,many other symptoms have been linked to acute SARS-CoV-2 infections as well as to the long-term outcomes of COVID-19 patients.Among these symptoms are different categories of cardiovascular diseases(CVDs),which continue to be the main cause of death worldwide.The World Health Organization estimates that 17.9 million people die from CVDs each year,accounting for~32%of all deaths globally.Physical inactivity is one of the most important behavioral risk factors for CVDs.The COVID-19 pandemic has affected CVDs as well as the physical activity in different ways.Here,we provide an overview of the current status as well as future challenges and possible solutions.
基金The study was reviewed and approved by the Wayne State University Institutional Review Board(Protocol Number:IRB-20-04-2126).
文摘BACKGROUND The Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19)caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus is an international health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality.COVID-associated cystitis(CAC),presents as new onset or exacerbated urinary symptoms,resembling overactive bladder(OAB)symptoms.AIM To examines the long-term outcomes of patients with CAC in the context of Long COVID.METHODS A cohort of 350 patients admitted to Detroit Hospitals with COVID-19 between May and December 2020,displaying CAC symptoms following discharge,was prospectively followed.Initial urologic evaluations occurred at 10-14 wk and were repeated at 21-28 mo postdischarge.Symptoms were managed conservatively,employing behavioral modifications and standard OAB medications.Participants completed surveys assessing urinary symptoms and quality of life(QoL)at both time points.The primary outcome was the Urology Care Foundation Overactive Bladder Assessment Tool.RESULTS 87%of the final cohort(n=310)reported symptom improvement at 21-28 mo post-discharge.Patients with new onset CAC symptoms showed a median decrease of 9-10 points in OAB and QoL scores,while those with existing symptoms experienced a decrease of 6 points.Overall,95.4%of patients with new onset symptoms reported symptom improvement at follow-up,contrasting with 60.7%among those with existing symptoms.CONCLUSION This study presents the first long-term follow-up of adult patients with CAC,revealing a promising prognosis with conservative management measures in the context of Long COVID.These findings provide reassurance to patients regarding symptom resolution and underscore the need for further research into this evolving aspect of COVID-19's impact on urological health.
文摘The topic of the long-term effects of COVID-19, so-called “long-COVID”, has gained increased attention. The US federal government announced plans to develop an interagency national research action plan to uncover more insights into the long-term effects of COVID-19. This study contributes to our understanding of the long-term effects of COVID-19 by quantifying patterns of healthcare utilization up to 360 days after an initial COVID-19 diagnosis occurring during the beginning of the pandemic (March-August 2020) in a very large nationally representative population of insured adults. We quantify actual COVID-19-related utilization (as opposed to reported symptoms) by accessing claims data to calculate average medical visits per patient per month by type of encounter (e.g. inpatient stay, physician visit). In contrast to many recent reports in the media, our results show that COVID-19-related utilization declines substantially after the first-month post-diagnosis and continues to decline throughout the study period to very low levels.
文摘We report the case of a 39-year-old patient with a history of chronic gastritis, functional colopathy and appendectomy, referred by another public institution for severe abdominal pain. He had been admitted 6 days previously for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, asthenia since the onset of dyspnea with 89% desaturation in ambient air and a dry cough. A diagnosis of gastroenteritis was made and treated without success. The appearance of abdominal distension and bloating motivated his transfer to the CTPI where the rRT-PCR was carried out positive and an X-ray of the abdomen without preparation which had demonstrated a significant aerocoly with agglutination of handle. Surgical management under general anesthesia found a clean cavity after coeliotomy, multiple intestino-intestinal, intestino-parietal and omentum-parietal adhesions. The gesture consisted of an adhesiolysis, omentectomy. The postoperative follow-up was favorable with resumption of transit on D5 postoperative. Put under the COVID-19 treatment protocol, the rRT-PCR was negative on D13, output on D14 and removal of the D19 files without postoperative complications.
文摘COVID-19 is a new challenge in clinical medicine. Although typical presentations include fever and pneumonia, we describe a case of COVID-19 presenting with neurological symptoms of encephalitis and infectious-related syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone secretion. Because of the epidemic health problems, it is crucial to identify these patients as early as possible to follow the isolation procedures. We suggest that unclear neurological clinical presentations of patients should be considered for COVID-19.
文摘The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection typically presents with respiratory symptoms. Additionally, there are a number of less frequent neurological manifestations of infection with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with case reports suggesting an association with the Guillain-Barre syndrome. Most patients present with the typical upper respiratory symptoms in association with these neurological symptoms. We present a case of an unvaccinated gentleman with none of the typical respiratory symptoms of COVID-19 who presented with the Guillain Barre syndrome and myalgia. His symptoms settled following treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins. This case highlights the importance of testing for COVID-19 in patients without typical symptoms but who present with neurological illness and supports the use of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.
