RESUMEN
Accumulating evidence suggests that the immune system is involved in atherogenesis, such as the correlation of the antibody titre to heat shock protein (hsp) with atherosclerotic lesions in the carotid and coronary arteries. Because the prognostic value of the hsp antibody titre for future cardiovascular events has not been evaluated until now, we performed a follow-up study on 195 subjects without a history of established cardiovascular risk factors (e.g. hypercholesterolaemia, diabetes, smoking), recruited for hsp antibody titre determination in 1995. Cardiovascular events were defined as unstable angina with the need for hospitalisation, myocardial infarction, re-vascularisation (PTCA, bypass), stroke and cardiovascular death. Among 79 men with coronary artery disease defined by coronary angiography, hsp antibody titres were significantly higher in those with future cardiovascular events (467.0 +/- 56.3) than in patients without further events (351.0 +/- 23.3; p < 0.049). Because anti-hsp-antibody titres might be of prognostic value for coronary artery disease, patients with an increased hsp antibody titre should obtain intensive management of classical risk factors.
Asunto(s)
Anticuerpos/sangre , Enfermedad Coronaria/patología , Proteínas de Choque Térmico/inmunología , Factores de Edad , Anciano , Femenino , Estudios de Seguimiento , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Valor Predictivo de las Pruebas , Factores SexualesRESUMEN
Ethylene oxide vapor (EtO) may be contained inside sterlized packages, even after many hours of aeration if the items are not properly prepared. First, the items must be disassembled. Second, the items must be aerated for the minimum length of time specified by the product manufacturer, including those items specified for the types of packaging material used. This article presents results of testing respiratory therapy items for residual EtO, and makes recommendations for effective aeration.
Asunto(s)
Central de Suministros en Hospital/normas , Óxido de Etileno/efectos adversos , Terapia Respiratoria/instrumentación , Esterilización/métodos , Estados UnidosRESUMEN
With the advent of the new OSHA standard for ethylene oxide, many hospitals are looking for economical and reliable ways to monitor personnel exposure. In describing the experience of one hospital which has used personal badge monitors on a regular basis, this article addresses the concerns that arise from the use of this type of monitor in the sterile processing department.