Dabigatran for left ventricular thrombus

Male patient in dilated phase of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy had multiple hospitalizations during the past 2 years either due to congestive heart failure, stroke, scar epilepsy, or atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. Medication included evidence based therapy for heart failure, cordarone and warfarin. Anticoagulation had to be discontinued due to marked fluctuations in INR. Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) revealed a mobile mass in the left ventricle. He was treated with Dabigatran 110 mg twice a day for 4 months without any bleeding or embolic episode and complete resolution of thrombus. Dabigatran is a reversible direct thrombin inhibitor and currently approved for the prevention of thromboembolic episodes in non-valvar atrial fibrillation. This case demonstrates possible thrombolytic properties of dabigatran in resolution of left ventricular thrombus

Cardiac amyloidosis: A report of two cases

Cardiac amyloidosis is a manifestation of multisystem disorder. The condition is rare, difficult to diagnose and invariably fatal. We report 2 cases of amyloidosis associated with plasma cell dyscrasia. A high index of clinical suspicion, echocardiographic clues (ventricular thickening, diastolic dysfunction, biatrial enlargement) and elevated cardiac biomarkers led to the diagnosis. Early institution of amyloid specific treatment should be the aim. Cardiac treatment is supportive and results are often disappointing

Long-term pulmonary and extra-pulmonary consequences of COVID-19: A comprehensive review of current evidence and future perspectives

The global impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been significant, affecting countless individuals worldwide. The existence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to considerable levels of illness and mortality. While considerable attention has been devoted to the immediate handling of COVID-19, there is a growing concern about the long-term effects of this disease. The recent studies have brought to light various complexities associated with COVID-19, encompassing both respiratory and non-respiratory problems such as lung scarring, heart diseases, neurological effects, and psychological consequences. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the persistent repercussions of COVID-19. It presents a summary of recent studies that have examined the frequency and severity of these complications, as well as an exploration of the potential mechanisms that contribute to their development. Specifically, it delves into the role of immune dysregulation, prolonged inflammation, and dysfunction of blood vessel linings in the origin of these complications. Moreover, the clinical significance of these long-term consequences is discussed, including their potential impact on healthcare systems and society as a whole. Our review highlights the necessity for continuous monitoring and management of patients diagnosed with COVID-19, along with the importance of conducting follow-up studies over an extended period to determine the most effective strategies for prevention and treatment of these complications

An unusual case of rupture of left sinus of valsalva aneurysm into main pulmonary artery

We report a case of left sinus of Valsalva aneurysm rupture into main pulmonary artery who underwent successful surgical correction. The preoperative diagnosis was facilitated by echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, and computed tomography. The benefits of surgery are sustained at 8 months on clinical and angiographic follow-up

Typhoid ileal perforation: a 13-year experience

Typhoid fever is endemic in many developing countries with a high rate of complications. Aim of this study is to analyse epidemiological features, clinical presentations, complications and therapeutic outcomes of enteric perforation peritonitis diagnosed and treated in our hospital. Records of total number of 646 patients, who presented with perforation peritonitis due to enteric fever in the surgical emergency unit of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia hospital, New Delhi between January 2001 and December 2013, were reviewed retrospectively. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. Out of 646 patients, 62 (9.59%) presented in shock. Stomal, peristomal, local and systemic complications were high in these patients. Primary closure was done in 212 (33.12) patients, primary ileostomy was created in 410 (64.06) patients, and resection and anastomosis was done in 24 (3.75) patients. Thirteen patients (2.01%) died of typhoid intestinal perforation. To prevent complications of typhoid fever, in addition to control sanitation, it is also important to control quackery and malpractices. Awareness and education about the disease, its nature and complications will also be of great help