bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic manifestations in the course of meningococcal disease
Authors: Dulovic Olga , Stevanovic Goran , Milosevic Branko , Gvozdenovic Eleonora , Dokic Ljubisa , Popovic Natasa , Nikolic Svetlana , Pavlovic Milorad
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Meningococcal disease most often manifests itself as meningitis or sepsis. During the course of these diseases, other clinical events sometimes develop such as pneumonia, pericarditis, arthritis, and they are referred to as extrameningeal or systemic manifestations of the meningococcal disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the type and the incidence of particular extrameningeal/systemic manifestations among patients with meningococcal meningitis and sepsis, including time of their onset and the influence on the disease outcome. Methods. The retrospective study of the medical records of 246 patients treated for meningococcal disease over the 25-year period in the Institute for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Belgrade was conducted. The patients, aged 3 months to 82 years both sexes, were divided into two groups. Results. Out of 246 patients extrameningeal/ systemic manifestations were found in 42 (17.1%) patients: 35 (14.2%) occurred during meningitis, and seven (2.8%) during sepsis. Pulmonary manifestations (mostly pneumonia) were the most prevalent, found in 12 (4.9%) patients, followed by heart involvement in nine (3.6%) patients (mostly pericarditis, in seven or 2.8% patients). Various ophthalmic manifestations occurred in seven (2.8%), arthritis in 4 (1.6%) and sinusitis in six (2.4%) patients. Otitis, multiple renal embolisms with hematuria, osteomyelitis and thrombophlebitis were evidenced in one patient, each. Most of the systemic manifestations (30 patients or 71.4%), developed within the initial three days of the disease (p < 0.01), suggesting direct pathogenic mechanism induced by meningococci per se, while only three (7.1%) developed after seven days, when immune-mediated disease was more likely. Even though these manifestations complicate and prolong treatment of the meningococcal disease, they had no major influence on the disease outcome. Lethal outcome occurred in 2 (4.76%) patients, both with the meningococcal type of the disease. Conclusion. Extrameningeal or systemic manifestations are uncommon complications during the course of both meningococcal meningitis and sepsis. The onset of pneumonia, pericarditis, eye involvement, and arthritis, within the initial seven days of the disease, were most prevalent in the course of meningitis. They had no major influence on the disease outcome.
Renal transplantation vs hemodialysis: Cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Perovic Sasa , Jankovic Slobodan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Chronic renal insufficiency (CRI), diabetes, hypertension, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) are the main reasons for starting dialysis treatment in patients having kidney function failure. At present, dialysis treatments are performed in about 4,100 patients at 46 institutions in Serbia, out of which 90% are hemodialyses. At end-stage renal disease (ESRD) the only correct selection is kidney transplatation. The basic aim of the planned research was to compare ratio of costs and effects (Cost Effectiveness Analysis - CEA) of hemodialysis and kidney transplantation in patients at ESRD. Methods. As the main issue of treatment in patients from both groups the life quality measured by the validated McGill Questionary, was used. The study included 150 patients totally, divided into two groups. The study group consisted of 50 patients with kidney transplantation performed at the Clinical Center of Serbia and the control group consisted of 100 patients on hemodialysis at Clinical Center of Serbia, Clinical Hospital Center Zemun, Clinical Hospital Center 'Zvezdara', Clinical Center Kragujevac and Health Center 'Studenica', Kraljevo, comparable with respect to sex, age and length of treatment with the study group. Results. Effect of kidney transplantation in relation to hemodialysis being selection of treatment is expressed in the form of incremental ratio of costs and effects (Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio - ICER). It is clear from the enclosed tables that the strategy of kidney transplantation is far more profitable considering the fact that it represents saving of EUR 132,256.25 per one year of contribution Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) within the period of 10 years. According to all aspects of live quality (physical symptoms and problems, physical well-being, psychological symptoms, existential well-being and support), difference is statistically important in favor of transplant patents. Conclusion. The costs of patient therapy by hemodialysis at end-stage renal disease is far greater than by performing therapy of transplantation and maintenance, by almost three and a half times. Difference in total quality aspects of human life (physical, emotional, social, spiritual and financial) between dialyzed and transplant patients is statistically significant and by 18.12% greater in transplant patients than in patients on hemodialysis.
The role of colposcopy and typization of human papillomavirus in further diagnostic proceedings in patients with ASC-US cytological finding of the uterine cervix
Authors: Zivadinovic Radomir , Lilic Vekoslav , Djordjevic Biljana , Stanojevic Zorica , Petric Aleksandra , Lilic Goran
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Bethesda system of classification of cytological findings was introduced in 2001 two subcategories in the category of atypical squamous cells (ASC) findings: ASC of undetermined significance (ASC-US) and ASC which cannot exclude high-grade intraepithelial lesions (ASC-H). The aim of our study was to assess a possible association of these two subcategories with pathologic biopsy finding and to find out the best further diagnostic proceedings. Methods. At the Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nis 130 patients with ASC findings were analyzed. Colposcopy was performed in all study participants. Patients with pathological colposcopic findings underwent cervical biopsy. In 10 patients with pathologic histologic and 15 with benign findings human papilloma virus (HPV) typization was done using the Hybrid Capture method. Results. Patients with ASC-H finding had significantly more pathologic biopsies compared with patients with ASC-US finding (57.84: 20.72). Conclusion. Colposcopy was exhibited somewhat higher sensitivity compared to HPV typization (94.7 : 90), but lower sensitivity (79.27 : 86.6). The usage of HPV typization in the triage of patients with ASC cytologic smear induces statistically significant reduction of unnecessary percentage of cervical biopsies.
