Sally Candy - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Sally Candy
American Journal of Neuroradiology, Apr 30, 2014
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Cape Town is the center of an HIV-tuberculosis coepidemic. This study's a... more BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Cape Town is the center of an HIV-tuberculosis coepidemic. This study's aim was to highlight the importance and to describe the MR imaging features of tuberculosis in acute myelopathy and cauda equina syndrome in HIV-positive adults. To accomplish this we retrospectively reviewed the MR imaging and clinico-pathologic findings of HIV-positive patients presenting to our hospital with recent onset paraplegia and sphincter dysfunction over a 4-year period, 2008-2011. MATERIALS & METHODS: MR imaging, CD4 count, and CSF analysis and pathology were correlated in 216 cases. RESULTS: Fifty-eight percent (127) of subjects were female. The mean age was 37 years. The median CD4 count was 185 cells/L. Twenty-five percent (54) of patients were on antiretroviral therapy. MR imaging showed spondylitis in 30% (65). The median CD4 count in these patients was significantly higher than in the remainder. Disk destruction was common and 10% had synchronous spondylitis elsewhere in the spinal column. Thirty percent (64) had features of myelitis/arachnoiditis. Twenty-five percent (55) had no MR imaging abnormality. In 123 (57%) of cases with a definitive etiology on CSF culture or biopsy, 84 (68%) were attributable to tuberculosis including all spondylitis cases and 40% of nonspondylitis cases. Twelve (10%) were due to nontuberculous infection and 12 (10%) had HIV-associated tumors including 2 rare Epstein-Barr-related tumors. CONCLUSIONS: In our setting, acute onset myelopathy/cauda equina syndrome in HIV-positive patients is largely attributable to tuberculosis with nonspondylitic forms being more common than spondylitis and associated with a lower CD4 count.
African Journal of Emergency Medicine
South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde, 1995
Debate exists about the role of diet in both the aetiology and the management of ulcerative colit... more Debate exists about the role of diet in both the aetiology and the management of ulcerative colitis. To examine the latter, a group of patients with documented ulcerative colitis was studied at the Groote Schuur Hospital Gastro-intestinal Clinic. A total of 18 subjects, 9 female and 9 male, were randomised into active or control groups and followed up weekly for 6 weeks. Subjects in the control group were asked to document but not alter their intake of food and drink. Those in the experimental group had their diets systematically manipulated to exclude foods that appeared to provoke symptoms. The symptoms, sigmoidoscopy and biopsy findings of all subjects were compared before and after. 'Remission' was defined as the passage of normal stools with absence of rectal bleeding. 'Improvement' was defined as a decrease in the number of diarrhoeal stools and/or a diminution of rectal bleeding. At the end of the trial the diet group displayed significantly fewer symptoms tha...
South African Journal of Radiology, 2014
Background: Penetrating neck trauma is commonly encountered in South African trauma units, and is... more Background: Penetrating neck trauma is commonly encountered in South African trauma units, and is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. The imaging protocol for stable patients with penetrating neck trauma remains controversial. There is only sparse data validating the use of computed tomography angiography (CTA) in the evaluation of penetrating neck trauma in South Africa.Objectives: To assess the sensitivity and specificity of CTA versus digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in detecting arterial injury and secondarily evaluate the ability of CT to assess non-arterial injury.Method: Using hospital and radiology databases, 23 patients were identified who had undergone both CTA and DSA for penetrating neck trauma. The data was retrospectively anonymised and randomised. A radiologist experienced in the interpretation of both trauma CTA and DSA re-reported all the imaging and the findings were compared and analysed.Results: Twenty-four arterial injuries were detected. Th...
PLoS ONE, 2012
Introduction: Abnormalities on CT imaging may contribute to the diagnosis of tuberculous meningit... more Introduction: Abnormalities on CT imaging may contribute to the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM). Recently, an expert consensus case definition (CCD) and set of imaging criteria for diagnosing basal meningeal enhancement (BME) have been proposed. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and reliability of these in a prospective cohort of adult meningitis patients. Methods: Initial diagnoses were based on the CCD, classifying patients into: 'Definite TBM' (microbiological confirmation), 'Probable TBM' (diagnostic score $10), 'Possible TBM' (diagnostic score 6-9), 'Not TBM' (confirmation of an alternative diagnosis) or 'Uncertain' (diagnostic score of ,6). CT images were evaluated independently on two occasions by four experienced reviewers. Intra-rater and inter-rater agreement were calculated using the kappa statistic. Sensitivities and specificities were calculated using both 'Definite TBM' and either 'Definite TBM' or 'Probable TBM' as gold standards. Results: CT scan criteria for BME had good intra-rater agreement (k range 0.35-0.78) and fair to moderate inter-rater agreement (k range 0.20-0.52). Intra-and inter-rater agreement on the CCD components were good to fair (k = ranges 0.47-0.81 and 0.21-0.63). Using 'Definite TBM' as a gold standard, the criteria for BME were very specific (61.5%-100%), but insensitive (5.9%-29.4%). Similarly, the imaging components of the CCD were highly specific (69.2-100%) but lacked sensitivity (0-56.7%). Similar values were found when using 'Definite TBM' or 'Probable TBM' as a gold standard. Discussion: The fair to moderate inter-rater agreement and poor sensitivities of the criteria for BME suggest that little reliance should be placed in these features in isolation. While the presence of the CCD criteria of acute infarction or tuberculoma(s) appears useful as rule-in criteria, their absence is of little help in excluding TBM. The CCD and criteria for BME, as well as any new criteria, need to be standardized and validated in prospective cohort studies.
