No abstract

Primary central nervous system non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a rare presentation, almost always of diffuse large B-cell type. Although there is no consensus regarding therapy for this condition, induction regimens are based on high-dose methotrexate and consolidation whole-brain radiotherapy, or, more preferred recently, blood–brain barrier penetrating drugs such as etoposide, cytarabine, and alkylating agents like temozolomide, ifosfamide, and lomustine. We present here four cases of relapsed/refractory primary central nervous system lymphoma treated with ESHAP (etoposide, solumedrol, high-dose cytarabine, and platinum) chemotherapy to complete remission, with the eligible patients proceeding to autologous transplantation. We want to draw attention to this interesting, relatively well tolerated, underused therapeutic option, in a setting where treatment options are scarce and evidence-based recommendations are lacking.

No abstract

No abstract

Background The rigid tube for laryngoscopy is an instrument used in ENT, for inspecting the larynx and its vicinity. We used it to facilitate intubation, in ENT patients. Methods Twenty patients attending for surgery were included for study. Group 1 (n=10) had no airway pathology but at least two predictors of an anatomically difficult airway. Group 2 (n=10) had an obstructing airway pathology. After anesthesia induction, classical laryngoscopy was performed, and intubation grade registered. Using the retromolar approach the rigid tube advanced slowly, the epiglottis was lifted, and the vocal cords were visualized. The bougie was introduced through the rigid tube into the trachea, the rigid tube was extracted, and the intubating tube was placed in the trachea, over the bougie. Results The mean (SD) maneuver duration was 59.4 (18.2) sec. The Cormack-Lehane view of the glottis at classical laryngoscopy was poor in four patients in Group 1 and six patients in Group 2. The lowest desaturation was 82%. No complications other than sore throat were noted. Conclusion The rigid tube for laryngoscopy is a useful tool for intubation in ENT patients. We noticed an advantage against classical intubation in patients with base of tongue carcinoma, reduced mouth opening and protruding upper incisors with this instrument.

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract