Effect of Pulmonary Hypertension on Survival Outcomes in Patients With Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the effect of pulmonary hypertension (PH) on survival in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The present study was conducted according to the guidelines of Preferred Reporting of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). We conducted a comprehensive search of electronic databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science from January 1, 2015, to March 10, 2024. Outcomes assessed in this meta-analysis included early and late all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality. Total 15 studies were integrated into the pooled analysis to assess the impact of PH on outcomes among patients undergoing TAVR, comprising a total sample size of 35,732 individuals. The pooled prevalence of PH stood at 52.57% (n=18,767). Predominantly, the studies were conducted in the United States (n=6), followed by Germany (n=3), with one study each from Japan, Italy, Switzerland, Brazil, Poland, and Australia. Pooled analysis showed that risk of short-term mortality was greater in patients with PH compared to patients without PH (risk ratio (RR): 1.46, 95% CI: 1.19 to 1.80). Risk of long-term mortality was greater in patients with PH (RR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.29 to 1.55). Risk of cardiovascular mortality was also greater in patients with PH compared to patients without PH (RR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.36 to 2.02). We advocate for further research to address gaps in understanding different types of PH and their impacts on mortality and cardiovascular outcomes.

Maximal Tizanidine withdrawal managed with dexmedetomidine: a vital intervention.

Tizanidine withdrawal is a rare and complex phenomenon characterized by a surge in adrenergic activity upon abrupt discontinuation of the drug. We present a unique case of a 41-year-old male with multiple comorbidities who self-administered an exceptionally high daily dose of Tizanidine, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms. This case report highlights the challenges in managing such cases. The patient, with a history of myofascial pain syndrome, hypertension, anxiety, and depression, experienced distressing symptoms, including tachycardia, rebound hypertension, neuropsychiatric manifestations, and involuntary muscle movements. Unlike previous cases, our patient required the addition of dexmedetomidine in conjunction with benzodiazepines for symptom management. Reintroduction of Tizanidine, carefully controlled and tapered, led to stabilization of hemodynamics and cessation of involuntary movements. This case underscores the importance of individualized treatment and vigilant monitoring when dealing with Tizanidine withdrawal, particularly at elevated daily doses.

Facial Nerve Palsy in Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Pancreatitis: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Acute pancreatitis is associated with multiple local or systemic complications in response to systemic inflammation that may eventually result in multi-organ failure. Neurological complications are uncommon in acute pancreatitis. Examples include cerebral hemorrhage, infarction, cerebral fat embolism, Wernicke encephalopathy, and cranial nerve (CN) palsy. Facial nerve palsy is a rare event in the setting of acute pancreatitis, with various theories about its etiology and pathophysiology. We report the case of a 46-year-old female who presented with acute pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia. She developed right-sided facial palsy on the third day of admission. Her clinical condition improved with standard conservative medical management of acute pancreatitis. Facial nerve palsy improved after a short course of oral glucocorticoids, supportive measures, and physiotherapy. This case demonstrates a rare occurrence of facial nerve palsy in the setting of acute pancreatitis, although the etiopathology behind this manifestation remains unclear.

A Case of Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis Manifesting With Vertigo in the Setting of Intracranial Hypertension.

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LMC) is a rare condition where malignant cells infiltrate the leptomeninges of the central nervous system. We present a case of a 51-year-old male with stage IV adenocarcinoma of the lung who developed recurrent vertigo. The patient initially received a diagnosis of peripheral vertigo, but his symptoms worsened over time and were associated with headache, vomiting, and one episode of seizure. Upon readmission, based on his normal neuroimaging results, normal CSF examination with elevated opening pressure, and papilledema on fundoscopic examination, a diagnosis of pseudotumor cerebri was made. The result of CSF cytology revealed the presence of malignant cells confirming the presence of LMC. This case highlights the importance of considering LMC as a potential cause for unusual neurological symptoms in patients with advanced malignancy, particularly when other conditions like pseudotumor cerebri could obscure its presentation. It is crucial to rule out malignancy through CSF cytology in patients presenting with vertigo and/or other vestibulocochlear symptoms before making an alternative diagnosis that could present similarly.

Acute Pancreatitis Secondary to Intragastric Balloon: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Intragastric balloon (IGB) is a common minimally invasive procedure used for obesity management and weight reduction. It can be used alone, sequentially, with concomitant therapies, or as a bridge to longer-term weight-loss interventions, such as bariatric surgery. Although the insertion procedure is easy and generally well tolerated by patients, a few complications can occur with varying degrees of severity ranging from mild to severe and life-threatening. Acute pancreatitis is a rare complication of IGB but has been reported in the literature. We present a case in which the patient had a history of IGB insertion complicated by acute pancreatitis. The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis due to the IGB insertion was made after excluding other possible causes of acute pancreatitis. The patient was hospitalized and managed conservatively.

Non-typeable Haemophilus influenza ventriculitis, a case report and literature review.

Introduction: and importance: Haemophilus influenza severe presentations have decreased dramatically after the Hib vaccination was introduced. However, due to the emergence of Multi-drug resistance organisms, severe presentations like meningitis and ventriculitis may occur. Case presentation: Here, we have described a rarely reported case of non-typeable Haemophilus influenza ventriculitis in a previously healthy patient. MRI of the head with contrast was suggestive of tiny foci of diffusion restriction in occipital horns of bilateral ventricles with minimal intraventricular pus formation. The diagnosis was confirmed based on blood culture results and MRI findings as the patient refused to have a lumbar puncture procedure for CSF analysis. The patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics and showed a good response. Clinical discussion: In the post-HiB immunization era, we have seen a decline in invasive diseases caused by Type B Haemophilus influenza. However, non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae is now on the rise. Central nervous system infection due to non-typable Haemophilus influenza is infrequent as this organism is predominantly a respiratory mucosal pathogen resulting in acute and chronic respiratory tract infections. Multi-drug resistance of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae is also becoming a cause of concern. Conclusion: Ventriculitis secondary to non-typeable beta-lactamase non-producing, ampicillin-resistant (BLNAR) Haemophilus influenza is rare, and more such cases need to be reported within the adult population to avoid under-recognition.