文摘The new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) broke out in Wuhan in China in December 2019, causing severe pneumonia and deaths, soon in March 2020, it reached pandemic level, affecting several countries including Brazil. The disease was named COVID-19, with characteristics of most infected having mild and moderate symptoms and a part severe symptom. The disease has already reached 158 ethnic groups, which have high vulnerability and limited access to health services. The objective is to investigate the clinical and spatial characteristics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome of COVID-19 in the indigenous peoples of Brazil. It is an epidemiological, cross-sectional, analytical ecological study, based on data from the OpenDataSUS platform from 01/01/2020 to 31/08/2020. Profile variables, signs and symptoms and risk factors/comorbidities. The data were analyzed by Bioestat 5.3. There were 1,207 cases and 470 deaths. Profile: male gender (59.48%) means age 53 years. Signs and symptoms: fever (74.23%), cough (77.71%), sore throat (35.62%), dyspnea (69.34%), respiratory discomfort (62.80%), O<sub>2</sub> saturation < 95% (56.42%);and associated with mortality: dyspnea (80.0%) and O<sub>2</sub> saturation < 95% (69.36%). Risk factors and comorbidities (45.89%) were associated with deaths (54.04%). About comorbidities, chronic cardiovascular diseases represented (18.97%) and Diabetes Mellitus (18.97%), and associated with deaths: Chronic Cardiovascular Disease (24.46%). Being admitted to the ICU has a risk of death in (OR-3.96- < 0.0001-CI-2913/5383) followed by not being vaccinated against influenza (OR-1.85- < 0.0001-CI-1358/2528). The public and health policies of Brazil should be directed to control the dissemination of COVID-19 in this population, that COVID-19 evolves in the same intensity, however, the indigenous have vulnerabilities that can increase the impact of the pandemic in this population.
文摘A 17-year-old male with no significant past medical history presented to the emergency department with severe sepsis of unknown etiology. The patient was found to have septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein with multiorgan dysfunction and septic embolization to both lungs. The patient was also noted to have COVID-19 IgM antibodies and multiple close COVID-19 exposures prior to the patient’s emergency department presentation. Here, we present the prolonged and complicated hospitalization of this patient and a review of this rare but important disease.
文摘BACKGROUND It is common for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infection to occur in the gastrointestinal tract,which can present itself as an initial symptom.The severity of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)is often reflected in the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms.COVID-19 can damage the nerve supply to the digestive system,leading to gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction.There is still much to learn about how COVID-19 affects the autonomic nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.AIM To thoroughly explore the epidemiology and clinical aspects of COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction,including its manifestations,potential mechanisms,diagnosis,differential diagnosis,impact on quality of life,prognosis,and management and prevention strategies.METHODS We conducted a thorough systematic search across various databases and performed an extensive literature review.Our review encompassed 113 studies published in English from January 2000 to April 18,2023.RESULTS According to most of the literature,gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction can seriously affect a patient's quality of life and ultimate prognosis.Numerous factors can influence gastrointestinal autonomic nervous functions.Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 has a well-documented affinity for both neural and gastrointestinal tissues,and the virus can produce various gastrointestinal symptoms by reaching neural tissues through different pathways.These symptoms include anorexia,dysgeusia,heartburn,belching,chest pain,regurgitation,vomiting,epigastric burn,diarrhea,abdominal pain,bloating,irregular bowel movements,and constipation.Diarrhea is the most prevalent symptom,followed by anorexia,nausea,vomiting,and abdominal pain.Although COVID-19 vaccination may rarely induce autonomic dysfunction and gastrointestinal symptoms,COVID-19-induced autonomic effects significantly impact the patient's condition,general health,prognosis,and quality of life.Early diagnosis and proper recognition are crucial for improving outcomes.It is important to consider the differential diagnosis,as these symptoms may be induced by diseases other than COVID-19-induced autonomic dysfunction.Treating this dysfunction can be a challenging task.CONCLUSION To ensure the best possible outcomes for COVID-19 patients,it is essential to take a multidisciplinary approach involving providing supportive care,treating the underlying infection,managing dysfunction,monitoring for complications,and offering nutritional support.Close monitoring of the patient's condition is crucial,and prompt intervention should be taken if necessary.Furthermore,conducting thorough research on the gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction caused by COVID-19 is vital to manage it effectively.
文摘Long COVID symptoms typically occur within 3 months of an initial COVID-19 infection,last for more than 2 months,and cannot be explained by other diagnoses.The most common symptoms include fatigue,dyspnea,coughing,and cognitive impairment.The mechanisms of long COVID are not fully understood,but several hypotheses have been put forth.These include coagulation and fibrosis pathway activation,inflammatory and autoimmune manifestations,persistent virus presence,and Epstein-Barr virus reactivation.Hyperbaric oxygen therapy(HBOT)is a therapeutic method in which a person inhales 100%oxygen under pressure greater than that of the atmosphere.HBOT has some therapeutic effects,including improvement of microcirculation,inhibition of cytokine release leading to a reduction in inflammatory responses,inhibition of autoimmune responses,and promotion of neurological repair.Several clinical trials have been carried out using HBOT to treat long COVID.The results suggest that HBOT helps to improve symptom severity,reduce symptom duration,and enhance patients’quality of life.It is believed that HBOT is an effective option for patients with long COVID,which is worth actively promoting.
