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Serum Creatinine (serum + creatinine)

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Medical Sciences	95%
Life Sciences	3%
2 Other Domains	2%

Distribution within Medical Sciences

Transplantation	37%
Cardiovascular Disease	4%
Hepatology	3%
Pediatrics	2%
26 Other Subdomains	41%

Kinds of Serum Creatinine

elevated serum creatinine

median serum creatinine

Terms modified by Serum Creatinine

serum creatinine concentration

serum creatinine level

serum creatinine value

Selected Abstracts

Long-term glomerular filtration rate following pediatric liver transplantion

PEDIATRIC TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 5 2005
Silke Wiesmayr
Abstract:, In adult patients a significant proportion of chronic renal failure after liver transplantation (LTX) has been described. This was attributed mainly to nephrotoxicity caused by Calcineurin inhibitors (CNI). If these results are transferable to pediatric patients was the aim of this study. Forty-five pediatric patients with a LTX performed between 1988 and 2003 were evaluated. Glomerular filtration rate was calculated using the Schwartz formula (calculated GFR (cGFR) (mL/min/1.73 m2) = k× height (cm)/serum creatinine (mg/dL)). Median age at LTX was 4 yr (range 0.3,18.1). Pretransplant median cGFR was significantly elevated with 157.5 mL/min/1.73 m2. Within the first 3 months after LTX median cGFR normalized to a median value of 102.7 (p < 0.05 vs. pretransplant cGFR). During long-term follow-up median cGFR remained stable with calculated values of 108.0 two years and 112.6 five years after transplantation. Using a linear and an exponential one compartment mathematical modeling of renal function the calculated GFR was stable even for very long observation times (n > 10 yr). Liver insufficiency prior to transplantation was associated with glomerular hyperfiltration. After successful liver transplantation cGFR normalized within the first 3 month and, in contrast to the reported GFR impairment in adult liver transplant recipients, remained stable, even in long-term follow-up. [source]

Use of a Urine Dipstick and Brief Clinical Questionnaire to Predict an Abnormal Serum Creatinine in the Emergency Department

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 8 2009
Daniel N. Firestone MD
Abstract Objectives:, Prior data demonstrated that a urine dipstick used alone was a sensitive predictor of abnormal creatinine, but not sufficiently enough to forego screening of serum creatinine prior to administration of contrast for diagnostic studies. The authors hypothesized that a brief historical questionnaire coupled with a urine dipstick would have high sensitivity for renal dysfunction, potentially eliminating the need for a serum creatinine prior to contrast administration. Methods:, This was a prospective study of a convenience sample of patients at two academic tertiary-care emergency departments (EDs) during 2006,2007. Subjects included patients who had both a serum creatinine result reported by the laboratory and a urine dipstick result reported in the medical record. Data included triage vital signs, basic demographic data, 14 medical history items, dipstick urinalysis, and serum creatinine results. The main outcome measure was an abnormal serum creatinine, defined as greater than 1.5 mg/dL. Results:, Complete data sets were collected on 1,354 patient visits. Of these, there were 161 (12%) with a serum creatinine of >1.5 mg/dL. Logistic regression analysis identified the following independent predictors associated with elevated creatinine: age greater than 60 years, known renal insufficiency, diabetes, hypertension, diuretic use, vomiting, and proteinuria. Nearly all patients with abnormal creatinine (98%) had at least one of these seven predictors. A decision tool combining these predictors would have identified 158 of 161 patients with an abnormal creatinine (sensitivity, 98.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 95.8% to 99.9%) and a specificity of 21.2% (95% CI = 18.8% to 23.2%). Conclusions:, The absence of six historical factors and absence of proteinuria can be safely used to identify patients who are unlikely to have an abnormal creatinine. [source]

The effect of spironolactone, cilazapril and their combination on albuminuria in patients with hypertension and diabetic nephropathy is independent of blood pressure reduction: a randomized controlled study

DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 5 2004
R. Rachmani
Abstract Objective The effect of spironolactone, cilazapril and their combination on albuminuria was examined in a randomized prospective study in female patients with diabetes and hypertension. Patients and methods Sixty female diabetic patients aged 45,70 years with blood pressure (BP) 140,180/90,110 mmHg, serum creatinine (sCr) , 160 µmol/l, HbA1c , 10%, and albuminuria were treated by atenolol 12.5,75 mg/d and hydrochlorothiazide 6.25,25 mg/d. Titration-to-target helped to reach BP values , 135/85 mmHg in 46 patients after 12 weeks. These patients were randomized to spironolactone 100 mg/d or cilazapril 5 mg/d for 24 weeks. Then both groups received spironolactone 50 mg/d and cilazapril 2.5 mg/d for 24 weeks. BP was stabilized by tapering the dose of the initial agents. Urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), BP, K+. sCr and HbA1c were assessed at baseline and at weeks 12, 16, 36 and 60. Results The average BP at week 12 was 128 ± 4/81 ± 3 mmHg and remained constant, in both groups, throughout the study. ACR declined on spironolactone from a median value (range) of 452 (124,1571) to 216 (64,875) mg/g (P = 0.001), and on cilazapril to 302 (90,975) mg/g (P = 0.001). The difference between spironolactone and cilazapril was significant (P = 0.002). Combined treatment resulted in a further modest decline in ACR. Serum creatinine was unaltered by spironolactone and rose slightly (121 to 126 µmol/l, P = 0.02) on cilazapril. Conclusion At the doses tested, spironolactone was superior to cilazapril in reducing albuminuria. Combined administration was more effective than either drug alone. These effects were independent of BP values. Hyperkalaemia was the main side-effect. [source]

