Albert Abhinay Kota

Basilic vein haemangioma: an unusual differential diagnosis for cubital fossa mass

Subcutaneous masses along the cubital fossa can be a diagnostic dilemma. Most patients are asymptomatic and usually present for a cosmetic reason. Diagnosis can be confirmed by radiological findings and histopathology. We present a case report of a similar mass that turned out to be a haemangioma arising from the basilic vein with brief review of literature.

Isolation, in-vitro expansion, and characterization of human muscle satellite cells from the rectus abdominis muscle

Introduction: Satellite cells are a resident population of stem cells beneath the basal lamina of mature skeletal muscle fibers. Their capacity to regenerate muscle makes them a potentially ideal source for human cell therapy with respect to muscle-related diseases such as urinary and fecal incontinence, and others. In this study, we describe a protocol to isolate, expand in-vitro, and characterize human muscle satellite cells from the rectus abdominis muscle. Materials and Methods: Muscle biopsies from human donors were harvested, digested using collagenase type II, and then plated on extracellular matrix-coated plates. Results: Immunocytochemistry revealed that satellite cells on day 8 were 70–80% Pax7 positive; in contrast, cells expanded until day 12 showed 50–75% positivity for Pax7. The real-time polymerase chain reaction for day 8 culture indicated four-fold increase in Pax3 and Pax7 gene expression, four-fold increase in MyoD gene expression, and five-fold increase in Myf5 gene expression. Conclusion: These findings suggest that satellite cells can be cultured until day 8 for translational purposes. The protocol described here is modest, operational, and reproducible and involves only basic cell culture equipment.

A versatile stretch sensor for measuring physiological movement using a centre loaded, end-supported load cell

Abstract Acquisition of movement of some body parts can provide important physiological information. In clinical practice as well as for research purposes different types of sensors such as piezoelectric crystals, conductive rubber and optical displacement sensors are used for such measurements. Each of these sensors is associated with its problems. This paper discusses the use of a stretch sensor constructed using a small metal bar, approximately the size of a zipper slider that can be sewn into a fabric in the form of a belt. A combination of elastic, and Velcro material attached to the metal bar, provides a sensor that is capable of linear, steady state measurement as well as rapid response detecting slow and fast movement of the target. Incorporating the sensor in an elastic belt, allows measurement of physiological movements such as respiratory chest movements, abdominal and limb movements. This paper also discusses the potential use of the novel stretch sensor in measuring change in calf circumference during different manoeuvres, making it a useful assessment tool for calf venous function.

Malignant Triton Tumor: Role of Electron Microscopy in Determining Differentiation

Malignant triton tumors (MTTs) are peripheral nerve sheath tumors: Perivascular origin is extremely rare. We report a sporadic perivascular MTT in a 37-year-old man. He presented with a swelling in the right popliteal fossa. Imaging revealed a solid lesion adherent to the popliteal artery. He underwent en bloc excision of the tumor with repair of the popliteal artery. We studied the histopathology and electron microscopy (EM) features of this tumor. He received local radiotherapy and remains disease-free at 2 years. EM may help prognosticate tumor behavior when these tumors occur in rare/nonneural locations.

Endovascular Management of Primary Aortoenteric Fistulae

Primary aortoenteric fistula (AEF) is a rare clinical entity which is life-threatening. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment play a crucial role in the management. Minimally invasive approaches such as endovascular treatment are newer options in treatment. We describe three patients with primary AEF successfully managed with endovascular treatment. The presentation of primary AEF may be acute, with an exsanguinating unstable patient who would be unfit to undergo a major laparotomy. In such instances, endovascular treatment can be used as the initial option to control the bleeding. Endovascular treatment is a valuable treatment option to control bleeding when the morbidity of open repair is high.

Mycotic Aneurysm: Case Series

Mycotic aneurysms are rare and usually occur secondary to embolization of septic foci. Early diagnosis is the crucial. They have high risk of rupture/complications and can pose a difficult management challenge especially in an acute setting. We describe the management of four patients with mycotic aneurysms in our case series.