Primary actinomycosis of anterior abdominal wall: A rare occurrence, diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology

Actinomycosis, a chronic suppurative and granulomatous infection, is caused by Actinomyces israeli. The common clinical presentations are cervicofacial, abdominal, and thoracic regions. Abdominal wall actinomycosis following pelvic or intraperitoneal involvement is known, but isolated abdominal wall involvement is extremely rare and can mimic malignancy. We report a case of primary actinomycosis of anterior abdominal wall, diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). Identifying fluffy colonies and branching swirling filaments positive for fungal and Gram stain on cytology smears aid correct diagnosis. FNAC is an effective and reliable tool for early diagnosis of actinomycosis. The treatment is centered around antibiotics, and thus it is essential to diagnose accurately and avoid unnecessary surgery.

Body-mass index, waist-size, waist-hip ratio and cardiovascular risk factors in urban subejcts.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Influence of obesity as determinant of cardiovascular risk factors has not been well studied. To determine association of obesity, measured by body-mass index (BMI), waist-size or waist-hip ratio (WHR), with multiple risk factors in an urban Indian population we performed an epidemiological study. METHODS: Randomly selected adults > or = 20 years were studied using stratified sampling. Target sample was 1800 (men 960, women 840). 1123 subjects (response 62.4%) were evaluated and blood samples were available in 532 men and 559 women (n=1091, response 60.6%). Measurement of anthropometric variables, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose and lipids was performed. Atherosclerosis risk factors were determined using current guidelines. Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) of BMI, waist and WHR with various risk factors were determined. BMI was categorized into five groups: <20.0 Kg/m2, 20.0-22.9, 23.0-24.9, 25.0-29.9, and > or = 30 Kg/m2; waist size was divided into five groups and WHR into six groups in both men and women. Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and dyslipidaemias was determined in each group and trends analyzed using least-squares regression. RESULTS: There is a significant positive correlation of BMI, waist-size and WHR with systolic BP (r= 0.46 to 0.13), diastolic BP (0.42 to 0.16), fasting glucose (0.15 to 0.26), and LDL cholesterol (0.16 to 0.03) and negative correlation with physical activity and HDL cholesterol (-0.22 to -0.08) in both men and women (p<0.01). With increasing BMI, waist-size and WHR, prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome increased significantly (p for trend <0.05). WHR increase also correlated significantly with prevalence of high total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (p <0.05). CONCLUSIONS: There is a continuous positive relationship of all markers of obesity (body-mass index, waist size and waist hip ratio) with major coronary risk factors- hypertension, diabetes and metabolic syndrome while WHR also correlates with lipid abnormalities.

Prevalence of coronary risk factors among Indian physicians.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Prevalence of coronary risk factors has not been well studied in Indian physicians, therefore, to determine prevalence of selected lifestyle and biochemical coronary risk factors we performed this study. METHODS: Physicians attending a national conference were invited to participate. Of the 1000 questionnaires circulated 256 physicians (221 males, 35 females) responded and were examined for presence of smoking, obesity, truncal obesity, hypertension and ECG abnormalities. Two hundred and thirty four physicians (91.4%, 203 males, 31 females) underwent a fasting blood examination for determination of glucose and lipid profile. Subjects were divided into three age groups: Group I aged < 40 years; Group II 40-49 years; and Group III > or = 50 years. RESULTS: Mean age of the study population was 41.7 +/- 9.3 years (range 26-70). There was no significant difference in the distribution of height, weight, body-mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumference and waist-hip ratio (WHR) in different age-groups. Systolic blood pressure (BP) and fasting glucose and triglyceride levels increased with age in both males and females, while diastolic BP, total - LDL and HDL cholesterol levels did not change. Smoking or tobacco use was seen in five males (2.3%). Prevalence of obesity (BMI > or = 25.0 kg/m2) was in 104 (48.6%) males and 18 (51.4%) females. Truncal obesity diagnosed by WHR > 0.9 in males and > 0.8 in females was in 160 (72.4%) males and 23 (65.7%) females and a large waist circumference, > or = 100 cm in males and > or = 90 cm in females, was in 58 (26.2%) males and 7 (20.0%) females. Hypertension (> or = 140/90) was in 74 (33.5%) males and 7 (20%) females. A high prevalence of diabetes diagnosed using fasting blood glucose > or = 126 mg/dl or previous history was noted in males 19 (9.4%), females 4 (12.9%). Prevalence of high total cholesterol levels > or = 200 mg/dl was in 91 (44.8%) males and 10 (32.3%) females. High LDL cholesterol level (> or = 100 mg/dl) was in 144 (70.9%) males and 22 (70.9%) females and LDL levels > or = 130 mg/dl in 70 (34.5%) males and 9 (29.0%) female physicians. High triglyceride levels (> or = 200 mg/dl) were in 38 (18.7%) males and 4 (12.9%) females. Electrocardiographic abnormalities were present in seven subjects: Q-waves in two males and one female and ST-T changes in three males and one female. BMI correlated significantly (p < 0.05) with systolic BP, fasting glucose, and triglycerides and WHR with systolic BP, diastolic BP, fasting glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. CONCLUSIONS: There is a high prevalence of obesity, truncal obesity, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia in Indian physicians while smoking, low HDL cholesterol and hypertriglyceridemia is low. The overall coronary risk is lower among Indian physicians as compared to previous Indian population studies.

