Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm: An Atypical Etiology of Recurrent Syncope.

The sinus of Valsalva presents the initial segment of the aorta from where the coronary vessels arise. Sinus of Valsalva aneurysms (SOVAs) present as progressive dilatation of the aortic sinus. SOVA arises both from the congenital and acquired weakness of the elastic lamina of the aortic media.

Candida lusitaniae, an Emerging Opportunistic Pathogen in Immunocompetent Populations: A Case Report.

 is an emerging opportunistic pathogen in immunocompromised hosts and hospitalized patients. However, the incidence is low in immunocompetent hosts. Because of their characteristic similarities, may be confused with other fungal species, such as , , and even .

Heart Block and Sinus Pause Following Abdominal Surgery: A Case Requiring Temporary Pacemaker Insertion.

This case report presents the clinical course of a 70-year-old female with a history of hypertension who developed sinus pauses following abdominal surgery, ultimately requiring the placement of a pacemaker. The patient initially presented with altered mental status preceded by abdominal pain, which progressed to confusion and obtundation. Examination revealed signs of toxicity, tachycardia, tachypnea, and a distended abdomen with absent bowel sounds.

Malignant Airway Obstruction and Endobronchial Stent Placement: A Systematic Review on the Efficacy and Safety.

The systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endobronchial stent placement for malignant airway obstruction.  A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases to identify relevant studies. Cohort studies, randomized controlled trials, and case-control studies examining the outcomes of endobronchial stent placement in patients with malignant airway obstruction were included.

Malignant Airway Obstruction and the Use of Nd:YAG Laser: A Systematic Review on Its Efficacy and Safety.

Endobronchial malignancies with significant airway obstruction can lead to multiple complications including pneumonia, and atelectasis over a period of time. Various intraluminal treatments have proven their value in palliative treatment for advanced malignancies. Nd:YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet; Nd:Y3Al5O12) laser has established its role as a major palliative intervention due to its minimal side effects and improvement in quality of life by relieving local symptoms.

Phenobarbital and Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a complication frequently encountered among patients who are chronic alcohol abusers. It is considered to have a significant impact on the United States healthcare system. It not only has a toll on the healthcare spending but also contributes to significant morbidity and mortality.

A Case of Chronic Pulmonary Embolism Resulting in Pulmonary Hypertension and Decompensated Right Heart Failure.

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension is a deadly condition that results from thrombus organization and formation of fibrous tissue in the large and/or middle-sized pulmonary artery; as a result, pulmonary vascular resistance increases resulting in pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure. Untreated chronic pulmonary embolism causes decompensated right heart failure. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving survival.

A Case of Bronchopleural Fistula and Hydropneumothorax in a Patient With Necrotizing Pneumonia Complicated by Mycobacterium avium Complex.

A bronchopulmonary fistula is a pathological connection that develops between the bronchi and the pleural cavity as a result of etiologies including surgery, infection, blunt or penetrating trauma, radiation, chemotherapy, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease sequela. Diagnosis and treatment are challenging for intensivists. We present a case report of bronchopulmonary fistula resulting in hydropneumothorax caused by necrotizing pneumonia and complicated by mycobacterium avium complex that resolved spontaneously.

Neuroendocrine Tumor Causing Carcinoid Syndrome in the Elderly.

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) causing carcinoid syndrome are very rare. Patients can have very general symptoms and tumors can be missed especially in the elderly where many symptoms may be attributed to the aging process. It is of the utmost importance to do a full workup on elderly patients even if the symptoms can be explained by aging alone.