Sentinel node biopsy for skin melanoma
Authors: Kovacevic Predrag , Visnjic Milan , Vlajkovic Marina , Kovacevic Tatjana , Visnjic Aleksandar
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Skin melanoma is one of the most malignant diseases with increasing incidence rate. Sentinel node biopsy (SNB) is very important for early detection of metastatic spread. The aim of the study was to analyze the first 40 patients with skin melanoma of 1 to 4 mm Breslow thickness when SNB was indicated. Methods. The patient characteristics, localization of the primary melanoma as well as histology grade were analyzed. SNB with intraoperative radiocolloid and methylene blue dye detection was performed. Results. Complication rate after SNB was analyzed and seroma was found in 5% of the patients. The therapeutic node dissection was performed in 10 patients with positive sentinel biopsy. The follow-up lasted two years. In five patients the false negative SNB was defined after the mean time of 11 months and the therapeutic dissection was performed. Conclusion. SNB in melanoma patients is a useful diagnostic procedure. It is advised for melanoma of 1 to 4 mm Breslow thickness.
Brugada syndrome: A brand new case
Authors: Jurcevic Ruzica , Angelkov Lazar , Vukajlovic Dejan , Ristic Velibor , Tomovic Milosav , Kojic Dejan , Djukanovic Bosko
Published: December 2010

Background: Brugada syndrome (BS) is a disorder characterized by syncope or sudden death associated with one of several electrocardiographic (ECG) patterns characterized by incomplete right bundle branch block and ST elevation in the anterior precordial leads. Patients with BS are prone to develop ventricular tachyarrhythmias that may lead to syncope, cardiac arrest, or sudden cardiac death. Case report. A 58-year-old woman is the first described case of Brugada syndrome in Serbia with intermittent typical changes in basic electrocardiography (ECG): ST segment elevation in the precordial chest leads like dome or coved - major form or type I. For the last 27 years the patient had suffered of palpitations and dizziness, without syncopal events. Her sister had died suddenly during the night in sleep. During 24-hour Holter monitoring the patient had ventricular premature beats during the night with R/T phenomenon and during the recovery phase of exercise testing had rare premature ventricular beats as the consequence of parasympatethic stimulation. Late potentials were positive. Echocardiography revealed left ventricular ejection fraction of 60%. We performed coronary angiography and epicardial coronary arteries were without significant stenosis and structural heart disease was excluded. In the bigining of the electrophysiological study ECG was normal, and after administration of Propaphenon i.v. Brugada syndrome unmasked with appearance of type I ECG pattern. A programed ventricular stimulation induced non sustained ventricular tachycardia. One-chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillator was implanted and the patient was treated with a combination od amiodarone and metoprolol per os. After one-year follow-up, there were no episodes of ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. Conclusion. Brugada syndrome is a myocardial disorder which prognosis and therapy are related to presence of ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. Electrophysiologicaly induced malignant ventricular disorders class I are indication for implantation of cardioverter defibrilator, as also occurred in presented patient.
Impact of acute exercise on antioxidant enzymes activity and lipid status in blood of patients with hypertension
Authors: Kostic Nada , Caparevic Zorica , Marina Djordje , Ilic Sanja , Radojkovic Jana , Cosic Zoran , Celic Vera , Pencic Biljana , Radojkovic Ivan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Many studies support the hypothesis that oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenic process of a variety of diseases including hypertension. In humans, hypertension is also considered a state of oxidative stress that can contribute to the development of arteriosclerosis and other hypertension- induced organ damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate an influence of acute physical exercise on antioxidative enzymes activity and lipid status in patients with hypertension. Methods. Forty patients with hypertension and 20 age-matched controls were included in the study. To assess an influence of acute exercise on lipids and antioxidative enzymes activity the following parameters were determined at rest and immediately after the acute cardiopulmonary exercise cycloergometer test: triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, low density cholesterol (LDL), oxidised LDL cholesterol (OxLDL), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI). Results. In basal condition, hypertensive patients compared to the control group had increased, but not significantly, level of Ox LDL (88.61?14.06 vs 79.00?29.26 mmol/L), PAI (3.06?0.56 vs 2.6?0.35 U/mL) and activity of GSH-Px (50.22?15.20 vs 44.63?13.73 U/g Hb). After acute exercise test, there was significantly greater level of Ox LDL (79.0?29.26 vs 89.3?29.07 mmol/L; p < 0.05) only in the control group. GSH-Px activity was significantly decreased only in hypertensive patients after acute exercise (50.22?15.2 vs 42.82?13.42 U/g Hb; p < 0.05), but not in the controls. Conclusion. No significantly elevated Ox LDL, GSH-Px and PAI-1 levels were found in hypertensive patients during basal condition in comparison with healthy subjects. Decreased GSH-Px activity was associated with those in acute exercise only in hypertensive patients. It could be an important indicator of deficiency of physiological antioxidative defense mechanism in hypertensive patients during an acute exercise.
