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Biomedical subjects

W C Beck

Publications and source records attributed to W C Beck.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1992

Surgical glove powders bind latex antigens.

Latex surgical gloves have recently been identified as a potential source of allergens. Much of the current information suggests that the soluble proteins in latex may cause significant reactions in sensitive individuals. The starch powders used as a lubricant on some latex gloves have also been identified as potential allergens in some patients. In this study, we determined these powders to act as potential carriers of latex allergens. We have produced a polyclonal antiserum to be used as a reagent to study latex proteins. By Western blot analysis, we identified a significant interaction between latex proteins and starch powders. The binding of latex proteins to starch particles results in a glove particle that may have an increased potential to act as an allergen. The latex protein-starch particles represent a potential mechanism for exposure and sensitization of health care workers to latex allergens. Elimination of these particles from the operating room should reduce the route of sensitization and the potential for adverse reactions to latex.

Adsorption↗
PubMed1991

Acute appendicitis. A 5-year review.

A startling 31 per cent rate of perforated appendicitis in 1984 prompted a 5-year review at the Guthrie Medical Center. An increase over previous rates of 13 per cent and 0 per cent in 1964 and 1944 was confirmed in this study. Perforation accompanied 44 of 240 cases of appendicitis (18.3%); diagnostic accuracy in 295 cases undergoing operation was 81.4 per cent. Groups at risk for perforation were patients in the first decade of life (34.3% with perforations) and those over 50 years of age (48% perforated). Perforation rates were generally inversely related to accuracy. Accuracy was poorest in women in the second to fourth decade or those in the mid-portion of the menstrual cycle. When the appendix was not perforated, complications occurred in 8.7 per cent of patients while 29.5 per cent with a perforation had a complication. The mean hospital stay was prolonged by 2.5 days if the appendix was perforated. An increased awareness of the risk by both the public and physicians is essential to reduce the number of perforations.

Adolescent↗