Reports

Background and Clinical Significance: Currently, maxillary sinus floor elevation is one of the most common procedures used in implantology practice. Despite its predictability, the technique is not without complications, such as graft material dispersion in the sinus cavity, wound dehiscence, hematoma, fenestrations, oroantral fistulas, epistaxis, acute sinusitis, and Schneider membrane perforations. The treatment of the latter can be complex, and depending on its extent, surgery deferral may be necessary, leading to increased patient morbidity. Case Presentation: A patient with apical surgery underwent sinus floor elevation with a significant Schneider membrane perforation using a new approach involving titanium mesh, resorbable membrane, and xenograft. This allowed the continuation of surgery, reducing the number of interventions and patient morbidity. Conclusions: Despite limitations due to a small sample size, this case report demonstrates that addressing large Schneider membrane perforations and placing implants is effective and predictable using the technology and approach of mesh formwork with titanium. Full article

Background: Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya are endemic to tropical regions and are common causes of acute febrile illness in both adults and children. The Philippines, home to more than one hundred million residents and visited by several million tourists each year, is one such region where the risk of these diseases is endemic. Objective and Methods: To better understand the detailed situation, we estimated the proportion of these diseases in the community by conducting a prospective observational study in four provincial hospitals of Davao de Oro, Philippines, from February 2019 to February 2020. Sera from 382 study participants were used for laboratory confirmation of dengue or chikungunya by serology. Results: Dengue was diagnosed in 57.1%, chikungunya in 7.07%, and coinfection with both dengue and chikungunya in 7.3%, while the etiology was undetermined in 35.9% of the study participants. Common clinical symptoms included fever, headache, and a rash, which were overlapping symptoms that were clinically indistinguishable at the presentation to the hospital, necessitating laboratory diagnostics. Conclusions: The identification of the presence of chikungunya in Davao de Oro calls for increased awareness, improved diagnostics, and integrated disease control measures to manage outbreaks that can occur in dengue-endemic regions. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Femoral neck fracture frequently occurs in the elderly population but may also present in patients diagnosed with primary cancer or bone metastases. A pathological, oligosymptomatic fracture associated with epithelioid haemangioendothelioma (EHE), a rare endothelial cell-derived sarcoma, is uncommon. Case Presentation: A 44-year-old patient underwent biopsy procedures three times (2010, 2012, 2013) for a focal lesion of the left ischium, none confirming its malignant nature. The last biopsy revealed a neoplastic tissue with features of discrete dysplasia. The lesion did not undergo medical follow-up for seven consecutive years. In August 2020, the patient presented with right lower limb pain. A CT scan, PET/CT scan, and biopsy confirmed EHE with spindle/sarcomatous features. In November 2020, chemotherapy (5xADIC) started (PET/CT confirmed a partial response). After its completion in July 2021, bone progression occurred and sirolimus-based therapy was started. After 3 months, a small liver metastasis was visualized on PET/CT, which did not result in the termination of treatment. In December 2021, pamidronate-based antiresorptive therapy was started. Liver metastasis remained stable in follow-up CT scans. Due to pelvic and spinal lesions, the patient was assisted by elbow crutches and underwent radiotherapy, remaining professionally active. The patient did not report any trauma, but in August 2023, a subsequent CT scan revealed a subcapital fracture of the left femoral neck in the fusion phase. Due to pelvic changes and the stable nature of the fracture, surgical treatment was abandoned. Conclusions: An oligosymptomatic femoral neck fracture, not requiring medical intervention is considered a rare complication of bone cancer. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: The use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in emergency departments is rapidly growing due to its ability to provide immediate and accurate diagnostic information at the bedside. Furthermore, it can provide precise and rapid information on the location of multidistrict effusions in patients with suspected lymphatic decompensation. Case Presentation: This unique clinical case report describes a patient who presented with massive, multidistrict chylous effusion secondary to acute lymphatic insufficiency, a rare and challenging condition. Due to a recent diagnosis of celiac disease, the patient had started a gluten-free diet ten days before the onset of symptoms, suggesting a possible causal link. Through comprehensive thoracoabdominal POCUS, the diagnosis was made promptly, avoiding delays in treatment and enabling timely decision-making. Conclusions: This case emphasizes the critical role of POCUS not only in expediting diagnosis but also in guiding invasive procedures, such as thoracentesis, by visualizing fluid accumulation and anatomical structures in real-time. Moreover, POCUS provides an invaluable tool for ongoing clinical ultrasound follow-up, facilitating continuous monitoring without exposing the patient to the risks of radiation, thus optimizing patient care and resource utilization. Full article