Neurosurgery, 2007
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to document changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans... more OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to document changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans after a stab to the spinal cord. The aim of the study was to determine if routine MRI scans for this type of injury would lead to a change in management. METHOD All patients with a stab wound to the spinal cord sustained between November 2004 and July 2005 were retrospectively enrolled. All of the patients were examined, a data form was completed, and MRI was performed within 72 hours on arrival at Groote Schuur Hospital. RESULTS Twenty-two patients were imaged during the study period. MRI results were reported by a neuroradiologist. The most common change seen on MRI scans was a spinal cord tract and cord signal change. Other imaging findings that were documented included cord swelling and extra-axial collections. Progressive neurological deficits developed in two patients, both as a result of sepsis. An intramedullary abscess was found on contrast follow-up imaging in only one of the ...
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 1995
![Research paper thumbnail of Study protocol for a phase 2A trial of the safety and tolerability of increased dose rifampicin and adjunctive linezolid, with or without aspirin, for HIV-associated tuberculous meningitis [LASER-TBM]](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/93906307/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](Wellcome Open Research
Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most lethal form of tuberculosis with a mortality... more Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most lethal form of tuberculosis with a mortality of ~50% in those co-infected with HIV-1. Current antibiotic regimens are based on those known to be effective in pulmonary TB and do not account for the differing ability of the drugs to penetrate the central nervous system (CNS). The host immune response drives pathology in TBM, yet effective host-directed therapies are scarce. There is sufficient data to suggest that higher doses of rifampicin (RIF), additional linezolid (LZD) and adjunctive aspirin (ASA) will be beneficial in TBM yet rigorous investigation of the safety of these interventions in the context of HIV associated TBM is required. We hypothesise that increased dose RIF, LZD and ASA used in combination and in addition to standard of care for the first 56 days of treatment with be safe and tolerated in HIV-1 infected people with TBM. Methods: In an open-label randomised parallel study, up to 100 participants will receive eit...
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 2007
To report the nature of stroke in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a ... more To report the nature of stroke in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a region with high HIV seroprevalence and describe HIV associated vasculopathy. Methods: Patients with first ever stroke, infected with HIV and prospectively included in the stroke register of the Groote Schuur Hospital/University of Cape Town stroke unit were identified and reviewed. Results: Between 2000 and 2006, 67 of the 1087 (6,1%) stroke patients were HIV infected. Of these, 91% (n = 61) were younger than 46 years. Cerebral infarction occurred in 96% (n = 64) of the HIV positive patients and intracerebral haemorrhage in 4% (n = 3). HIV infected young stroke patients did not demonstrate hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia or smoking as significant risk factors for ischaemic stroke. Infection as a risk factor for stroke was significantly more common in HIV positive patients (p = 0.018, OR 6.4, CI 3.1 to 13.2). In 52 (81%) patients with ischaemic stroke, an aetiology was determined. Primary aetiologies comprised infectious meningitides/vasculitides in 18 (28%) patients, coagulopathy in 12 (19%) patients and cardioembolism in nine (14%) patients. Multiple aetiologies were present in seven (11%) patients with ischaemic stroke. HIV associated vasculopathy was identified in 13 (20%) patients. The HIV associated vasculopathy manifested either extracranially (seven patients) as total or significant carotid occlusion or intracranially (six patients) as medium vessel occlusion, with or without fusiform aneurysmal dilation, stenosis and vessel calibre variation. Conclusion: Investigation of HIV infected patients presenting with stroke will determine an aetiology in the majority of patients. In our cohort, 20% of patients demonstrated evidence of an HIV associated vasculopathy.
