An evaluation of the Kodak Ektachem clinical chemistry slide for theophylline

We evaluated the Kodak Ektachem clinical chemistry slide for assay of theophylline. Assay precision and accuracy were acceptable in the therapeutic range although precision was poor at low levels of theophylline. The assay performed well with patients' samples using the Abbott TDx as the reference procedure but, as indicated by the manufacturer, uremic samples gave a positive bias, particularly in the therapeutic range. Finally, the significant bias observed with Quality Control material, probably due to matrix sensitivity, is a possible drawback.     

An ultrastructural and histochemical study of the prominent inflammatory response in D(+)-galactosamine hepatotoxicity.

The biochemical basis of the hepatitis-like liver injury produced by D(+)-galactosamine in rats is well-established and is linked to depletion of uridine nucleotides within parenchymal cells. However, the prominent inflammatory response that accompanies this lesion in vivo has been largely overlooked as a component of the hepatic damage. This study examines the cellular components of the inflammatory infiltrate of galactosamine-induced liver injury over time using histochemical and ultrastructural techniques. By 12 h after toxin administration, the infiltrate consisted largely of neutrophils and recently-mobilized monocytes. By 24 to 48 h after the toxin, when hepatocellular necrosis was maximal, few neutrophils were found in the infiltrate. At these times, the infiltrate consisted almost exclusively of large phagocytic cells, histochemically and morphologically consistent with active tissue macrophages apparently derived from circulating monocytes. The extent of the inflammatory response to this experimental hepatotoxin suggests that effects on the generation and development of the inflammatory response should be considered for treatments reported to alter the intrinsic hepatotoxicity of galactosamine.     

Lyme disease. A neuro-ophthalmologic view

Lyme borreliosis is a spirochetal infection with a potential to produce a clinical disease in the human host with protean manifestations as diverse as the spectrum of disease caused by Treponema pallidum. Neuro-ophthalmologic manifestations of Lyme borreliosis are emphasized in this short review. A brief historical chronicle of Lyme disease is offered. Potential pitfalls in the diagnosis of Lyme disease with an emphasis on false negative serology and currently available diagnostic modalities are presented. Therapeutic options for Lyme borreliosis are briefly reviewed.     

Recurrent and residual renal calculi in children

One hundred and thirteen children with non-metabolic urinary tract calculi were operated on between 1960 and 1983. One hundred were followed up for 3 to 17 years (mean 8.2). Seventeen children (15%) developed recurrent calculi after complete clearance at the initial operation and in 13 of these the stones recurred within 5 years. Proteus urinary infection was a constant feature of stone recurrence. Five patients required re-operation for removal of the recurrent calculus. Small residual caliceal fragments were left behind in 17 children but only 3 required surgical removal.     

Food intolerance: our practice

This paper describes the clinical presentation of food allergy and/or intolerance (F.A.I.). The role of a diagnostic dietary trial is reviewed. Finally dietary management is discussed.