Relation between TGF-beta 1 levels in cerebrospinal fluid and ETV outcome in premature newborns with posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus.

Object: Therapy of posthaemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) by using ventriculo-peritoneal drainage bears considerable rate of complications and remains a challenge in premature newborns. The role of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) in these patients is unclear, through obstruction is proven in some patients with PHH. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta1) release into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in time of primary bleeding is suggested as one of the possible pathophysiologic reasons of PHH formation.

Assessment of serum beta-trace protein (BTP) measurement in the prediction of glomerular filtration rate. Comparison with serum cystatin C.

Serum BTP measurement is sometimes believed to be an alternative marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) assessment. The aim of the present work was to investigate the correlation between creatinine, cystatin C, and BTP values in sera and to compare the diagnostic efficacy for serum BTP and cystatin C with the glomerular filtration rate estimate. 25 individuals were tested.