Impact of Red Cell Exchange Transfusion on Inflammatory Markers in Sickle Cell Disease.

Background: Red Blood Cell Exchange (RBCX) is a common treatment for pediatric sickle cell disease (SCD). Since inflammation with elevated proinflammatory cytokines plays a crucial role in SCD, this study hypothesized that RBCX might lower these cytokines and aimed to assess the impact of this technique on these markers.

Methods: Prospective and observational study of pediatric SCD patients (HbSS genotype) enrolled in a chronic RBCX program at a Portuguese Hospital from October 2022 to August 2024.

Intestinal Parasitic Infections in Children: A 10-Year Retrospective Study.

Background and objective Intestinal parasitic infections are a major public health concern, especially in low-income regions with poor sanitation. Our hospital caters to a large migrant population, but data on these infections in Portugal is limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of intestinal parasitic infections in pediatric patients from epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological perspectives.

[Meningitis Due to Haemophilus influenzae Serotype A and Adenovirus: A Rare Case of Co-Infection in a Six-Month-Old Infant].

Haemophilus influenzae serotype A is a rare cause of meningitis and invasive disease in pediatric patients. A six-month-old infant presented to the emergency room with fever, cough and nasal drip. On admission, the infant was alert and hemodynamically stable but progressively became more lethargic with bulging of the fontanelle.

The Healthy Oral Microbiome: A Changing Ecosystem throughout the Human Lifespan.

Microorganisms have co-evolved with a variety of plants and animals, developing complex symbiotic relationships with their hosts and the environment. The diversity of symbionts acquired over time help their hosts to adapt, survive, and evolve more rapidly and efficiently, improving fitness across the lifespan. Understanding these synergistic relationships between humans and their endogenous microbiota may provide valuable information on human physiology and on potential mechanisms associated with the onset of diseases.