Paras Karmacharya | Reading - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Paras Karmacharya

Research paper thumbnail of Thromboprophylaxis with apixaban and the risk of pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In... more Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In this study, we sought to critically evaluate the differences in the rates of symptomatic DVT and bleeding, and analyze the rates of pulmonary embolism (PE) in subgroups of patients from ADVANCE I and II trials given their similar indication and design. Studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, clinicaltrial.gov, SCOPUS, and EMBASE up to January 2014. Phase III RCTs involving use of apixaban and enoxaparin for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing total knee or hip replacement were included. Study-specific odds ratios were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I (2) statistics. In three studies involving 11,659 patients, the risk of symptomatic DVT (pooled OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.16-0.90, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) and bleeding (pooled OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77-0.99, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) was less in apixaban group compared to the enoxaparin group. However, it was interesting to note that on subgroup analysis, the risk of PE was higher with apixaban when used for thromboprophylaxis in knee replacement surgery (pooled OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.10-6.04, I (2)=0%, p=0.03). Apixaban was found to be associated with lower risk of symptomatic DVT and bleeding compared to enoxaparin when used for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing knee and hip replacement surgeries. However, it was associated with higher risk of PE in patients undergoing knee replacement.

Research paper thumbnail of Response to Letter

Journal of community hospital internal medicine perspectives, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-analysis on efficacy and safety of new oral anticoagulants for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in overweight and obese postarthroplasty patients

Blood Coagulation & Fibrinolysis, 2015

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have... more The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have been increasingly studied for VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty. Although the elderly population accounts for a significant proportion of patients requiring VTE prophylaxis, safety and efficacy of NOACs in this subgroup for VTE prophylaxis has not been well studied. Relevant studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov (from inception to 12 August 2014). Phase III randomized controlled trials that compared NOACs against low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in the prevention of VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty were included. We defined our elderly population as adults of at least 75 years and assessed the reported safety and efficacy outcomes with NOACs in this population. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I statistic. In nine trials involving 29 403 patients, the risk of VTE or VTE-related deaths in elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty was similar with NOACs compared with LMWH (OR 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.30-1.26; P = 0.18; I = 44%) but bleeding risk was significantly lower (OR 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.53-0.94; P = 0.02; I = 0%). Analysis of individual NOACs showed superior efficacy but similar safety for apixaban when compared with LMWH. Efficacy and safety profiles of rivaroxaban and dabigatran were similar to LMWH. In elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty, NOACs have similar efficacy but superior safety when compared with enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis.

Research paper thumbnail of Rituximab Induced Serum Sickness: A Systematic Review

Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Youtube as a source of information on Ebola virus disease

North American Journal of Medical Sciences, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Acute hyperkalemia leading to flaccid paralysis: a review of hyperkalemic manifestations

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Hyperkalemia can present with a spectrum of clinical manifestations with progressive EKG changes ... more Hyperkalemia can present with a spectrum of clinical manifestations with progressive EKG changes and life-threatening arrhythmias. Although no formal guidelines exist as to when to initiate treatment for hyperkalemia, it is generally recommended in clinically symptomatic patients with or without EKG changes. Timely diagnosis and reversal can relieve symptoms and prevent life-threatening arrhythmias. We review the EKG changes associated with hyperkalemia and management principles along with an example of a case of severe hyperkalemia resulting in arrhythmia and flaccid paralysis.

Research paper thumbnail of Risk of acute gout among active smokers: data from nationwide inpatient sample

Smoking has been found to be negatively correlated with serum uric acid levels by virtue of reduc... more Smoking has been found to be negatively correlated with serum uric acid levels by virtue of reduced production and increased consumption of endogenous antioxidant uric acid among smokers and has been reported to decrease incidence of gout. To shed further light on the question of association between active smoking and acute gout by examining this association using a large inpatient US database, using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample data from 2009 to 2011, we identified current smokers based on the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) code 305.1 and were assumed to have ceased smoking during hospital stay. Patients who developed acute gout inhospital were identified based on ICD-9 code 274.01 at secondary diagnosis position. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to derive odds ratio for measures of association. Statistical analysis was done using STATA version 13.0 (College Station, TX). A total of 17,847,045 discharge records were used which included 13,932 (0.08 %) inhospital acute gouty arthritis and 2,615,944 (14.66 %) active smokers. Both univariate (OR 0.59, CI 0.54–0.63, p < 0.0001) and multivariate (OR 0.64, CI 0.59–0.68, p < 0.0001) regressions showed statistically significant reduction of acute gout among hospitalized patients who were current smokers but were assumed to have ceased smoking during hospital stay. Active tobacco use was associated with a lower risk of acute inpatient gouty arthritis, even when controlling for conventional risk factors. More study is needed to correlate this finding with uric acid levels, and a better understanding of the mechanisms that explain this finding are necessary.

