Coronavirus 2019: a review of virology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is an enveloped ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus that is diversely found in humans and wildlife. A total of six species have been identified to cause disease in humans. The most recent outbreak initially presented as pneumonia of unknown etiology in a cluster of patients in Wuhan, China. The epicenter of infection was linked to seafood and exotic animal wholesale markets in the city. SARS-CoV-2 is highly contagious and is a declared global pandemic. This review will introduce a general overview of virology and describe the clinical features, diagnostic testing, and management of COVID-19 patients. There are multiple drug trials going on with some positive results. However, since no vaccine is available, the best way to combat the virus is by preventive methods. Our review will also provide a means to raise awareness among primary and secondary healthcare providers during the current pandemic.

The spectrum of Evans syndrome: a literature review

Evans syndrome (ES) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the simultaneous or sequential development of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and/or immune neutropenia in the absence of any underlying cause. Evans syndrome is a rare disorder although the exact frequency is unknown. No sex predilection is known and Evans syndrome has been described in all ethnic groups and at all ages. Classification of ES includes primary, with this being an exclusion diagnosis with no underlying condition, and secondary in the presence of an underlying disease. Clinical features are associated with anemia and thrombocytopenia including pallor, weakness, fatigue, jaundice, petechiae, ecchymosis, gingivorrhagia and epistaxis. First, a detailed history must be taken from the patient to determine the risk factors for developing ES then a family history of immune disorders along with a thorough physical examination. The management of Evans syndrome remains a challenge. Steroids with and without IVIG are recommended as front-line therapy. Red blood cell/platelet transfusion is indicated only in severe symptomatic patients due to the risk of exacerbations. Splenectomy may also be considered a second-line treatment.