This study evaluates the effectiveness of diode laser therapy, specifically the Biolase Epic X at 940 nm and 0.8–1 W, in conjunction with scaling and root planing (SRP) for treating generalized periodontitis. Background and Clinical Significance: A 32-year-old man underwent full-mouth disinfection and laser-assisted periodontal therapy, with follow-up at six months. Case Presentation: Significant improvements were observed, including reductions in bleeding on probing from 20% to 5%, in mean probing depth from 2.3 mm to 2.1 mm, and in clinical attachment level from −2.8 mm to −2.2 mm. Radiographic analysis showed a stabilization of bone loss and an 80% improvement in pathological sites. Conclusions: These findings indicate that diode laser therapy is an effective adjunct to SRP, enhancing periodontal health outcomes with minimal post-operative complications. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is a rare occurrence in patients treated with venetoclax mono- or combination therapy, and clear protocols guiding TLS prophylaxis are lacking. Case Presentation: We present a 53-year-old male with a history of relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) with t(11;14) treated with venetoclax, carfilzomib and dexamethasone (VenKd), resulting in TLS with subsequent renal failure. Repeat marrow biopsy showed no monoclonal plasma cells but extensive fibrosis. Venetoclax was reintroduced after two months with marrow recovery. Venetoclax was titrated from 200 to 400 mg daily alongside IV fluids and allopurinol without TLS recurrence. Conclusions: Here, we highlight the importance of risk stratification, dose titration, and TLS prophylaxis with venetoclax use in RRMM. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: A brain abscess, defined as a localized intracranial infection that evolves into a purulent collection encased by a vascularized capsule, has higher prevalence among immunocompromised populations. Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) are particularly vulnerable to bacterial infections due to their compromised immune systems, increasing their susceptibility to pathogens like Salmonella. While Salmonella is typically associated with gastroenteritis, osteomyelitis, and septicemia, its involvement in brain abscesses is exceedingly rare. There are few documented cases of Salmonella brain abscesses in the general population, and among patients with SCD, only one such case has been reported to date. In this report, we describe the second known case of a brain abscess caused by Salmonella infection in a patient with sickle cell disease, contributing to the limited literature on this rare and life-threatening condition. Case Presentation: A 32-year-old African American woman with sickle cell disease presented to the ER after a generalized seizure, reporting two weeks of worsening headaches, fevers, and left upper extremity weakness. Imaging revealed a right frontoparietal brain abscess, which was surgically drained, and cultures identified Salmonella enterica. After antibiotic treatment and a 23-day hospital stay, she was discharged. Four months later, she returned with another seizure during a sickle cell crisis, but follow-up MRI showed only minor scarring, and she was discharged on anticonvulsant therapy. Conclusions: This case emphasizes that Salmonella infections, though typically linked to osteomyelitis and sepsis, can also cause brain abscesses in immunocompromised patients like those with sickle cell disease. It highlights the need to consider infections alongside vascular causes in acute neurological cases and underscores the value of a multidisciplinary approach in managing such complex conditions. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: We wished to review the use of arterial embolization with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) to treat large high-flow vascular malformations due to its rapid polymerization and ability to permanently occlude large and small vessels. Case Presentation: A 52-year-old male presented with a two-year history of progressively worsening pain and swelling in the right gluteal area. Imaging techniques (color Doppler ultrasonography, CT, DSA, and MRI) were utilized for the diagnosis of a large high-flow intramuscular hemangioma. The mass displaced the surrounding tissues but showed no signs of lymphadenopathy or distant metastasis. The treatment involved targeting different arterial feeders over several sessions. Each procedure used NBCA–Lipiodol under fluoroscopic guidance, progressively reducing the malformation’s size and alleviating his symptoms. After the final embolization, the patient showed significant pain relief and a reduction in the size of the malformation, confirmed by follow-up imaging, demonstrating NBCA embolization’s effectiveness. The protocol’s safety and efficacy in this context are discussed. Conclusions: Arterial embolization with NBCA is a promising treatment for large high-flow vascular malformations, providing symptom relief and reductions in lesion size. While this case report highlights the procedure’s efficacy, further research is needed for a broader understanding of its long-term outcomes and potential complications. