Reactive arthritis in tuberculosis: A case of Poncet’s disease

Reactive arthritis and erythema are uncommon presentations of tuberculosis (TB). Reactive arthritis in tuberculosis (TB) is known as Poncet’s disease, a rare aseptic form of arthritis observed in patients with active TB. We report a case of Poncet’s disease in a 20-year old man whose reactive arthritis overshadowed other clinical symptoms of TB resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. Although a conclusive diagnosis of Poncet’s disease is not possible, reactive immunologic reactions such as reactive arthritis and erythema nodosum even without respiratory symptoms should raise suspicion on possible TB. Thus, taking a thorough medical history as well as performing relevant examinations and investigations for possible TB will help expedite the diagnostic process.

Cushing's Syndrome secondary to adulterated complementary and alternative medicine

This is a case of a 65 year old lady who presented with Cushing’s syndrome secondary to ingestion of a complementary and alternative medicine that has been adulterated with exogenous glucocorticoids. In a clinical consultation, it is important to include assessment of complementary and alternative medicine use for a comprehensive care.

Reversible Cortical Blindness Following Successful Surgical Repair of Two Wounds in the Heart

This report describes a case of cortical blindness that followed successful surgical repair of two stab wounds in the heart in a 29-year old Libyan man. The patient presented in a state of pre cardiac arrest (shock and low cardiac output status); following multiple chest stab wounds. Chest tube was immediately inserted. Surgery was urgently performed suturing the two wounds; in the root of the aorta and in the left ventricle; and haemostasis was secured. Cardiac arrest was successfully prevented. The patient recovered smoothly; but 24 hours later he declared total blindness. Ophtalmic and neurological examinations and investigations that included fundoscopy; Electroencephalograms (EEGs) and Computed Tomography Scans revealed no abnormalities; apart from absence of alpha waves in the EEGs. We diagnosed the case as cortical blindness and continued caring for the patient conservatively. Three days later; the patient regained his vision gradually and was discharged on the 7th postoperative day without any remarks