Presence of anatomical variations of the circle of Willis in patients undergoing surgical treatment for ruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Stojanovic Nebojsa , Stefanovic Ivan , Randjelovic Sasa , Mitic Rade , Bosnjakovic Petar , Stojanov Dragan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. The presence of aneurysmal changes on the brain blood vessels has been subject to numerous research. This study investigated the relation between ruptured aneurysms and anatomical configuration of the Circle of Willis, with the purpose to obtain an insight into their mutual connection. Methods. The analysis included 114 patients suffering from ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Preoperative cerebral angiography was performed and compared with the intraoperative findings in order to attain a precise insight into morphological changes occurring on the circle of Willis. Results. The prevalence of asymmetrical Willis in the whole group of patients was 64%. Within the group of patients suffering from multiple aneurysms, the presence of asymmetrical Willis' circle was 75.7%. The highest incidence of the asymmetrical Circle of Willis was found among patients with aneurysmal rupture detected at the anterior comunicative artery (ACoA) site (72.7% among cases with solitary and 100% among those with multiple aneurysms). Morphological changes on the A1 segment of ACoA were observed in 50 (44%) cases, with higher incidence found on the right side (60%). When comparing location of ruptured aneurysms between genders, a statistically significant prevalence of the ruptured aneurisms on ACoA was present in men, whereas women showed higher incidence of ruptured aneurysms on interior cartid artery (ICA) site (p < 0.01). The linkage between aneurysms with hypoplasia of the A1 segment of ACA and decreasing of the angle at which segments A1 and A2 join suggests the relationship between their onset, corresponding configuration type of Willis and subsequent hemodynamic changes. Conclusion. High incidence of asymmetry of Willis circle in the group of patients with ruptured aneurysms imply association of asymmetrical configuration and disorder in haemodynamic relations with forming and rupture of intracranial aneurysms.
The model for the end-stage liver disease and Child-Pugh score in predicting prognosis in patients with liver cirrhosis and esophageal variceal bleeding
Authors: Benedeto-Stojanov Daniela , Nagorni Aleksandar , Bjelakovic Goran , Stojanov Dragan , Mladenovic Bojan , Djenic Nebojsa
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Esophageal variceal bleeding is one of the most frequent and gravest complications of liver cirrhosis, directly life-threatening. By monitoring certain clinical and laboratory hepatocellular insufficiency parameters (Child-Pugh score), it is possible to determine prognosis in patients who are bleeding and evaluate further therapy. Recently, the Model for the End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) has been proposed as a tool to predict mortality risk in cirrhotic patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate survival prognosis of cirrhotic patients by the MELD and Child-Pugh scores and to analyze the MELD score prognostic value in patients with both liver cirrhosis and variceal bleeding. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated the survival rate of a group of 100 cirrhotic patients of a median age of 57 years. The Child-Pugh score was calculated and the MELD score was computed according to the original formula for each patient. We also analyzed clinical and laboratory hepatocellular insufficiency parameters in order to examine their connection with a 15-month survival. The MELD values were correlated with the Child-Pugh scores. The Student's t-test was used for statistical analysis. Results. Twenty-two patients died within 15-months follow-up. Age and gender did not affect survival rate. The Child- Pugh and MELD scores, as well as ascites and encephalopathy significantly differed between the patients who survived and those who died (p < 0.0001). The International Normalized Ratio (INR) values, serum creatinine and bilirubin were significantly higher, and albumin significantly lower in the patients who died (p < 0.0001). The MELD score was significantly higher in the group of patients who died due to esophageal variceal bleeding (p < 0.0001). Conclusion. In cirrhotic patients the MELD score is an excellent survival predictor at least as well as the Child-Pugh score. Increase in the MELD score is associated with decrease in residual liver function. In the group of patients with liver cirrhosis and esophageal variceal bleeding, the MELD score identifies those with a higher intrahospital mortality risk.