Recovery From Skeletal Fluorosis (an Enigmatic, American Case),,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2007
Etah S Kurland
Abstract A 52-year-old man presented with severe neck immobility and radiographic osteosclerosis. Elevated fluoride levels in serum, urine, and iliac crest bone revealed skeletal fluorosis. Nearly a decade of detailed follow-up documented considerable correction of the disorder after removal of the putative source of fluoride (toothpaste). Introduction: Skeletal fluorosis, a crippling bone disorder, is rare in the United States, but affects millions worldwide. There are no data regarding its reversibility. Materials and Methods: A white man presented in 1996 with neck immobility and worsening joint pains of 7-year duration. Radiographs revealed axial osteosclerosis. Bone markers were distinctly elevated. DXA of lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN), and distal one-third radius showed Z scores of +14.3, +6.6, and ,0.6, respectively. Transiliac crest biopsy revealed cancellous volume 4.5 times the reference mean, cortical width 3.2 times the reference mean, osteoid thickness 25 times the reference mean, and wide and diffuse tetracycline uptake documenting osteomalacia. Fluoride (F) was elevated in serum (0.34 and 0.29 mg/liter [reference range: <0.20]), urine (26 mg/liter [reference range: 0.2,1.1 mg/liter]), and iliac crest (1.8% [reference range: <0.1%]). Tap and bottled water were negative for F. Surreptitious ingestion of toothpaste was the most plausible F source. Results: Monitoring for a decade showed that within 3 months of removal of F toothpaste, urine F dropped from 26 to 16 mg/liter (reference range: 0.2,1.1 mg/liter), to 3.9 at 14 months, and was normal (1.2 mg/liter) after 9 years. Serum F normalized within 8 months. Markers corrected by 14 months. Serum creatinine increased gradually from 1.0 (1997) to 1.3 mg/dl (2006; reference range: 0.5,1.4 mg/dl). Radiographs, after 9 years, showed decreased sclerosis of trabeculae and some decrease of sacrospinous ligament ossification. DXA, after 9 years, revealed 23.6% and 15.1% reduction in LS and FN BMD with Z scores of +9.3 and +4.8, respectively. Iliac crest, after 8.5 years, had normal osteoid surface and thickness with distinct double labels. Bone F, after 8.5 years, was 1.15% (reference range, <0.1), which was a 36% reduction (still 10 times the reference value). All arthralgias resolved within 2 years, and he never fractured, but new-onset nephrolithiasis occurred within 9 months and became a chronic problem. Conclusions: With removal of F exposure, skeletal fluorosis is reversible, but likely impacts for decades. Patients should be monitored for impending nephrolithiasis. [source]

N -Acetylcysteine Added to Volume Expansion with Sodium Bicarbonate Does Not Further Prevent Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Results from the Cardiac Angiography in Renally Impaired Patients Study

JOURNAL OF INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY, Issue 3 2009
CEZAR S. STANILOAE M.D.
We reviewed data from the multicenter CARE (Cardiac Angiography in Renally Impaired Patients) study to see if benefit could be shown for N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in patients undergoing cardiac angiography who all received intravenous bicarbonate fluid expansion. Four hundred fourteen patients with moderate-to-severe chronic kidney disease were randomized to receive intra-arterial administration of iopamidol-370 or iodixanol-320. All patients were prehydrated with isotonic sodium bicarbonate solution. Each site chose whether or not to administer NAC 1,200 mg twice daily to all patients. Serum creatinine (SCr) levels and estimated glomerular filtration rate were assessed at baseline and 2,5 days after receiving contrast. The primary outcome was a postdose SCr increase 0.5 mg/dL (44.2 ,mol/L) over baseline. Secondary outcomes were a postdose SCr increase 25% and the mean peak change in SCr. The NAC group received significantly less hydration (892 ± 236 mL vs. 1016 ± 328 mL; P < 0.001) and more contrast volume (146 ± 74 mL vs. 127 ± 71 mL; P = 0.009) compared with no-NAC group. SCr increases 0.5 mg/dL occurred in 4.2% (7 of 168 patients) in NAC group and 6.5% (16 of 246 patients) in no-NAC group (P = 0.38); rates of SCr increases 25% were 11.9% and 10.6%, respectively (P = 0.75); mean post-SCr increases were 0.07 mg/dL in NAC group versus 0.11 mg/dL in no-NAC group (P = 0.14). In conclusion, addition of NAC to fluid expansion with sodium bicarbonate failed to reduce the rate of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) after the intra-arterial administration of iopamidol or iodixanol to high-risk patients with chronic kidney disease. [source]

Melatonin, a potent regulator of hemeoxygenase-1, reduces cardiopulmonary bypass-induced renal damage in rats

JOURNAL OF PINEAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2009
Zhongqiu Wang
Abstract:, Acute renal dysfunction is a frequent complication after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). This study was designed to evaluate the potential protective effect of melatonin on CPB-induced renal damage in a rat model. Forty male Sprague,Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham, control (CPB + placebo), low dose of melatonin (CPB + 10 mg/kg melatonin) and high dose of melatonin (CPB + 20 mg/kg melatonin). Blood samples were collected at the beginning, at the end of CPB, and at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 24 hr postoperation. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were assayed. Rats were killed 24 hr after surgery, the histologic appearance of the kidney and malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) contents were determined. The expression levels of hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein and gene were determined using western blotting and real-time PCR, respectively. In the control group, CPB surgery significantly increased urea, creatinine levels in serum, MDA and MPO levels in tissues, while decreasing SOD and CAT activities in tissues. Histopathologic findings of the control group confirmed that there was renal impairment by cast formation and tubular necrosis in the tubular epithelium. These changes were markedly reversed in both low dose of melatonin and high dose of melatonin groups. Furthermore, HO-1 gene transcript and protein were significantly upregulated in the kidney tissues after melatonin treatment compared with the placebo treatment. Our findings show that melatonin was effective in preventing CPB-induced renal damage probably through its antioxidant function and upregulation of HO-1. [source]

Daclizumab induction therapy in liver transplant recipients with renal insufficiency

ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 6 2010
S. K. Asrani
Summary Background, The role of interleukin 2 (IL-2) receptor antibodies to avoid the nephrotoxic effects of calcineurin inhibitors in the early post-liver transplant (LT) period is not well defined. Aim, To examine the use of daclizumab induction in LT recipients with renal insufficiency. Methods, Between 2002 and 2005, 62 patients (median pre-LT creatinine 2.4 mg/dL, IQR 1.9,3.7) received daclizumab induction with tacrolimus being administered when serum creatinine was <2.0 mg/dL. A concurrent comparison group (n = 221, 2002,2005) received tacrolimus-based immunosuppression without daclizumab (median pre-LT creatinine 1.1 mg/dL, IQR 0.9,1.4). A second historical comparison group (n = 103, 1995,2005) not receiving daclizumab was matched to the daclizumab patients by pre-LT serum creatinine (2.2 mg/dL, IQR 1.8,3.1). All patients received mycophenolate mofetil and steroids. Results, Serum creatinine improved in the daclizumab group (,1.0 mg/dL, IQR ,2.2 to ,0.4) and worsened in the concurrent comparison group (+0.2 mg/dL, IQR 0,0.5) from pre-LT to 4 months. However, there was no difference when daclizumab group was compared with the historical comparison group matched on pre-LT creatinine (median change: ,0.8 mg/dL vs. ,0.7 mg/dL). Daclizumab induction was not associated with improvement in renal function at 4 months (P = 0.34) after adjusting for pre-LT creatinine, age, gender, hepatitis C status and simultaneous liver kidney transplantation. Conclusion, The incremental benefit offered by induction therapy with IL-2 receptor antibodies to preserve renal function is questionable. [source]

Around the world with the model for end-stage liver disease

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 10 2003
Richard B. Freeman Jr MD
Background: Indices for predicting survival are essential for assessing prognosis and assigning priority for liver transplantation in patients with liver cirrhosis. The model for end stage liver disease (MELD) has been proposed as a tool to predict mortality risk in cirrhotic patients. However, this model has not been validated beyond its original setting. Aim: To evaluate the short and medium term survival prognosis of a European series of cirrhotic patients by means of MELD compared with the Child-Pugh score. We also assessed correlations between the MELD scoring system and the degree of impairment of liver function, as evaluated by the monoethylglycinexylidide (MEGX) test. Patients and methods: We retrospectively evaluated survival of a cohort of 129 cirrhotic patients with a follow up period of at least one year. The Child-Pugh score was calculated and the MELD score was computed according to the original formula for each patient. All patients had undergone a MEGX test. Multivariate analysis was performed on all variables to identify the parameters independently associated with one year and six month survival. MELD values were correlated with both Child-Pugh scores and MEGX test results. Results: Thirty one patients died within the first year of follow up. Child-Pugh and MELD scores, and MEGX serum levels were significantly different among patients who survived and those who died. Serum creatinine, international normalized ratio, and MEGX60 were independently associated with six month mortality while the same variables and the presence of ascites were associated with one year mortality. MELD scores showed significant correlations with both MEGX values and Child-Pugh scores. Conclusions: In a European series of cirrhotic patients the MELD score is an excellent predictor of both short and medium term survival, and performs at least as well as the Child-Pugh score. An increase in MELD score is associated with a decrease in residual liver function. [source]

ENDOTHELIAL FUNCTION OF CONDUIT AND RESISTANCE ARTERIES IN NEPHROTIC RANGE PROTEINURIA

NEPHROLOGY, Issue 3 2000
G. Dogra
OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that endothelial dysfunction occurs in nephrotic range proteinuria primarily as a consequence of dyslipidaemia. METHODS: Brachial artery and forearm microcirculatory endothelial function was compared among patients with nephrotic range proteinuria (NRP, n = 14 ), primary hyperlipidaemia (HL, n = 15) and normal controls (NC, n = 16). Endothelial function was studied by measuring post-ischaemic flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery using high resolution ultrasonography. Endothelium-independent, glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) mediated brachial artery vasodilatation was also measured. Basal and post-ischaemic blood flow of the forearm microcirculation was measured using venous-occlusion strain gauge plethysmography. RESULTS: Serum creatinine was similar among groups. The proteinuric group had a mean albumin of 27.6g/L(1.8) and 24-hour urinary protein excretion of 6.3g(1.3). Plasma lipids and lipoproteins were not statistically different between the NRP and HL groups. Brachial artery FMD was significantly lower in the NRP and HL groups compared with the controls (NRP 4.7%(1.3)*, HL 4.9%(0.7)* and NC 8.3%(0.6), *p = 0.012 vs. NC); GTN mediated dilatation and basal and post-ischaemic forearm blood flow were not statistically different among the three groups. CONCLUSION: Patients with nephrotic range proteinuria have endothelial dysfunction of conduit arteries in the peripheral circulation, similar to that observed in patients with primary hyperlipidaemia. This suggests dyslipoproteinaemia is the principal cause of endothelial dysfunction of conduit arteries in nephrotic range proteinuria. Confirmation of this should be sought with an intervention trial of lipid-regulating therapy. [source]

Orthotopic liver transplantation for children with Alagille syndrome

PEDIATRIC TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 5 2010
Ronen Arnon
Arnon R, Annunziato R, Miloh T, Suchy F, Sakworawich A, Hiroshi S, Kishore I, Kerkar N. Orthotopic liver transplantation for children with Alagille syndrome. Pediatr Transplantation 2010: 14:622,628. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Abstract:, AGS is an inherited disorder involving the liver, heart, eyes, face, and skeleton. Aim: To determine the outcome of LT in children with AGS compared to those with BA. Methods: Children with AGS and BA who had a LT between 10/1987 and 5/2008 were identified from the UNOS database. Results: Of 11 467 children who received a liver transplant, 461 (4.0%) had AGS and 3056 (26.7%) had BA. One- and five-yr patient survival was significantly lower in patients with AGS in comparison with patients with BA (AGS; 82.9%, 78.4%, BA; 89.9%, 84%, respectively). Early death (<30 days from transplant) was significantly higher in AGS than in BA. One- and five-yr graft survival was significantly lower in AGS than in BA (AGS; 74.7%, 61.5%, BA; 81.6%, 70.0%, respectively). Death from graft failure, neurological, and cardiac complications was significantly higher in patients with AGS than in patients with BA. Serum creatinine at transplant, prior LT, and cold ischemic time >12 h were identified as risk factors for death. Conclusion: Children with AGS were older at the time of LT and their one- and five-yr patient and graft survival were significantly lower compared to BA. Risk factors for poor outcome in AGS after LT were identified. [source]