Digestive diseases and sciences, 1999
In orde r to inve stigate the role of sucralfate in active ulce rative colitis, 60 patie nts were... more In orde r to inve stigate the role of sucralfate in active ulce rative colitis, 60 patie nts were randomize d to re ceive e ithe r sucralfate e nemas (20 g/100 ml) or methylpre dnisolone ene mas (20 mg/100 ml). The ene mas were administe red twice daily for one week, and then once daily for three weeks. Clinical e valuation was docum ented at e ntry and at two wee ks and four weeks. The sigmoidoscopi c appe arance of the re ctal mucosa was scored, and re ctal biopsie s take n at entry and at four weeks. Results indicate d similar reduction in diarrhe a and rectal ble e ding at two wee ks and at four wee ks. Sigmoidoscop y demonstrate d similar signi® cant improve ment in the macroscopic appe arance of the re ctal mucosa in both groups (8.28 to 6.20 in sucralfate group, P , 0.02; and 8.72 to 6.36 in the methylpre dnisolone tre ated group, P , 0.04). Histologic assessment, like wise , showe d similar improve ments in the two groups. This study indicate s that sucralfate ene mas may be use ful in the tre atme nt of ulce rative proctosigmoiditis.
South African Journal of Radiology
This retrospective descriptive study of patient records was undertaken to determine the frequency... more This retrospective descriptive study of patient records was undertaken to determine the frequency and clinical significance of any abnormalities found on CT head scans of 460 patients with MHI and GCS scores of 15/15, scanned at GSH between 2012 and 2014. Method: Ethical clearance was obtained and the records of 460 MHI patients with GCS scores of 15/15, loss of consciousness (LOC) and amnesia who underwent CT head scanning at GSH between 2012 and 2014 were then retrieved from the Philips picture archiving and communication system (PACS). Patient records, containing illegible referral forms or technically inadequate CT head scans, were excluded from the study. Patients' biographical, clinical and CT head scan data were entered into sequentially numbered data collection forms. These data were tabulated and summed as percentage distributions. Patients' CT head scan findings were reviewed and classified as either showing normal or abnormal features. Abnormalities detected on CT head scans were classified as being either clinically significant or clinically non-significant. Results: Referral forms and CT scan reports were obtained for 460 MHI patients from a sample of 497 patients, calculated by using the equation for estimating a single proportion from a large sample (precision 1.5%). The sample obtained yielded an acceptable response rate of 460/497 (92.6%). Of 460 (100%) scan reports, 320 (69.6%) showed no abnormality, while 140 (30.4%) showed abnormality. Of the 140 abnormal scans, 107 (23.3%) showed clinically non-significant abnormality, while 33 (7.2%) revealed clinically significant abnormality. Twenty-two (4.8%) of these clinically significant scans showed brain contusion and 11(2.4%) showed skull fracture. No subdural or extradural haematoma, shift or herniation were reported and none of the 33 patients whose CT scans showed clinically significant abnormality underwent urgent neurosurgical intervention. Conclusion: Of the 460 CT head scans performed at GSH for MHI with LOC but normal GCS between 2012 and 2014, none required urgent neurosurgical intervention. This is in accordance with the 2012 Kimberley Hospital Rule (KHR), a management protocol which indicates that CT head scanning in patients with MHI and GCS scores of 15/15 can safely be delayed for 8 h. An audit of the records of patients excluded from this study coupled with an analysis of data from other Western Cape hospital CT head scan databases could help ensure that this scarce resource is used cost-beneficially for all head-injured patients in the Western Cape catchment area.
South African Journal of Radiology
Background: The diagnosis of primary bone tumours is a threefold approach based on a combination ... more Background: The diagnosis of primary bone tumours is a threefold approach based on a combination of clinical, radiological and histopathological findings. Radiographs form an integral part in the initial diagnosis, staging and treatment planning for the management of aggressive/malignant bone lesions. Few studies have been performed where the radiologist's interpretation of radiographs is compared with the histopathological diagnosis. Objectives: The study aimed to determine the frequency of bone tumours at a tertiary hospital in South Africa, and, using a systematic approach, to determine the sensitivity and specificity of radiograph interpretation in the diagnosis of aggressive bone lesions, correlating with histopathology. We also determined the inter-observer agreement in radiograph interpretation, calculated the positive and negative predictive values for aggressive/malignant bone tumours and computed the cumulative effect of multiple radiological signs to determine the yield for malignant bone tumours. Method: A retrospective, descriptive and correlational study was performed, reviewing the histopathological reports of all biopsies performed on suspected aggressive bone lesions during a 3-year period from 2012 to 2014. The radiographs were interpreted by three radiologists using predetermined criteria. The sensitivity and specificity of the readers' interpretation of the radiograph as 'benign/non-aggressive' or 'aggressive/malignant' were calculated against the histology, and the inter-rater agreement of the readers was computed using the Fleiss kappa values. Results: Of the 88 suspected 'aggressive or malignant' bone tumours that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 43 were infective or malignant and 45 were benign lesions at histology. Reader sensitivity in the diagnosis of malignancy/infective bone lesions ranged from 93% to 98% with a specificity of 53%-73%. The average kappa value of 0.43 showed moderate agreement between radiological interpretation and final histology results. The four radiological signs with the highest positive predictive values were an ill-defined border, wide zone of transition, cortical destruction and malignant periosteal reaction. The presence of all four signs on radiography had a 100% yield for a malignant bone tumour or infective lesion. Conclusion: The use of a systemic approach in the interpretation of bone lesions on radiographs yields high sensitivity but low specificity for malignancy and infection. The presence of benign bone lesions with an aggressive radiographic appearance necessitates continuation of the triple approach for the diagnosis of primary bone tumours.
