ABSTRACT
Renal trauma can be a life-threatening emergency and, because of its rarity, knowledge of its recognition and management is limited. This review discusses the clinical diagnosis, classification of injury, management and complications of this emergency condition.
Subject(s)
Emergency Treatment/methods , Kidney/injuries , Humans , Referral and Consultation , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , Urologic Diseases/etiologyABSTRACT
Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a potentially dangerous complication of spinal cord injury (SCI). In AD, an individual's blood pressure may rise to dangerous levels and, if not treated, can lead to stroke and possibly death. All medical personnel, especially those interacting with SCI patients, must have a good understanding of its aetiology, complications and emergency management.
Subject(s)
Autonomic Dysreflexia , Autonomic Dysreflexia/diagnosis , Autonomic Dysreflexia/etiology , Autonomic Dysreflexia/therapy , Diagnosis, Differential , Emergencies , Emergency Treatment/methods , HumansABSTRACT
Real-time quantitative PCR allows the sensitive, specific and reproducible quantitation of nucleic acids. Since its introduction, real-time quantitative PCR has revolutionized the field of molecular diagnostics and the technique is being used in a rapidly expanding number of applications. This exciting technology has enabled the shift of molecular diagnostics toward a high-throughput, automated technology with lower turnaround times. This article reviews the basic principles of real-time PCR and describes the various chemistries available: the double-stranded DNA-intercalating agent SYBR Green 1, hydrolysis probes, dual hybridization probes, molecular beacons and scorpion probes. Quantitation methods are discussed in addition to the competing instruments available on the market. Examples of applications of this important and versatile technique are provided throughout the review.