Anterior capsular staining with trypan blue for capsulorhexis in mature and hypermature cataracts. A preliminary study.

PURPOSE: To study the efficacy and safety of 0.1% Trypan Blue dye to stain the anterior capsule for capsulorhexis in mature and hypermature cataracts. METHODS: This preliminary study included 25 eyes of 25 patients with a unilateral mature or hypermature cataract, including one case of traumatic mature cataract. In all these cases 0.2 ml of 0.1% trypan blue dye was used to stain the anterior capsule. The efficacy and safety of the dye was evaluated on the basis of intraoperative and postoperative observations. RESULTS: In all 25 eyes the capsulorhexis was completed. There was peripheral extension of the capsulorhexis in the eye with traumatic cataract and the stained edge of the anterior capsule helped identification and redirection of the capsulorhexis. Successful phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation was performed in all eyes. Adverse reactions related to the dye such as raised intraocular pressure, anterior chamber inflammation and endothelial damage were not observed in the immediate postoperative period or at the end of mean follow-up of 3 months. CONCLUSION: Trypan blue dye staining of the anterior capsule appears to be a very useful and safe technique that simplifies capsulorhexis in mature and hypermature cataracts.

Mullerian adenosarcoma of the uterine cervix.

Sarcomas in the uterine cervix are rare, the incidence being 0.5% to 1% of all cervical malignancies. This is a report of cervical mullerian adenosarcoma, which was encountered in a hysterectomy performed for prolapse. The tumor was composed of benign glandular elements and malignant stromal component, thus justifying its nomenclature. We wish to emphasize the distinctive morphological features of this rare cervical tumor.

Clinical profile of AIDS.

OBJECTIVES: To study clinical presentation, spectrum of systemic involvement and opportunistic infections in AIDS patients. METHODS: Thirty patient HIV positive by ELISA test, admitted in the department of Medicine SMS Hospital, Jaipur during September, 1996 and December, 1997, were studied. Other causes of immunosuppression were ruled out. These patients having opportunistic infections and/or systemic involvement were diagnosed to have AIDS and per CDC Atlanta criteria. The patients and their spouses were interviewed, examined and investigated according to the pre-designed proforma. RESULTS: Twenty five male and five female patients (n=30), having mean age of 32.76+/-8.14 years (range 23-55 years) were studied. Ninety percent were in 20-40 years age group. Forty percent were related to transport services, while 43% had migrated to other areas. Sexual mode of transmission was seen in 21 subjects (70%) (20 males and one female), of which 18 were heterosexual and three bisexual. Four patients (13%) had history of blood transfusion. The commonest presentation was fever in ninety six per cent. Significant weight loss (1.5%+/-9.76%) was present in patients having associated Candida infection (n=15). Tubercular disease was seen in 66% and 30% had atypical presentations. A presumptive diagnosis of PCP was made in 10% while 30% had cryptococcal infection. The most common system involved was GIT (70%). All the patients were tested HBsAg negative. AIDS dementia complex was diagnosed in 13% all aged above 35 years. CONCLUSION: Occupation and migration were important risk factors for HIV transmission and heterosexual contact is the commonest mode of spread. Amongst infection, tuberculosis and candidiasis were common.

Variation of axillary temperature and its correlation with oral temperature.

Unilateral axillary temperature is recorded in unconscious patients and children due to its easy approach. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate variation of axillary temperature on the two sides and its correlation with oral temperature. SUBJECTS: One hundred and 46 healthy men and women, aged 12 through 52 years. METHODS: Axillary temperature from both sides and oral temperature were recorded using digital electronic thermometer in supine position with due precautions. RESULTS: Difference in temperature on the two sides of axilla was found to vary by as much as 0 degree F to 3.4 degrees F. Therefore, the data was grouped into higher and lower temperature ranges. The difference between mean oral and mean higher axillary temperature was found to be 0.5 degree F +/- 0.6 degree F (r = 0.564) while that in comparison to mean lower axillary temperature was 1.0 degree F +/- 0.89 degree F (r = 0.64). The difference between mean oral and mean axillary temperature was 1.0 degree F +/- 0.80 degree F (r = 0.84). CONCLUSIONS: Based on our observations, it is found that an average of temperature of both sides of axilla represents the axillary temperature more accurately and to get the correct oral equivalent of axillary temperature one should add 1 degree F to the mean axillary temperature.

