An Innovative Model of a Home-Like Environment for People in Vegetative and Minimally Conscious States.

Background And Purpose: Many forms of assisted living have been proposed for people who have a loss of autonomy in activities of daily living. Despite the increasing prevalence of vegetative and minimally conscious states, no dedicated residential accommodation has been implemented for patients with chronic disorders of consciousness (DOCs).

Methods: This is a descriptive study addressing an innovative model of in-house assistance, named Casa Iride, which has recently been implemented in the attempt to ensure health, safety, and well-being for people with DOCs and their families.

Correlation between MRI findings and long-term outcome in patients with severe brain trauma.

Our aim was to relate MRI findings in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) to clinical severity and long-term outcome. We studied 37 patients with severe TBI, who were submitted to clinical assessment for disability and cognition and to MRI 60-90 days after trauma. Clinical assessment was also performed 3, 6 and 12 months later.

Chorioretinitis and extrapulmonary tuberculosis.

A case of tuberculous uveitis that presented 34 years after a primary articular focus is evaluated. The pathogenesis of the infection and the role of the tuberculin skin test in the diagnosis are discussed. Isoniazid was used with good therapeutic results.

Marfanoid hypermobility syndrome associated with Duane's retraction syndrome.

Marfanoid hypermobility syndrome together with Duane's retraction syndrome in two sisters is presented. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such a combination. A possible mode of inheritance is suggested.