ABSTRACT
Microscopic infiltration of the thyroid gland by amyloid is an uncommon but well recognized phenomenon and significant enlargement of the thyroid due to deposition of amyloid is rarely seen. This condition has to be distinguished from other types of goiters and at times from malignancy. In spite of extensive involvement of the gland by amyloid, thyroid function usually remains normal. Here, we describe a rare case of amyloid goiter without amyloid deposits in any other organs of the body. The case presented in an unusual clinical settings of relatively rapid enlargement of thyroid with pressure symptoms and was unassociated with any immuno-proliferative or chronic diseases.
Subject(s)
Amyloidosis/pathology , Goiter/pathology , Amyloidosis/diagnosis , Amyloidosis/surgery , Diagnosis, Differential , Goiter/diagnosis , Goiter/surgery , Humans , Male , Middle AgedABSTRACT
A survey was undertaken to learn about cancer screening practices of adult women residing in Houma, Louisiana, many of whom are of Cajun descent. The women were identified using a telephone sampling procedure and interviewed about their use of screening mammography, clinical breast examinations, Pap smears, and other factors. Interviews were completed for 50 women aged 50 to 75 years. Forty-eight percent (24 of 50) were self-identified Cajuns, 34% were non-Cajun white, 14% were black, and 4% were of other races. Only 42% of the Cajun women and 41% of non-Cajun white women reported having had a mammogram in the last year. The Cajun women were less educated on average (P < .05) and were less likely to use cancer screening tests and more likely to smoke, although the latter differences were not significant (P > .05). In view of their geographical isolation and unique culture, more research is needed to identify barriers to preventive health services in Cajun communities.
Subject(s)
Mass Screening/methods , Neoplasms/prevention & control , Black or African American , Aged , Canada/ethnology , Demography , Female , Health Status , Humans , Louisiana , Mammography/statistics & numerical data , Mass Screening/statistics & numerical data , Middle Aged , Population Surveillance , Random Allocation , Socioeconomic Factors , Surveys and Questionnaires , White PeopleABSTRACT
A case is reported in which death occurred after a patient's adamant refusal to accept blood transfusion, despite prompt control of blood loss. The management of this situation is discussed. Reconstitution of the circulating volume was followed by survival for 2 hours after surgery. The haemoglobin level fell to 1.8 g/dl.