Successful Conservative Management of Uncomplicated Gallbladder Ascariasis

Ascariasis is one of the common diseases in human beings worldwide. Most cases are asymptomatic. However, the high parasitic load can present with organ-specific symptoms due to the migration of worms to various regions of the body such as the lungs, nasal cavity, oral cavity, and biliary system, and sometimes with surgical emergencies like intestinal and biliary tree obstruction. Treatment modalities depend on the presentation and the complication associated with it. Uncomplicated cases can be initially managed conservatively and followed up subsequently. However, most cases of biliary ascariasis may require surgical intervention or endoscopic management due to failed management or complications. We report a case of a young male with gallbladder ascariasis diagnosed with ultrasonography and successfully treated with a single dose of albendazole 400 mg. Follow-up ultrasonography was done to evaluate the management

Benign recurrent aseptic meningitis (Mollaret’s meningitis) in an elderly male: A case report

Mollaret’s meningitis is an aseptic recurrent benign lymphocytic meningitis lasting 2-5 days and occurs over years with spontaneous complete resolution of symptoms between episodes. An 88 years-old-male presented with acute onset headache, lethargy and altered sensorium after a recent ear infection. He had multiple similar episodes in the past, each preceded by ear or sinus infection with cerebrospinal fluid finding consistent with aseptic meningitis. However, no specific causative agent was ever identified. He was confused, disoriented and lethargic with normal vitals and systemic examination. Blood tests showed leukocytosis with neutrophilia. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed increased cell count with lymphocyte predominance, elevated protein and negative polymerase chain reaction. Magnetic resonance imaging of brain showed chronic small vessel ischemic changes. He fulfilled the Bruyn’s criteria for clinical diagnosis. He was empirically administered acyclovir during hospitalization and was discharged without prophylactic antiviral due to negative cerebrospinal fluid analysis, culture and multiplex polymerase chain reaction

Undiagnosed case of klippel-trenaunnay syndrome presenting as extensive heterotrophic ossification and flexion deformity of right lower limb requiring amputation: A case report

Klippel-Trenaunnay Syndrome is a rare disease characterized by a clinical triad of capillary malformation, soft tissue and bony hypertrophy, and atypical varicosity. This syndrome ranges from asymptomatic disease to life-threatening bleeding, embolism, and deformities. Management includes early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of complications. We present a case of a 43-year-old male presenting with pain, swelling and deformity of the right leg for 30 years. On examination, diffusely enlarged tender right limb with several dark patchy discolorations, multiple tortuous vessels were found. Right leg X-ray showed heterotrophic ossification and distortion of ankle joint. Due to chronic severe pain, recurrent infection, contracture and flexion deformity of right leg, the patient underwent above knee amputation. This case focuses on the variable presentation and multiple problems faced by patients with Klippel-Trenaununay Syndrome as they get diagnosed late and shows the importance of high index of suspicion for early diagnosis and prevention of complications

Earthworm Castings in Ecosystem Health through Their Elemental Composition

Earthworm castings, colloquially termed as nature's potent organic fertilizers, have emerged as a cornerstone in the pursuit of sustainable agriculture and holistic ecosystem health. This significance is particularly pronounced in the intricate tapestry of India's agricultural landscapes, marked by its rich biodiversity and varied terrains. Drawing from an exhaustive synthesis of research literature and traditional agricultural knowledge unique to India, our review sheds light on the multifaceted attributes of these castings. At the heart of these attributes is the elemental composition of the castings. Rich in both macro (like Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) and crucial micronutrients (including Calcium, Magnesium, and Sulfur), these castings present a veritable solution to the challenges of soil fertility. They don't merely replenish the soil; they transform it. By making nutrients more bioavailable, they ensure plants not only grow but thrive, leading to a notable reduction in the need for synthetic fertilizers. This shift not only offers an economic respite to farmers but also mitigates the environmental challenges associated with chemical overloads in soils. Beyond the immediate agronomic advantages, the broader ecological implications of earthworm castings are equally compelling. Our review highlights the critical role these castings play in enhancing soil structure. A robust soil structure, in turn, is fundamental for healthy microbial communities, ensuring that the soil is teeming with beneficial organisms that further its fertility and resist pathogens. Moreover, the ability of earthworm-amended soils to retain more water emerges as a significant boon, especially in the face of erratic monsoons and increasing drought scenarios in parts of India. This water retention capability dovetails with the castings' ability to reduce soil erosion, a concern that has long plagued India's terrains, from its hilly regions to its coastal plains

Earthworm Castings in Ecosystem Health through Their Elemental Composition

Earthworm castings, colloquially termed as nature's potent organic fertilizers, have emerged as a cornerstone in the pursuit of sustainable agriculture and holistic ecosystem health. This significance is particularly pronounced in the intricate tapestry of India's agricultural landscapes, marked by its rich biodiversity and varied terrains. Drawing from an exhaustive synthesis of research literature and traditional agricultural knowledge unique to India, our review sheds light on the multifaceted attributes of these castings. At the heart of these attributes is the elemental composition of the castings. Rich in both macro (like Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) and crucial micronutrients (including Calcium, Magnesium, and Sulfur), these castings present a veritable solution to the challenges of soil fertility. They don't merely replenish the soil; they transform it. By making nutrients more bioavailable, they ensure plants not only grow but thrive, leading to a notable reduction in the need for synthetic fertilizers. This shift not only offers an economic respite to farmers but also mitigates the environmental challenges associated with chemical overloads in soils. Beyond the immediate agronomic advantages, the broader ecological implications of earthworm castings are equally compelling. Our review highlights the critical role these castings play in enhancing soil structure. A robust soil structure, in turn, is fundamental for healthy microbial communities, ensuring that the soil is teeming with beneficial organisms that further its fertility and resist pathogens. Moreover, the ability of earthworm-amended soils to retain more water emerges as a significant boon, especially in the face of erratic monsoons and increasing drought scenarios in parts of India. This water retention capability dovetails with the castings' ability to reduce soil erosion, a concern that has long plagued India's terrains, from its hilly regions to its coastal plains