Bone biopsy analysis revealed tryptase-positive mast cells that were positive for c-KIT, thus confirming the diagnosis of systemic mastocytosis.

Results. In addition to zoledronic acid (4 mg per month) and prednisolone (50 mg per day) treatment, the patient underwent kyphoplasty. The procedure was associated with

arterial hypotension which was most likely because of pressure-induced mast cell degranulation. Followup visits demonstrated stable bone mineral density and tolerable back pain while on zoledronic acid.

Conclusion. Systemic mastocytosis is a rare cause of vertebral fractures in young men. Because of the potential risk of pressure-induced release of the allergy mediator histamine, kyphoplasty for vertebral involvement IACS-10759 solubility dmso of systemic mastocytosis should be conducted with appropriate precautions.”
“Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have become an essential tool for primary and

secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Traditionally, defibrillation threshold (DFT) testing is part of the “”lege artis”" ICD implantation. Taking into consideration that the absolute mortality reduction in primary prevention trials is estimated around 8% and in secondary prevention trials around 7%, it is only in these patients that an acceptable DFT is expected to affect survival. Using a high-energy ICD, the likelihood of obtaining an inadequate DFT is about 2.5%. Thus, the number of patients needed to be subjected to DFT testing in order to avert one potential death is about 500. Application of antitachycardia pacing for rapid ventricular tachycardias further reduces the percentage of Prexasertib solubility dmso patients dependent on reliable ICD defibrillation capability. Thus, the mortality rate that can be prevented by DFT testing is below 0.2%. This contrasts a 0.4% risk of life-threatening complications and a low but not negligible mortality risk owed to the procedure. Although in light of these data the balance between DFT-related risk and benefit seems to tilt toward the former, insights gained from prospective randomized trials will clarify whether the abandonment of routine DFT testing can be claimed on a rightful basis. (PACE 2009; 32:570-572)”
“Study learn more Design. Prospective

radiographic and clinical analysis.

Objective. Investigate the relationship between spinopelvic parameters and patient self reported outcomes on adult subjects with spinal deformities.

Summary of Background Data. It is becoming increasingly recognized that the study of spinal alignment should include pelvic position. While pelvic incidence determines lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt (PT) is a positional parameter reflecting compensation to spinal deformity. Correlation between plumbline offset (sagittal vertical axis [SVA]) and Health Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) measures has been demonstrated, but such a study is lacking for PT.

Methods. This prospective study was carried out on 125 adult patients suffering from spinal deformity (mean age: 57 years).