Parkinson’s disease(PD)is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder.The progressive degeneration of dopamine(DA)producing neurons in the midbrain is the pathological hallmark,which leads to debilitating motor...Parkinson’s disease(PD)is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder.The progressive degeneration of dopamine(DA)producing neurons in the midbrain is the pathological hallmark,which leads to debilitating motor symptoms,including tremors,rigidity,and bradykinesia.Drug treatments,such as levodopa,provide symptomatic relief.However,they do not halt disease progression,and their effectiveness diminishes over time(reviewed in Poewe et al.,2017).展开更多
The occurrence of acute kidney injury(AKI)in critically ill patients is often associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates.Despite extensive research,a consensus is yet to be arrived,especially regarding th...The occurrence of acute kidney injury(AKI)in critically ill patients is often associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates.Despite extensive research,a consensus is yet to be arrived,especially regarding the optimal timing and indications for initiation of kidney replacement therapy(KRT)for critically ill patients.There is no clear guidance available on the timing of weaning from KRT.More recently,various biomarkers have produced promising prognostic pre-diction in such patients,regarding the need for KRT and its termination.Most of these biomarkers are indicative of kidney damage and stress,rather than re-covery.However,large-scale validation studies are required to guide the cutoff values of these biomarkers among different patient cohorts so as to identify the optimum timing for KRT.This article reviews the kidney biomarkers in detail and summarizes the individual roles of biomarkers in the decision-making process for initiation and termination of the KRT among critically ill AKI patients and the supportive literature.展开更多
Acute kidney injury(AKI)is common in patients with liver failure,and for a significant subset it is severe enough to require kidney replacement therapy(KRT).Patients with liver failure have distinct clinical character...Acute kidney injury(AKI)is common in patients with liver failure,and for a significant subset it is severe enough to require kidney replacement therapy(KRT).Patients with liver failure have distinct clinical characteristics(e.g.,cardiocirculatory dysfunction and a tendency to bleed)that mandate customization of their overall care including KRT.Herein,we provide an overview of AKI in liver failure,discuss the basic pathophysiology of hepatorenal syndrome,including the often-underemphasized role of the heart in its clinical manifestations,and the current therapies afforded to these patients.We also discuss the general aspects of KRT and how they apply to patients with liver failure(e.g.,preference for continuous renal replacement therapy and the need for regional,instead of systemic,anticoagulation).Moreover,we discuss hyperammonemia,an emerging non-renal indication of KRT in this patient population,and provide recommendations on how this therapy may be applied in this setting.展开更多
BACKGROUND Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency(PEI)leads to fat malabsorption and maldigestion and is most commonly treated with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy(PERT).Patients suffering from PEI in China are more ...BACKGROUND Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency(PEI)leads to fat malabsorption and maldigestion and is most commonly treated with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy(PERT).Patients suffering from PEI in China are more likely not to receive adequate treatment as this drug is not part of the Chinese national essential medicine list.AIM To examine the cost-effectiveness of PERT for patients suffering from PEI in China.METHODS A decision analytical Markov model was constructed to simulate the progress of patients with PEI in China.The population included in the analyses were patients suffering from PEI with advanced(non-resectable)pancreatic cancer,who have undergone surgery due to pancreatic cancer and who have undergone endoscopic treatment due to chronic pancreatitis.The cost-effectiveness analyses were undertaken from a Chinese societal perspective comparing PERT with no PERT.The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in United States dollars per quality adjusted life year(QALY)gained is the main outcome.Input was informed by publicly available data supplemented with expert clinical advice.RESULTS The cost-effectiveness analyses estimated that PERT resulted in additional 0.45 to 2.93 QALYs at discounted costs of between 4315 dollars to 15193 dollars.This resulted in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 5178 dollars to 9533 dollars per QALY.The one-way sensitivity analyses showed that the main drivers of the model were the cost of PERT and overall survival.CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that PERT is a cost-effective treatment for patients suffering from PEI in China.展开更多
Menopausal syndrome is a common disease of clinical women,which refers to a series of physical and mental symptoms caused by the fluctuation or reduction of sex hormones before and after menopause.Many of these patien...Menopausal syndrome is a common disease of clinical women,which refers to a series of physical and mental symptoms caused by the fluctuation or reduction of sex hormones before and after menopause.Many of these patients have sleep and mood abnormalities that affect their health and quality of life.At present,the understanding of it is gradually improving.This paper mainly analyzes its back-ground and current treatment.展开更多
BACKGROUND Hormone replacement therapy is an effective treatment strategy for the management of symptoms in naturally menopausal women.However,some patients report experiencing adverse effects.AIM To analyze the effec...BACKGROUND Hormone replacement therapy is an effective treatment strategy for the management of symptoms in naturally menopausal women.However,some patients report experiencing adverse effects.AIM To analyze the effects of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal female patients.METHODS A total of 152 menopausal female patients admitted to the Gynecology Department of the Ganzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital between January 2021 and December 2023 were divided into the observation group(n=76,conventional treatment+hormone replacement therapy)and the control group(n=76,conventional treatment only)via random casting.The improvement observed in the following items were compared between the groups:Kupperman menopausal index(KMI),emotional state[The Positive and Negative Affect Scale(PANAS)],sleep quality[Self-Rating Scale of Sleep(SRSS)],treatment effectiveness,and treatment safety.RESULTS The modified KMI and SRSS scores of the observation group were lower than those of the control group after three rounds of treatment.The improvement in the PANAS score observed in the observation group was greater than that observed in the control group(P<0.05).The total treatment effectivity rate in the observation group was higher than that in the control group(86.84%vs 96.05%,χ2=4.121,P=0.042).The incidence rate of adverse reactions in the two groups was comparable(6.58%vs 9.21%,χ2=0.361,P=0.547).CONCLUSION Hormone replacement therapy effectively improved the clinical symptoms,actively channeled negative emotions,and improved the quality of sleep in menopausal patients,indicating its effectiveness and safety.展开更多