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Voriconazole is a commonly prescribed second-generation azole used for the prevention and treatment of fungal infections. This report seeks to elucidate the relationship between certain intravenous infusion parameters and the causality and severity of potential visual adverse events associated with voriconazole administration, despite existing reports of visual disturbances such as hallucinations and altered visual perception, the underlying causes of which remain inadequately understood. Case Presentation: This case report describes a 32-year-old female patient who experienced sudden hallucinations and visual impairments after receiving an initial dose of intravenous voriconazole for the treatment of recurrent severe vulvovaginitis caused by Candida glabrata. The symptoms quickly disappeared when the dosage and infusion rate were reduced as per the recommendations of the clinical pharmacist. Conclusions: This example emphasizes the possible negative drug responses linked to voriconazole, especially those provoked by its irrational use described as an inappropriate infusion rate, and the crucial role of clinical pharmacists in recognizing and handling these reactions. Full article

Background: Persistent alterations in taste and smell affect a significant proportion of individuals following COVID-19, representing a component of post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, commonly referred to as long COVID. The degradation of sphingomyelin by acid sphingomyelinase is regarded as a biomarker for acquired demyelinating neuropathies. Objectives: This study was aimed to enroll women who contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy and experienced persistent alterations in taste and/or smell for more than 1 year post-infection, in comparison to pregnant women without any disturbances in these senses. Methods: The patients were subjected to a questionnaire investigating smell and taste disorders more than 1 year after the infection. Then, the levels of acid sphingomyelinase in the plasma of the participants were assessed. Results: The results showed that in women who had been pregnant and who had been infected with SARS Cov-2 during the COVID period and who still had taste and smell disorders 1 year later, plasma acid sphingomyelinase levels were double that of pregnant women who had contracted the infection during the COVID period but had not reported taste and smell disorders and that of pregnant women analyzed after the COVID period. Conclusions: The results suggest a hypothesis that the persistence of sensory disturbances in long COVID was probably due to a failure to utilize brain circuitry with demyelination resulting from chemosensory dysfunction of the olfactory epithelium. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Abnormal uterine bleeding during the postmenopausal years is a pathological sign that may be due to simultaneous intrauterine and ovarian pathology. Granulosa cell tumours of the ovary are malignant neoplasms producing oestradiol, which leads to the abnormal proliferation of the endometrium, precancerous lesions, and endometrial carcinoma type I. Case Presentation: The authors present a clinical case of a 67-year-old woman with postmenopausal bleeding who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy, and partial omentectomy. The histopathological examination showed a granulosa cell adult-type ovarian tumour and a malignant endometrial polyp with atypical hyperplasia of the endometrium. Conclusions: The immunohistochemical analysis of the malignant endometrial polyp confirmed the expression of oestrogen, progesterone receptors, and the biomarker Ki-67. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Lophomonas is a multiflagellate anaerobic protozoan that usually inhabits the intestines of insects, mainly cockroaches. However, bronchopulmonary infections caused by this parasite have been increasingly reported worldwide in recent decades. We provide important information for the diagnosis of this disease, which often goes undetected and frequently leads to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment. It is noteworthy that this is the third case reported in Mexico. Case Presentation: A 37-year-old male patient was hospitalized several times for pneumonia with a persistent granuloma in the right bronchial lobe. After extensive testing, the patient was diagnosed with bronchopulmonary lophomoniasis and successfully treated with metronidazole. Conclusions: Clinicians worldwide should be aware of the existence of lophomoniasis, especially in low-income regions with poor sanitation and high insect exposure. This parasitic infection, although rare, may be underestimated due to its nonspecific respiratory symptoms, which may mimic other infections. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Guyon’s canal syndrome is a pathological condition caused by compression of the ulnar nerve at the level of the wrist. It is less frequent than other compression syndromes of the upper limb (cubital and carpal tunnel), and different causative agents, including vascular lesions, are described. Among these, aneurysm of the ulnar artery is described in the literature as an infrequent aetiology. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 25-year-old young man with Guyon’s canal syndrome caused by an aneurysm of the ulnar artery, who underwent surgical decompression of the Guyon’s canal without intervening on the aneurysm. The postoperative course was free of complications, and the patient reported satisfaction, with reduced symptoms. Clinical examination and ultrasound imaging showed mass reduction of the aneurysm in the postoperative period, which appears to be an evolution hitherto undocumented in the literature. Conclusions: Many treatments are available for Guyon’s canal syndrome. Past medical and surgical treatments, duration and severity of symptoms, causes, and pathogenesis are important for therapeutic choice. Surgical treatment based on ligament section and lysis of the Guyon’s canal downstream, without any action on the aneurysm and with ulnar artery preservation, determined a reduction in terms of volume, relief of the symptoms, and patient satisfaction. With this case we describe a surgical therapeutic option for the treatment of Guyon’s canal syndrome caused by an aneurysm of the ulnar artery, in which surgery is limited to canal decompression and consequential aneurysm mass reduction with concomitant relief of symptoms. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Fever in the returning traveler is a medical emergency warranting prompt exclusion of potentially life-threatening infections such as malaria. Case Presentation: We describe a case of a febrile returned traveler to South Africa whose prompt initial diagnostic work-up was notable for a false-positive malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT), and who nevertheless responded quickly to oral atovaquone-proguanil, despite an ultimate diagnosis of African tick bite fever. Subsequent RDT and malaria thick- and thin-film blood examination failed to corroborate a diagnosis of malaria and all other microbiological testing other than rickettsial serology remained non-contributory. Conclusions: The case presented highlights important points regarding diagnostic test performance characteristics and premature diagnostic closure. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC) is a rare, low-grade malignant tumor of the salivary glands. It is characterized by a low malignancy potential, as indicated by its low rate of lymph node involvement and distant metastasis, and has a local recurrence rate of approximately 50%. Due to the rarity of EMC and the limited data available in the literature, there are no established treatment or follow-up guidelines. Case Presentation: We report the case of an 83-year-old man who presented with swelling in the left submandibular region, occurring 9 years following an initial diagnosis of EMC in the ipsilateral parotid gland. After radiological examinations and an ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy, the patient underwent surgical excision of the lesion with a histological diagnosis of recurrence/metastasis of low-grade epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma. Conclusions: This is the first documented case of loco-regional lymph node metastasis 9 years after an initial diagnosis of EMC of the parotid gland. Based on our experience, EMC of the parotid gland, even when diagnosed at an early stage, seems to require a long follow-up period. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute febrile vasculitis that primarily affects children and is associated with systemic inflammation, particularly in the coronary arteries. Coxsackievirus A6 (CVA6) has emerged as a significant agent in atypical presentations of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), raising the possibility of its involvement in KD. Case Presentation: This report presents the case of an 18-month-old Thai boy admitted with symptoms of high fever, sore throat, and ulcerative lesions, initially diagnosed with herpangina. As his condition progressed, additional KD symptoms developed, including conjunctival injection, rash, and elevated inflammatory markers, fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for KD. Notably, throat swab analysis confirmed CVA6 as the causative agent. