Plasma TGF-B1 in asthma: Influence of inhaled steroids

The aetiology and pathophysiology of asthma remain complex. The role of systemic cytokines, especially Transforming Growth Factor B1 [TGF beta-1] and its response to inhaled steroids has not been explored before. Therefore, we studied plasma TGF-beta 1 levels in stable asthmatics on inhaled steroids. Asthmatics and age and sex matched controls were recruited prospectively from an outpatient department of a university hospital from January 2001 to February 2002. Information on asthma and its management including the status of inhaled steroid usage were collected by a questionnaire and subsequent review of medical records. Plasma TGF-beta 1 and serum IgE levels were estimated using established methods in our laboratory. The median age of the 40 patients was 26.5 [22.25 - 33.25] years. 18 patients were on regular inhaled steroids. Plasma TGF-beta 1 levels varied significantly between patients on regular inhaled steroids, not on steroids and controls [p=0.003]. The median TGF-beta 1 in asthmatics on inhaled steroids [1.4ng/ml, 1.16 - 1.92] was significantly lower compared to those not on it of asthma was not significantly different in atopic and non-atopic groups. Low plasma TGF beta-1 in asthmatics on regular inhaled steroids may reflect a better control of airway inflammation

Usefulness of radiology and MRI in caudal regression syndrome

We report three patients with sacral and coccygeal agenesis based on observations of painful haematuria, urinary tract infection, and urine incontinence. All patients were examined by conventional radiology [urography and micturating urethrography] and imaging such as ultrasound and MRI. Neuropathic urinary bladder and pronounced reflux to the kidneys were observed. MRI of spine revealed conus medullaris located high [Th 11 and Th 12] and different from the expectations with respect to the patients' age. Neither tether cord nor intrathecal tumours were observed in our patients. In one patient, deformed and bulky cauda equina was described and in another the cauda equina was small and atrophic. In all patients, absence of a part of sacrum and coccyx and nerve roots innervating urinary bladder and sphincters were observed. MRI revealed good anatomical and pathological check up of kidneys and urinary tracts in the children suffering from chronic urosepsis