Nonconvulsive partial status epilepticus mimicking recurrent infarction revealed by diffusion-weighted and arterial spin labeling perfusion magnetic resonance images.

"Non-convulsive" partial status epilepticus (SE) is an important pathologic condition that should be differentiated from cerebral infarction. Herein, we reported 2 patients who had partial SE associated with old infarction in the right parietal lobe. Each patient had 2 episodes of left hemiparesis and hemisensory disturbance without convulsion. On diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images (DW-MRI), a hyperintense lesion was noted in the cortex around the old infarction lesion, and recurrent infarction was suspected. Although electroencephalography (EEG) failed to reveal ictal discharges or interictal paroxysmal activities in 3 of 4 episodes, perfusion images with arterial spin labeling (ASL) clearly demonstrated ictal hyperperfusion in the area corresponding to the cortical hyperintense lesion on DW-MRI. After appropriate anticonvulsant treatment based on the diagnosis of partial SE, clinical symptoms were completely improved. These data stress the importance of cortical hyperintensity on DW-MRI and ictal ASL hyperperfusion, even when SE cannot be determined from EEG.

Atelocollagen sponge and recombinant basic fibroblast growth factor combination therapy for resistant wounds with deep cavities.

Recent advances in bioengineering have introduced materials that enhance wound healing. Even with such new tools, some deep ulcers surrounded by avascular tissues, including bone, tendon, and fascia, are resistant to various therapies and easily form deep cavities with loss of subcutaneous tissue. Atelocollagen sponges have been used as an artificial dermis to cover full-thickness skin defects. Topical recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor has been introduced as a growth factor to induce fibroblast proliferation in skin ulcers. We applied these materials in combination in two patients with deep resistant wounds: one with a cavity reaching the mediastinum through a divided sternum and one with deep necrotic wounds caused by electric burns. These wounds did not respond to the topical basic fibroblast growth factor alone. In contrast, the combination therapy closed the wounds rapidly without further surgical treatment. This combination therapy is a potent treatment for resistant wounds with deep cavities.