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-analysis on efficacy and safety of new oral anticoagulants for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in overweight and obese postarthroplasty patients

Blood Coagulation & Fibrinolysis, 2015

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have... more The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have been increasingly studied for VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty. Although the elderly population accounts for a significant proportion of patients requiring VTE prophylaxis, safety and efficacy of NOACs in this subgroup for VTE prophylaxis has not been well studied. Relevant studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov (from inception to 12 August 2014). Phase III randomized controlled trials that compared NOACs against low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in the prevention of VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty were included. We defined our elderly population as adults of at least 75 years and assessed the reported safety and efficacy outcomes with NOACs in this population. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I statistic. In nine trials involving 29 403 patients, the risk of VTE or VTE-related deaths in elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty was similar with NOACs compared with LMWH (OR 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.30-1.26; P = 0.18; I = 44%) but bleeding risk was significantly lower (OR 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.53-0.94; P = 0.02; I = 0%). Analysis of individual NOACs showed superior efficacy but similar safety for apixaban when compared with LMWH. Efficacy and safety profiles of rivaroxaban and dabigatran were similar to LMWH. In elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty, NOACs have similar efficacy but superior safety when compared with enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis.

Research paper thumbnail of Disseminated toxocariasis in an immunocompetent host

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 2014

ABSTRACT Toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara canis, or less commonly, Toxocar... more ABSTRACT Toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara canis, or less commonly, Toxocara cati, which is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide. It commonly affects the pediatric and immunocompromised population; however, it has rarely been reported in the immunocompetent adults. Two of the well-recognized syndromes in children are visceral larva migrans and ocular larva migrans. Infection in adults usually ranges from asymptomatic to non-specific symptoms which makes the diagnosis challenging. A case of 36 year-old male was presented with disseminated toxocariasis with pulmonary and hepatic involvement and striking peripheral eosinophilia.

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-Analysis on Risk of Bleeding With Apixaban in Patients With Renal Impairment

The American Journal of Cardiology, 2015

Apixaban is a novel oral anticoagulant which is approved for the management of atrial fibrillatio... more Apixaban is a novel oral anticoagulant which is approved for the management of atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. There have been concerns regarding bleeding risks with apixaban in patients with renal impairment. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of bleeding with apixaban in these patients. Relevant studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane library, and clinicaltrials.gov (from inception to February 24, 2014). Phase III randomized controlled trials that compared apixaban with conventional agents (vitamin K antagonist and/or warfarin, low molecular weight heparin, aspirin, and placebo) were included. We defined mild renal impairment as creatinine clearance of 50 to 80 ml/min and moderate to severe renal impairment as creatinine clearance &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;50 ml/min. Study-specific risk ratios were calculated, and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistics. In 6 trials involving 40,145 patients, the risk of bleeding with apixaban in patients with mild renal impairment was significantly less (risk ratio 0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.66 to 0.96, I(2) = 13%) compared with conventional anticoagulants. In patients with moderate to severe renal impairment, the risk of bleeding with was found to be similar (risk ratio 1.01, 95% confidence interval 0.49 to 2.10, I(2) = 72%). In conclusion, compared with the conventional agents, bleeding risk with apixaban in patients with mild and moderate to severe renal insufficiency is lower and similar, respectively.