Computed tomography virtual intravascular endoscopy in the evaluation of fenestrated stent graft repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms

ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 11 2009
Zhonghua Sun
Abstract Background:, This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of computed tomography virtual intravascular endoscopy (VIE) in the follow-up of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) treated with fenestrated stent grafts. Methods:, A total of 19 patients (17 males and 2 females; mean age: 75 years) with AAA undergoing fenestrated stent grafts were retrospectively studied. Pre- and post-fenestration computed tomography data were reconstructed for the generation of VIE images of aortic ostia and fenestrated stents and compared with two-dimensional axial and multiplanar reformation (MPR) images. Serum creatinine was measured pre and post fenestration to evaluate the renal function. Results:, The mean intra-aortic length measured by VIE, two-dimensional axial and MPR were 4.7, 4.4 and 4.6 mm, respectively, for the right renal stent; 5.0, 4.9 and 5.0 mm, respectively, for the left renal stent; and 5.9, 6.0 and 6.0 mm, respectively, for the superior mesenteric artery stent. Comparisons of these measurements did not show significant difference (P > 0.05). The mean diameters of renal artery ostia measured on VIE visualization pre and post fenestration were 9.2 × 8.3 and 10 × 8.9 mm for the right renal ostium; 8.3 × 7.1 and 9.9 × 8.9 mm for the left renal ostium, with significant changes observed (P < 0.01). No renal dysfunction was observed in this group. Conclusion:, VIE is a valuable visualization tool in the follow-up of fenestrated stent graft repair of AAA by providing intraluminal appearance of fenestrated stents and measuring the length of stent protrusion. [source]

High dose methotrexate population pharmacokinetics and Bayesian estimation in patients with lymphoid malignancy

BIOPHARMACEUTICS AND DRUG DISPOSITION, Issue 8 2009
Ye Min
Abstract The purpose of present study was to develop a population pharmacokinetic model of high dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) infusion in patients with lymphoid malignancy, to investigate the biological and clinical covariates related to the drug distribution and elimination. It is also the purpose to propose a limited sampling strategy (LSS) for the estimation of the time above the threshold (0.2,µmol·L,1). A total 82 patients with lymphoid malignancy were involved in the study. A pharmacokinetic model was developed using nonlinear mixed-effect model. The influence of demographic characteristics, biological factors, and concurrent administration were investigated. The final predictive performance was validated by bootstrap and cross-validation. Bayesian estimation was evaluated. The pharmacokinetics of HD-MTX was described by a two-compartment model. The pharmacokinetic parameters and the inter-individual variability were as follows: the clearance CL, 7.45,L·h,1 (inter-individual variability 50.6%), the volume of the central and peripheral compartment V1, 25.9,L (22.5%), V2, 9.23,L (97.8%), respectively, and the intercompartmental clearance Q, 0.333,L·h,1 (70.4%). The influence of serum creatinine on CL and weight on V1 was retained in the final model. The protocol involved one sampling time at 44,h after the start of the infusion, allowing one to predict the time at which the MTX concentration reached the expected threshold (0.2,µmol·L,1). Serum creatinine and weight showed significant influence on methotrexate CL and V1, respectively. Furthermore, a Bayesian estimation based on the covariates and 44,h sample was developed, allowing prediction of the individual methotrexate pharmacokinetic parameters and the time to 0.2,µmol·L,1. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

46 Laparoscopic versus open living donor nephrectomy: a contemporary series from a single centre

BJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 2006
R.E. POWER
Introduction:, Laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy offers potential advantages to the donor and has become a routine procedure for live kidney procurement worldwide. Since 2000 our live donor patients have been offered a laparoscopic nephrectomy. Patients and Methods:, Between February 2000 and August 2005 we performed 183 donor-recipient operations at our institution (ODN = 83 and LND = 100). We prospectively collected information on all donors and recipients for the same period to audit our experience with the first 100 LDN,s. Patients made their operative choice following discussions regarding the unit experience and literature information. We present our findings with specific emphasis on donor operative details and early recipient graft outcome. Results:, Donor and recipient age, gender, body mass index, HLA mismatches, warm ischaemia and vascular anastomotic times did not significantly differ between the two groups. There were two conversions to an open operation in the LND group and neither impacted upon recipient graft outcome. The mean operative duration was 178 ± 38 for the LDN and 159 ± 34 min for the ODN (P < 0.05). The mean length of hospital stay was 4.7 ± 1.2 days in the LND group versus 6.8 ± 1.5 days in the ODN group (P < 0.05). There was one case of delayed graft function in both groups. Serum creatinine at 1, 6 and 12 months did not differ significantly between either groups. Vascular and ureteric complications and lymphocoele rates were similar in both groups. Conclusions:, Our contemporaneous series demonstrates the safe introduction of a laparoscopic living donor programme without compromise towards donor patient safety or allograft outcome. [source]

Serum creatinine is an inadequate screening test for renal failure in ischemic stroke patients

ACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 1 2009
G. Piñol-Ripoll
Objective,,, Serum creatinine (SCr) level is the most commonly used screening test for renal function, but its concentration is affected by factors other than glomerular filtration rate (GFR). We hypothesized that SCr would underestimate the degree of renal failure in ischemic stroke patients. Material and methods,,, We conducted a prospective study of 273 patients admitted to our institution for ischemic stroke within a year. GFR was calculated using the Cockcroft,Gault formula (CG). Patients were grouped according to the SCr with stages of renal failure according to CG values. Results,,, Of the 273 patients studied, 231 had normal SCr. Of this group 46.8% (108), 24.7% (57) and 4 (1.7%) had mild, moderate and severe renal failure according to GFR estimation. Among patients with normal SCr, abnormal CG values were identified in 86.2% (150) , 65 years old, 33.3% (19) <65 years old, 69% (89) in men and 78.4% (80) in women. An SCr greater than 1.7 mg/dl had only a sensitivity of 14.7%. Conclusions,,, This study documents the substantial prevalence of significantly abnormal renal function among patients with normal-range SCr. Routine estimation of GFR be preferred to SCr as a screening method for the early detection of renal impairment in stroke patients. [source]