Association of fetal unilateral multicystic kidney disease with other urinary tract anomalies
Authors: Pop-Trajkovic Sonja , Ljubic Aleksandar , Antic Vladimir , Trenkic Milan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Multicystic dysplastic kidney represents a disorder in the fetus development presented prenatally of postnatally, this deserving special attention due to a risk of additional anomalies in children with this disorder. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and type of common anomalies of the urinary system in the prenatal diagnosis of unilateral multicystic dysplastic kidney, and point out the necessity of postnatal diagnostic procedures in order to evaluate the state of the urinary system. Methods. This retrospective-prospective study encompassed 38 cases of prenatally diagnosed unilateral fetal multicystic dysplastic kidney, presented to the Council for Fetal Anomalies from the Institute for Gynecology and Obstetrics of the Clinical Centre of Serbia and the University Children's Clinic within a three-year period. Associated anomalies were revealed by autopsy findings when pregnancy was terminated, ie resumed with clinical and operative findings of born children. Results. In every case of terminated pregnancy and death after birth the autopsy revealed additional renal or exstrarenal anomaly which were not prenatally detected. Postnatal evaluation of survived children with unilateral multicistic disease revealed that 31,4% of them have an anomaly of the contralateral kidney, 26,3% anomaly of the ipsilateral side, 13,2% anomaly of the lower portions of the urinary system and the same percent an additional extrarenal anomaly. The surgery was performed in 73,6% of children, more than half of the interventions were related to extrarenal anomaly. In 17% of children the kidney function was deteriorated after surgery. Conclusion. Children suffering from unilateral multicystic dysplastic kidney have a greater chance of exhibiting an anomaly of the contralateral kidney and the urinary system in general. Therefore, they require thorough examination, both prenatally and postnatally. We propose obligatory serial professional prenatal ultrasound examinations, followed by postnatal ultrasound, isotope scan, and we especially emphasize the need for performing urinary cystouretherography, bearing in mind the high incidence of the vesicoureteral reflux of the contralateral kidney. In addition to nephrectomy, cytoscopy and colposcopy also need to be performed for the purpose of discovering possible hidden anomalies of the urogenital system.
Exercise induced rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Ruzic Maja , Fabri Milotka , Pobor Marta , Jovelic Aleksandra , Lukac Damir
Published: December 2010

Introduction. Rhabdomyolysis is a potentially life threatening disease, characterized by the release of intracellular calcium from skeletal muscles and can result in acute renal failure. Case report. A nineteen year old boy was admitted to the Clinic for Infective Diseases of Clinical Center Novi Sad. The disease was developing gradually and the symptoms were dizziness, muscle pain and dark color of urine. Due to the pathological level of aminotransferase he was hospitalized on the fourth day of the disease beginning with a suspicious diagnosis of acute viral hepatitis. In the hospital course of the disease, a further elevation of serum aminotransferases, creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase were registered. Additional serological analyses were done to exclude other possible causes of acute liver lesion. In the neurological status prolonged decontraction of quadriceps muscle was detected and the electromyography was suspicious on neuromyositis. Conclusion. Excessive muscular activity with the strenuous exercise is the leading, but very frequently overlooked, cause of rhabdomyolysis in healthy people. Excessive physical exercise may lead to elevation of the serum activity of aminotransferases and to suspicion of hepatitis.
Efficiency of a combined peginterferon alpha-2a and ribavarin therapy in intravenous opiate substances abusers with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Jovanovic Maja , Konstantinovic Ljiljana , Kostic Velimir , Vrbic Miodrag , Popovic Lidija
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. The most important ethiology factor of chronic liver disease that progresses into terminal insufficiency is hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Intravenous (iv) drug abuse is the main cause for spreading HCV. Thus the therapy for such patients is of extreme importance in reducing the incidence of the disease. The aim of the study was to establish efficacy of a combined therapy with peginterferon alpha-2a and ribavirin in iv opiate substances abusers having chronic HCV infection in relation to sex, age, genotype and level of fibrosis and duration of HCV infection before the treatment. Methods. Thirty one iv opiate substances abusers with chronic hepatitis C (HHC) were enrolled in the examination. The patients were divided according to the genotype into two groups. The patients with genotypes 1 and 4 (n = 18) were treated for 48 weeks, while those with genotypes 2 and 3 (n = 13) for 24 weeks. PCR HCV RNA, genotype determination and liver biopsy were done to each patient. Results. A stabile virological response was achieved in 93.5% of the patients, so the therapy demonstrated statistically significant efficacy i. v. opiate substances abusers with HHC (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in therapeutic response among patient groups formed according to the genotype, sex, duration of the disease and level of fibrosis (p > 0.05). Conclusion. Therapy of of iv opiate substances abusers with HHC has its specificities, and these patients need special treatment. Efficacy of the therapy was equivalent in patient groups formed according to the sex, genotype, level of fibrosis and duration of HCV infection. A combined therapy with peginterferon alfa 2a and ribavirin has high level of success in the treatment of these patients.
Specificities of hand trauma in agriculture
Authors: Nikolic Jelena , Janjic Zlata
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Hand injuries in agriculture are characterized by massive destruction of all tissues, frequent amputations of finger, hand and often the whole extremity. These injuries are mutilant and can cause death. The aim of this paper was to show the specificities of hand injuries in agriculture in regard to hand injuries of other etiology. Methods. We analyzed patients that were treated in the Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Clinical Center Vojvodina, during a five-year period (2003-2007) because of hand injuries. Results. In a five-year period there were 366 patients hospitalized because of hand injuries, out of whom 36 injuries were related to agricultural machinery use. In both groups the number of patients trended to increased, with male gender being dominant. Most of the patients were young or middle-aged men. In agricultural injuries most of the patients were in the group of 41-50-year old (30%), while in the other group, the patients were younger (21-30-year old). Hand injuries in agriculture resulted in finger amputation in 92%, while in the other group that number was much smaller (13%). Skin defect reconstruction in agricultural injuries required complex methods of skin grafting or skin flaps in more than 71%, while this was necessary in only 10% of other hand injuries. Conclusion. Hand injuries in agriculture are very mutilant and often result in conquassation and finger amputation. A possibility to preserve tissue damaged in this way is very limited, and skin closer usually requires complex methods.