Research paper thumbnail of Colloid cyst: an unusual cause of seizure

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-Analysis on Efficacy of Statins for Prevention of Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography

The American Journal of Cardiology, 2014

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CIAKI) is a leading cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney... more Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CIAKI) is a leading cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury, and pretreatment with hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) have shown promise in prevention. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed including randomized controlled trials of short-term high-dose statins (compared with either low-dose statin or placebo) for CIAKI prevention in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) were calculated, and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistic. We used a random-effects model meta-analysis to pool the OR. Twelve RCTs, including 5,564 patients, were included. CIAKI occurred in 94 of 2,769 patients (3.4%) pretreated with high-dose statins and 213 of 2,795 patients (7.6%) in the low-dose or no-statin group (OR 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33 to 0.55, I(2) = 19%, p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that the occurrence of CIAKI did not differ in patients with diabetes (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.85, I(2) = 0%, p = 0.004) or in patients with documented renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;60 ml/min/m(2); OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.96, I(2) = 0%, p = 0.03). In conclusion, pretreatment with high-dose statins, compared with low-dose statins or placebo, in patients undergoing coronary angiography reduces the incidence of CIAKI. This benefit was seen irrespective of the presence of diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Future studies should identify optimum dosing protocols for each statin.

Research paper thumbnail of Iatrogenesis imperfecta: stroke caused by accidental carotid artery catheterization

The Journal of Vascular Access, 2014

Purpose: Central venous catheterization is a commonly used procedure to gain access to the centra... more Purpose: Central venous catheterization is a commonly used procedure to gain access to the central circulation. Although ultrasound guidance decreases the complication rates, arterial puncture may still occur. Failure to recognize this early may lead to devastating complications such as thrombosis and embolic stroke. We discuss the factors associated with increased risk of arterial puncture, techniques to detect them early and the management of established carotid artery cannulation. Methods: We report a case of internal jugular catheterization complicated by carotid artery puncture leading to embolic stroke.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal variation in acute gouty arthritis: data from Nationwide Inpatient Sample

Clinical rheumatology, Jan 9, 2015

Studies describing seasonal variations in acute gouty arthritis note seasonal variation, but disa... more Studies describing seasonal variations in acute gouty arthritis note seasonal variation, but disagree on timing, with most showing a peak in spring months while others show peaks later in the year. Various theories on the effect of weather and immune system changes on the chronobiology of monosodium urate crystals' equilibrium and precipitation have been proposed. We aimed to shed light on this question by examining the seasonal variation in the incidence of acute gouty arthritis in the USA using a large inpatient database. We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database to identify patients aged ≥18 years with primarydiagnosis of acute gouty arthritis (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modificationcode 274.01) from 2009-2011 during hospitalization. We used the Edwards recognition and estimation ofcyclic trend method to study the seasonal variation of the incidence of acute gout and z-test to compare theseasonal incidences. A total of 28,172...

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal variation of immune thrombocytopenic purpura related hospitalizations among adults in the USA: analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample database

Therapeutic advances in hematology, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Erythema ab igne secondary to repeated heating pad use: an image case

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Thromboprophylaxis with apixaban and the risk of pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In... more Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In this study, we sought to critically evaluate the differences in the rates of symptomatic DVT and bleeding, and analyze the rates of pulmonary embolism (PE) in subgroups of patients from ADVANCE I and II trials given their similar indication and design. Studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, clinicaltrial.gov, SCOPUS, and EMBASE up to January 2014. Phase III RCTs involving use of apixaban and enoxaparin for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing total knee or hip replacement were included. Study-specific odds ratios were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I (2) statistics. In three studies involving 11,659 patients, the risk of symptomatic DVT (pooled OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.16-0.90, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) and bleeding (pooled OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77-0.99, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) was less in apixaban group compared to the enoxaparin group. However, it was interesting to note that on subgroup analysis, the risk of PE was higher with apixaban when used for thromboprophylaxis in knee replacement surgery (pooled OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.10-6.04, I (2)=0%, p=0.03). Apixaban was found to be associated with lower risk of symptomatic DVT and bleeding compared to enoxaparin when used for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing knee and hip replacement surgeries. However, it was associated with higher risk of PE in patients undergoing knee replacement.