MR determination of glomerular filtration rate in subjects with solitary kidneys in comparison to clinical standards of renal function: feasibility and preliminary report,

CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING, Issue 2 2009
Richard W. Katzberg
Abstract This study was conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of quantifying single kidney glomerular filtration rate (skGFR) by magnetic resonance (MR) by comparison to the clinical estimates of GFR in volunteer subjects with a single kidney. Seven IRB-approved subjects with a solitary kidney, stable serum creatinine (SCr) and a 24,h creatinine clearance (CrCl) volunteered to undergo an MR examination that determined renal extraction fraction (EF) with a breathhold inversion recovery echo planar pulse sequence and renal blood flow with a velocity encoded phase imaging sequence. The product of EF and blood flow determines GFR. These values were compared with the 24,h CrCl, estimated GFR by the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) regression analysis and the Cockroft,Gault (CG) determination of CrCl. The mean and standard deviation of differences between the MR GFR, MDRD and CG vs the 24,h CrCl were 12.3,±,35.7, ,8.9,±,18.5 and 1.2,±,19.6, respectively. The Student t -test showed that none of the mean differences were statistically significant between techniques. This clinical investigation shows that MR can be used for skGFR determination in human subjects with comparable values to those derived from clinically used serum-based GFR estimation techniques. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Combination therapy using metformin or thiazolidinediones and insulin in the treatment of diabetes mellitus

DIABETES OBESITY & METABOLISM, Issue 6 2005
Suzanne M. Strowig
The biguanide, metformin, sensitizes the liver to the effect of insulin, suppressing hepatic glucose output. Thiazolidinediones such as rosiglitazone and pioglitazone enhance insulin-mediated glucose disposal, leading to reduced plasma insulin concentrations. These classes of drugs may also have varying beneficial effects on features of insulin resistance such as lipid levels, blood pressure and body weight. Metformin in combination with insulin has been shown to significantly improve blood glucose levels while lowering total daily insulin dose and body weight. The thiazolidinediones in combination with insulin have also been effective in lowering blood glucose levels and total daily insulin dose. Triple combination therapy using insulin, metformin and a thiazolidinedione improves glycaemic control to a greater degree than dual therapy using insulin and metformin or insulin and a thiazolidinedione. There is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of metformin or thiazolidinediones in type 1 diabetic patients. Although these agents are largely well tolerated, some subjects experience significant gastrointestinal problems while using metformin. Metformin is associated with a low risk of lactic acidosis, but should not be used in patients with elevated serum creatinine or those being treated for congestive heart failure. The thiazolidinediones are associated with an increase in body weight, although this can be avoided with careful lifestyle management. Thiazolidinediones may also lead to oedema and are associated with a low incidence of hepatocellular injury. Thiazolidinediones are contraindicated in patients with underlying heart disease who are at risk of congestive heart failure and in patients who have abnormal hepatic function. The desired blood glucose-lowering effect and adverse event profiles of these agents should be considered when recommending these agents to diabetic patients. The potential for metformin or the thiazolidinediones to impact long-term cardiovascular outcomes remains under investigation. [source]

Establishing pragmatic estimated GFR thresholds to guide metformin prescribing

DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 10 2007
J. S. Shaw
Abstract Aims, Renal impairment is a contraindication to metformin treatment because of the perceived increased risk of lactic acidosis. Current guidelines define renal impairment according to the serum creatinine of the individual, but this measure is being supplanted by the use of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) as it gives a closer estimate to true GFR. This study aimed to establish pragmatic eGFR limits for use in patients being considered for metformin treatment. Methods, Estimated GFR measurements corresponding to currently used metformin creatinine limits of 130 and 150 µmol/l were derived and then applied to 12 482 patients with diabetes in Hull and East Yorkshire. Results, Few patients with a serum creatinine of 130 or 150 µmol/l have an eGFR of < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2[chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4 or greater], while most are between 30 and 59 ml/min/1.73 m2 (CKD stage 3). When applied to the 12 482 patients (median age 67 years, interquartile range 56,75), males predominated when using creatinine cut-offs (13.6% of males and 8.3% of females had creatinine > 130 µmol/l; 8.2% males and 5.2% females > 150 µmol/l), but not using eGFR CKD thresholds (3.3% males and 4.7% females < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2; 20.8% males and 28.1% females eGFR 30,59 ml/min/1.73 m2). Similar proportions of patients as currently would have metformin withheld if using eGFR cut-offs between 30 and 49 ml/min/1.73 m2. Conclusions, We have proposed pragmatic eGFR limits to guide metformin prescribing in patients with renal impairment. CKD stage 4 or greater should be an absolute contraindication to metformin, while CKD stage 3 should alert clinicians to consider other risk factors before initiating or continuing treatment. [source]

The accuracy of cystatin C and commonly used creatinine-based methods for detecting moderate and mild chronic kidney disease in diabetes

DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 4 2007
R. J. MacIsaac
Abstract Background, The accuracy of measuring serum cystatin C levels for detecting various stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in diabetes is still unclear. Methods In a cross-sectional study of 251 subjects, a reference glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured using 99cTc-DTPA plasma clearance (iGFR). Multivariate analysis was used to identify independent clinical and biochemical associations with serum cystatin C and iGFR levels. The diagnostic accuracy of cystatin C and commonly used creatinine-based methods of measuring renal function (serum creatinine, the MDRD four-variable and Cockcroft,Gault formulae) for detecting mild and moderate CKD was also compared. Results, In the entire study population the same five variables, age, urinary albumin excretion rates, haemoglobin, history of macrovascular disease and triglyceride levels were independently associated with both cystatin C and iGFR levels. A serum cystatin C level cut-off > 82.1 nmol/l (1.10 mg/l) had the best test characteristics as a screening tool for detecting moderate CKD (< 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2) when compared with creatinine-based methods. At the upper threshold for mild CKD (< 90 ml/min per 1.73 m2), cystatin C also had greater diagnostic accuracy than creatinine, but had similar diagnostic accuracy when compared with creatinine-based formulae for predicting renal function. Conclusions, This study suggests that the clinical and biochemical parameters associated with serum cystatin C levels are closely linked to those associated with GFR and highlights the potential usefulness of screening for moderate or mild CKD in subjects with diabetes by simply measuring serum cystatin C levels. [source]

Time to move from serum creatinine to eGFR

DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 10 2006
J. P. New
No abstract is available for this article. [source]

Aldose reductase gene is associated with diabetic macroangiopathy in Japanese Type 2 diabetic patients

DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 8 2006
A. Watarai
Abstract Aims The aldose reductase (AR) gene, a rate-limiting enzyme of the polyol pathway, has been investigated as a candidate gene in determining susceptibility to diabetic microangiopathy. However, the association of the AR gene with diabetic macroangiopathy has not been investigated. Therefore, the present study was conducted to determine whether genetic variations of AR may determine susceptibility to diabetic macroangiopathy. Methods There were 378 Type 2 diabetic patients enrolled in this study. A single nucleotide polymorphism in the promoter region (C-106T) was genotyped and the AR protein content of erythrocytes measured by ELISA. Results There were no significant differences in genotypic or allelic distribution in patients with or without ischaemic heart diseases, but there was a significant increase in the frequency of the CT + TT genotype and T allele in patients with stroke (P = 0.019 and P = 0.012). The erythrocyte AR protein content was increased in patients with the CT and TT genotype compared with those with the CC genotype. After adjustment for age, duration of diabetes, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, HbA1c, and serum creatinine, triglycerides, and total cholesterol in multivariate logistic-regression models, the association between this AR genotype and stroke remained significant. Conclusions Our results suggest that the CT or TT genotype of the AR gene might be a genetic marker of susceptibility to stroke in Type 2 diabetic patients. This observation might contribute to the development of strategies for the prevention of stroke in Type 2 diabetic patients. [source]

The effect of spironolactone, cilazapril and their combination on albuminuria in patients with hypertension and diabetic nephropathy is independent of blood pressure reduction: a randomized controlled study

The Relation Between Mitral Annular Calcification and Mortality in Patients Undergoing Diagnostic Coronary Angiography

ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 9 2006
Howard J. Willens M.D.
To determine whether the observed association between mitral annular calcification (MAC) and mortality is independent of the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), we analyzed data from 134 male veterans (age 63 ± 10 years) followed for 5 years who had undergone diagnostic coronary angiography and transthoracic echocardiography within 6 months of each other. Echocardiograms were retrospectively reviewed for the presence of MAC. The relation of MAC to all-cause mortality was analyzed using logistic regression, and odds ratios (OR) were calculated. MAC was present in 49 (37%) subjects. Over the 5-year follow-up period, 38 (28%) patients expired. Five-year survival was 80% for subjects without MAC and 56% for subjects with MAC (P = 0.003). MAC (OR = 3.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]= 1.43,6.96, P = 0.003), ejection fraction (OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.59,0.97, P = 0.02), and left main CAD (OR = 2.70, 95% CI = 1.11,6.57, P = 0.02) were significantly associated with mortality in univariate analysis. After adjusting for left ventricular ejection fraction, number of obstructed coronary arteries and the presence of left main coronary artery stenosis, MAC significantly predicted death (OR = 2.48, 95% CI = 1.09,5.68, P = 0.03). Similarly, after adjusting for predictors of MAC, including ejection fraction, age, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and heart failure, MAC remained a significant predictor of death (OR = 2.38, 95% CI = 1.02,5.58, P = 0.04). MAC also predicted death independent of smoking status, hypertension, serum creatinine, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, and C-reactive protein levels (OR = 3.98, 95% CI = 1.68,9.40, P = 0.001). MAC detected by two-dimensional echocardiography independently predicts mortality and may provide an easy-to-perform and inexpensive way to improve risk stratification. [source]

Mouse toxicity of Anabaena flos-aquae from Lake Dianchi, China

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY, Issue 1 2009
Xiaojie Pan
Abstract Some species of the genera Anabaena can produce various kinds of cyanotoxins, which may pose risks to environment and human health. Anabaena has frequently been observed in eutrophic freshwater of China in recent years, but its toxicity has been reported only in a few studies. In the present study, the toxicity of an Anabaena flos-aquae strain isolated from Lake Dianchi was investigated. Acute toxicity testing was performed by mouse bioassay using crude extracts from the lyophilized cultures. The mice exposed to crude extracts showed visible symptoms of toxicity and died within 10,24 h of the injection. Serum biochemical parameters were evaluated by the use of commercial diagnostic kits. Significant alterations were found in the serum biochemical parameters: alkaline phosphatase (AKP), ,-glutamyl transpeptidase (,-GT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT), AST/ALT ratio, total protein content, albumin content, albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Ssr), and total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC). Histopathological observations were carried out with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stain under light microscope. Severe lesions were seen in the livers, kidneys, and lungs of the mice injected with crude extracts. The alterations of biochemical parameters were in a dose-dependent manner, and the severities of histological lesions were in the same manner. Based on biochemical and histological studies, this research firstly shows the presence of toxin-producing Anabaena species in Lake Dianchi and the toxic effects of its crude extracts on mammals. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2009. [source]

