Skin testing with either epicutaneous or intradermal testing may not be an accurate or sufficient technique in the assessment of Alternaria reactivity. These results suggest that mold allergies may involve more complex immune mechanisms than simply an immunoglobulin (Ig)E mediated type I immediate hypersensitivity response alone. An alternate model for mold sensitivity, as well as modifications in testing methods, may be required in the evaluation of mold allergy.

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We describ e our experience with endoscop ic ligation ofthe sp henopalatine artery in the treatment ofsevere posterior ep istaxis in 2 patients with coagulopathy. Conservative treatment had failed in both cases. The key elements of this procedure are the identification of the branches of the sphenopalatine art ery via an endoscopic endonasal approach and the appli cation oftwo titanium clips under direct vision. Thisprocedure was successful in bothpatients, and we recomm end it in selected cases.

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Background:Therapeutic relevance of computed tomography (CT) in children with partial seizures is reported to be remarkably low (1-2%). However, in the developing countries where infections involving the nervous system are common, routine CT scan of brain may help in finding treatable causes of seizures.Objective:Aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of CT scan of brain in the management of children with partial seizures.Materials and Methods:Children with partial epilepsy, whose predominant seizure type was focal motor seizures, were included in the study. CT scan of brain was done in all children aged between 1 month and 12 years with partial seizures of unknown etiology prospectively. The clinical findings of these children were noted along with the CT findings.Results:Between August 2001 and July 2002, of the 200 children with seizure disorder 50 children who satisfied the inclusion criteria were included in the study. CT scan of brain was normal in 16 children (32%) and was abnormal in 34 children (68%). Twenty children (~60% of abnormal scan) had potentially correctable lesions: Tuberculoma (n = 13), neurocysticercosis (n = 3), and brain abscess (n = 4). Five children had changes representing static pathology that did not influence patient management. The clinical features correlated with CT findings in 78% children.Conclusion:Children with partial motor seizures have high probability of having abnormal findings on CT scan of brain, especially, neuro-infections which are potentially treatable. Therefore, CT scan brain should be carried out in all children with partial motor seizures especially, in developing countries.