Research paper thumbnail of Stuck in the Heart: Embolized Strut Fracture of IVC Filter

Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Youtube as a source of information on Ebola virus disease

North American Journal of Medical Sciences, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Rituximab Induced Serum Sickness: A Systematic Review

Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Thromboprophylaxis with apixaban and the risk of pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In... more Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In this study, we sought to critically evaluate the differences in the rates of symptomatic DVT and bleeding, and analyze the rates of pulmonary embolism (PE) in subgroups of patients from ADVANCE I and II trials given their similar indication and design. Studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, clinicaltrial.gov, SCOPUS, and EMBASE up to January 2014. Phase III RCTs involving use of apixaban and enoxaparin for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing total knee or hip replacement were included. Study-specific odds ratios were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I (2) statistics. In three studies involving 11,659 patients, the risk of symptomatic DVT (pooled OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.16-0.90, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) and bleeding (pooled OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77-0.99, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) was less in apixaban group compared to the enoxaparin group. However, it was interesting to note that on subgroup analysis, the risk of PE was higher with apixaban when used for thromboprophylaxis in knee replacement surgery (pooled OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.10-6.04, I (2)=0%, p=0.03). Apixaban was found to be associated with lower risk of symptomatic DVT and bleeding compared to enoxaparin when used for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing knee and hip replacement surgeries. However, it was associated with higher risk of PE in patients undergoing knee replacement.

Research paper thumbnail of Response to Letter

Journal of community hospital internal medicine perspectives, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-analysis on efficacy and safety of new oral anticoagulants for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in overweight and obese postarthroplasty patients

Blood Coagulation & Fibrinolysis, 2015

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have... more The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have been increasingly studied for VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty. Although the elderly population accounts for a significant proportion of patients requiring VTE prophylaxis, safety and efficacy of NOACs in this subgroup for VTE prophylaxis has not been well studied. Relevant studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov (from inception to 12 August 2014). Phase III randomized controlled trials that compared NOACs against low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in the prevention of VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty were included. We defined our elderly population as adults of at least 75 years and assessed the reported safety and efficacy outcomes with NOACs in this population. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I statistic. In nine trials involving 29 403 patients, the risk of VTE or VTE-related deaths in elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty was similar with NOACs compared with LMWH (OR 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.30-1.26; P = 0.18; I = 44%) but bleeding risk was significantly lower (OR 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.53-0.94; P = 0.02; I = 0%). Analysis of individual NOACs showed superior efficacy but similar safety for apixaban when compared with LMWH. Efficacy and safety profiles of rivaroxaban and dabigatran were similar to LMWH. In elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty, NOACs have similar efficacy but superior safety when compared with enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis.

Research paper thumbnail of Rituximab Induced Serum Sickness: A Systematic Review

Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Youtube as a source of information on Ebola virus disease

North American Journal of Medical Sciences, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Acute hyperkalemia leading to flaccid paralysis: a review of hyperkalemic manifestations

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Hyperkalemia can present with a spectrum of clinical manifestations with progressive EKG changes ... more Hyperkalemia can present with a spectrum of clinical manifestations with progressive EKG changes and life-threatening arrhythmias. Although no formal guidelines exist as to when to initiate treatment for hyperkalemia, it is generally recommended in clinically symptomatic patients with or without EKG changes. Timely diagnosis and reversal can relieve symptoms and prevent life-threatening arrhythmias. We review the EKG changes associated with hyperkalemia and management principles along with an example of a case of severe hyperkalemia resulting in arrhythmia and flaccid paralysis.

Research paper thumbnail of Risk of acute gout among active smokers: data from nationwide inpatient sample

Smoking has been found to be negatively correlated with serum uric acid levels by virtue of reduc... more Smoking has been found to be negatively correlated with serum uric acid levels by virtue of reduced production and increased consumption of endogenous antioxidant uric acid among smokers and has been reported to decrease incidence of gout. To shed further light on the question of association between active smoking and acute gout by examining this association using a large inpatient US database, using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample data from 2009 to 2011, we identified current smokers based on the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) code 305.1 and were assumed to have ceased smoking during hospital stay. Patients who developed acute gout inhospital were identified based on ICD-9 code 274.01 at secondary diagnosis position. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to derive odds ratio for measures of association. Statistical analysis was done using STATA version 13.0 (College Station, TX). A total of 17,847,045 discharge records were used which included 13,932 (0.08 %) inhospital acute gouty arthritis and 2,615,944 (14.66 %) active smokers. Both univariate (OR 0.59, CI 0.54–0.63, p < 0.0001) and multivariate (OR 0.64, CI 0.59–0.68, p < 0.0001) regressions showed statistically significant reduction of acute gout among hospitalized patients who were current smokers but were assumed to have ceased smoking during hospital stay. Active tobacco use was associated with a lower risk of acute inpatient gouty arthritis, even when controlling for conventional risk factors. More study is needed to correlate this finding with uric acid levels, and a better understanding of the mechanisms that explain this finding are necessary.

