Endothelium-biomarkers for postthrombotic syndrome: a case-control study.

Background: The postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a long-term complication of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Increase knowledge on the PTS pathophysiology and novel biomarkers are needed in order to predict PTS development and to improve treatment results. The aim of this study was to analyze novel endothelium-biomarkers for PTS in patients with DVT out of the acute phase.

Prednisone and long-term damage in systemic lupus erythematosus: Which is the threshold dose? A pilot study.

Objectives: We aimed to study the daily dose of glucocorticoids in the first month associated with damage after 5 years of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) diagnosis; and to assess the daily dose of prednisone during the first year, over which damage after 5 years could be predicted.

Methodology: A retrospective cohort study of SLE patients from the diagnosis and up to 5 years of follow-up was performed. Cumulative prednisone doses in the first month (T1m), at 1 year (T12m), and at 5 years (T5y) were calculated.

Mobilized and apheresis-collected endothelial progenitor cells with plerixafor.

Background: Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are immature cells able to proliferate and contribute to endothelial repair, vascular homeostasis, neovascularization, and angiogenesis. It therefore seems likely that circulating EPCs have therapeutic potential in ischemic and vascular diseases. In this study we evaluated the efficiency of EPC mobilization and collection by large volume leukapheresis in subjects with hematological diseases, treated with plerixafor in association with G-CSF.

The Clinician Faced With Anticochlear Antibodies: What to Do With Them?

Background: Autoimmune inner ear disease as a cause of sensorineural hearing loss is a poorly understood entity. Thus, the role of anticochlear antibodies (ACLAs) in clinical management is still not well established.

Objective: The aims of this study were to describe the use of ACLAs in our clinical setting and to understand the clinicians' therapeutic approach in these cases.