Relationship between the type of atrial fibrillation and thromboembolic events
Authors: Potpara Tatjana , Grujic Miodrag , Vujisic-Tesic Bosiljka , Ostojic Miodrag , Polovina Marija , Arandjelovic Aleksandra , Mujovic Nebojsa
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk for ischemic stroke and other thromboembolic (TE) events. Aim of the study was to examine the relationship between clinical types of atrial fibrillation (AF) and (TE) events. Methods. This longitudinal, observational study included patients with nonvalvular AF as main indication for in-hospital and/or outpatient treatment in the Cardiology Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia during a period 1992-2007. The treatment of AF was based on the International Guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of AF, correspondent to given study period. Clinical types of AF were defined according to the latest ACC/AHA/ESC Guidelines for AF, from 2006. Diagnosis of central and systemic TE events during a follow-up was made exclusively by the neurologist and vascular surgeon. Results. During a follow-up of 9.9 ? 6 years, TE events were documented in 88/1 100 patients (8%). In the time of TE event 46/88 patients (52.3%) had permanent AF. The patients with permanent AF were at baseline significantly older and more frequently had underlying heart disease and diabetes mellitus. Cumulative TE risk during follow-up was similar for patients with paroxysmal and permanent AF, and significantly higher as compared to TE risk in patients with persistent AF. However, multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis with independent variables clinical types of AF at baseline and in the time of TE event, clinical and echocardiographic characteristics and therapy for prevention of TE complications at baseline and at the time of TE event, did not reveal independent predictive value of clinical type of AF for the occurrence of TE events during a follow-up. Conclusion. TE risk in patients with AF does not depend on clinical type of AF. Treatment for prevention of TE events should be based on the presence of well recognized risk factors, and not on the clinical type of AF.
Giant dumbbell tumor of the posterior mediastinum
Authors: Milosavljevic Milos , Mitrovic Slobodanka , Vujadinovic Miroslav , Acimovic Ljubisa , Mrvic Stanko , Milisavljevic Slobodan
Published: December 2010

Background. Giant dumbbell-shaped tumors are very rare and characterized by intra- and extraspinal propagation of different dimensions. In thoracal localization, invasive growth can lead up to rib and vertebra erosion. Case report. We presented a 54-year-old woman with a giant dumbbell schwannoma in the posterior mediastinum. The tumor was removed by the posterior approach with hemilaminectomy and costotransversectomy. By microscopic examination the diagnosis of benign schwannoma was made. A year after the surgery, the patient was without neurological deficiency and without radiological signs of illness relapse. Conclusion. Treatment of dumbbell schwannoma is surgical, dilemmas of the optimal surgical approach. When it is thoracally located the posterior approach with hemilaminectomy and costotransversectomy is safe and effective for its removal.
Use of recombinant factor VIIa in the treatment of massive retroperitoneal bleeding due to severe necrotizing pancreatitis
Authors: Stefanovic Branislav , Stefanovic Branislava , Mijatovic Srdjan , Radenkovic Dejan , Popovic Nada , Sijacki Ana , Lackovic Vesna
Published: December 2010

Background. Recently, a growing number of case reports and case series have suggested that the use of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) may be effective in treatment of patients with non-hemophilic acquired coagulopathy not responding to conventional treatment such as major surgery, major trauma, sepsis, necrotizing pancreatitis and bleeding due to cerebral arteriovenous malformations. Case report. We presented a septic patient with massive, lifethreatening bleeding caused by retroperitoneal necrosis, due to severe acute necrotizing pancreatitis. As conservative treatment (blood, plasma, cryoprecipitates and platelet transfusions) failed to induce cessation of bleeding, the patient was urgently operated on. In spite of usual procedures of surgical hemostasis (ligation, suture, thermocauterisation, fibrin glue, temporary tamponade), hemorrhage could not be stopped. The patient manifested the signs of hypothermia and metabolic acidosis and, therefore, the decision was made to use recombinant activated factor VII (Novo Seven?). The application of rFVIIa resulted in significant discontinuation of hemorrhage, restoration to normal blood count as well as other relevant coagulation parameters. Conclusion. Although application of rFVIIa is still in the initial clinical phase, and the experience is based mainly on uncontrolled series as well as on individual observations, it seems that this drug can be promising, potent and attractive adjunctive prohemostatic agent. This drug may play a beneficial role in the treatment of serious and unresponsive, 'nonsurgical', life-threatening bleeding due to severe acute necrotizing pancreatitis.