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-analysis on efficacy and safety of new oral anticoagulants for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in overweight and obese postarthroplasty patients

Blood Coagulation & Fibrinolysis, 2015

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have... more The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases with age. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have been increasingly studied for VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty. Although the elderly population accounts for a significant proportion of patients requiring VTE prophylaxis, safety and efficacy of NOACs in this subgroup for VTE prophylaxis has not been well studied. Relevant studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov (from inception to 12 August 2014). Phase III randomized controlled trials that compared NOACs against low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in the prevention of VTE prophylaxis in patients with elective postarthroplasty were included. We defined our elderly population as adults of at least 75 years and assessed the reported safety and efficacy outcomes with NOACs in this population. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I statistic. In nine trials involving 29 403 patients, the risk of VTE or VTE-related deaths in elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty was similar with NOACs compared with LMWH (OR 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.30-1.26; P = 0.18; I = 44%) but bleeding risk was significantly lower (OR 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.53-0.94; P = 0.02; I = 0%). Analysis of individual NOACs showed superior efficacy but similar safety for apixaban when compared with LMWH. Efficacy and safety profiles of rivaroxaban and dabigatran were similar to LMWH. In elderly patients with elective postarthroplasty, NOACs have similar efficacy but superior safety when compared with enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis.

Research paper thumbnail of Disseminated toxocariasis in an immunocompetent host

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 2014

ABSTRACT Toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara canis, or less commonly, Toxocar... more ABSTRACT Toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara canis, or less commonly, Toxocara cati, which is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide. It commonly affects the pediatric and immunocompromised population; however, it has rarely been reported in the immunocompetent adults. Two of the well-recognized syndromes in children are visceral larva migrans and ocular larva migrans. Infection in adults usually ranges from asymptomatic to non-specific symptoms which makes the diagnosis challenging. A case of 36 year-old male was presented with disseminated toxocariasis with pulmonary and hepatic involvement and striking peripheral eosinophilia.

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-Analysis on Risk of Bleeding With Apixaban in Patients With Renal Impairment

The American Journal of Cardiology, 2015

Apixaban is a novel oral anticoagulant which is approved for the management of atrial fibrillatio... more Apixaban is a novel oral anticoagulant which is approved for the management of atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. There have been concerns regarding bleeding risks with apixaban in patients with renal impairment. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of bleeding with apixaban in these patients. Relevant studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane library, and clinicaltrials.gov (from inception to February 24, 2014). Phase III randomized controlled trials that compared apixaban with conventional agents (vitamin K antagonist and/or warfarin, low molecular weight heparin, aspirin, and placebo) were included. We defined mild renal impairment as creatinine clearance of 50 to 80 ml/min and moderate to severe renal impairment as creatinine clearance &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;50 ml/min. Study-specific risk ratios were calculated, and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistics. In 6 trials involving 40,145 patients, the risk of bleeding with apixaban in patients with mild renal impairment was significantly less (risk ratio 0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.66 to 0.96, I(2) = 13%) compared with conventional anticoagulants. In patients with moderate to severe renal impairment, the risk of bleeding with was found to be similar (risk ratio 1.01, 95% confidence interval 0.49 to 2.10, I(2) = 72%). In conclusion, compared with the conventional agents, bleeding risk with apixaban in patients with mild and moderate to severe renal insufficiency is lower and similar, respectively.

