Assessing upper limb function in multiple sclerosis using an engineered glove.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The importance of upper limb function in multiple sclerosis (MS) is increasingly recognized, especially for the evaluation of patients with progressive MS with reduced mobility. Two sensor-engineered gloves, able to measure quantitatively the timing of finger opposition movements, were previously used to assess upper limb disability in MS. The aims of the present study were: (1) to confirm the association between glove-derived variables and standard measures of MS disability in a larger cohort; (2) to assess the correlation with quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and quality of life (QoL) measures; and (3) to determine if the glove-derived variables offer advantages over the standard measure for assessing upper limb function in MS, namely, the Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT). METHODS: Sixty-five patients with MS, stable on disease-modifying treatment, were evaluated at baseline using the glove, and through clinical examination (Expanded Disability Status Scale, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, Timed 25-Foot Walk Test and 9HPT), MRI evaluation and QoL questionnaires. Correlations between the glove-derived variables and clinical, MRI and QoL variables were assessed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient analysis. RESULTS: Glove-derived variables significantly differed between patients with relapsing-remitting and those with progressive MS, with similar or slightly higher correlations of the 9HPT with clinical variables. We found greater correlations of the QoL physical component with glove-derived variables than with the 9HPT, and a significant correlation of its mental component with the glove-derived variables but not with the 9HPT. CONCLUSION: The study results, confirming previous findings and showing advantages over the 9HPT, encourage the investigation of sensitivity to change in glove-derived variables in a longitudinal setting.

Gastric antral vascular ectasia (the watermelon stomach): a brief case report.

Herein, the endoscopic and histological features of a case of gastric antral vascular ectasia (watermelon stomach) occurring in a 76-year-old woman are described. The condition, first recognized by Jabbari et al in 1984, is a rare but important cause of severe gastrointestinal blood loss and chronic iron deficiency anemia. Differential diagnosis from portal hypertensive gastropathy, treatment and outcome of the watermelon stomach are discussed.

[Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: considerations on the technique]. / La colecistectomia laparoscopica: riflessioni sulla tecnica.

The Authors analyze the single steps of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and describe the technique usually preferred. On the basis of the experience acquired, advantages and disadvantages of each manoeuver and instrument available are pointed out.

[Esophageal stenosis caused by benign mucous pemphigoid]. / Stenosi esofagea da pemfigoide benigno mucoso.

The Authors report a case of benign mucous pemphigoid. The review of the literature has confirmed the rarity of this disease. After having discussed acquired diagnostic data, the Authors show reasons to justify the endoscopic surgical treatment. Furthermore, they underline the importance of associated medical therapy as well as follow-ups which patients must periodically undergo.