Collagen type VIII expression in human diabetic nephropathy

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 10 2007
J. Gerth
Abstract Background, Collagen type VIII is a non-fibrillar short-chain collagen that may modulate migration, proliferation and adherence of various cells. Only very sparse information exists on collagen type VIII expression in human diabetic nephropathy. Material and methods, We retrospectively studied mRNA expression for the two collagen type VIII chains (COL8A1 and COL8A2) in 20 biopsies with histologically confirmed diabetic nephropathy by real-time PCR, and compared glomerular and tubular expression with normal kidney [pre-transplant biopsies (n = 10)]. Expression of collagen type VIII was also studied in biopsies from patients with benign nephrosclerosis (BNS; n = 16) and focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS; n = 9). Results, A strong specific induction of COL8A1 mRNA was found in diabetic nephropathy in both glomerular and tubular compartments. There was also a robust induction of COL8A2 in diabetic nephropathy, but overall expression was lower than that of COL8A1 transcripts. No significant increase in COL8A1 and COL8A2 mRNAs expression was found in biopsies from patients with BNS and FSGS compared with normal kidneys. The cross-reactivity of the used anti-,1(VIII) antibody with human tissue was confirmed by Western blots. Immunohistological analysis revealed only little staining for collagen type VIII in the normal kidney, localized to vessels. There was an up-regulation of collagen type VIII protein expression as shown by immunohistochemistry in the diabetic nephropathy biopsies mainly localized to mesangial cells, tubules and the interstitium. Proteinuria and serum creatinine did not correlate with glomerular or tubular COL8A1 and COL8A2 mRNA expression in diabetic patients. Conclusion, Our study systemically investigates collagen type VIII expression in human biopsies. Induction of collagen type VIII was specific for diabetic nephropathy and did not occur in the other renal diseases studied. More specific factors of the diabetic environment are likely involved in the stimulated expression because there was no correlation of collagen type VIII mRNA expression with proteinuria. Since collagen type VIII may influence proliferation and migration of cells, it is possible that an increase in renal expression of collagen type VIII initiates other pathophysiological processes (e.g. proliferation of renal fibroblasts) involved in diabetic nephropathy. [source]

Differences in the process of diabetic care between south Asian and white patients in inner-city practices in Nottingham, UK

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY, Issue 3 2004
Christopher David BM BS MRCGP
Abstract The prevalence and complication rate of diabetes is higher amongst British south Asians when compared to the rest of the adult population. There is some evidence to suggest that there are differences in access to healthcare in the UK for different ethnic groups, but there has been little research examining differences in processes of care between ethnic groups and place of delivery of diabetic care. The present study was a retrospective, multi-practice audit exploring differences in the processes of diabetic care provided to white and south Asian patients. Data were obtained from eight practices located in deprived areas in Nottingham, UK. A review of the evidence-based protocols for the monitoring of diabetic care generated a list of process criteria to be measured. All primary care data sources were examined over a 12-month period by a single investigator. The data were analysed with respect to patient ethnicity and place of diabetic care after adjusting for confounders. Eight hundred and thirty-nine diabetic patients were included in the audit and 671 (80.0%) received a formal annual diabetic review. One hundred and five (12.5%) patients were classified as south Asian. They were significantly less likely to have their blood pressure [86% versus 89%, odds ratio (OR) = 0.62, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.54,0.72] or serum creatinine (67% versus 76%, OR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.32,0.52) measured when compared to white patients. Patients receiving shared care from a hospital-based diabetic team were more likely to have a range of items of the annual review recorded. When examined by ethnicity, south Asians receiving shared care were again less likely than white patients to have their blood pressure and serum creatinine measured. There was also some evidence that they may be less likely to have their body mass index recorded and their feet examined. The findings of the present study showed that, although most diabetic patients received a formal annual clinical review, scope for improvement remained. Shared care of patients with a hospital-based team produced better results when processes of care were examined. However, this benefit did not apply equally to south Asian and white patients. Further studies are indicated to confirm these results, which may have wider implications for the planning and provision of diabetic care. [source]

Predictors of response to therapy with terlipressin and albumin in patients with cirrhosis and type 1 hepatorenal syndrome,

HEPATOLOGY, Issue 1 2010
André Nazar
Terlipressin plus albumin is an effective treatment for type 1 hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), but approximately only half of the patients respond to this therapy. The aim of this study was to assess predictive factors of response to treatment with terlipressin and albumin in patients with type 1 HRS. Thirty-nine patients with cirrhosis and type 1 HRS were treated prospectively with terlipressin and albumin. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables obtained before the initiation of treatment as well as changes in arterial pressure during treatment were analyzed for their predictive value. Response to therapy (reduction in serum creatinine <1.5 mg/dL at the end of treatment) was observed in 18 patients (46%) and was associated with an improvement in circulatory function. Independent predictive factors of response to therapy were baseline serum bilirubin and an increase in mean arterial pressure of ,5 mm Hg at day 3 of treatment. The cutoff level of serum bilirubin that best predicted response to treatment was 10 mg/dL (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.77; P < 0.0001; sensitivity, 89%; specificity, 61%). Response rates in patients with serum bilirubin <10 mg/dL or ,10 mg/dL were 67% and 13%, respectively (P = 0.001). Corresponding values in patients with an increase in mean arterial pressure ,5 mm Hg or <5 mm Hg at day 3 were 73% and 36%, respectively (P = 0.037). Conclusion: Serum bilirubin and an early increase in arterial pressure predict response to treatment with terlipressin and albumin in type 1 HRS. Alternative treatment strategies to terlipressin and albumin should be investigated for patients with type 1 HRS and low likelihood of response to vasoconstrictor therapy. (HEPATOLOGY 2009.) [source]