Objectives Renal replacement therapy(RRT)is increasingly adopted for critically ill patients diagnosed with acute kidney injury,but the optimal time for initiation remains unclear and prognosis is uncertain,leading to...Objectives Renal replacement therapy(RRT)is increasingly adopted for critically ill patients diagnosed with acute kidney injury,but the optimal time for initiation remains unclear and prognosis is uncertain,leading to medical complexity,ethical conflicts,and decision dilemmas in intensive care unit(ICU)settings.This study aimed to develop a decision aid(DA)for the family surrogate of critically ill patients to support their engagement in shared decision-making process with clinicians.Methods Development of DA employed a systematic process with user-centered design(UCD)principle,which included:(i)competitive analysis:searched,screened,and assessed the existing DAs to gather insights for design strategies,developmental techniques,and functionalities;(ii)user needs assessment:interviewed family surrogates in our hospital to explore target user group's decision-making experience and identify their unmet needs;(iii)evidence syntheses:integrate latest clinical evidence and pertinent information to inform the content development of DA.Results The competitive analysis included 16 relevant DAs,from which we derived valuable insights using existing resources.User decision needs were explored among a cohort of 15 family surrogates,revealing four thematic issues in decision-making,including stuck into dilemmas,sense of uncertainty,limited capacity,and delayed decision confirmation.A total of 27 articles were included for evidence syntheses.Relevant decision making knowledge on disease and treatment,as delineated in the literature sourced from decision support system or clinical guidelines,were formatted as the foundational knowledge base.Twenty-one items of evidence were extracted and integrated into the content panels of benefits and risks of RRT,possible outcomes,and reasons to choose.The DA was drafted into a web-based phototype using the elements of UCD.This platform could guide users in their preparation of decision-making through a sequential four-step process:identifying treatment options,weighing the benefits and risks,clarifying personal preferences and values,and formulating a schedule for formal shared decision-making with clinicians.Conclusions We developed a rapid prototype of DA tailored for family surrogate decision makers of critically ill patients in need of RRT in ICU setting.Future studies are needed to evaluate its usability,feasibility,and clinical effects of this intervention.展开更多
Marked alterations in the normal female hormonal milieu in the perimenopausal period significantly affect women’s health,leading to decreased well-being,psychological distress,and impaired quality of life.Common meno...Marked alterations in the normal female hormonal milieu in the perimenopausal period significantly affect women’s health,leading to decreased well-being,psychological distress,and impaired quality of life.Common menopausal symp-toms include hot flashes,sleep and mood changes,fatigue,weight gain,and urogenital disturbances.Clinicians often neglect mood swings and disrupted sleep,although those can significantly limit the productivity of women and impair their cognitive function and mental health.Evidence-based management should include a personalized,holistic approach to alleviate symptoms and careful consideration of the risks vs benefits of hormone replacement therapy(HRT),with due consideration of personal preferences.A research paper in the recent issue of the World Journal of Psychiatry by Liu et al investigated the role of HRT in altering mood changes and impaired sleep quality in menopausal women,which helps us to understand the benefits of this treatment approach.展开更多
To evaluate the relationship between testosterone replacement therapy(TRT)and arterial and/or venous thrombosis in patients with pre-treatment total testosterone(TT)<12 nmol I^(-1),we performed a meta-analysis foll...To evaluate the relationship between testosterone replacement therapy(TRT)and arterial and/or venous thrombosis in patients with pre-treatment total testosterone(TT)<12 nmol I^(-1),we performed a meta-analysis following the Population Intervention Comparison Outcome model.Population:men with TT<12 nmol I^(-1) or clear mention of hypogonadism in the inclusion criteria of patients;intervention:TRT;comparison:placebo or no therapy;outcomes:arterial thrombotic events(stroke,myocardial infarction[MI],upper limbs,and lower limbs),VTE(deep vein thrombosis[DVT],portal vein thrombosis,splenic thrombosis,and pulmonary embolism),and mortality.A total of 2423 abstracts were assessed for eligibility.Twenty-four studies,including 14 randomized controlled trials(RCTs),were finally included,with a total of 4027 and 310288 hypotestosteronemic male patients,from RCTs and from observational studies,respectively.Based on RCT-derived data,TRT did not influence the risk of arterial thrombosis(odds ratio[OR]=1.27,95%confidence interval[CI]:0.47-3.43,P=0.64),stroke(OR=1.34,95%CI:0.09-18.97,P=0.83),MI(OR=0.51,95%CI:0.11-2.31,P=0.39),VTE(OR=1.42,95%CI:0.22-9.03,P=0.71),pulmonary embolism(OR=1.38,95%CI:0.27-7.04,P=0.70),and mortality(OR=0.70,95%CI:0.20-2.38,P=0.56).Meanwhile,when only observational studies are considered,a significant reduction in the risk of developing arterial thrombotic events,Ml,venous thromboembolism,and mortality was observed.The risk for DVT remains uncertain,due to the paucity of RCT-based data.TRT in men with TT<12 nmol I^(-1) is safe from the risk of adverse cardiovascular events.Further studies specifically assessing the risk of DVT in men on TRT are needed.展开更多
BACKGROUND With an ongoing demand for transplantable organs,optimization of donor management protocols,specifically in trauma populations,is important for obta-ining a high yield of viable organs per patient.Endocrine...BACKGROUND With an ongoing demand for transplantable organs,optimization of donor management protocols,specifically in trauma populations,is important for obta-ining a high yield of viable organs per patient.Endocrine management of brain-dead potential organ donors(BPODs)is controversial,leading to heterogeneous clinical management approaches.Previous studies have shown that when levo-thyroxine was combined with other treatments,including steroids,vasopressin,and insulin,BPODs had better organ recovery and survival outcomes were increased for transplant recipients.AIM To determine if levothyroxine use in combination with steroids in BPODs increased the number of organs donated in trauma patients.METHODS A retrospective review of adult BPODs from a single level 1 trauma center over ten years was performed.Exclusion criteria included patients who were not solid organ donors,patients who were not declared brain dead(donation after circulatory death),and patients who did not receive steroids in their hospital course.Levothyroxine and steroid administration,the number of organs donated,the types of organs donated,and demographic information were recorded.Univariate analyses were performed with P<0.05 considered to be statistically significant.RESULTS A total of 88 patients met inclusion criteria,69(78%)of whom received levothyroxine and steroids(ST/LT group)vs 19(22%)receiving steroids without levothyroxine(ST group).No differences were observed between the groups for gender,race,pertinent injury factors,age,or other hormone therapies used(P>0.05).In the ST/LT group,68.1%(n=47)donated a high yield(3-5)of organ types per donor compared to 42.1%(n=8)in the ST group(P=0.038).There was no difference in the total number of organ types donated between the groups(P=0.068).CONCLUSION This study suggests that combining levothyroxine and steroid administration increases high-yield organ donation per donor in BPODs in the trauma patient population.Limitations to this study include the retrospective design and the relatively small number of organ donors who met inclusion criteria.This study is unique in that it mitigates steroid administration as a confounding variable and focuses specifically on the adjunctive use of levothyroxine.展开更多
This review examines the application of continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT)in patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury(S-AKI),with a particular focus on the timing of CRRT initiation.This review addr...This review examines the application of continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT)in patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury(S-AKI),with a particular focus on the timing of CRRT initiation.This review addresses the controversy surrounding initiation timing and proposes future research directions.Through a systematic review of recent literature on CRRT for S-AKI,working principles,therapeutic mechanisms,initiation timing of CRRT,and related meta-analyses were summarized.Current studies indicate that the optimal timing for CRRT initiation in S-AKI patients remains inconclusive,with ongoing debate regarding whether early initiation significantly improves patient survival and renal function.This lack of consensus reflects the heterogeneity of the S-AKI patient population and the limitations of existing research methodologies.Future studies should focus on advancing the application of precision medicine in S-AKI and developing individualized treatment strategies by integrating multidimensional information to optimize CRRT utilization and improve patient outcomes.展开更多
