Sharon Markham Geaghan

All Publications

• Commentary on Myocarditis or Myositis? Rising, Declining, and Rising of Critical Cardiac Troponin T Levels in a Patient Post Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy. The journal of applied laboratory medicine Geaghan, S. M. 2024

  View details for DOI 10.1093/jalm/jfae058

  View details for PubMedID 38958151

• The Medical Journal as Sentinel in Post-Market Medical Device and Drug Surveillance. The journal of applied laboratory medicine Geaghan, S. M. 2022

  View details for DOI 10.1093/jalm/jfac016

  View details for PubMedID 35353159

• Emerging technologies in paediatric laboratory medicine JOURNAL OF LABORATORY MEDICINE Mak, C., Papassotiriou, I., Zierk, J., Kohse, K. P., Greaves, R. F., Geaghan, S. D., Lang, T., Loh, T., Ifcc Comm Emerging Technologies Pe 2021; 45 (6): 245-248

  View details for DOI 10.1515/labmed-2021-0097

  View details for Web of Science ID 000727374600001

• Interventions to prevent iatrogenic anemia: a Laboratory Medicine Best Practices systematic review. Critical care (London, England) Whitehead, N. S., Williams, L. O., Meleth, S., Kennedy, S. M., Ubaka-Blackmoore, N., Geaghan, S. M., Nichols, J. H., Carroll, P., McEvoy, M. T., Gayken, J., Ernst, D. J., Litwin, C., Epner, P., Taylor, J., Graber, M. L. 2019; 23 (1): 278

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: As many as 90% of patients develop anemia by their third day in an intensive care unit (ICU). We evaluated the efficacy of interventions to reduce phlebotomy-related blood loss on the volume of blood lost, hemoglobin levels, transfusions, and incidence of anemia.METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using the Laboratory Medicine Best Practices (LMBP) systematic review methods for rating study quality and assessing the body of evidence. Searches of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, PsychINFO, and CINAHL identified 2564 published references. We included studies of the impact of interventions to reduce phlebotomy-related blood loss on blood loss, hemoglobin levels, transfusions, or anemia among hospital inpatients. We excluded studies not published in English and studies that did not have a comparison group, did not report an outcome of interest, or were rated as poor quality. Twenty-one studies met these criteria. We conducted a meta-analysis if >2 homogenous studies reported sufficient information for analysis.RESULTS: We found moderate, consistent evidence that devices that return blood from flushing venous or arterial lines to the patient reduced blood loss by approximately 25% in both neonatal ICU (NICU) and adult ICU patients [pooled estimate in adults, 24.7 (95% CI=12.1-37.3)]. Bundled interventions that included blood conservation devices appeared to reduce blood loss by at least 25% (suggestive evidence). The evidence was insufficient to determine if these devices reduced hemoglobin decline or risk of anemia. The evidence suggested that small volume tubes reduced the risk of anemia, but was insufficient to determine if they affected the volume of blood loss or the rate of hemoglobin decline.CONCLUSIONS: Moderate, consistent evidence indicated that devices that return blood from testing or flushing lines to the patient reduce the volume of blood loss by approximately 25% among ICU patients. The results of this systematic review support the use of blood conservation systems with arterial or venous catheters to eliminate blood waste when drawing blood for testing. The evidence was insufficient to conclude the devices impacted hemoglobin levels or transfusion rates. The use of small volume tubes may reduce the risk of anemia.

  View details for DOI 10.1186/s13054-019-2511-9

  View details for PubMedID 31399052

• Effectiveness of Laboratory Practices to Reducing Patient Misidentification Due to Specimen Labeling Errors at the Time of Specimen Collection in Healthcare Settings: LMBP™ Systematic Review. The journal of applied laboratory medicine Sandhu, P. n., Bandyopadhyay, K. n., Ernst, D. J., Hunt, W. n., Taylor, T. H., Birch, R. n., Krolak, J. n., Geaghan, S. n. 2017; 2 (2): 244–58

  Abstract

  Specimen labeling errors have long plagued the laboratory industry putting patients at risk of transfusion-related death, medication errors, misdiagnosis, and patient mismanagement. Many interventions have been implemented and deemed to be effective in reducing sample error rates. The objective of this review was to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of laboratory practices/ interventions to develop evidence based recommendations for the best laboratory practices to reduce labeling errors.The standardized LMBP™ A-6 methods were used to conduct this systematic review. Total evidence included 12 studies published during the time periods of 1980 to September 2015. Combined data from seven studies found that the interventions developed as a result of improved communication and collaboration between the laboratory and clinical staff resulted in substantial decrease in specimen labeling errors (Median relative percent change in labeling errors: -75.86; IQI: -84.77, -58.00). Further data from subset of four studies showed a significant decrease in specimen labeling errors after the institution of the standardized specimen labeling protocols (Median relative percent decrease in specimen labeling errors: -72.45; IQI: -83.25, -46.50).Based on the evidence included in this review, the interventions that enhance the communication and collaboration between laboratory and healthcare professionals can decrease the specimen identification errors in healthcare settings. However, more research is needed to make the conclusion on the effectiveness of other evaluated practices in this review including training and education of the specimen collection staff, audit and feedback of labeling errors, and implementation of new technology (other than barcoding).

