Endothelial function and hemodynamics in systemic sclerosis.

Introduction: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by the development of fibrosis of skin and internal organs that is associated with vascular damage. However, its related parameters have not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to investigate endothelial function in SSc and its relationship with systolic pulmonary artery pressure and systemic arterial compliance (SAC).

An atypical pneumococcal arthritis.

Bone and joint infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae usually occur in patients who are immunocompromised, and involve one site. The unique case of a 49-year-old immunocompetent man, with an unremarkable medical history, with septicaemia and polyarticular septic arthritis involving the shoulder and knee and with cervical spondylodiscitis due to S pneumoniae, is described. In this case, S pneumoniae probably originated from the gingiva, which is commonly colonised in children and adults.