Objective： To provide an evidence-based, consistent assessment of the burden of breast cancer attributable to reproductive factors （RFs, including nulliparity, mean number of children, age at first birth and breastf...Objective： To provide an evidence-based, consistent assessment of the burden of breast cancer attributable to reproductive factors （RFs, including nulliparity, mean number of children, age at first birth and breastfeeding）, use of oral contraceptives （OCs, restricted to the age group of 15-49 years）, and hormone replacement therapy （HRT）, as well as of the burden of ovarian cancer attributable to the mean number of children in China in 2005. Methods： We derived the prevalence of these risk factors and the relative risk of breast and ovarian cancer from national surveys or large-scale studies conducted in China. In the case of RFs, we compared the exposure distributions in 2001 and counterfactual exposure. Results： Exposure of RFs in 2002 was found to account for 6.74% of breast cancer, corresponding to 9,617 cases and 2,769 deaths, and for 2.78% of ovarian cancer （712 cases, 294 deaths）. The decrease in mean number of children alone was responsible for 1.47% of breast cancer and 2.78% of ovarian cancer. The prevalence of OC use was 1.74% and the population attributable fraction （PAF） of breast cancer was 0.71%, corresponding to 310 cases and 90 deaths. The PAF of breast cancer due to HRT was 0.31%, resulting in 297 cases and 85 deaths. Conclusion： RFs changes in China contributed to a sizable fraction of breast and ovarian cancer incidence and mortality, whereas HRT and OCs accounted for relatively low incidence of breast cancer in China.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness and safety of Kuntai capsule and hormone replacement therapy in treatment of perimenopausal syndrome.METHODS: Articles were retrieved from the databases Cochrane Database of Syst...OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness and safety of Kuntai capsule and hormone replacement therapy in treatment of perimenopausal syndrome.METHODS: Articles were retrieved from the databases Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,Pub Med, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Wanfang Database. Only randomized controlled trials were included; 15 trials involving1243 patients were identified from January 2005 to April 2015. A systemic review and Meta-analysis of publications was performed. The review was limit-ed to randomized controlled trials that compared Kuntai capsule and hormone replacement therapy to treat perimenopausal syndrome for at least 3months. The primary outcome assessed was the treatment efficacy at 3 months, including effective rate of Kupperman menopausal scores, Kupperman menopausal scores, and blood estradiol(E2) or blood follicle stimulating hormone(FSH) levels.Other outcomes assessed were safety or adverse events, such as gastrointestinal complaints, breast distending pain, or vaginal bleeding.RESULTS: Kupperman menopausal scores showed no significant difference in effective rate [odds ratio(OR): 1.05, 95% confidence intervals(CI): 0.71 to1.55] and changes in FSH level [mean difference(MD): 2.14, 95% CI:-2.36 to 6.65]. There was a significant statistical difference in Kupperman menopausal scores(MD:-1.14, 95% CI:-2.03 to-0.25)and changes in E2level(MD:-16.41, 95% CI:-18.83to-13.69). There were fewer adverse events in the Kuntai capsule group than in the hormone replacement therapy group(OR: = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.25 to0.48, P < 0.01).CONCLUSION: Compared with hormone replacement therapy, Kuntai capsule can improve perimenopausal symptoms and blood E2 levels, and reduce the incidence of adverse events.展开更多
Restitution of normal fat absorption in exocrine pancreatic insufficiency remains an elusive goal. Although many patients achieve satisfactory clinical results with enzyme therapy, few experience normalization of fat ...Restitution of normal fat absorption in exocrine pancreatic insufficiency remains an elusive goal. Although many patients achieve satisfactory clinical results with enzyme therapy, few experience normalization of fat absorption, and many, if not most, will require individualized therapy. Increasing the quantity of lipase administered rarely eliminates steatorrhea but increases the cost of therapy. Enteric coated enzyme microbead formulations tend to separate from nutrients in the stomach precluding coordinated emptying of enzymes and nutrients. Unprotected enzymes mix well and empty with nutrients but are inactivated at pH 4 or below. We describe approaches for improving the results of enzyme therapy including changing to, or adding, a different product, adding non-enteric coated enzymes,(e.g., giving unprotected enzymes at the start of the mealand acid-protected formulations later), use of antisecretory drugs and/or antacids, and changing the timing of enzyme administration. Because considerable lipid is emptied in the first postprandial hour, it is prudent to start therapy with enteric coated microbead prior to the meal so that some enzymes are available during that first hour. Patients with hyperacidity may benefit from adjuvant antisecretory therapy to reduce the duodenal acid load and possibly also sodium bicarbonate to prevent duodenal acidity. Comparative studies of clinical effectiveness of different formulations as well as the characteristics of dispersion, emptying, and dissolution of enteric-coated microspheres of different diameter and density are needed; many such studies have been completed but not yet made public. We discuss the history of pancreatic enzyme therapy and describe current use of modern preparations, approaches to overcoming unsatisfactory clinical responses, as well as studies needed to be able to provide reliably effective therapy.展开更多
Continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT)is widely used for treating critically-ill patients in the emergency department in China.Anticoagulant therapy is needed to prevent clotting in the extracorporeal circulation ...Continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT)is widely used for treating critically-ill patients in the emergency department in China.Anticoagulant therapy is needed to prevent clotting in the extracorporeal circulation during CRRT.Regional citrate anticoagulation(RCA)has been shown to potentially be safer and more effective,and is now recommended as the preferred anticoagulant method for CRRT.However,there is still a lack of unified standards for RCA management in the world,and there are many problems in using this method in clinical practice.The Emergency Medical Doctor Branch of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association(CMDA)organized a panel of domestic emergency medicine experts and international experts of CRRT to discuss RCA-related issues,including the advantages and disadvantages of RCA in CRRT anticoagulation,the principle of RCA,parameter settings for RCA,monitoring of RCA(mainly metabolic acid-base disorders),and special issues during RCA.Based on the latest available research evidence as well as the paneled experts'clinical experience,considering the generalizability,suitability,and potential resource utilization,while also balancing clinical advantages and disadvantages,a total of 16 guideline recommendations were formed from the experts'consensus.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) in the third trimester or early postpartum period can lead to fatal liver damage. Its traditional therapy is not very effective in facilitating hepatic recovery. The s...BACKGROUND: Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) in the third trimester or early postpartum period can lead to fatal liver damage. Its traditional therapy is not very effective in facilitating hepatic recovery. The safety and effect of plasma exchange (PE)in combination with continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT) (PE+CRRT) for AFLP still needs evaluation.METHODS: Five AFLP patients with hepatic encephalopathy and renal failure were subjected to PE+CRRT in our department from 2007 to 2012. Their symptoms, physical signs and results were observed, and all relevant laboratory tests were compared before and after PE+CRRT.RESULTS: All the 5 patients were well tolerated to the therapy. Four of them responded to the treatment and showed improvement in clinical symptoms/signs and laboratory results and they were cured and discharged home after the treatment One patient succeeded in bridging to transplantation for slowing down hepatic failure and its complications process after2 treatment sessions. Intensive care unit stay and hospital stay were 9.4 (range 5-18) and 25.0 days (range 11-42), respectively.CONCLUSION: PE+CRRT is safe and effective and should be used immediately at the onset of hepatic encephalopathy and/or renal failure in patients with AFLP.展开更多
