Efficacy of polymyxin B-immobilized fiber hemoperfusion for patients with septic shock caused by Gram-negative bacillus infection.

Unlabelled: Septic shock-associated mortality in intensive care units (ICUs) remains high, with reported rates ranging 30-50%. In particular, Gram-negative bacilli (GNB), which induce significant inflammation and consequent multiple organ failure, are the etiological bacterial agent in 40% of severe sepsis cases. Hemoperfusion using polymyxin B-immobilized fiber (PMX), which adsorbs endotoxin, is expected to reduce the inflammatory sepsis cascade due to GNB.

Acute effects of isosorbide dinitrate and nicorandil on the coronary slow flow phenomenon.

Background: Microvascular dysfunction has been proposed as the most likely mechanism of the coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP).

Objectives: To determine the effects of isosorbide dinitrate and nicorandil on the CSFP.

Methods: Changes in thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame count following the intracoronary administration of isosorbide dinitrate and nicorandil were assessed in 11 patients with the CSFP.

Leukemic transformation of Langerhans cell sarcoma.

A 57-year-old man became aware of left supraclavicular lymph node swelling, which was subsequently diagnosed as Langerhans cell sarcoma, based on a positive immunophenotype for CD1a, S-100 protein, and langerin, and histologically bizarre pleomorphism. The tumor became leukemic 3 months later. Despite intensive chemotherapy, he died of disease progression 7 months after the initial diagnosis.