Serum eosinophil cationic protein and CD23 in acute RSV bronchiolitis.

Background: Elevated concentrations of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) have been found in acute viral wheezing during infancy. Furthermore, RSV infection has been suggested to stimulate type-2 cytokine responses. The aim of this study was to test whether serum ECP and soluble CD23 levels, which are markers of eosinophil and IgE responses, respectively, are elevated in infants hospitalized for acute respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis.

Diagnostic evaluation and surgical management of hydatid disease of the liver.

Human echinococcosis is still endemic in some areas of the world, including Mediterranean countries. Because there is no effective medical therapy, surgery remains the principal mode of treatment. A consecutive of 132 patients operated on for liver hydatid disease between January 1977 and February 1993 were analyzed.

Impotence following delayed repair of prostatomembranous urethral disruption.

A group of 26 patients with pelvic fracture and disruption of the prostatomembranous urethra were evaluated for impotence. Impotence was defined as inability to achieve an erection firm enough for vaginal penetration. Of the patients 25 were potent before the injury, whereas 1 was only 7 years old at injury.

Thyroid disease in children and adolescents.

Thyroid diseases in children and adolescents are not common. The present paper describes 73 patients, aged 5 to 18 years, who had thyroid disease which was treated by surgery. Of these, 18 had diffuse simple goiter, 11 had diffuse toxic goiter and 44 had nodular goiter.