Testosterone levels in men older than 40 years can decrease at a rate of 1%-2% per year, and reports show that more than 50% of 80-year-old men have testosterone levels consistent with hypogonadism. Late-onset hypogon...Testosterone levels in men older than 40 years can decrease at a rate of 1%-2% per year, and reports show that more than 50% of 80-year-old men have testosterone levels consistent with hypogonadism. Late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） is a clinical and biochemical syndrome associated with advancing age and characterized by typical symptoms of serum testosterone deficiency. In recent decades, the concept of LOH in ageing men has become familiar in European countries and the United States. It is also a topic of interest and debate throughout Korea. However, most of the data regarding advantages or disadvantages of testosterone replacement therapy （TRT） as treatment for LOH have been primarily obtained from studies on Western populations; therefore, studies of the effects of TRT in Asian men, who may have different serum testosterone compared to Western men, are needed. TRT is commonly prescribed in Korea, despite the paucity of studies on the effects of TRT in Asian populations. Data from various TRT studies based on Korean have shown its efficacy in increasing serum testosterone levels and improving subjective symptoms as assessed by questionnaires. Currently, patches and short-acting intramuscular injections are displaced by gels and long-acting formulations. However, to prevent overdiagnosis and overtreatment, indication for TRT should include both low testosterone levels and symptoms and signs of hypogonadism.展开更多
BACKGROUND Severe hyperthyroidism is a life-threatening exacerbation of thyrotoxicosis,characterized by high fever and multiorgan failure. The most common medical treatments are administration of antithyroid drugs and...BACKGROUND Severe hyperthyroidism is a life-threatening exacerbation of thyrotoxicosis,characterized by high fever and multiorgan failure. The most common medical treatments are administration of antithyroid drugs and radioactive iodine, and thyroidectomy. In some patients, antithyroid therapy is limited due to serious adverse effects or failure to control disease progression. In some extreme cases,such as thyroid storm, conventional therapy alone does not yield effective and rapid improvement before the development of multiorgan failure.CASE SUMMARY This report describes a Chinese patient with severe hyperthyroidism accompanied by multiorgan failure, who was transferred to the medical intensive care unit of our hospital. The patient presented with palpitations, vomiting,diarrhea, and shortness of breath for a week. Laboratory tests showed elevation of thyroid hormones. Hepatic failure occurred with high aminotransferase levels and jaundice. Given her abnormal liver function and medication history, we could not exclude diagnosis of propylthiouracil-induced hepatic failure.Moreover, she also suffered from heart failure. Therapeutic plasma exchange(commonly known as TPE) and continuous renal replacement therapy(commonly known as CRRT) were used as life-saving therapy, which resulted in notable improvement of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests.CONCLUSION Combined TPE and CRRT are safe and effective for patients with hyperthyroidism and multiorgan failure.展开更多
The use of testosterone replacement therapy （TRT） for hypogonadism continues to rise, particularly in younger men who may wish to remain fertile. Concurrently, awareness of a more pervasive use of anabolic-androgeni...The use of testosterone replacement therapy （TRT） for hypogonadism continues to rise, particularly in younger men who may wish to remain fertile. Concurrently, awareness of a more pervasive use of anabolic-androgenic steroids （AAS） within the general population has been appreciated. Both TRT and AAS can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal （HPG） axis resulting in diminution of spermatogenesis. Therefore, it is important that clinicians recognize previous TRT or AAS use in patients presenting for infertility treatment. Cessation of TRT or AAS use may result in spontaneous recovery of normal spermatogenesis in a reasonable number of patients if allowed sufficient time for recovery. However, some patients may not recover normal spermatogenesis or tolerate waiting for spontaneous recovery. In such cases, clinicians must be aware of the pathophysiologic derangements of the HPG axis related to TRT or AAS use and the pharmacologic agents available to reverse them. The available agents include injectable gonadotropins, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors, but their off-label use is poorly described in the literature, potentially creating a knowledge gap for the clinician. Reviewing their use clinically for the treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and other HPG axis abnormalities can familiarize the clinician with the manner in which they can be used to recover spermatogenesis after TRT or AAS use.展开更多
Androgen replacement therapy （ART） efficacy on late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） has been widely investigated in Western countries; however, it remains controversial whether ART can improve health and prolong active l...Androgen replacement therapy （ART） efficacy on late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） has been widely investigated in Western countries; however, it remains controversial whether ART can improve health and prolong active lifestyles. We prospectively assessed long-term ART effects on the physical and mental statuses of aging men with LOH in Japan. The primary endpoint was health-related quality of life assessed by questionnaires. Secondary endpoints included glycemic control, lipid parameters, blood pressure, waist circumference, body composition, muscular strength, International Prostate Symptom Scores （IPSS）, International Index of Erectile Function-5 （IIEF-5） scores, and serum prostate-specific antigen levels. Of the 1637 eligible volunteers, 334 patients 〉 40 years with LOH were randomly assigned to either the ART （n = 169） or control groups （n = 165）. Fifty-two weeks after the initial treatment, ART significantly affected the role physical subdomain of the short form-36 health survey （SF-36） scale （P= 0.0318）. ART was also associated with significant decreases in waist circumstance （P = 0.002） and serum triglyceride （TG） （P = 0.013） and with significant increases in whole-body and leg muscle mass volumes （P= 0.071 and 0.0108, respectively）, serum hemoglobin （P 〈 0.001）, IPSS voiding subscore （P = 0.0418）, and the second question on I IEF-5 （P = 0.0049）. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of severe adverse events. In conclusion, in patients with LOH, long-term ART exerted beneficial effects on Role Physical subdomain of the SF-36 scale, serum TG, waist circumstance, muscle mass volume, voiding subscore of IPSS, and the second question of IIEF-5. We hope our study will contribute to the future development of this area.展开更多
基金supported by the DGIST start-up funds from the Ministry of Science and ICT(2024010330)a National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)grant funded by the Korea Government(MSIT)(No.RS-2024-00351442)(to TWK).
