[Increase of serum procalcitonin levels during a neuroleptic malignant syndrome].

When fever occurs in a patient treated with a neuroleptic, the diagnosis of a neuroleptic malignant syndrome is difficult to differentiate to that of an infectious event. Among inflammation biomarkers of inflammation, serum procalcitonin levels increase both quickly and specifically during a bacterial infection. We report the first case of a neuroleptic malignant syndrome associated with a significant increase of serum procalcitonin levels, without concomitant septic syndrome.

Markers of oxidative stress in fit, health-conscious elderly people living in the Paris area. The Research Group on Ageing (GERBAP).

Lipid peroxidation index and antioxidant indicators were assessed by biochemical means in 193 healthy elderly volunteers (103 men and 90 women), ages 70-89 y and living freely in the Paris area. Lipid peroxidation index was in the same range as in young adults. Zinc, copper, and selenium levels were satisfactory and similar to those in young adults, though the range of copper values tended to be higher.

Immunoglobulin A levels in bronchial samples during mechanical ventilation and onset of nosocomial pneumonia in critically ill patients.

Local immunoglobulins play a key role in host defense against lung infection. We investigated the pattern of evolution of bronchial albumin, IgA, and IgG levels in ventilated ICU patients in relation to nosocomial pneumonia. Immunocompetent, critically ill patients underwent serial blood and bronchial protein determinations on Day 1 (intubation day), and on Days 3, 7, 10, and 14.