Anti-IL6 Autoantibodies in an Infant With CRP-Less Septic Shock.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine with a multitude of pro-inflammatory effects. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein induced mainly by IL-6 in response to inflammatory conditions, particularly infection. The biological functions of CRP include opsonisation, induction of phagocytosis, complement activation, or chemotaxis enhancement.

Alcohol and drug intoxications in adolescents admitted to paediatric wards in the Czech Republic: 5-year retrospective study 2006-2010.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to establish frequency, severity and circumstances of alcohol and drug intoxications in adolescents admitted to inpatient wards in the Czech Republic.

Methods: Chief physician of each participating ward (or their designated deputy) searched the patient records for required information. The data was then statistically processed.

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) in 5-year-old girl with nephrotic syndrome.

Objective: Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) is a rare complication of nephrotic syndrome in children. This clinical condition is caused by localized brain angioedema mostly in parieto-occipital region and results in dramatic and acute features as sudden loss of consciousness, epileptic paroxysms, strong headache or visual disturbances. Uncontrolled hypertension often participates in PRES development.

Does bilirubin level correspond to interaction of c.-3279T>G and A(TA)7TAA variants in UGT1A1 gene?

Promoter variants c.-3279T>G and A(TA)7TAA show decreased level of expression of UDP-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) and consequently reduced activity of the enzyme catalyzing glucuronidation of bilirubin in hepatocytes. Thus, coincidental occurence of both variants should lead to increase of hyperbilirubinemia or contribute to its manifestation.

Demography of adolescent health care delivery and training in Europe.

Background: We aimed to determine the status of and factors associated with adolescent health care delivery and training in Europe on behalf of the European Paediatric Association-UNEPSA.

Materials And Methods: A questionnaire was mailed to the presidents of 48 national paediatric societies in Europe. For statistical analyses, non-parametric tests were used as appropriate.