文摘Parkinson’s disease(PD)is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder.The progressive degeneration of dopamine(DA)producing neurons in the midbrain is the pathological hallmark,which leads to debilitating motor symptoms,including tremors,rigidity,and bradykinesia.Drug treatments,such as levodopa,provide symptomatic relief.However,they do not halt disease progression,and their effectiveness diminishes over time(reviewed in Poewe et al.,2017).
文摘The occurrence of acute kidney injury(AKI)in critically ill patients is often associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates.Despite extensive research,a consensus is yet to be arrived,especially regarding the optimal timing and indications for initiation of kidney replacement therapy(KRT)for critically ill patients.There is no clear guidance available on the timing of weaning from KRT.More recently,various biomarkers have produced promising prognostic pre-diction in such patients,regarding the need for KRT and its termination.Most of these biomarkers are indicative of kidney damage and stress,rather than re-covery.However,large-scale validation studies are required to guide the cutoff values of these biomarkers among different patient cohorts so as to identify the optimum timing for KRT.This article reviews the kidney biomarkers in detail and summarizes the individual roles of biomarkers in the decision-making process for initiation and termination of the KRT among critically ill AKI patients and the supportive literature.
文摘Acute kidney injury(AKI)is common in patients with liver failure,and for a significant subset it is severe enough to require kidney replacement therapy(KRT).Patients with liver failure have distinct clinical characteristics(e.g.,cardiocirculatory dysfunction and a tendency to bleed)that mandate customization of their overall care including KRT.Herein,we provide an overview of AKI in liver failure,discuss the basic pathophysiology of hepatorenal syndrome,including the often-underemphasized role of the heart in its clinical manifestations,and the current therapies afforded to these patients.We also discuss the general aspects of KRT and how they apply to patients with liver failure(e.g.,preference for continuous renal replacement therapy and the need for regional,instead of systemic,anticoagulation).Moreover,we discuss hyperammonemia,an emerging non-renal indication of KRT in this patient population,and provide recommendations on how this therapy may be applied in this setting.
文摘BACKGROUND Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency(PEI)leads to fat malabsorption and maldigestion and is most commonly treated with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy(PERT).Patients suffering from PEI in China are more likely not to receive adequate treatment as this drug is not part of the Chinese national essential medicine list.AIM To examine the cost-effectiveness of PERT for patients suffering from PEI in China.METHODS A decision analytical Markov model was constructed to simulate the progress of patients with PEI in China.The population included in the analyses were patients suffering from PEI with advanced(non-resectable)pancreatic cancer,who have undergone surgery due to pancreatic cancer and who have undergone endoscopic treatment due to chronic pancreatitis.The cost-effectiveness analyses were undertaken from a Chinese societal perspective comparing PERT with no PERT.The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in United States dollars per quality adjusted life year(QALY)gained is the main outcome.Input was informed by publicly available data supplemented with expert clinical advice.RESULTS The cost-effectiveness analyses estimated that PERT resulted in additional 0.45 to 2.93 QALYs at discounted costs of between 4315 dollars to 15193 dollars.This resulted in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 5178 dollars to 9533 dollars per QALY.The one-way sensitivity analyses showed that the main drivers of the model were the cost of PERT and overall survival.CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that PERT is a cost-effective treatment for patients suffering from PEI in China.
基金Research Project of Nantong Health and Health Commission,No.MS2023041,No.MA2019003,and No.MA2021017Science and Technology Program of Nantong City,No.Key03,and No.JCZ2022040and Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University,No.KD2021JYYJYB025,No.KD2022KYJJZD019,and No.KD2022KYJJZD022.
文摘Menopausal syndrome is a common disease of clinical women,which refers to a series of physical and mental symptoms caused by the fluctuation or reduction of sex hormones before and after menopause.Many of these patients have sleep and mood abnormalities that affect their health and quality of life.At present,the understanding of it is gradually improving.This paper mainly analyzes its back-ground and current treatment.
文摘BACKGROUND Hormone replacement therapy is an effective treatment strategy for the management of symptoms in naturally menopausal women.However,some patients report experiencing adverse effects.AIM To analyze the effects of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal female patients.METHODS A total of 152 menopausal female patients admitted to the Gynecology Department of the Ganzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital between January 2021 and December 2023 were divided into the observation group(n=76,conventional treatment+hormone replacement therapy)and the control group(n=76,conventional treatment only)via random casting.The improvement observed in the following items were compared between the groups:Kupperman menopausal index(KMI),emotional state[The Positive and Negative Affect Scale(PANAS)],sleep quality[Self-Rating Scale of Sleep(SRSS)],treatment effectiveness,and treatment safety.RESULTS The modified KMI and SRSS scores of the observation group were lower than those of the control group after three rounds of treatment.The improvement in the PANAS score observed in the observation group was greater than that observed in the control group(P<0.05).The total treatment effectivity rate in the observation group was higher than that in the control group(86.84%vs 96.05%,χ2=4.121,P=0.042).The incidence rate of adverse reactions in the two groups was comparable(6.58%vs 9.21%,χ2=0.361,P=0.547).CONCLUSION Hormone replacement therapy effectively improved the clinical symptoms,actively channeled negative emotions,and improved the quality of sleep in menopausal patients,indicating its effectiveness and safety.