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the CVA6 strain closely aligned with Chinese strains from 2023, showing a high nucleotide sequence homology of 98.4%. Conclusions: In conclusion, this case highlights a possible association between CVA6-associated herpangina and KD, suggesting that CVA6 infection may act as a trigger for KD in genetically susceptible children. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers to promptly identify and manage Kawasaki Disease during peak enterovirus seasons, reducing its impact on children. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) has become a widely accepted supportive treatment for severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in intensive care units (ICUs). Although it has gained popularity, some of its aspects, including optimal anticoagulation management and the best means of monitoring hemostasis, remain unresolved. Thrombosis and bleeding are still important complications of ECMO. Case Presentation: A 44-year-old male patient, with no underlying conditions, was diagnosed with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to AH1N1 influenza. He presented severe hypoxemia despite the use of mechanical ventilation, neuromuscular blocking agent infusion and prone position. VV ECMO was used, and coagulation was stopped on ECLS day 6 due to severe pulmonary hemorrhage. The systemic hemostatic disorders found in this patient were difficult to differentiate from disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or sepsis-induced coagulopathy (SIC), improved transiently after circuit exchange, and resolved only after discontinuation of ECMO. The patient was discharged fully conscious and cooperative, with no apparent neurological deficit. Conclusions: Systemic hemostatic abnormalities may precede oxygenator failure and mimic DIC or SIC. Timely oxygenator exchange may therefore be considered. However, it is a high-risk procedure, especially in fully ECLS-dependent patients. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Denture stomatitis is a clinical manifestation of oral candidiasis, often seen in individuals wearing removable dentures that lead to the formation of sub-prosthetic stomatitis. This is particularly common in maladjusted appliances that have been in use for many years. Studies have shown that patients with systemic diseases such as diabetes, or other medical complexities, have a higher likelihood of developing denture stomatitis. To address this problem, the use of implant-retained dentures with different types of attachments has been introduced, providing increased comfort and hygiene for edentulous patients. However, this solution is not without its own set of challenges, being that the prolonged contact with mucosal surfaces can lead to challenges in cleaning and managing plaque depending on the attachment. Case Presentation: In this clinical case report, we present a female patient who developed bar-retained prosthetic stomatitis induced by oral candidiasis a few months after receiving her provisional prosthesis. Conclusions: In conclusion, this case report emphasizes the need to consider both systemic and local factors when preventing and treating denture stomatitis. By understanding the risk factors involved, healthcare professionals can provide their patients with the best possible care, helping to reduce the prevalence of oral candidiasis in individuals who use implant-retained dentures. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Biliary tract injuries are a recognized complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Early diagnosis and prompt management are crucial to minimize complications such as bile leaks, strictures, and fistula formation. This case report highlights the use of a biodegradable biliary stent in managing a complex biliary injury and discusses the impact of delayed diagnosis on treatment outcomes. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 30-year-old male who sustained a Strasberg E2 biliary tract injury during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Initially misdiagnosed, the injury was only recognized on the fourth postoperative day. The patient underwent a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy and subsequently developed a postoperative biliary fistula, which was managed with percutaneous drainage. A biodegradable biliary stent was later placed to address a stricture and minimize the need for future interventions. One year later, the patient presented with symptoms of cholangitis, and radiological findings revealed a narrowing of the biliary lumen. The stricture was resolved and an endoscopic gastrojejunal shunt was placed to prevent further complications. The patient is currently in good condition with no signs of further complications. Conclusions: This case emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis in managing biliary tract injuries and highlights the potential of biodegradable stents to reduce the need for repeat interventions. Despite a delayed diagnosis necessitating complex surgical procedures, the use of a biodegradable stent proved effective in managing postoperative complications. Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of biodegradable stents in similar clinical scenarios. Full article