Adequacy assessment of oxygen therapy.

OBJECTIVES: Oxygen administration in the wards is usually not according to prescription and therefore the patients requiring oxygen therapy does not get optimal benefits. We planned to assess the need and adequacy of oxygen therapy as was given in wards of SMS Hospital, Jaipur. METHODOLOGY: We studied sixty-six patients in medical and surgical wards who were receiving oxygen therapy through various modes of delivery. Oxygen therapy system was checked in detail and oxygen saturation (SaO2) was measured by pulse oximetery. RESULTS: In our study, we found that no oxygen was flowing from cylinder head in 24 cases (35.5%) while in another 23 cases (35.2%) oxygen was flowing at lower than prescribed flow rates. Leakage in tubes and connections were found in nine cases (13.4%). None of our case was receiving oxygen as per prescription. After correction of faults, all patients showed improvement in SaO2. The criteria of starting oxygen therapy were met only in 47 patients (69%) as per American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP). CONCLUSIONS: Oxygen therapy should be administered according to guidelines. Proper monitoring of oxygen therapy is recommended to ensure adequate oxygenation and to save precious oxygen from wastage. Pulse oximeter is a simple, noninvasive and reliable method to assess it.

Diagnostic dilemma: aspergillosis.

Two cases of varied forms of Aspergillosis are reported who were being diagnosed and treated on different lines. One case, who was treated on lines of allergic bronchitis, had very high total eosinophil count and, fleeting pulmonary infiltrates over a period of 5 years along with history of cough, fever and weight loss. Aspergillus fumigatus was grown on sputum culture. On the background of a long standing history of bronchial asthma with evidence of peripheral as well as central eosinophilia, fleeting pulmonary infiltrates and A. fumigatus grown on sputum culture, we kept the diagnosis of Allergic Bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and put the patient on steroids and Itraconazole. Patient showed good response to therapy. Another case, a 50 year old male, presented to us with clinical picture of subacute myelitis. Being a known case of ABPA and on steroid therapy for long duration, we kept the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis. Growth of Aspergillus fumigatus on sputum culture on three occasions and MR imaging of spine further supported our view. Aspergillosis of the lung do not have characteristic clinico-radiological features of permit the diagnosis and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of tuberculosis, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, lung abscess and bronchial asthma.

A study of the influence of insulin resistance on left ventricular mass in hypertensive patients.

OBJECTIVES: To study the influence of insulin resistance on the left ventricular mass in hypertensive subjects. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty patients having uncomplicated essential hypertension were included in the study. Post-oral glucose load serum insulin level (2 hrs) was determined and this was used as a marker for insulin resistance. Two D-echocardiography was performed and left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index were calculated. RESULT: Out of the 30 patients 18 were males and 12 were females. Eight were obese while the remaining 22 were non-obese. The patients were 27 to 70 years old. The mean age, height and weight were 54.83 +/- 9.46 years, 159.07 +/- 8.81 cm and 58.38 +/- 11.03 kg, respectively. The post oral glucose load serum insulin levels in the study ranged from 57.65 to 210.81 microU/ml. The left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index ranged from 42.58 to 310.8 g (mean 196.60 +/- 65.13 g) and 42.74 to 185.59 g/m2 (mean 118.71 +/- 37.75 g/m2), respectively. The correlation coefficient ('r' value) between post oral glucose load serum insulin levels and left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index were calculated. CONCLUSION: A strong positive correlation was observed between the post oral glucose load serum insulin levels and left ventricular mass ('r' = +0.750). A strong positive correlation between post oral glucose load serum insulin levels and left ventricular mass index ('r' = +0.757) was also observed. These correlations were found to be statistically highly significant (p < 0.01). This association was demonstrated independently of age, anthropometric measurements, systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. Thus, in patients with essential hypertension, hyperinsulinemia (insulin resistance) has a role in promoting left ventricular hypertrophy.

Estimation of fasting and post oral glucose serum insulin levels in hypertensive and obese subjects.

Insulin resistance and consequent hyperinsulinemia has been documented as a frequent occurrence in hypertension and obesity. Fasting and post oral glucose serum insulin levels serve as reliable markers of the state of insulin resistance. In this study, fasting serum insulin levels, as measured by radio-immunoassay method, were found to be more increased in obese individuals than in those with hypertension alone. While, post-oral glucose load serum insulin levels increased more in hypertensive individuals than those with obesity alone. In subjects who had obesity and hypertension together, the fasting serum insulin levels did not show much change while post oral glucose load serum insulin levels greatly increased suggesting a compounding effect.