Acute kidney injury in cirrhosis,

HEPATOLOGY, Issue 6 2008
Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
Acute renal failure (ARF), recently renamed acute kidney injury (AKI), is a relatively frequent problem, occurring in approximately 20% of hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. Although serum creatinine may underestimate the degree of renal dysfunction in cirrhosis, measures to diagnose and treat AKI should be made in patients in whom serum creatinine rises abruptly by 0.3 mg/dL or more (,26.4 ,mol/L) or increases by 150% or more (1.5-fold) from baseline. The most common causes of ARF (the term is used interchangeably with AKI) in cirrhosis are prerenal azotemia (volume-responsive prerenal AKI), acute tubular necrosis, and hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), a functional type of prerenal AKI exclusive of cirrhosis that does not respond to volume repletion. Because of the progressive vasodilatory state of cirrhosis that leads to relative hypovolemia and decreased renal blood flow, patients with decompensated cirrhosis are very susceptible to developing AKI with events associated with a decrease in effective arterial blood volume. HRS can occur spontaneously but is more frequently precipitated by events that worsen vasodilatation, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Conclusion: Specific therapies of AKI depend on the most likely cause and mechanism. Vasoconstrictors are useful bridging therapies in HRS. Ultimately, liver transplantation is indicated in otherwise reasonable candidates in whom AKI does not resolve with specific therapy. (HEPATOLOGY 2008;48:2064-2077.) [source]

Lack of renal improvement with nonselective endothelin antagonism with tezosentan in type 2 hepatorenal syndrome,,

HEPATOLOGY, Issue 1 2008
Florence Wong
Renal vasoconstriction is a key factor in the development of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) and may be secondary to increased activities of endothelin-1, a potent renal vasoconstrictor. To assess the effects of tezosentan, a nonselective endothelin receptor antagonist, on renal function in patients with type 2 HRS, six male patients, 56.3 ± 2.5 years old, with cirrhosis and type 2 HRS were treated with tezosentan; ascending doses of 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 mg/hour, each for 24 hours, were used for the initial 2 patients, but a constant dose of 0.3 mg/hour for up to 7 days was used for the remaining 4 patients. The glomerular filtration rate, renal plasma flow, 24-hour urinary volume, mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate, tezosentan levels, and vasoactive hormones were measured daily. Albumin was given as required. The study was stopped early because of concerns about the safety of tezosentan in type 2 HRS. Five patients discontinued the study early; one stopped within 4 hours because of systemic hypotension (MAP < 70 mm Hg), and 4 patients stopped at ,4 days because of concerns about worsening renal function (serum creatinine increased from 180 ± 21 to 222 ± 58 ,mol/L, P > 0.05) and decreasing urine volume (P = 0.03) but without a significant change in MAP. The plasma tezosentan concentrations were 79 ± 34 ng/mL at a steady state during infusion at 0.3 mg/hour. The plasma endothelin-1 concentrations increased from 2.7 ± 0.3 pg/mL at the baseline to 19.1 ± 7.3 pg/mL (P < 0.05). Conclusion: An endothelin receptor blockade potentially can cause a deterioration in renal function in patients with cirrhosis and type 2 HRS. Caution should be taken in future studies using endothelin receptor antagonists in these patients. (HEPATOLOGY 2007.) [source]

The impact of pre-operative serum creatinine on short-term outcomes after liver resection

HPB, Issue 8 2009
Thomas Armstrong
Abstract Background:, The aim of the present study was to determine whether raised pre-operative serum creatinine increased the risk of renal failure after liver resection. Method:, Data were studied from 1535 consecutive liver resections. Outcomes in patients with pre-operative creatinine ,124 µmol/l (Group 1) were compared with those with pre-operative creatinine ,125 µmol/l (Group 2). Results:, The median age of the 1446 (94.3%) patients resected in Group 1 was 62 years compared with 67 years in the 88 (5.7%) patients in Group 2 (P < 0.0001). Similarly this latter group had double the number of patients who were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) III or IV (34.1% vs. 15.2%, P= 0.00004). Overall, the incidence of post-operative renal failure requiring haemofiltration was low (0.9%) but significantly more in Group 2 patients (5.7% vs. 0.6, P= 0.0007). In addition, patients in Group 2 were more likely to suffer acute kidney injury post-operatively (18.2% vs. 4.3%, P < 0.0001). Patients with acute kidney injury had significantly higher blood loss. Although there was no difference in mortality, patients in Group 2 had higher post-operative morbidity (37.5%) than Group 1 (21.7%, P= 0.0006), with the incidence of cardiorespiratory complications being higher in Group 2 (25.9% vs. 8.9%, P= 0.0025). Conclusions:, After liver resection, renal failure is rare but patients with an elevated creatinine pre-operatively are at an increased risk of both renal and non-renal complications. [source]

Emergency Department Lactate Is Associated with Mortality in Older Adults Admitted With and Without Infections

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 3 2010
Daniel A. Del Portal MD
Abstract Objectives:, Serum lactate values in the emergency department (ED) have been associated with mortality in diverse populations of critically ill patients. This study investigates whether serum lactate values measured in the ED are associated with mortality in older patients admitted to the hospital, both with and without infections. Methods:, This is a retrospective cohort study performed at two urban teaching hospitals. The study population includes 1,655 older ED patients (age , 65 years) over a 3-year period (2004,2006) who had serum lactate measured prior to admission. The presence or absence of infection was determined by review of International Classification of Diseases Ninth Revision (ICD-9) admission diagnosis codes. Mortality during hospitalization was determined by review of inpatient records. Mortality at 30 and at 60 days was determined using a state death registry. Results:, In patients with infections, increasing serum lactate values of ,2.0 mmol/L were linearly associated with relative risk (RR) of mortality during hospitalization (RR = 1.9 to 3.6 with increasing lactate), at 30 days (RR = 1.7 to 2.6), and at 60 days (RR = 1.4 to 2.3) when compared to patients with serum lactate levels of <2.0 mmol/L. In patients without infections, a similar association was observed (RR = 1.1 to 3.9 during hospitalization, RR = 1.2 to 2.6 at 30 days, RR = 1.1 to 2.4 at 60 days). In both groups of patients, serum lactate had a greater magnitude of association with mortality than either of two other commonly ordered laboratory tests, leukocyte count and serum creatinine. Conclusions:, Higher ED lactate values are associated with greater mortality in a broad cohort of admitted patients over age 65 years, regardless of the presence or absence of infection. ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2010; 17:260,268 © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine [source]