Fluorescence-based diagnosis of lipid storage diseases by analysis of the culture medium of skin fibroblasts.

Glycosphingolipids, labeled with the fluorescent probe lissamine rhodamine were administered to skin fibroblasts in culture and were hydrolyzed in the intact cells to the corresponding lissamine rhodamine ceramide (N-acylsphingosine). This fluorescent ceramide was converted in the intact cells to the corresponding sphingomyelin which was secreted into the culture medium. In comparison, ceramide is not formed in cells derived from patients with lipid storage diseases, because of deficiencies in lysosomal glycolipid hydrolases.

[Value of continous 12-hour electrocardiography during the rehabilitation period in patients convalescing from myocardial infarction. Apropos of 40 cases].

The results of continuous 12-hour electrocardiography in 40 convalescent patients after myocardial infarction undergoing a programme of readaptation on average 4 weeks after the initial infarction are reported. The frequency and alarming nature of the VES observed in 75% patients who had already undergone selection for the coronary readaptation programme, 30% of whom were receiving antiarrhythmic therapy, is emphasized. The observation of a progressive increase in the number of VES during the day prompts the following suggestions: the possibility of limited continuous ECG monitoring at the end of the day, the need to adapt the dosage of antiarrhythmic drugs during this most critical period.