文摘Objectives Renal replacement therapy(RRT)is increasingly adopted for critically ill patients diagnosed with acute kidney injury,but the optimal time for initiation remains unclear and prognosis is uncertain,leading to medical complexity,ethical conflicts,and decision dilemmas in intensive care unit(ICU)settings.This study aimed to develop a decision aid(DA)for the family surrogate of critically ill patients to support their engagement in shared decision-making process with clinicians.Methods Development of DA employed a systematic process with user-centered design(UCD)principle,which included:(i)competitive analysis:searched,screened,and assessed the existing DAs to gather insights for design strategies,developmental techniques,and functionalities;(ii)user needs assessment:interviewed family surrogates in our hospital to explore target user group's decision-making experience and identify their unmet needs;(iii)evidence syntheses:integrate latest clinical evidence and pertinent information to inform the content development of DA.Results The competitive analysis included 16 relevant DAs,from which we derived valuable insights using existing resources.User decision needs were explored among a cohort of 15 family surrogates,revealing four thematic issues in decision-making,including stuck into dilemmas,sense of uncertainty,limited capacity,and delayed decision confirmation.A total of 27 articles were included for evidence syntheses.Relevant decision making knowledge on disease and treatment,as delineated in the literature sourced from decision support system or clinical guidelines,were formatted as the foundational knowledge base.Twenty-one items of evidence were extracted and integrated into the content panels of benefits and risks of RRT,possible outcomes,and reasons to choose.The DA was drafted into a web-based phototype using the elements of UCD.This platform could guide users in their preparation of decision-making through a sequential four-step process:identifying treatment options,weighing the benefits and risks,clarifying personal preferences and values,and formulating a schedule for formal shared decision-making with clinicians.Conclusions We developed a rapid prototype of DA tailored for family surrogate decision makers of critically ill patients in need of RRT in ICU setting.Future studies are needed to evaluate its usability,feasibility,and clinical effects of this intervention.
文摘Marked alterations in the normal female hormonal milieu in the perimenopausal period significantly affect women’s health,leading to decreased well-being,psychological distress,and impaired quality of life.Common menopausal symp-toms include hot flashes,sleep and mood changes,fatigue,weight gain,and urogenital disturbances.Clinicians often neglect mood swings and disrupted sleep,although those can significantly limit the productivity of women and impair their cognitive function and mental health.Evidence-based management should include a personalized,holistic approach to alleviate symptoms and careful consideration of the risks vs benefits of hormone replacement therapy(HRT),with due consideration of personal preferences.A research paper in the recent issue of the World Journal of Psychiatry by Liu et al investigated the role of HRT in altering mood changes and impaired sleep quality in menopausal women,which helps us to understand the benefits of this treatment approach.
文摘To evaluate the relationship between testosterone replacement therapy(TRT)and arterial and/or venous thrombosis in patients with pre-treatment total testosterone(TT)<12 nmol I^(-1),we performed a meta-analysis following the Population Intervention Comparison Outcome model.Population:men with TT<12 nmol I^(-1) or clear mention of hypogonadism in the inclusion criteria of patients;intervention:TRT;comparison:placebo or no therapy;outcomes:arterial thrombotic events(stroke,myocardial infarction[MI],upper limbs,and lower limbs),VTE(deep vein thrombosis[DVT],portal vein thrombosis,splenic thrombosis,and pulmonary embolism),and mortality.A total of 2423 abstracts were assessed for eligibility.Twenty-four studies,including 14 randomized controlled trials(RCTs),were finally included,with a total of 4027 and 310288 hypotestosteronemic male patients,from RCTs and from observational studies,respectively.Based on RCT-derived data,TRT did not influence the risk of arterial thrombosis(odds ratio[OR]=1.27,95%confidence interval[CI]:0.47-3.43,P=0.64),stroke(OR=1.34,95%CI:0.09-18.97,P=0.83),MI(OR=0.51,95%CI:0.11-2.31,P=0.39),VTE(OR=1.42,95%CI:0.22-9.03,P=0.71),pulmonary embolism(OR=1.38,95%CI:0.27-7.04,P=0.70),and mortality(OR=0.70,95%CI:0.20-2.38,P=0.56).Meanwhile,when only observational studies are considered,a significant reduction in the risk of developing arterial thrombotic events,Ml,venous thromboembolism,and mortality was observed.The risk for DVT remains uncertain,due to the paucity of RCT-based data.TRT in men with TT<12 nmol I^(-1) is safe from the risk of adverse cardiovascular events.Further studies specifically assessing the risk of DVT in men on TRT are needed.
文摘BACKGROUND With an ongoing demand for transplantable organs,optimization of donor management protocols,specifically in trauma populations,is important for obta-ining a high yield of viable organs per patient.Endocrine management of brain-dead potential organ donors(BPODs)is controversial,leading to heterogeneous clinical management approaches.Previous studies have shown that when levo-thyroxine was combined with other treatments,including steroids,vasopressin,and insulin,BPODs had better organ recovery and survival outcomes were increased for transplant recipients.AIM To determine if levothyroxine use in combination with steroids in BPODs increased the number of organs donated in trauma patients.METHODS A retrospective review of adult BPODs from a single level 1 trauma center over ten years was performed.Exclusion criteria included patients who were not solid organ donors,patients who were not declared brain dead(donation after circulatory death),and patients who did not receive steroids in their hospital course.Levothyroxine and steroid administration,the number of organs donated,the types of organs donated,and demographic information were recorded.Univariate analyses were performed with P<0.05 considered to be statistically significant.RESULTS A total of 88 patients met inclusion criteria,69(78%)of whom received levothyroxine and steroids(ST/LT group)vs 19(22%)receiving steroids without levothyroxine(ST group).No differences were observed between the groups for gender,race,pertinent injury factors,age,or other hormone therapies used(P>0.05).In the ST/LT group,68.1%(n=47)donated a high yield(3-5)of organ types per donor compared to 42.1%(n=8)in the ST group(P=0.038).There was no difference in the total number of organ types donated between the groups(P=0.068).CONCLUSION This study suggests that combining levothyroxine and steroid administration increases high-yield organ donation per donor in BPODs in the trauma patient population.Limitations to this study include the retrospective design and the relatively small number of organ donors who met inclusion criteria.This study is unique in that it mitigates steroid administration as a confounding variable and focuses specifically on the adjunctive use of levothyroxine.
