In order to evaluate the functionality of the hypothalamic-hypophyseal-thyroid axis in Turner's syndrome (TS), 27 subjects, aged between 5.1 and 16.1 years old, were studied, 14 of whom were karyotype 45,XO and 13 affected by mosaicism. The TRH test (200 mcg i.v.) was performed in all subjects using a single bolus. TRH titers were assayed in serum samples collected at 0, 15, 30, 60 and 90 minutes, and anti-microsome and anti-thyroglobulin, T4 and T3, were assayed in the basal sample; the latter were also assayed in the blood sample collected at 120 minutes. These results were compared with those obtained using the same test in a group of age- and sex-matched controls. Anti-thyroid antibodies and basal levels of T3 and T4 were within the norm in 26 subjects; a high basal value of TSH was only found in one patient with chromosomic mosaicism with an elevated response to TRH and a high titer of anti-microsomic antibodies. Apart from this no statistically significant differences were found in patients compared to control subjects in relation to TSH values at all stages of the test and between the two groups of TS; no significant results were found in the comparison between the areas below the curves (AUC). On the basis of these results the Authors conclude that it is not possible to reveal alterations in thyroid function attributable to hypothalamic and hypophyseal anomalies in this group of patients either with karyotype 45,XO and mosaicism.

Adolescent↗

PubMedDate not supplied

[Rare colonic occlusions: volvulus of the splenic flexure].

Authors report a case of perforated splenic flexure volvulus, treated with resection, end colostomy and closure of the distal stump. From the revision of literature it comes out the case reported is the 30th recorded till now, the 6th with ischemic complications, and the only one with perforation. Actual pathogenetic trends and various therapeutic options are reported.

Colonic Diseases↗

PubMedDate not supplied

[Evaluation of noise-induced injury: consideration of a group of exposed cement workers].

The study covered 1334 workers employed in 12 cement factories located in southern Italy. They were submitted to audiometric screening consisting of a questionnaire containing questions on past otologic complaints, metabolic diseases, use of ototoxic drugs and past occupational or non-occupational exposure to noise, plus otoscopic examination and full audiometric examination. The results revealed a statistically significant relationship between duration of exposure to noise and elevation in the hearing threshold. The highest noise levels were found in the "crude/baked mills" department; however, the highest frequency of occupational hearing loss was observed in the "mine and crushing installations", maintenance and "hodmen" departments. On the question of assessment of the audiometric tracings for preventive and insurance purposes, attention is drawn to the fact that there is a need for a method that will enable an evaluation for prevention to be transformed into an evaluation for insurance. This method should in any case allow for deduction of the portion of hearing loss regarding presbycusis and socioacusis and take due account of the 3 KHz frequency. The attention of industry and public administration is drawn to the urgent need for prevention programs to protect against noise-induced hearing loss in both occupational and non-occupational settings.

Adult↗

PubMedDate not supplied