A rare case of pancytopenia due to leishmaniasis - A case report

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) or Kala Azar is a chronic protozoal infectious disease caused by the Leishmania donovani complex which causes a variety of hematologic manifestations. It is manifested by fever, hepatosplenomegaly, weight loss, pancytopenia and hypergammaglobinemia. In India it is mainly seen in the states of Bihar and West Bengal. Patients with VL can present to the hematologist for variety of hematological presentation even before the diagnosis of VL is made. Anemia is the most common hematological manifestation of VL. VL may also be associated with leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, hemophagocytosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Hematological improvement is noted with the treatment for VL. Relapses are rare. In this case report, we present a rare case of leishmaniasis with pancytopenia, which is rare in Hyderabad, Telangana, India

24 hour urinary sodium excretion in essential hypertension

Hypertension is a common medical condition; its prevalence increases with age. It is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of mortality. High salt intake is associated with high blood pressure. The incidence of hypertension is higher in salt-sensitive individuals. Evidence shows that reduced sodium intake lowers blood pressure and can prevent hypertension. Urinary sodium excretion was used as measure of sodium intake, which equals urinary excretion under normal circumstances. The relationship between salt intake and renal ability to excrete sodium has suggested being a major importance for the long-term blood pressure treatment especially in essential hypertension. In the present study there was increased 24 hour sodium excretion in essential hypertensives indicating a high intake of sodium, which may be the cause for hypertension. Patients with high sodium excretion, who are salt sensitive hypertensives will respond to diuretics, when compared to others. The long term reduction in salt intake may significantly reduce the prevalence of hypertension and thereby decrease the associated morbidity and mortality.