Validation of advanced hybrid SPECT/CT system using dynamic anthropomorphic cardiac phantom.

Objective: Myocardial blood flow (MBF) assessment can provide incremental diagnostic and prognostic information and thus the validation of dynamic SPECT is of high importance. We recently developed a novel cardiac phantom for dynamic SPECT validation and compared its performance against the GE Discovery NM 530c. We now report its use for validation of a new hybrid SPECT/CT System featuring advanced cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) technology in a ring array detector design (StarGuide™, GE HealthCare).

Monitoring risk and preventing ischemic stroke in the very old.

Introduction: Stroke is a significant cause of death, and the leading cause of severe long-term disability for individuals over 80 (the very old), yet few studies of such risk factors for ischemic stroke, or the known mitigation techniques, in this population, and the evidence base regarding risk modification strategies in this susceptible population can be inconsistent and incomplete. This article examines current guidelines and evidence regarding medical management, lifestyle changes, and psychosocial interactions that can contribute to the primary and secondary prevention of ischemic stroke in the very old.

Areas Covered: The authors conducted a literature search for ischemic stroke prevention and risk assessment in the elderly via PubMed.

Pancreas Transplantation at a Single Latin-American Center; Overall Results with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Background: Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) has become the treatment of choice for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients with chronic renal failure. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), was once considered to be a contraindication for pancreas transplantation; however, it has been accepted as a new indication, under strict criteria. Although favorable results have increase the indication for T2DM in developed countries, there have been no reports of long-term results for this indication from Latin American centers.

Aniridia and Brachmann-de Lange syndrome: a review of ocular surface and anterior segment findings.

Purpose: To review the ocular surface and anterior segment findings in Brachmann-de Lange syndrome and describe a new case involving aniridia and congenital glaucoma.

Methods: A newborn presented 2 days after birth with bilateral cloudy corneas, photophobia, and epiphora. We provide a 5-year descriptive history and clinical course with review of the literature on Brachmann-de Lange syndrome.

Mycobacterial infections in renal allograft recipients.

Primary mycobacterial infections developed in five of 565 patients who had transplants during a 15-year period. All had negative PPDs and normal chest roentgenograms; none had tuberculosis before transplantation. Atypical mycobacteria were cultured in three of five infections.