Multidimensional prognostic index (MPI) predicts non-invasive ventilation failure in older adults with acute respiratory failure.

Background: Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is a very common complication among hospitalized older adults. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) may avoid admission to intensive care units, intubation and their related complication, but still lacks specific indications in older adults. Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) based on comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) could have a role in defining the short-term prognosis and the best candidates for NIV among older adults with ARF.

The burden of comorbidity and the C-reactive protein levels in nonthyroidal illness syndrome with metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular complications.

Thyroid hormones undergo significant modifications during severe illnesses, and the low T3 levels are the hallmark of nonthyoidal illness syndrome (NTIS), due to a reduced extrathyroidal conversion from T4. We examined 41 patients with NTIS by a modified cumulative illness rating scale (CIRS) and the measurement of FT3, FT4, TSH, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Fifty-seven control subjects were enrolled.

A rational approach on the use of sex steroids in multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease in which myelin autoreactive T cells drive a chronic inflammatory process leading to myelin destruction. A sexual dimorphism has been described, with prevalence in females and a better clinical course during pregnancy. Specific receptors have been identified for sex steroids in the cytoplasm of immune and neural cells.