Thymoma associated with pure red cell aplasia: a case report and literature review.

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a rare hematological complication associated with thymoma. Remission of PRCA occurs after thymectomy but can reappear after a latency period even without recurrence of thymoma. We report a case and we have reviewed the literature of thymoma associated with PRCA.

The effect of total thyroidectomy on the recovery of bone mineral density in subjects with hyperthyroidism.

Background: Although hyperthyroidism is associated with high turnover osteopenia and its recovery after treatment, the extent of recovery with different forms of therapy remains controversial. This prospective study evaluated the bone mineral density in thyrotoxic subjects undergoing total thyroidectomy and I radioactive iodine therapy.

Methods: Newly diagnosed subjects with hyperthyroidism undergoing total thyroidectomy (group 1; n = 127) and I radioactive iodine therapy (group 2; n = 30) were evaluated for bone mineral density by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry at the time of diagnosis (point A), on achieving euthyroidism with antithyroid drugs (point B), and 6 months after definitive treatment (point C).

A review of training opportunities for ultrasonography in low and middle income countries.

Objective: To review the current training opportunities for ultrasound use for health workers practising in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods: A PubMed search using terms ultrasound, sonography, echocardiography, developing country/countries, developing world, low resource settings, low income country/countries, training and education was conducted. Articles from 2000 to 2011 that included data on ultrasonography training were eligible for inclusion.

Review: indications for ultrasound use in low- and middle-income countries.

Objective: To determine the indications for using ultrasound, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and to assess whether its use alters clinical management.

Methods: Literature review. We conducted a Pubmed search on the clinical use of ultrasound in LMIC for articles published between January 2000 and December 2010, recording country of origin, speciality and whether ultrasound use led to a change in management.