Research paper thumbnail of Colloid cyst: an unusual cause of seizure

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Meta-Analysis on Efficacy of Statins for Prevention of Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography

The American Journal of Cardiology, 2014

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CIAKI) is a leading cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney... more Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CIAKI) is a leading cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury, and pretreatment with hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) have shown promise in prevention. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed including randomized controlled trials of short-term high-dose statins (compared with either low-dose statin or placebo) for CIAKI prevention in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) were calculated, and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistic. We used a random-effects model meta-analysis to pool the OR. Twelve RCTs, including 5,564 patients, were included. CIAKI occurred in 94 of 2,769 patients (3.4%) pretreated with high-dose statins and 213 of 2,795 patients (7.6%) in the low-dose or no-statin group (OR 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33 to 0.55, I(2) = 19%, p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that the occurrence of CIAKI did not differ in patients with diabetes (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.85, I(2) = 0%, p = 0.004) or in patients with documented renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;60 ml/min/m(2); OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.96, I(2) = 0%, p = 0.03). In conclusion, pretreatment with high-dose statins, compared with low-dose statins or placebo, in patients undergoing coronary angiography reduces the incidence of CIAKI. This benefit was seen irrespective of the presence of diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Future studies should identify optimum dosing protocols for each statin.

Research paper thumbnail of Iatrogenesis imperfecta: stroke caused by accidental carotid artery catheterization

The Journal of Vascular Access, 2014

Purpose: Central venous catheterization is a commonly used procedure to gain access to the centra... more Purpose: Central venous catheterization is a commonly used procedure to gain access to the central circulation. Although ultrasound guidance decreases the complication rates, arterial puncture may still occur. Failure to recognize this early may lead to devastating complications such as thrombosis and embolic stroke. We discuss the factors associated with increased risk of arterial puncture, techniques to detect them early and the management of established carotid artery cannulation. Methods: We report a case of internal jugular catheterization complicated by carotid artery puncture leading to embolic stroke.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal variation in acute gouty arthritis: data from Nationwide Inpatient Sample

Clinical rheumatology, Jan 9, 2015

Studies describing seasonal variations in acute gouty arthritis note seasonal variation, but disa... more Studies describing seasonal variations in acute gouty arthritis note seasonal variation, but disagree on timing, with most showing a peak in spring months while others show peaks later in the year. Various theories on the effect of weather and immune system changes on the chronobiology of monosodium urate crystals' equilibrium and precipitation have been proposed. We aimed to shed light on this question by examining the seasonal variation in the incidence of acute gouty arthritis in the USA using a large inpatient database. We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database to identify patients aged ≥18 years with primarydiagnosis of acute gouty arthritis (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modificationcode 274.01) from 2009-2011 during hospitalization. We used the Edwards recognition and estimation ofcyclic trend method to study the seasonal variation of the incidence of acute gout and z-test to compare theseasonal incidences. A total of 28,172...

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal variation of immune thrombocytopenic purpura related hospitalizations among adults in the USA: analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample database

Therapeutic advances in hematology, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Erythema ab igne secondary to repeated heating pad use: an image case

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Thromboprophylaxis with apixaban and the risk of pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives, 2015

Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In... more Apixaban, a novel oral anticoagulant, is also used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. In this study, we sought to critically evaluate the differences in the rates of symptomatic DVT and bleeding, and analyze the rates of pulmonary embolism (PE) in subgroups of patients from ADVANCE I and II trials given their similar indication and design. Studies were identified through electronic literature searches of MEDLINE, clinicaltrial.gov, SCOPUS, and EMBASE up to January 2014. Phase III RCTs involving use of apixaban and enoxaparin for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing total knee or hip replacement were included. Study-specific odds ratios were calculated and between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I (2) statistics. In three studies involving 11,659 patients, the risk of symptomatic DVT (pooled OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.16-0.90, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) and bleeding (pooled OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77-0.99, I (2)=0%, p=0.03) was less in apixaban group compared to the enoxaparin group. However, it was interesting to note that on subgroup analysis, the risk of PE was higher with apixaban when used for thromboprophylaxis in knee replacement surgery (pooled OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.10-6.04, I (2)=0%, p=0.03). Apixaban was found to be associated with lower risk of symptomatic DVT and bleeding compared to enoxaparin when used for thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing knee and hip replacement surgeries. However, it was associated with higher risk of PE in patients undergoing knee replacement.

Research paper thumbnail of Stuck in the Heart: Embolized Strut Fracture of IVC Filter

Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Youtube as a source of information on Ebola virus disease

North American Journal of Medical Sciences, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Rituximab Induced Serum Sickness: A Systematic Review

Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, 2015