Melioidosis: forgotten, but not gone!
Article Abstract:
Melioidosis is an infection caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas pseudomallei. The organism is seldom found in North America, but is widespread in Southeast Asia, where infection is common. Interest in the disease increased during the Vietnam war, when 3 million Americans were possibly exposed to the organism. A 76-year-old retired Air Force officer who had served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1971 was admitted to a hospital in 1988 and diagnosed with cellulitis (infection and inflammation of tissue directly under the skin) of the right ankle. A bone scan indicated that he might also have osteomyelitis (bone infection) of the lower right tibia (shin bone). Pseudomonas pseudomallei was isolated from tissue and bone cultures. The infection was treated with antibiotics and surgical debridement (removal of dead tissue). This patient's case illustrates the long latency period between exposure to the organism and the development of serious illness. In 1978, he had been admitted to a hospital for the evaluation of a possible diagnosis of tuberculosis. An open-lung biopsy was performed, and samples of lung tissue were taken for analysis, which revealed possible Pseudomonas. The organism was considered to be a contaminant, and the patient received no treatment. In 1987, he was diagnosed with a bronchogenic carcinoma (lung cancer), and the right upper lobe of the lung was removed. A sample of lung tissue reacted with a stain that detects Pseudomonas pseudomallei. Blood tests done on some Vietnam vets indicate that 3 to 9 percent may have latent (not causing symptoms) melioidosis. Fever and tissue infections, such as cellulitis, in anyone who has resided or traveled in Southeast Asia should raise the suspicion of melioidosis. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Archives of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-9926
Year: 1991
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Traders of the Ecuadorian Littoral
Article Abstract:
The commonalities between Ecuador and West Mexico peoples in clothing and artifacts suggest that both cultures engaged in trading. The traders came from Manabi Province, south of Ecuador. However, it is not known what these traders wanted in return, and what kind of goods they brought. Dorothy Hosler of Massachusetts Institute of Technology suggests that they even had personal contacts to exchange ideas and techniques. It is also suggested the Ecuadorians stayed in West Mexico for long periods of time, and repeated visits prompted them to exchange ideas and adopt lifestyles.
Publication Name: Archaeology
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0003-8113
Year: 1997
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Nutrition Myths
Article Abstract:
The proposed benefits of a number of food products can be very misleading. Many nutrition myths were created to boost product sales. Knowing the truth from a number of diving nutrition myths can help divers develop a proper and balanced nutrition system.
Publication Name: Skin Diver
Subject: Sport, sporting goods and toys industry
ISSN: 0037-6345
Year: 1992
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