Severity of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients with and without atopic disease.

Background: Data from the 2009 influenza pandemic suggested asthma might protect from severe disease in hospitalized patients. Asthma does not appear to increase risk for hospitalization or mortality with COVID-19.

Objective: This study was undertaken to see if atopy actually protected those hospitalized with COVID-19.

Lost in Translation: Lack of CD4 Expression due to a Novel Genetic Defect.

CD4 expression identifies a subset of mature T cells primarily assisting the germinal center reaction and contributing to CD8+ T-cell and B-cell activation, functions, and longevity. Herein, we present a family in which a novel variant disrupting the translation-initiation codon of the CD4 gene resulted in complete loss of membrane and plasma soluble CD4 in peripheral blood, lymph node, bone marrow, skin, and ileum of a homozygous proband. This inherited CD4 knockout disease illustrates the clinical and immunological features of a complete deficiency of any functional component of CD4 and its similarities and differences with other clinical models of primary or acquired loss of CD4+ T cells.

Asthma, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 and coronavirus disease 2019.

Purpose Of Review: In December 2019, a novel respiratory illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first described and named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although the knowledge base surrounding COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 has grown rapidly, significant gaps in our knowledge remain and inaccurate information continues to circulate. This review will discuss the interaction between asthma and COVID-19 to provide a comprehensive understanding based on the currently available published data.

Procedural outcomes of fluoroless catheter ablation outside the traditional catheterization lab.

Aims: Non-fluoroscopic catheter ablation is becoming routine. In experienced centres, fluoroscopy is rarely required. The use of a traditional catheterization lab (cath lab) may no longer be necessary.