基金Wenzhou Science and Technology Project(Grant No.Y2020536)。
文摘This review examines the application of continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT)in patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury(S-AKI),with a particular focus on the timing of CRRT initiation.This review addresses the controversy surrounding initiation timing and proposes future research directions.Through a systematic review of recent literature on CRRT for S-AKI,working principles,therapeutic mechanisms,initiation timing of CRRT,and related meta-analyses were summarized.Current studies indicate that the optimal timing for CRRT initiation in S-AKI patients remains inconclusive,with ongoing debate regarding whether early initiation significantly improves patient survival and renal function.This lack of consensus reflects the heterogeneity of the S-AKI patient population and the limitations of existing research methodologies.Future studies should focus on advancing the application of precision medicine in S-AKI and developing individualized treatment strategies by integrating multidimensional information to optimize CRRT utilization and improve patient outcomes.
基金supported by International Agency for Research on Cancer (Lyon, France) (No. CRA No GEE/08/19)supported in part by the Fogarty International Clinical Research Scholars and Fellows Program at Vanderbilt University (R24 TW007988)
文摘Objective： To provide an evidence-based, consistent assessment of the burden of breast cancer attributable to reproductive factors （RFs, including nulliparity, mean number of children, age at first birth and breastfeeding）, use of oral contraceptives （OCs, restricted to the age group of 15-49 years）, and hormone replacement therapy （HRT）, as well as of the burden of ovarian cancer attributable to the mean number of children in China in 2005. Methods： We derived the prevalence of these risk factors and the relative risk of breast and ovarian cancer from national surveys or large-scale studies conducted in China. In the case of RFs, we compared the exposure distributions in 2001 and counterfactual exposure. Results： Exposure of RFs in 2002 was found to account for 6.74% of breast cancer, corresponding to 9,617 cases and 2,769 deaths, and for 2.78% of ovarian cancer （712 cases, 294 deaths）. The decrease in mean number of children alone was responsible for 1.47% of breast cancer and 2.78% of ovarian cancer. The prevalence of OC use was 1.74% and the population attributable fraction （PAF） of breast cancer was 0.71%, corresponding to 310 cases and 90 deaths. The PAF of breast cancer due to HRT was 0.31%, resulting in 297 cases and 85 deaths. Conclusion： RFs changes in China contributed to a sizable fraction of breast and ovarian cancer incidence and mortality, whereas HRT and OCs accounted for relatively low incidence of breast cancer in China.
文摘OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness and safety of Kuntai capsule and hormone replacement therapy in treatment of perimenopausal syndrome.METHODS: Articles were retrieved from the databases Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,Pub Med, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Wanfang Database. Only randomized controlled trials were included; 15 trials involving1243 patients were identified from January 2005 to April 2015. A systemic review and Meta-analysis of publications was performed. The review was limit-ed to randomized controlled trials that compared Kuntai capsule and hormone replacement therapy to treat perimenopausal syndrome for at least 3months. The primary outcome assessed was the treatment efficacy at 3 months, including effective rate of Kupperman menopausal scores, Kupperman menopausal scores, and blood estradiol(E2) or blood follicle stimulating hormone(FSH) levels.Other outcomes assessed were safety or adverse events, such as gastrointestinal complaints, breast distending pain, or vaginal bleeding.RESULTS: Kupperman menopausal scores showed no significant difference in effective rate [odds ratio(OR): 1.05, 95% confidence intervals(CI): 0.71 to1.55] and changes in FSH level [mean difference(MD): 2.14, 95% CI:-2.36 to 6.65]. There was a significant statistical difference in Kupperman menopausal scores(MD:-1.14, 95% CI:-2.03 to-0.25)and changes in E2level(MD:-16.41, 95% CI:-18.83to-13.69). There were fewer adverse events in the Kuntai capsule group than in the hormone replacement therapy group(OR: = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.25 to0.48, P < 0.01).CONCLUSION: Compared with hormone replacement therapy, Kuntai capsule can improve perimenopausal symptoms and blood E2 levels, and reduce the incidence of adverse events.
基金Supported by The Office of Research and Development Medical Research Service Department of Veterans Affairs,Public Health Service grants No.DK067366 and No.DK56338 which funds the Texas Medical Center Digestive Diseases Center
文摘Restitution of normal fat absorption in exocrine pancreatic insufficiency remains an elusive goal. Although many patients achieve satisfactory clinical results with enzyme therapy, few experience normalization of fat absorption, and many, if not most, will require individualized therapy. Increasing the quantity of lipase administered rarely eliminates steatorrhea but increases the cost of therapy. Enteric coated enzyme microbead formulations tend to separate from nutrients in the stomach precluding coordinated emptying of enzymes and nutrients. Unprotected enzymes mix well and empty with nutrients but are inactivated at pH 4 or below. We describe approaches for improving the results of enzyme therapy including changing to, or adding, a different product, adding non-enteric coated enzymes,(e.g., giving unprotected enzymes at the start of the mealand acid-protected formulations later), use of antisecretory drugs and/or antacids, and changing the timing of enzyme administration. Because considerable lipid is emptied in the first postprandial hour, it is prudent to start therapy with enteric coated microbead prior to the meal so that some enzymes are available during that first hour. Patients with hyperacidity may benefit from adjuvant antisecretory therapy to reduce the duodenal acid load and possibly also sodium bicarbonate to prevent duodenal acidity. Comparative studies of clinical effectiveness of different formulations as well as the characteristics of dispersion, emptying, and dissolution of enteric-coated microspheres of different diameter and density are needed; many such studies have been completed but not yet made public. We discuss the history of pancreatic enzyme therapy and describe current use of modern preparations, approaches to overcoming unsatisfactory clinical responses, as well as studies needed to be able to provide reliably effective therapy.
文摘Continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT)is widely used for treating critically-ill patients in the emergency department in China.Anticoagulant therapy is needed to prevent clotting in the extracorporeal circulation during CRRT.Regional citrate anticoagulation(RCA)has been shown to potentially be safer and more effective,and is now recommended as the preferred anticoagulant method for CRRT.However,there is still a lack of unified standards for RCA management in the world,and there are many problems in using this method in clinical practice.The Emergency Medical Doctor Branch of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association(CMDA)organized a panel of domestic emergency medicine experts and international experts of CRRT to discuss RCA-related issues,including the advantages and disadvantages of RCA in CRRT anticoagulation,the principle of RCA,parameter settings for RCA,monitoring of RCA(mainly metabolic acid-base disorders),and special issues during RCA.Based on the latest available research evidence as well as the paneled experts'clinical experience,considering the generalizability,suitability,and potential resource utilization,while also balancing clinical advantages and disadvantages,a total of 16 guideline recommendations were formed from the experts'consensus.