Archives of Neurology, 2007
Background: Intracranial aneurysms related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection have b... more Background: Intracranial aneurysms related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection have been well described in pediatric patients but not in adults. Objective: To describe a case of intracranial largevessel aneurysmal vasculopathy causing stroke in a 27-year-old HIV-infected woman. Design: Comparison of clinical and histological data with previously published cases. Setting: A referral hospital stroke unit. Patient: A 27-year-old HIV-infected woman presenting with stroke; neuroimaging demonstrated fusiform aneurysmal dilation of the left internal carotid and the left middle cerebral artery and its branches. Results: Autopsy showed degeneration of the elastic lamina, myxoid degeneration, and medial atrophy, causing consequent ectasia of the involved intracranial vessels. Conclusion: Aneurysmal dilation of the intracranial arteries occurs in HIV-infected adults, but the pathogenic role of HIV remains unknown.
Neuroimaging Clinics of North America, 2015
The prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) has increased in developing and developed countries as a cons... more The prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) has increased in developing and developed countries as a consequence of the AIDS epidemic, immigration, social deprivation, and inadequate TB control and screening programs. Spinal TB may be osseous or nonosseous. Classic findings of multiple contiguous vertebral body involvement, gibbus formation, and subligamentous spread with paravertebral abscesses are optimally evaluated with MR imaging. Nonspondylitic spinal TB is less well described in the literature, may develop in the absence of TB meningitis, and is often associated with meningovascular cord ischemia. Radiologists should be familiar with the spectrum of imaging findings, allowing early diagnosis and treatment of this serious condition.
South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde, Jan 2, 2012
We present a case and discuss stroke related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and ... more We present a case and discuss stroke related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and the difficulties of reaching a firm diagnosis of the cause of the aneurysmal vasculopathy. In the absence of a clear aetiology we suggest looking for varicella zoster virus (VZV) replication in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and treating with intravenous acyclovir, aiming for HIV control with appropriate antiretroviral therapy and providing suitable antiplatelet agents. If there is a high index of suspicion of VZV, therapy with acyclovir may be prudent even if the CSF PCR is negative (as may occur after the first 2 weeks of reactivation of infection). Determination of a VZV plasma:CSF IgG ratio is not readily available and would only provide surrogate support for a previous VZV infection in the central nervous system compartment.
South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde, 2011
Spine, Jan 15, 2011
Retrospective descriptive study. To evaluate the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) fi... more Retrospective descriptive study. To evaluate the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in spinal tuberculosis and identify features that correlate with the neurologic status and outcome. MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis of spinal tuberculosis with a high specificity and sensitivity. It allows demonstration of bony, soft tissue and neural pathology; however, the clinical correlation is not clear. MRI scans of 82 consecutively managed spinal tuberculosis patients over a 4-year period were studied. Data including age, gender, human immunodeficiency virus status, neurologic status were reviewed. This was correlated with preoperative MRI findings including level of involvement, percentage of vertebral body destruction, kyphotic angle, soft tissue involvement, cord size, and cord signal changes. Fifty-two percent of patients presented in a nonambulatory state, 21% mild neurologic deficit, and 27% were intact. Of those with neurologic deficit, significant recov...