Clinical, histopathological and immunohistological study of lymphoid disorders in the parotid gland of patients with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Trenkic-Bozinovic Marija , Katic Vuka , Krasic Dragan , Veselinovic Dragan , Jovanovic Predrag , Krstic Miljan
Published: December 2010

Bacground/Aim. Sj?gren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune systemic disease characterized by polyglandular tissue destruction, leading to keratoconjunctivitis sicca and xerostomia. These patients have 44-fold increased risk of developing salivary gland lymphoma, of which 80% are marginal zone (MALT) type. Having in mind that criteria for distinguishing benign lymphoepithelial lesions from MALT lymphoma are obscure, the aim of this study was to provide practical information that could be integrated into diagnostic practice. Methods. Among 32 parotidectomies, 27 cases were identified as having benign lymphoepithelial disorders and 5 cases low grade MALT lymphoma. Histological sections were stained routinely with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E and special stains. Immunohistochemical study was performed by LSAB2 method, by using primary antibodies for CD20, CD3, Kappa and Lambda light chains and Cytokeratin (Dako Denmark). Results. The 27 patients with Sj?gren's sialoadenitis (22 women and 5 men), and 5 patients with MALT lymphoma (only women) were included in this analysis. According to the Ann Harbor Classification, all patients with MALT lymphoma had stage IE. Both groups of patients had an indolent clinical course, except permanent, rapid parotid enlargement in the patients with MALT lymphoma. Histologically, the periductal lymphoid infiltrate, gradually extended to the acini, completely replacing them by a sea of polyclonal lymphocytes, immunoblasts, germinal centers and plasma cells (confirmed immunohistochemically), but sparing the ducts and preserving lobular appearance. The histological feature of salivary gland MALT lymphoma included heterogeneous B-cell infiltrate that totally or subtotally had effaced the normal glandular structure. Malign lymphoepithelial lesions, representing infiltration of the ductal and epithelial structures by monoclonal neoplastic Bcells, positive for CD20, were highlighted by antibody to cytokeratin. Conclusion. The optimal diagnosis of salivary gland MALT lymphoma requires careful integration of clinical, morphological and immunohistochemical results.
Clinical and immunological features of retinal vasculitis in systemic diseases
Authors: Paovic Jelena , Paovic Predrag , Vukosavljevic Miroslav
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Vasculitis is a clinical, pathologic process characterized by inflammation and necrosis of blood vessel occurring anywhere in the body. The aim of the study was to present some clinical and immunologic features of retinal vasculitis in systemic diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, sarcoidosis, Behcet's diseases, and others. Methods. A total of 1 254 patients with uveitis were included in the study. The immunochemical diagnostic methods were used to determine the pathogenesis of ocular manifestations. Ocular manifestations were examined using biomicroscope, direct or indirect ophtalmoscopy. Results. Primary retinal vasculitis was diagnosed in 85/1254 (6.8%) of total uveitis. In more than half of the cases of vasculitis (58.8%), both arteries and veins were involved in inflammatory process. Periphlebitis was diagnosed far more commonly (36.5%) than periarteritis (4.7%). Retinal vasculitis associated with systemic lupus erythematosus was characterized by microinfarctions and the consequent foci of inflammatory cells or diseases of large arteries manifesting in vasospasm and occlusions. Cotton wool spots occurred in 38.3% and retinal hemorrhages in 34% of the cases. In this study periphlebitis of the retina was one of the less frequent ocular manifestations of multiple sclerosis. Comparing with the other changes of the retinal blood vessels, venous sheating occurred in 25.1% and occlusion and vein trombosis in 43.75% of the cases. Retinal vasculitis associated with chronic sarcoidosis occured in 37.5% of patients with sarcoidosis. The most frequent manifestation of ocular sarcoidosis was intermediary uveitis (43.75%). Anterior granulomatous uveitis occured in 37.5% of patients with sarcoidoses. Immune complexes occurred in 13/20 (65%) of the patients. Antiretinal anti-S antibody in the serum occurred in 73% of the patients with retinal detachment as a complication of primary disease and in 25% those with vasculitis. Conclusion. Systemic diseases such as Behcet's syndrome, collagen vascular diseases, systemic granulomatous diseases (sarcoidosis and tuberculosis) were the main causes of retinal vasculitis. Knowledge of the symptomatology and pathogenesis of retinal vasculitis is of the major significance for the diagnosis and therapy of the disease.
Risk factors for coronary heart disease and actual diagnostic criteria for diabetes mellitus
Authors: Mitrovic-Perisic Natasa , Antic Slobodan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Recent studies indicate that the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 is increasing in the world. Chronic hyperglycemia in DM is associated with a long term damage, dysfunction and failure of various organs, especially retina, kidney, nerves and, in addition, with an increased risk of cardiovasclar disease. For a long time the illness has been unknown. Early diagnosis of diabetes could suspend the development of diabetic complications. The aim of the study was to establish risk for the development of coronary disease in the patients evaluated by the use of new diagnostic criteria for DM. Methods. The study included 930 participants without diagnosis of DM, hypertension, dyslipidemia, nor coronary heart disease two years before the study. The patients went through measuring of fasting plasma glycemia, erythrocytes, hematocrit, cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. In the group with hyperglycemia the 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test was performed. We analyzed ECG and made blood pressure monitoring, and also measured body mass, height, waist and hip circumference. We analyzed life style, especially smoking, and exercise and family history. Results. Diabetes prevalence was 2.68%, and prevalences of impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance and DM were 12.15%. Average age of males and females was 38 and 45 years, respectively. In the healthy population there was higher frequency of smokers (55% vs 42%), but in the population with hyperglycemia there were more obesity (23% vs 10.5%), hypertension (39% vs 9%), hypercholesterolemia (76% vs 44.1%), lower HDL-C (52.2% vs 25.7%). Cummulative risk factor in healthy subjects, and those with hyperglycemia were 5.6% and 14%, respectively. Conclusion. Subjects with hyperglicemia without diagnosis of DM have higher risk factors for coronary heart disease.
