Performance of Xpert MTB/RIF assay on thoracoscopic pleural biopsy in undiagnosed exudative pleural effusion.

Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the performance of Xpert MTB/RIF assay in diagnosing tuberculosis on thoracoscopic pleural biopsies in exudative pleural effusion.

Methods: Patients who underwent thoracoscopic pleural biopsy in the defined period were included in the study. Histopathology was done for all and Xpert MTB RIF assay and AFB culture of pleural biopsy specimen and pleural fluid were done as per the clinician's discretion.

Prognostic role of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide for patients in the medical intensive care unit with severe sepsis.

Background: Sepsis is an important cause of mortality in intensive care units worldwide. The increased levels of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) are related with dysfunction of the cardiovascular system and systemic inflammation. It is uncertain whether this increase reflects sepsis-related cardiac dysfunction that translates to poorer outcomes.