South African Medical Journal, 2012
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) occurs in 1-10% of patients undergoing solid-... more Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) occurs in 1-10% of patients undergoing solid-organ transplantation and presents predominantly in the first year. It is a heterogeneous entity and encompasses indolent B-or T-cell lymphoproliferation to aggressive monomorphic lymphoma. Sirolimus is an inhibitor of the response to interleukin-2 and blocks T-and B-cell activation. The drug has been used to treat renal transplant-related PTLD, but cases of PTLD related to stopping sirolimus have not been reported. We present a case of rapidly progressive central nervous system (CNS) PTLD 11 years after transplantation, in which sirolimus had been stopped 1 month prior to symptom onset. Case report The patient was a 31-year-old man who had undergone cadaveric renal transplantation 9 years previously for end-stage renal failure of undetermined cause. He presented with ataxia and acute confusion. In the 3 months preceding presentation he had experienced unexplained, asymptomatic weight loss. Clinical examination was unremarkable. Sirolimus had been stopped 1 month before the onset of symptoms, owing to an apparent functional iron deficiency in the absence of evident gastro-intestinal blood loss. The patient remained on mycophenolate mofetil and prednisone. On the morning of presentation, the patient's wife witnessed his confusion and unsteadiness. He was afebrile and normotensive,
American Journal of Neuroradiology, Apr 30, 2014
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Cape Town is the center of an HIV-tuberculosis coepidemic. This study's a... more BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Cape Town is the center of an HIV-tuberculosis coepidemic. This study's aim was to highlight the importance and to describe the MR imaging features of tuberculosis in acute myelopathy and cauda equina syndrome in HIV-positive adults. To accomplish this we retrospectively reviewed the MR imaging and clinico-pathologic findings of HIV-positive patients presenting to our hospital with recent onset paraplegia and sphincter dysfunction over a 4-year period, 2008-2011. MATERIALS & METHODS: MR imaging, CD4 count, and CSF analysis and pathology were correlated in 216 cases. RESULTS: Fifty-eight percent (127) of subjects were female. The mean age was 37 years. The median CD4 count was 185 cells/L. Twenty-five percent (54) of patients were on antiretroviral therapy. MR imaging showed spondylitis in 30% (65). The median CD4 count in these patients was significantly higher than in the remainder. Disk destruction was common and 10% had synchronous spondylitis elsewhere in the spinal column. Thirty percent (64) had features of myelitis/arachnoiditis. Twenty-five percent (55) had no MR imaging abnormality. In 123 (57%) of cases with a definitive etiology on CSF culture or biopsy, 84 (68%) were attributable to tuberculosis including all spondylitis cases and 40% of nonspondylitis cases. Twelve (10%) were due to nontuberculous infection and 12 (10%) had HIV-associated tumors including 2 rare Epstein-Barr-related tumors. CONCLUSIONS: In our setting, acute onset myelopathy/cauda equina syndrome in HIV-positive patients is largely attributable to tuberculosis with nonspondylitic forms being more common than spondylitis and associated with a lower CD4 count.
African Journal of Emergency Medicine
South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde, 1995
Debate exists about the role of diet in both the aetiology and the management of ulcerative colit... more Debate exists about the role of diet in both the aetiology and the management of ulcerative colitis. To examine the latter, a group of patients with documented ulcerative colitis was studied at the Groote Schuur Hospital Gastro-intestinal Clinic. A total of 18 subjects, 9 female and 9 male, were randomised into active or control groups and followed up weekly for 6 weeks. Subjects in the control group were asked to document but not alter their intake of food and drink. Those in the experimental group had their diets systematically manipulated to exclude foods that appeared to provoke symptoms. The symptoms, sigmoidoscopy and biopsy findings of all subjects were compared before and after. 'Remission' was defined as the passage of normal stools with absence of rectal bleeding. 'Improvement' was defined as a decrease in the number of diarrhoeal stools and/or a diminution of rectal bleeding. At the end of the trial the diet group displayed significantly fewer symptoms tha...
South African Journal of Radiology, 2014
Background: Penetrating neck trauma is commonly encountered in South African trauma units, and is... more Background: Penetrating neck trauma is commonly encountered in South African trauma units, and is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. The imaging protocol for stable patients with penetrating neck trauma remains controversial. There is only sparse data validating the use of computed tomography angiography (CTA) in the evaluation of penetrating neck trauma in South Africa.Objectives: To assess the sensitivity and specificity of CTA versus digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in detecting arterial injury and secondarily evaluate the ability of CT to assess non-arterial injury.Method: Using hospital and radiology databases, 23 patients were identified who had undergone both CTA and DSA for penetrating neck trauma. The data was retrospectively anonymised and randomised. A radiologist experienced in the interpretation of both trauma CTA and DSA re-reported all the imaging and the findings were compared and analysed.Results: Twenty-four arterial injuries were detected. Th...
PLoS ONE, 2012
Introduction: Abnormalities on CT imaging may contribute to the diagnosis of tuberculous meningit... more Introduction: Abnormalities on CT imaging may contribute to the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM). Recently, an expert consensus case definition (CCD) and set of imaging criteria for diagnosing basal meningeal enhancement (BME) have been proposed. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and reliability of these in a prospective cohort of adult meningitis patients. Methods: Initial diagnoses were based on the CCD, classifying patients into: 'Definite TBM' (microbiological confirmation), 'Probable TBM' (diagnostic score $10), 'Possible TBM' (diagnostic score 6-9), 'Not TBM' (confirmation of an alternative diagnosis) or 'Uncertain' (diagnostic score of ,6). CT images were evaluated independently on two occasions by four experienced reviewers. Intra-rater and inter-rater agreement were calculated using the kappa statistic. Sensitivities and specificities were calculated using both 'Definite TBM' and either 'Definite TBM' or 'Probable TBM' as gold standards. Results: CT scan criteria for BME had good intra-rater agreement (k range 0.35-0.78) and fair to moderate inter-rater agreement (k range 0.20-0.52). Intra-and inter-rater agreement on the CCD components were good to fair (k = ranges 0.47-0.81 and 0.21-0.63). Using 'Definite TBM' as a gold standard, the criteria for BME were very specific (61.5%-100%), but insensitive (5.9%-29.4%). Similarly, the imaging components of the CCD were highly specific (69.2-100%) but lacked sensitivity (0-56.7%). Similar values were found when using 'Definite TBM' or 'Probable TBM' as a gold standard. Discussion: The fair to moderate inter-rater agreement and poor sensitivities of the criteria for BME suggest that little reliance should be placed in these features in isolation. While the presence of the CCD criteria of acute infarction or tuberculoma(s) appears useful as rule-in criteria, their absence is of little help in excluding TBM. The CCD and criteria for BME, as well as any new criteria, need to be standardized and validated in prospective cohort studies.
