BACKGROUND The most common neurological symptoms from cardiac myxoma-induced stroke include territories of middle cerebral arteries, rendering posterior stroke less common. Although transient global amnesia usually has a benign prognosis, amnesia in the setting of concerning cerebellar symptoms should raise the suspicion for posterior circulation involvement. These benign-appearing symptoms can be manifestations of an acute cerebrovascular accident (CVA).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFStatin-induced necrotizing myositis is a rare subtype of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies due to the production of an antibody to the 200/100 kDA protein complex which was subsequently found to be directed against 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR). Similar to other auto-immune necrotizing myopathies, the disease is characterized by proximal muscle weakness, significant serum creatine kinase elevations, and histological evidence of necrosis of myocytes. However, there is often little to no infiltration of inflammatory cells noted on muscle biopsy.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThere are currently no definitive guidelines for the optimal management of clots in transit (CIT) due to a distinct lack of quality research to suggest a recommended therapy. The three main treatment modalities that are commonly utilized for pulmonary emboli (PE) (a sequela of CIT) are thrombolysis, pulmonary embolectomy, and anticoagulation alone. The current recommendation for severe PE with hemodynamic collapse is to consult cardiothoracic surgery for clot retrieval.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe inflammatory response triggered by sepsis can frequently cause reversible myocardial depression termed sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy. The resulting pathologic changes are often self-limiting and cardiac function returns to baseline following resolution of the underlying exacerbating factors. The following case examines a patient with septic shock and sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy that, despite maximal medical therapy, required mechanical support with an Impella assist device for seven days.
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