The Rise in Viral Respiratory Infections: Human Metapneumovirus
As winter deepens across the Northern Hemisphere, healthcare systems are facing a surge in viral respiratory infections. Influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) are leading causes of hospitalisations, particularly in vulnerable populations. Recent reports of a rise in hMPV cases in China have brought renewed attention to this lesser-known virus. This article…
Environmental factors in NTM infections
Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections are an increasing public health challenge globally, and environmental factors play a significant role in this rise. NTM are opportunistic pathogens found in diverse habitats such as soil, water systems, and even household plumbing. Unlike Mycobacterium tuberculosis, NTM are not thought to spread from person to person but through environmental exposure….
Managing Refractory MAC Pulmonary Disease
Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) pulmonary disease is a challenging condition to treat, particularly when standard therapies fail. When patients continue to test positive for MAC despite undergoing treatment, the disease is considered refractory. Here we will explore what refractory MAC pulmonary disease is, how it’s diagnosed, and the steps that can be taken to try…
Unraveling the Intricacies of Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GvHD)
Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a complex medical condition that follows stem cell transplantation. When the newly introduced immune system turns against the host’s cells, it leads to GvHD. This occurrence can assume various forms, such as acute, chronic, progressive, or overlap, each exhibiting different severity levels. A myriad of organs, including the skin, gut, mouth,…
Navigating the Risks of Year-Round Respiratory Viruses
Gone are the days when respiratory viruses like the flu and the common cold were solely a concern during the brisk British autumn and winter months. This shift in the seasonal pattern of these illnesses may have left you puzzled and concerned, especially if you or your loved ones seem to be falling ill outside…
Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial infection: When to Treat?
As an expert in pulmonary infections, Dr Ricardo Jose, frequently encounter queries about Mycobacterium other than Tuberculosis, also known as Non-tuberculous mycobacterium (NTM). Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial infections can be quite puzzling, not only for patients but also for other healthcare professionals. Let’s look at understanding when to treat these pulmonary infections, balancing the fine line between…
Viral Pneumonia: The Echoing Spectre in a Post-Pandemic World
Introduction In the wake of the world-altering SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the global health community is teetering on the precipice of yet another sinister tempest – the burgeoning menace of viral pneumonia. Now, you might be wondering, “Haven’t we grappled enough with respiratory viruses?” True, yet here we are, staring at future potential global health crisis. Viral…
The Breath Behind the Ache: Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Lungs
Pathophysiology: When RA Decides to Play in the Lung Field Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is notorious for wreaking havoc on our joints. But it’s not restricted to just the joints; the pathophysiology can have implications on our lungs too. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lung Disease: A Chicken or the Egg Dilemma Interestingly, the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis…
Pneumonia’s Varying Guises: From the Home to the ICU
Introduction Pneumonia. Sounds rather familiar, doesn’t it? However, before you muse over that nasty bout you battled last winter, brace yourself! The vast world of pneumonia is not just limited to a solitary type. From its origins to the cheeky bugs causing it, let’s navigate through the winding alleys of different types of pneumonia: community-acquired,…