Significance of transesophageal echocardiography in the evaluation of aortic valve stenosis
Authors: Prcovic Biljana
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a relatively new diagnostic method offering better resolution of cardiac anatomy than the conventional transthoracal two-dimensional echocardiography (TTE). Clinical indications for TEE have been expanding, thus the technique as a diagnostic procedure is used in numerous cardiac diseases such as endocarditis, congenital heart defect, aortic dissection, prosthetic valves dysfunction, as well as in calculation of aortic valve surface in aortic stenosis. The aim of the study was to prove TEE as a more precise method in determination of the level of seriousness of aortic valve stenosis. Methods. All the patients went through TTE and TEE. Evaluating of the aortic valve surface was performed by the use of Gorlin's formula in TTE while it was planimetric in TEE examination. Results. Comparative analysis of all parameters obtained by TTE and TEE showed a difference between them. All the parameters values except that for surface area of the aortic valve orifice confluence were higher in TEE than in TTE examination, but no difference was statistically significant (p > 0.05; t-test for a dependant specimens). By the use of the TTE method, the size of aortic orifice stenosis was 1.22 ? 0.54 cm2, and by the TEE method it was 1.08 ? 0.54 cm2. Conclusion. Multiplain TEE is reliable in quantification of an aortic valve area in patients with aortic stenosis. It offers useful clinical information, particularly in patients with non-adequate evaluation with TTE, as well as in seriously ill patients or those with a confirmed valvular defect.
Clinical and radiographic features of sarcoidosis in menopausal women: The impact on therapeutic approach and prognosis
Authors: Miloskovic Vladana , Pesut Dragica
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology. The aim of the study was to determine are there significant differences in clinical manifestations, radiographic and lung function findings and therapeutic approach in menopausal female sarcoidosis patients compared to premenopausal ones. Methods. Seventy seven Caucasian women (average age 43.71 years, range 38- 54) with sarcoidosis diagnosed at the University Hospital from January to October 2006, were included in the study. They were divided into two groups according to their menstrual period status. The group I included 42 women with normal menstrual cycle, while the group II included 35 menopausal women (either spontaneous or after hysterectomy). The patients were not under hormonal therapy. Results. We found significantly higher proportion of the first radiographic stage (66.7% vs 34.2%, p < 0.05) and acute form of sarcoidosis (57.2% vs 17.1%; p < 0.01) in the group I in relation to the group II. Extrapulmonary sarcoidosis was more frequent in the group II than in the group I (p < 0.01). Disturbances of lung ventilation were registered in 50.8% of all the patients, and decrease of one or both of diffusion parameters was found in 63.6%, but without significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). Hypercalciuria was found in 19.1% of the patients in the group I and 42.8% of the patient in the group II (p < 0.05). A difference in the therapy approach was also found to be significant with methotrexate more frequently applied in the group II than in the group I (p < 0.01). Conclusion. Menopausal women with sarcoidosis may represent a group of patients that requires special attention in diagnostic procedure, therapeutic approach and follow-up, to prevent unfavourable course of the disease. Attention should be particularly focused on the detection of extrapulmonary sites involvement in this group of the patients. Further prospective studies are needed to reveal the role of hormones, and especially plasma estrogen level in sarcoidosis appearance.
Correlation between disease progression and histopathologic criterions of the lip squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Golubovic Mileta , Asanin Bogdan , Jelovac Drago , Petrovic Milan , Antunovic Marija
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim.The most common malignancy of the lip is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In our population, according to epidemiological data, almost a half of all (45%) SCC of oral mucous tissue spreads over the lower and upper lip. The aim of this study was to estimate prognostic importance of histopathologic characteristics - histologic grade, nuclear grade and tumor size in relation to the appearance of lymph node metastases and relapse in SCC of the lip. Methods. In the retrospective- prospective study 70 cases of lower and upper lip SCC were analyzed. They were diagnosed from 2002 to 2006 in the Clinic of Maxillofacial Surgery, Clinical Center of Montenegro. The data about localization of the carcinomas, histopathologic characteristics and lymph node status were taken from medical files of the patients. The patients were followed up in a 3-year period and the disease relapse or/and metastatic disease appearance were registereds. Results. There was statistically significant difference in tumor size among the patients with and without disease relapse (p = 0.027). Logistic regression analysis showed that the tumor size is a statistically significant factor (R = 0.186; p = 0.011) for the appearance of regional lymph node metastases. Relative risk [exp (B)] for the appearance of regional lymph node metastases in relation to tumor size was 2.807. Conclusion. Histologic and nuclear grade of lip SCC are not prognostic factors for the appearance of the disease relapse and regional lymph node metastases. Tumor size is a predictive factor of the relapse appearance, as well as for lymph node metastases appearance. In clinical practice, tumor size is a factor that classifies patients with lip SCC into the groups of higher and smaller risk of relapse appearance and for lymph node metastases appearance. Our results suggest that, risk for lymph node metastases appearance increases 2.8 times with increasing of the tumor size over 2 cm in diameter.