Neurosurgery, 2007
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to document changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans... more OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to document changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans after a stab to the spinal cord. The aim of the study was to determine if routine MRI scans for this type of injury would lead to a change in management. METHOD All patients with a stab wound to the spinal cord sustained between November 2004 and July 2005 were retrospectively enrolled. All of the patients were examined, a data form was completed, and MRI was performed within 72 hours on arrival at Groote Schuur Hospital. RESULTS Twenty-two patients were imaged during the study period. MRI results were reported by a neuroradiologist. The most common change seen on MRI scans was a spinal cord tract and cord signal change. Other imaging findings that were documented included cord swelling and extra-axial collections. Progressive neurological deficits developed in two patients, both as a result of sepsis. An intramedullary abscess was found on contrast follow-up imaging in only one of the ...
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 1995
Wellcome Open Research
Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most lethal form of tuberculosis with a mortality... more Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most lethal form of tuberculosis with a mortality of ~50% in those co-infected with HIV-1. Current antibiotic regimens are based on those known to be effective in pulmonary TB and do not account for the differing ability of the drugs to penetrate the central nervous system (CNS). The host immune response drives pathology in TBM, yet effective host-directed therapies are scarce. There is sufficient data to suggest that higher doses of rifampicin (RIF), additional linezolid (LZD) and adjunctive aspirin (ASA) will be beneficial in TBM yet rigorous investigation of the safety of these interventions in the context of HIV associated TBM is required. We hypothesise that increased dose RIF, LZD and ASA used in combination and in addition to standard of care for the first 56 days of treatment with be safe and tolerated in HIV-1 infected people with TBM. Methods: In an open-label randomised parallel study, up to 100 participants will receive eit...
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 2007
To report the nature of stroke in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a ... more To report the nature of stroke in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a region with high HIV seroprevalence and describe HIV associated vasculopathy. Methods: Patients with first ever stroke, infected with HIV and prospectively included in the stroke register of the Groote Schuur Hospital/University of Cape Town stroke unit were identified and reviewed. Results: Between 2000 and 2006, 67 of the 1087 (6,1%) stroke patients were HIV infected. Of these, 91% (n = 61) were younger than 46 years. Cerebral infarction occurred in 96% (n = 64) of the HIV positive patients and intracerebral haemorrhage in 4% (n = 3). HIV infected young stroke patients did not demonstrate hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia or smoking as significant risk factors for ischaemic stroke. Infection as a risk factor for stroke was significantly more common in HIV positive patients (p = 0.018, OR 6.4, CI 3.1 to 13.2). In 52 (81%) patients with ischaemic stroke, an aetiology was determined. Primary aetiologies comprised infectious meningitides/vasculitides in 18 (28%) patients, coagulopathy in 12 (19%) patients and cardioembolism in nine (14%) patients. Multiple aetiologies were present in seven (11%) patients with ischaemic stroke. HIV associated vasculopathy was identified in 13 (20%) patients. The HIV associated vasculopathy manifested either extracranially (seven patients) as total or significant carotid occlusion or intracranially (six patients) as medium vessel occlusion, with or without fusiform aneurysmal dilation, stenosis and vessel calibre variation. Conclusion: Investigation of HIV infected patients presenting with stroke will determine an aetiology in the majority of patients. In our cohort, 20% of patients demonstrated evidence of an HIV associated vasculopathy.
