role of alpha interferon and ribavirin in hepatitis C virus infection

Interferon-alpha and Ribavirin were assessed in treating cases with hepatitis C virus infection. Four patients [31%] out of 13 responded to interferon therapy and 2 patients [40%] out of 5 responded to Virazole. Antibodies for the virus were a guide for the diagnosis, and the monitor for cure was normalization of serum ALT level for more than 2 months after cessation of treatment

C-Reactive protein in meningitis: a reappraisal

Estimating serum C-reactive protein level in cases of bacterial meningitis showed 80% sensitivity and specificity which offers a rapid handy tool in the diagnosis until full diagnostic data are obtained CSF CRP was less sensitive and specific

Efficacy of probucol in cases of hypertriglyceridemia

It has been reported by some workers that probucol has no effect on triglyceride level, meanwhile other reported greater reduction in triglyceride level with familial hyperlipidemia, especially with apolipoprotein E4. In this trial, the effect of probucol [A hypocholesterolemic agent] on serum triglyceride was further examined. Thirty-two patients were included in this study; 24 of them showed reduction of triglyceride after 2 weeks treatment with 500 mg probucol twice daily from 347 mg/dL to 243 mg/dL [29.9%]. Diabetic patients [14 cases] showed less response on the same dose from 385.5 mg% to 298 mg% [22.6%]. Six patients showed reduction only after increasing the dose to 500 mg TDS for 4 weeks from 337 mg/dL to 303 mg/dL [10%]. Two patients did not show response and were switched to clofibrate. Probucol is effective in lowering triglyceride as well as cholesterol Levels