Impact of benign prostatic hyperplasia surgical treatment on voiding and urinary bladder filling symptoms
Authors: Milicevic Snjezana , Vasic Dusko
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP) is one of the most common diseases of elderly men. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia to voiding and urinary bladder filling symptoms. Quantification of voiding and filling symptoms was done with the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Method. The study included 80 patients with BHP, of whom 40 were treated with open prostatectomy (group A), and other 40 with transurethral resection of prostate gland (group B). All the patients were under 80 years old (average age in the group A was 70.23 years with a variation interval of 21 years, and in the group B 69.37 years with a variation interval of 22 years), with a value of IPSS > 19 points, quantity of residual urine higher than 150 mL, the weight of benign prostatic gland hyperplasia tissue over 30 grams for the method of prostate transurethral resection, and over 80 grams for the method of open prostatectomy. To all patients, for two times, the value of IPSS was determined, and then in a postoperative period in time intervals of 4 and 12 weeks. Results. Arithmetic mean of IPSS preoperatively was 32.05 points in the group A and 31.75 points in the group B. During the postoperative check-ups in time intervals of 4 and 12 weeks, arithmetic means of IPSS in the group A were 5.4 and 1.85 points, respectively, and in the group B 11.425 and 9.025 points, respectively. Surgical treatment had better effect on voiding symptoms than on urinary bladder filling ones. Conclusion. After the mentioned surgical procedures a significant reduction of the lower urinary tract symptoms quantified by the IPSS was observed. Surgical treatment of BHP had a more pronounced effect on the voiding symptoms in relation to filling ones.
The ultrasonographic diagnosis of fetal encephalocele at 13th gestational week
Authors: Sorak Marija , Zivanovic Aleksandar , Varjacic Mirjana , Lukic Goran , Babic Goran
Published: December 2010

Background. Encephalocele presents a rare anomaly of central nervous system, developed as a consequence of neural tube closing defect during early embrional development, and it is described by a baggy formation which prolaborates through the pores of the scull, filled with brain tissue, cerebrospinal liquor and entwined with meninges. According to literature search, until this day, the earliest it can be ultrasonically detected is the 13th gestation week, with the appliance of three-dimensional ultrasound. Case report. We presented 25 years old patient, ultrasonically diagnosed with occipital fetal encephalocela at the 13th gestation week. A gestation sack was located in the right uteral corn of the two-corned uterus with one cervix. The diagnosis was confirmed also by trippled value of alpha-fetoprotein in maternal serum: 75,98 IU/mL. Conclusion. Ultrasonic examination is the method of choice for prenatal detection of a fetal anomaly. It is possible to diagnose encephalocele if it prominates above the limits of the scull.
Asymmetry and sexual dimorphism of the medial frontal gyrus visible surface in humans
Authors: Spasojevic Goran , Stojanovic Zlatan , Suscevic Dusan , Malobabic Slobodan , Rafajlovski Saso , Tatic Vujadin
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Studies of visible (extrasulcal) surface of the brain hemispheres are not feasible for measurements of the brain size, but are valuable for analysis and quantification of sexual dimorphism and/or asymmetries of the human brain. Morphological and morphometric investigations of the brain may contribute in genetic studies of the human nervous system. The aim of this study was to determine and to quantify sexual dimorphism and the right/left morphological asymmetry of the visible surface of medial frontal gyrus (gyrus frontalis medialis - GFM). Methods. Measurements and analysis of the visible surface of GFM were done on 84 hemispheres (42 brains from the persons of both sexes: 26 males and 16 females, 20-65 years of age). After fixation in 10% formalin and dissection, digital morphometric measurements were performed. We studied these in relation to the side of the hemisphere and the person's sex. Standardized digital AutoCAD planimetry of the visible surface of GFM was enabled by the use of coordinate system of intercommissural line. Results. In the whole sample, the visible surface of the right GFM (21.39 cm2) was statistically significantly greater (p < 0.05) than the left GFM (18.35 cm2) indicating the right/left asymmetry of the visible surface of GFM. Also, the visible surface of the right GFM in the males (22.66 cm2) was significantly greater (p < 0.05) than in the females (19.35 cm2), while the difference in size of the left GFM between the males and the females was not significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion. Morphological analysis of visible surface of GFM performed by digital planimetry showed sexual dimorphism of the visible surface and the presence of right/left asymmetry of GFM.