Digestive diseases and sciences, 1999
In orde r to inve stigate the role of sucralfate in active ulce rative colitis, 60 patie nts were... more In orde r to inve stigate the role of sucralfate in active ulce rative colitis, 60 patie nts were randomize d to re ceive e ithe r sucralfate e nemas (20 g/100 ml) or methylpre dnisolone ene mas (20 mg/100 ml). The ene mas were administe red twice daily for one week, and then once daily for three weeks. Clinical e valuation was docum ented at e ntry and at two wee ks and four weeks. The sigmoidoscopi c appe arance of the re ctal mucosa was scored, and re ctal biopsie s take n at entry and at four weeks. Results indicate d similar reduction in diarrhe a and rectal ble e ding at two wee ks and at four wee ks. Sigmoidoscop y demonstrate d similar signi® cant improve ment in the macroscopic appe arance of the re ctal mucosa in both groups (8.28 to 6.20 in sucralfate group, P , 0.02; and 8.72 to 6.36 in the methylpre dnisolone tre ated group, P , 0.04). Histologic assessment, like wise , showe d similar improve ments in the two groups. This study indicate s that sucralfate ene mas may be use ful in the tre atme nt of ulce rative proctosigmoiditis.
South African Journal of Radiology
This retrospective descriptive study of patient records was undertaken to determine the frequency... more This retrospective descriptive study of patient records was undertaken to determine the frequency and clinical significance of any abnormalities found on CT head scans of 460 patients with MHI and GCS scores of 15/15, scanned at GSH between 2012 and 2014. Method: Ethical clearance was obtained and the records of 460 MHI patients with GCS scores of 15/15, loss of consciousness (LOC) and amnesia who underwent CT head scanning at GSH between 2012 and 2014 were then retrieved from the Philips picture archiving and communication system (PACS). Patient records, containing illegible referral forms or technically inadequate CT head scans, were excluded from the study. Patients' biographical, clinical and CT head scan data were entered into sequentially numbered data collection forms. These data were tabulated and summed as percentage distributions. Patients' CT head scan findings were reviewed and classified as either showing normal or abnormal features. Abnormalities detected on CT head scans were classified as being either clinically significant or clinically non-significant. Results: Referral forms and CT scan reports were obtained for 460 MHI patients from a sample of 497 patients, calculated by using the equation for estimating a single proportion from a large sample (precision 1.5%). The sample obtained yielded an acceptable response rate of 460/497 (92.6%). Of 460 (100%) scan reports, 320 (69.6%) showed no abnormality, while 140 (30.4%) showed abnormality. Of the 140 abnormal scans, 107 (23.3%) showed clinically non-significant abnormality, while 33 (7.2%) revealed clinically significant abnormality. Twenty-two (4.8%) of these clinically significant scans showed brain contusion and 11(2.4%) showed skull fracture. No subdural or extradural haematoma, shift or herniation were reported and none of the 33 patients whose CT scans showed clinically significant abnormality underwent urgent neurosurgical intervention. Conclusion: Of the 460 CT head scans performed at GSH for MHI with LOC but normal GCS between 2012 and 2014, none required urgent neurosurgical intervention. This is in accordance with the 2012 Kimberley Hospital Rule (KHR), a management protocol which indicates that CT head scanning in patients with MHI and GCS scores of 15/15 can safely be delayed for 8 h. An audit of the records of patients excluded from this study coupled with an analysis of data from other Western Cape hospital CT head scan databases could help ensure that this scarce resource is used cost-beneficially for all head-injured patients in the Western Cape catchment area.
South African Journal of Radiology
Background: The diagnosis of primary bone tumours is a threefold approach based on a combination ... more Background: The diagnosis of primary bone tumours is a threefold approach based on a combination of clinical, radiological and histopathological findings. Radiographs form an integral part in the initial diagnosis, staging and treatment planning for the management of aggressive/malignant bone lesions. Few studies have been performed where the radiologist's interpretation of radiographs is compared with the histopathological diagnosis. Objectives: The study aimed to determine the frequency of bone tumours at a tertiary hospital in South Africa, and, using a systematic approach, to determine the sensitivity and specificity of radiograph interpretation in the diagnosis of aggressive bone lesions, correlating with histopathology. We also determined the inter-observer agreement in radiograph interpretation, calculated the positive and negative predictive values for aggressive/malignant bone tumours and computed the cumulative effect of multiple radiological signs to determine the yield for malignant bone tumours. Method: A retrospective, descriptive and correlational study was performed, reviewing the histopathological reports of all biopsies performed on suspected aggressive bone lesions during a 3-year period from 2012 to 2014. The radiographs were interpreted by three radiologists using predetermined criteria. The sensitivity and specificity of the readers' interpretation of the radiograph as 'benign/non-aggressive' or 'aggressive/malignant' were calculated against the histology, and the inter-rater agreement of the readers was computed using the Fleiss kappa values. Results: Of the 88 suspected 'aggressive or malignant' bone tumours that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 43 were infective or malignant and 45 were benign lesions at histology. Reader sensitivity in the diagnosis of malignancy/infective bone lesions ranged from 93% to 98% with a specificity of 53%-73%. The average kappa value of 0.43 showed moderate agreement between radiological interpretation and final histology results. The four radiological signs with the highest positive predictive values were an ill-defined border, wide zone of transition, cortical destruction and malignant periosteal reaction. The presence of all four signs on radiography had a 100% yield for a malignant bone tumour or infective lesion. Conclusion: The use of a systemic approach in the interpretation of bone lesions on radiographs yields high sensitivity but low specificity for malignancy and infection. The presence of benign bone lesions with an aggressive radiographic appearance necessitates continuation of the triple approach for the diagnosis of primary bone tumours.
