Study of Serum Highly Sensitive C-reactive Protein in Normotensive Diabetics and Hypertensive Diabetics

Diabetes mellitus and hypertension are known to increase markers of inflammation, ie, highly sensitive C-reactive protein [(hs)CRP], especially when they develop microalbuminuria.

A total of 70 patients (37 males and 33 females), all having diabetes mellitus, according to ADA criteria and micro-albuminuria in morning spot urine sample were recruited in the study. They were randomised into 2 groups. Group A comprised hypertensive (34 patients) and Group B (36 patients) normotensive individuals.

(hs)CRP level was assessed in all patients by routine assay. (hs)CRP value of >3 mg/L was observed in 28.57% patients of group A and 12.86% patients of group B (p=0.004).

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Thoracic Intradural Disc Herniation: Key Considerations in Operative Management

Intradural disc herniation is found in only 0.3% of cases of disc herniation. The majority of these (>95%) are found in the lumbar region, with fewer than 5% occurring in the thoracic region.

While imaging occasionally raises suspicion of an intradural component to a herniated disc, the majority of cases are diagnosed intraoperatively. We describe a case of an intradural thoracic disc herniation at T11/12 diagnosed intraoperatively.

The disc material was indistinguishable macroscopically from malignancy and the use of frozen section for immediate confirmation of diagnosis was essential in the management of this rare case.

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