/library/oar/handle/123456789/12630 Sun, 28 Dec 2025 07:05:54 GMT 2025-12-28T07:05:54Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/12659 Title: Recurrent chest infections in two young non-smoker men Authors: Sladden, David; Montefort, Stephen; Galea, Joseph Abstract: Pulmonary mucinous cystic carcinomas are rare salivary gland type carcinomas of the lung. They form part of a wide spectrum of mucin secreting glandular mixed type tumours. They comprise 0.1 – 0.2% of all lung tumours. They occur more frequently in young patients and present with cough or recurrent chest infections and therefore may be easily misdiagnosed. Since treatment depends fully on complete surgical resection early diagnosis is essential. Even with treatment the 10-year survival is quoted at 53%. We describe two cases of such rare tumours both of who underwent curative surgical resection. Both patients were younger than 35 years old and presented with recurrent chest infections. The patients were followed for up to eight years and the outcome recorded. A literature search confirms the occurrence in younger patients, who often present with pneumonias and that surgery is the only hope for cure. Fri, 01 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/12659 2016-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/12658 Title: Endoscopic bronchial ultrasound in mediastinal staging of lung cancer Authors: Bilocca, David; Vella, Claire; Montefort, Stephen Abstract: Lung cancer is a global healthcare concern with a low 5-year survival rate and a high proportion of advanced-stage cases at diagnosis. In the absence of distant metastasis, the most important prognostic marker is mediastinal lymph node involvement. Timely diagnosis and staging improves prognosis, making rapid, safe, and accurate investigation essential. Endoscopic bronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is a minimally invasive technique which allows for ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) during bronchoscopy, with cytological sampling of several intrathoracic groups of lymph nodes. EBUS reduces need for open surgical biopsy, with good sensitivity and specificity and excellent safety profile. This article reviews current evidence regarding use of EBUS in lung cancer staging, including its role in other intrathoracic malignancies.eviews current evidence regarding use of EBUS in lung cancer staging, including its role in other intrathoracic malignancies. Fri, 01 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/12658 2016-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/12657 Title: Fetal MRI : an essential step in interpreting complex ultrasound findings Authors: Baldacchino, Ian; Saliba, Isabelle; Gatt, Andre Stefan Abstract: Background: Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows for the interpretation of complex fetal anomalies detected on ultrasound (US). Locally it has been available since 2013 but has remained underused. Method: In this paper we report the US and MRI findings of all cases of fetal MRI that were taken to date locally and how MRI can contribute to the clarification of malformations, management, counseling, evaluation of prognosis and ruling out of other possible malformations. Results: The cases reported were: two cases of hydroureter; gastroschisis; ventriculomegaly; intracranial haemorrhage; splenic cyst; Arnold Chiari II malformation. In all seven cases MRI was able to add to or change the diagnosis. Conclusion: Fetal MRI acts as an adjunct to US in interpreting abnormal fetal development. It is a safe non-invasive method of imaging that allows the clinician to take more informed decisions and better parental counselling. Fri, 01 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/12657 2016-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/12656 Title: Safety monitoring of the newer disease modifying therapies in multiple sclerosis patients in Mater Dei hospital Authors: Zammit, Daniela; Aquilina, Josanne Abstract: Patients with highly active Multiple Sclerosis can be started on the newer pharmaceutical agents, Dimethyl Fumarate or Fingolimod. Safety monitoring recommended includes regular blood analysis and also ophthalmic tests and MRI scans in the case of Fingolimod. The aim of this audit is to verify whether timely investigations are being taken, checked and results documented in a database and whether the appropriate action is being taken should safety become a concern. Method: An Excel document shared by all four Neurology consultants documents the patients’ personal details, any baseline investigations or other recommended tests taken and the blood results taken at regular intervals. This data was analysed for accuracy by keeping it up to date. The products’ SPC recommendations were used as guidelines and the time-frame modified locally. Results: After analyzing all the blood tests taken while on Dimethyl fumarate, 39% of patients took their regular blood tests on time; 31% were not taken on time and 30% had no blood tests taken at all. On the other hand, only 59% of patients on Fingolimod took their blood tests on time. 82% of the blood results were documented in their Excel document. A repeat MRI scan 6 months after starting Fingolimod showed that only 53% took it on time. Conclusion: Using an Excel document was a trial to try and ensure compliance with these recommendations. However, this audit clearly documents that it is not enough to follow patients on a regular basis, highlighting the need for a specialist nurse to monitor such patients. Fri, 01 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/12656 2016-01-01T00:00:00Z