Osteomyelitis and pyoarthritis resulting from local paracoccidioidomycosis in an immunocompetent patient: a case report.

Introduction: Paracoccidioidomycosis is a type of mycosis that is endemic to Brazil and is triggered by the fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Isolated bone involvement in this disease is very rare, especially in children. To the best of our knowledge this report documents the first case of an immunocompetent pediatric patient in which paracoccidioidomycosis of the hip articulation was the sole manifestation of the disease (that is, there were no pulmonary or skin lesions).

Endocrine disturbances related to the use of lithium.

Despite recent advances in pharmacological treatment of psychiatric disorders, lithium salts remain frequently used, as they are effective and inexpensive alternatives, especially in the treatment of bipolar disorders. Their use is commonly associated with various endocrine disorders, mainly in thyroid and parathyroid function, and in mineral metabolism. This article aims at reviewing these potential endocrinopathies related to the use of lithium to make health care professionals aware and familiar with these possible complications when they follow up patients using this drug, and to make them able to monitor, identify and institute early and appropriate treatment.

Influence of central venous oxygen saturation on in-hospital mortality of surgical patients.

Background And Objectives: Low central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO₂) indicates an imbalance between cellular oxygen supply and consumption and, consequently, worse prognosis for critical patients. However, it is not clear what the value of this marker in surgical patients. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether low perioperative ScvO₂ determines a worse prognosis.