基金supported by grants from the National Scientific and Technological Major Project of China (2011ZX10004-901 and 2013ZX10004904)the National Science and Technology Major Project (2012ZX10002006)the Scientific Research Fundation of the Education Department,Zhejiang Province (N20120081)
文摘BACKGROUND: Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) in the third trimester or early postpartum period can lead to fatal liver damage. Its traditional therapy is not very effective in facilitating hepatic recovery. The safety and effect of plasma exchange (PE)in combination with continuous renal replacement therapy(CRRT) (PE+CRRT) for AFLP still needs evaluation.METHODS: Five AFLP patients with hepatic encephalopathy and renal failure were subjected to PE+CRRT in our department from 2007 to 2012. Their symptoms, physical signs and results were observed, and all relevant laboratory tests were compared before and after PE+CRRT.RESULTS: All the 5 patients were well tolerated to the therapy. Four of them responded to the treatment and showed improvement in clinical symptoms/signs and laboratory results and they were cured and discharged home after the treatment One patient succeeded in bridging to transplantation for slowing down hepatic failure and its complications process after2 treatment sessions. Intensive care unit stay and hospital stay were 9.4 (range 5-18) and 25.0 days (range 11-42), respectively.CONCLUSION: PE+CRRT is safe and effective and should be used immediately at the onset of hepatic encephalopathy and/or renal failure in patients with AFLP.
文摘Testosterone levels in men older than 40 years can decrease at a rate of 1%-2% per year, and reports show that more than 50% of 80-year-old men have testosterone levels consistent with hypogonadism. Late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） is a clinical and biochemical syndrome associated with advancing age and characterized by typical symptoms of serum testosterone deficiency. In recent decades, the concept of LOH in ageing men has become familiar in European countries and the United States. It is also a topic of interest and debate throughout Korea. However, most of the data regarding advantages or disadvantages of testosterone replacement therapy （TRT） as treatment for LOH have been primarily obtained from studies on Western populations; therefore, studies of the effects of TRT in Asian men, who may have different serum testosterone compared to Western men, are needed. TRT is commonly prescribed in Korea, despite the paucity of studies on the effects of TRT in Asian populations. Data from various TRT studies based on Korean have shown its efficacy in increasing serum testosterone levels and improving subjective symptoms as assessed by questionnaires. Currently, patches and short-acting intramuscular injections are displaced by gels and long-acting formulations. However, to prevent overdiagnosis and overtreatment, indication for TRT should include both low testosterone levels and symptoms and signs of hypogonadism.
文摘BACKGROUND Severe hyperthyroidism is a life-threatening exacerbation of thyrotoxicosis,characterized by high fever and multiorgan failure. The most common medical treatments are administration of antithyroid drugs and radioactive iodine, and thyroidectomy. In some patients, antithyroid therapy is limited due to serious adverse effects or failure to control disease progression. In some extreme cases,such as thyroid storm, conventional therapy alone does not yield effective and rapid improvement before the development of multiorgan failure.CASE SUMMARY This report describes a Chinese patient with severe hyperthyroidism accompanied by multiorgan failure, who was transferred to the medical intensive care unit of our hospital. The patient presented with palpitations, vomiting,diarrhea, and shortness of breath for a week. Laboratory tests showed elevation of thyroid hormones. Hepatic failure occurred with high aminotransferase levels and jaundice. Given her abnormal liver function and medication history, we could not exclude diagnosis of propylthiouracil-induced hepatic failure.Moreover, she also suffered from heart failure. Therapeutic plasma exchange(commonly known as TPE) and continuous renal replacement therapy(commonly known as CRRT) were used as life-saving therapy, which resulted in notable improvement of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests.CONCLUSION Combined TPE and CRRT are safe and effective for patients with hyperthyroidism and multiorgan failure.
文摘The use of testosterone replacement therapy （TRT） for hypogonadism continues to rise, particularly in younger men who may wish to remain fertile. Concurrently, awareness of a more pervasive use of anabolic-androgenic steroids （AAS） within the general population has been appreciated. Both TRT and AAS can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal （HPG） axis resulting in diminution of spermatogenesis. Therefore, it is important that clinicians recognize previous TRT or AAS use in patients presenting for infertility treatment. Cessation of TRT or AAS use may result in spontaneous recovery of normal spermatogenesis in a reasonable number of patients if allowed sufficient time for recovery. However, some patients may not recover normal spermatogenesis or tolerate waiting for spontaneous recovery. In such cases, clinicians must be aware of the pathophysiologic derangements of the HPG axis related to TRT or AAS use and the pharmacologic agents available to reverse them. The available agents include injectable gonadotropins, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors, but their off-label use is poorly described in the literature, potentially creating a knowledge gap for the clinician. Reviewing their use clinically for the treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and other HPG axis abnormalities can familiarize the clinician with the manner in which they can be used to recover spermatogenesis after TRT or AAS use.
文摘Androgen replacement therapy （ART） efficacy on late-onset hypogonadism （LOH） has been widely investigated in Western countries; however, it remains controversial whether ART can improve health and prolong active lifestyles. We prospectively assessed long-term ART effects on the physical and mental statuses of aging men with LOH in Japan. The primary endpoint was health-related quality of life assessed by questionnaires. Secondary endpoints included glycemic control, lipid parameters, blood pressure, waist circumference, body composition, muscular strength, International Prostate Symptom Scores （IPSS）, International Index of Erectile Function-5 （IIEF-5） scores, and serum prostate-specific antigen levels. Of the 1637 eligible volunteers, 334 patients 〉 40 years with LOH were randomly assigned to either the ART （n = 169） or control groups （n = 165）. Fifty-two weeks after the initial treatment, ART significantly affected the role physical subdomain of the short form-36 health survey （SF-36） scale （P= 0.0318）. ART was also associated with significant decreases in waist circumstance （P = 0.002） and serum triglyceride （TG） （P = 0.013） and with significant increases in whole-body and leg muscle mass volumes （P= 0.071 and 0.0108, respectively）, serum hemoglobin （P 〈 0.001）, IPSS voiding subscore （P = 0.0418）, and the second question on I IEF-5 （P = 0.0049）. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of severe adverse events. In conclusion, in patients with LOH, long-term ART exerted beneficial effects on Role Physical subdomain of the SF-36 scale, serum TG, waist circumstance, muscle mass volume, voiding subscore of IPSS, and the second question of IIEF-5. We hope our study will contribute to the future development of this area.
