ABSTRACT
Anemia is a common complication of certain chronic diseases and can be treated by stimulating hematopoietic cells to increase red blood cell count, and this action is achieved by recombinant human erythropoietin. In this review article, we have discussed about hypertension, which develops as a result of erythropoietin therapy. We have explored the pathogenesis of erythropoietin-induced hypertension and discussed some ways to prevent and treat this condition. Also, an attempt has been made to find out the role of blood viscosity in erythropoietin-induced hypertension. We conducted a comprehensive review of literature by collecting data from online databases like PubMed and Google Scholar. We mainly studied clinical trials that unraveled the mechanism of hypertension caused by erythropoietin. Hypertension is mainly caused due to enhanced vascular responsiveness to constrictors and impaired action of vasodilators. Role of blood viscosity in the pathogenesis of hypertension is doubtful due to the lack of consistency in the studies. Incidence of hypertension can be reduced by achieving slow correction of anemia and by switching to subcutaneous route of administration. Conventional anti-hypertensives have been found to be beneficial in the treatment. In some severe and persistent cases, temporary discontinuation of erythropoietin may be needed.
ABSTRACT
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is an uncommon complication of infection caused by streptococci and staphylococci. It is associated with a high mortality rate. When evaluating patients with shock symptoms from skin or soft tissue sources, a high index of suspicion for TSS must be maintained. Prompt diagnosis and integrative management with surgical intervention, antibiotics, hemodynamic stabilization, and adjuvants like intravenous immunoglobulins improve survival.
ABSTRACT
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive illness caused by the defective cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. These patients suffer from repeated chronic sinuses and lung infections, resulting in frequent hospital admissions and antibiotic (Abx) courses. These are the major contributing factors responsible for a low health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and increasing the disease burden. The introduction and approval of CFTR modulators-lumacaftor (LUM) and ivacaftor (IVA) in 2015 by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reduced the mortality and morbidity rates associated with the disease. In 2018, the FDA approved these drugs from age two and five years with two copies of F5806 del. This literature review aims to present the studies centered on the clinical effects of LUM/IVA. We searched for the relevant articles, from 2016 to 2020, in PubMed Central (PMC), Google Scholars, and Journal of Cystic Fibrosis. LUM/IVA has a broader range of effects. They showed marked improvement in the reduction of pulmonary exacerbations (PEx), Hospitalization rates, Abx use, and modification in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) status of pre-existing severe lung disease. Now, there is a need for an initiative to conduct more clinical trials and studies in the future to assess and evaluate the long-term clinical benefits and safety of LUM/IVA therapy in all age groups.
ABSTRACT
The objective of this study was to determine the association between high-risk sexual behavior in relation to HIV transmission and prevalence among different groups of people in Grenada. In addition, this study intends to increase the involvement and improved services by Grenadian chapter of the Caribbean HIV/AIDS Partnership (GrenCHAP).A cross-sectional study was conducted over a 2-month period in Grenada, West Indies, to measure the responsive nature of different populations to an inquiry about HIV and sexual behavior. The 2 methods used to collect the data were online (via social media) and through an in-person interaction with local NGO GrenCHAP personnel. Survey responses were recorded via SurveyMonkey ending on April 11, 2014.The findings of the study were that there was an increased degree of frankness and demographic diversity in participants who responded online as opposed to in-person.People who responded online were more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behavior. GrenCHAP has the opportunity to contribute in the collection of invaluable data concerning HIV and other STIs because of its NGO status and anonymity.
