Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a clot blocks a pulmonary artery, which can be fatal. Identifying high-risk patients allows for early interventions to prevent death. The symptoms and signs of PE are often vague and underdiagnosed. This study aims to investigate the clinical manifestations and risk factors of acute PE. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Alshaab Teaching Hospital between May and December 2019, with data analyzed using SPSS software. The most common clinical symptoms, in order of frequency, were gradual-onset dyspnea (34.4%), pleuritic chest pain (29.5%), cough (27.9%), hemoptysis (14.8%), and leg swelling (11.5%). The leading risk factor was post-surgery, especially orthopedic surgery (27.9%), followed by the postpartum period and respiratory conditions (14.8%). Computer tomography (CT) scans were the primary diagnostic tool, while low molecular weight heparin was the main treatment. The study concluded that multiple risk factors are often present in cases of acute PE, and symptoms may be mild. Maintaining high suspicion is important for accurate diagnosis. The highest incidence was found in patients aged 41-60 years, with a higher frequency among females. Diagnostic techniques included clinical assessment, CTPA, transthoracic echocardiography, and Doppler ultrasound for cases with significant limb swelling. Treatment was performed according to established guidelines, and most patients were discharged with plans for outpatient follow-up. Early diagnosis can reduce complications and improve patient outcomes, allowing for preventive measures for high-risk groups and better management of risk factors.
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is considered the most common type of vasculitis, especially in people aged 50 years or older, and imaging studies have helped predict its systemic nature. We conducted this review to highlight the results of the recently published articles considering the prognosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). We searched for the relevant literature in SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct and were included. We used Rayyan (Rayyan Systems, Cambridge, Massachusetts) throughout this systematic approach. The search resulted in twelve studies with 2600 patients with GCA diagnosis; most of them, 1853 (71.3%), were females. This systematic review found that most of the GCA patients experienced at least one relapse episode, primarily in patients younger than 75 years, with dependency on glucocorticoids, female sex, and involvement of large vessel vasculitis. We also found that stroke in GCA patients was associated with a bad prognosis. Therefore, we think more prospective studies are needed to enhance particular patient outcomes, and new therapeutic approaches using accessible biotherapies like tocilizumab and other similar medications are required.
Medical students are often considered a high-risk group for stress-related conditions, including primary headaches. Previous research on primary headaches in this population has shown an association between poor academic performance and the need for intervention. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of primary headaches among medical students at Northern Border University in Arar, Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study used an online questionnaire administered at a single point in time. The study sample included 405 medical students from Saudi Arabia, of whom 50.9% were males, 49.1% were females, and 91.9% of participants were aged 18-24 years. The frequency of headache attacks was reported as once daily by 54.2%, twice daily by 18.7%, and three times daily by 17.6%, while 33 participants experienced one headache attack weekly, 23.5% had 2 attacks weekly, and 25.6% had three attacks weekly. In terms of intensity, 34.5% reported severe headaches, 34.8% moderate headache, and 30.7% mild headache. Headaches were often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea (46%), vomiting (42.7%), photophobia (56.5%), phonophobia (60.9%), and neurological disturbances (48.3%). Approximately 29.7% of participants used prescribed headache medications, while 18.9% self-medicated without a prescription. Primary headache is highly common among medical students in Saudi Arabia, posing a significant challenge to their quality of life and academic performance. It is essential to emphasize the importance of consulting a neurologist if headaches are experienced.
9 September 2015 in Journal of Medical Science And clinical Research
Introduction:Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and micro architectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. A high prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis were reported in Arab countries.