Background/Objectives: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic antifibrinolytic agent that inhibits plasminogen activation, thereby reducing bleeding. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate its role in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)—a condition indicated by bleeding between two layers of brain tissue—to stop rebleeding and improve patient outcomes. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials from 1981 to 2024, focusing on the efficacy and safety of TXA in treating aneurysmal SAH (PROSPERO registration: CRD42024504834). Our comprehensive search of the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases identified studies assessing TXA at dosages of 3 to 6 g per day and examining outcomes such as rebleeding incidence, mortality, thromboembolic events, and other adverse effects. Results: From six included studies involving 2990 patients, the meta-analysis showed TXA largely lowered rebleeding risk (OR 0.54 95% CI 0.43–0.68; p < 0.00001), yet mortality rates were not largely different between the TXA group (385 out of 1201), and the control group (344 out of 1193) (OR 1.18 95% CI 0.98–1.40; p = 0.07). Likewise, there were no large differences in the occurrence of cerebral ischemia and blood clot-related events between the groups. Conclusions: TXA effectively reduces the risk of rebleeding in SAH patients, but does not significantly alter mortality or the incidence of thromboembolic complications. These findings back the careful use of TXA and demonstrate the need for further research to better its clinical use and assess long-term impacts.
1 January 2025 in International Journal of Medicine in Developing Countries
Background: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare, rapidly progressing soft tissue infection with high mortality, especially in the cervical region. Its early diagnosis and prompt intervention are crucial to preventing severe complications and improving patient outcomes. Objective: To present a case of cervical NF caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae, complicated by undiagnosed diabetes and rapid progression to septic shock. Case presentation: This case report details a 34-year-old male who presented with confusion and decreased consciousness, later diagnosed with cervical NF caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae. Undiagnosed diabetes likely worsened the infection's severity. Despite prompt surgical debridement and broad-spectrum antibiotics, the patient's condition rapidly deteriorated into septic shock and multi-organ failure, resulting in death. This case underscores the challenges in managing cervical NF, particularly in distinguishing NF from other neck infections, and accordingly appropriate medical, surgical intervention, and airway management. The involvement of Klebsiella pneumoniae highlights the need for broad-spectrum antibiotics, and the presence of diabetic ketoacidosis complicated the clinical course. Conclusion: This report emphasizes the critical importance of a multidisciplinary approach, early intervention, and management of underlying conditions to optimize outcomes in patients with NF, additionally, it underscores the need for ongoing research to advance diagnostic methods and improve treatment strategies.