We found a high incidence of proven and probable IA in a group of mixed ICU patients (10%) and the presence of IA was associated with a high mortality. The serum GM antigen detection test may not be useful in the diagnosis of IA in mixed ICU patients, according to the results of the ROC analysis. We could not define a useful threshold.
We report an unusual case of systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), ALK positive with leukemic involvement in a 57-year-old woman. The patient presented with a fulminant respiratory infection unresponsive to treatment requiring intensive care and ventilatory support. The CT scan demonstrated mediastinal and bilateral lymphadenopathy. On peripheral smear a few atypical lymphocytes were visualized. Based on the increasing number of atypical lymphocytes in the daily peripheral bloodsmears, the diagnosis ALCL was suggested. Definitive diagnosis was made on a bone marrow biopsy, with lymphocytes being immunoreactive for CD30, EMA, and ALK. Leukemic peripheral blood involvement in ALCL is an uncommon clinicopathologic entity with unfavorable prognosis. The case we present is perhaps unusual in that a complete respons was achieved, highlighting the importance of prompt diagnosis and judicious management.
Background:A 27-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with acute pelvic pain, most prominent in the right lower quadrant. There was slight leucocytosis and elevation of the C-Reactive Protein. Because of clinical suspicion of appendicitis, a CT scan of the abdomen was requested.
The Lemierre syndrome or 'necrobacillosis' is a post angina sepsis caused by an acute oropharyngeal infection with a secondary thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. There are often septic emboli in the lungs, although intestinal organs can also be affected. This syndrome is caused by the strictly anaerobic gram-negative pathogen Fusobacterium necrophorum, sometimes in combination with other pathogens. The patient typically presents with high fever, pain in the neck, malaise and dyspnoea one week after the start of an angina. Plain chest radiograph shows bilateral nodular infiltrates, ultrasound reveals a thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. CT scan can be useful to confirm the diagnosis and possible complications. In the beginning there is often a transient hyperbilirubinemia with toxic inflammatory blood results. Under the correct antibiotic regime complete recovery can be obtained.
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