Archives of Neurology, 2007
Background: Intracranial aneurysms related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection have b... more Background: Intracranial aneurysms related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection have been well described in pediatric patients but not in adults. Objective: To describe a case of intracranial largevessel aneurysmal vasculopathy causing stroke in a 27-year-old HIV-infected woman. Design: Comparison of clinical and histological data with previously published cases. Setting: A referral hospital stroke unit. Patient: A 27-year-old HIV-infected woman presenting with stroke; neuroimaging demonstrated fusiform aneurysmal dilation of the left internal carotid and the left middle cerebral artery and its branches. Results: Autopsy showed degeneration of the elastic lamina, myxoid degeneration, and medial atrophy, causing consequent ectasia of the involved intracranial vessels. Conclusion: Aneurysmal dilation of the intracranial arteries occurs in HIV-infected adults, but the pathogenic role of HIV remains unknown.
Neuroimaging Clinics of North America, 2015
The prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) has increased in developing and developed countries as a cons... more The prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) has increased in developing and developed countries as a consequence of the AIDS epidemic, immigration, social deprivation, and inadequate TB control and screening programs. Spinal TB may be osseous or nonosseous. Classic findings of multiple contiguous vertebral body involvement, gibbus formation, and subligamentous spread with paravertebral abscesses are optimally evaluated with MR imaging. Nonspondylitic spinal TB is less well described in the literature, may develop in the absence of TB meningitis, and is often associated with meningovascular cord ischemia. Radiologists should be familiar with the spectrum of imaging findings, allowing early diagnosis and treatment of this serious condition.
South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde, Jan 2, 2012
We present a case and discuss stroke related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and ... more We present a case and discuss stroke related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and the difficulties of reaching a firm diagnosis of the cause of the aneurysmal vasculopathy. In the absence of a clear aetiology we suggest looking for varicella zoster virus (VZV) replication in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and treating with intravenous acyclovir, aiming for HIV control with appropriate antiretroviral therapy and providing suitable antiplatelet agents. If there is a high index of suspicion of VZV, therapy with acyclovir may be prudent even if the CSF PCR is negative (as may occur after the first 2 weeks of reactivation of infection). Determination of a VZV plasma:CSF IgG ratio is not readily available and would only provide surrogate support for a previous VZV infection in the central nervous system compartment.
South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde, 2011
Spine, Jan 15, 2011
Retrospective descriptive study. To evaluate the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) fi... more Retrospective descriptive study. To evaluate the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in spinal tuberculosis and identify features that correlate with the neurologic status and outcome. MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis of spinal tuberculosis with a high specificity and sensitivity. It allows demonstration of bony, soft tissue and neural pathology; however, the clinical correlation is not clear. MRI scans of 82 consecutively managed spinal tuberculosis patients over a 4-year period were studied. Data including age, gender, human immunodeficiency virus status, neurologic status were reviewed. This was correlated with preoperative MRI findings including level of involvement, percentage of vertebral body destruction, kyphotic angle, soft tissue involvement, cord size, and cord signal changes. Fifty-two percent of patients presented in a nonambulatory state, 21% mild neurologic deficit, and 27% were intact. Of those with neurologic deficit, significant recov...
South African Medical Journal, 2012
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) occurs in 1-10% of patients undergoing solid-... more Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) occurs in 1-10% of patients undergoing solid-organ transplantation and presents predominantly in the first year. It is a heterogeneous entity and encompasses indolent B-or T-cell lymphoproliferation to aggressive monomorphic lymphoma. Sirolimus is an inhibitor of the response to interleukin-2 and blocks T-and B-cell activation. The drug has been used to treat renal transplant-related PTLD, but cases of PTLD related to stopping sirolimus have not been reported. We present a case of rapidly progressive central nervous system (CNS) PTLD 11 years after transplantation, in which sirolimus had been stopped 1 month prior to symptom onset. Case report The patient was a 31-year-old man who had undergone cadaveric renal transplantation 9 years previously for end-stage renal failure of undetermined cause. He presented with ataxia and acute confusion. In the 3 months preceding presentation he had experienced unexplained, asymptomatic weight loss. Clinical examination was unremarkable. Sirolimus had been stopped 1 month before the onset of symptoms, owing to an apparent functional iron deficiency in the absence of evident gastro-intestinal blood loss. The patient remained on mycophenolate mofetil and prednisone. On the morning of presentation, the patient's wife witnessed his confusion and unsteadiness. He was afebrile and normotensive,