  View details for PubMedID 29181454

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC5701285

• Laboratory diagnostic tools for personalized fetal medicine and improving neonatal outcomes. Clinical biochemistry Geaghan, S. M. 2014; 47 (9): 702-703

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2014.05.017

  View details for PubMedID 24854681

• Infection Transmission Associated with Point of Care Testing and the Laboratory's Role in Risk Reduction. EJIFCC Sharon, M. G. 2014; 25 (2): 188–94

  Abstract

  Lack of knowledge and confusion exists regarding safe and appropriate use of blood glucose monitoring equipment. Increasing numbers of diabetics, and exponential growth in blood glucose monitoring presents increased opportunities for infection transmission between patients. Diabetics have increased exposure to blood and blood borne pathogens from frequent blood glucose monitoring. Risk factors have been identified in infectious outbreaks and by analysis of testing practice. Point of care blood glucose meters are frequently contaminated by blood. Bacterial and viral organisms survive on surfaces and in dried blood. Instrumentation is shared between patients, and is heavily utilized in institutional settings, so that serial testing is performed on multiple patients within a short timeframe. Hand hygiene, glove changes and meter disinfection between testing events has been found to be inconsistent. Time pressure for meter usage competes with proper cleaning and disinfection procedures. Meter storage areas are frequently contaminated by blood. Multi-use lancets, improperly used for serial patient blood sampling, are a source for infection transmission. Test strips in vials, frequently contaminated by bacterial organisms, present potential hazard. The responsibility of the clinical laboratory is to insure successful implementation of practices that insure patient safety. Risk reduction strategies include single-use auto-disabling skin puncture devices for blood sampling; hand hygiene and glove change for every testing event; effective meter cleaning and disinfection for every testing event; meter use restriction to a single patient; safe practices for glucose meter storage; infection control practices to reduce contamination of blood glucose test strips or changes in test strip packaging and test strip dispensing.

  View details for PubMedID 27683466

• Fetal Laboratory Medicine: On the Frontier of Maternal-Fetal Medicine CLINICAL CHEMISTRY Geaghan, S. M. 2012; 58 (2): 337-352

  Abstract

  Emerging antenatal interventions and care delivery to the fetus require diagnostic support, including laboratory technologies, appropriate methodologies, establishment of special algorithms, and interpretative guidelines for clinical decision-making.Fetal diagnostic and therapeutic interventions vary in invasiveness and are associated with a spectrum of risks and benefits. Fetal laboratory assessments are well served by miniaturized diagnostic methods for blood analysis. Expedited turnaround times are mandatory to support invasive interventions such as cordocentesis and intrauterine transfusions. Health-associated reference intervals are required for fetal test interpretation. Fetal blood sampling by cordocentesis carries substantial risk and is therefore performed only when fetal health is impaired, or at risk. When the suspected pathology is not confirmed, however, normative fetal data can be collected. Strategies for assurance of sample integrity from cordocenteses and confirmation of fetal origin are described. After birth, definitive assessment of prenatal environmental and/or drug exposures to the fetus can be retrospectively assessed by analysis of meconium, hair, and other alternative matrices. A rapidly advancing technology for fetal assessment is the use of fetal laboratory diagnostic techniques that use cell-free fetal DNA collected from maternal plasma, and genetic analysis based on molecular counting techniques.Developmental changes in fetal biochemical and hematologic parameters in health and disease are continually delineated by analysis of our collective outcome-based experience. Noninvasive technologies for fetal evaluation are realizing the promise of lower risk yet robust diagnostics; examples include sampling and analysis of free fetal DNA from maternal blood, and analysis of fetal products accessible at maternal sites. Application of diagnostic technologies for nonmedical purposes (e.g., sex selection) underscores the importance of ethical guidelines for new technology implementation.

  View details for DOI 10.1373/clinchem.2011.166991

  View details for Web of Science ID 000300303700007

  View details for PubMedID 22205694

• Diagnostic Test Sample Volume: How Much Is Too Much? Leveraging Point-of-Care Testing to Reduce Sample Volumes, Iatrogenic Anemia, and Transfusion Requirement in Adult Populations POINT OF CARE Geaghan, S. 2011; 10 (4): 157–62

  View details for DOI 10.1097/POC.0b013e318238cbd5

  View details for Web of Science ID 000218057700009

• Diagnostic Laboratory Technologies for the Fetus and Neonate with Isoimmunization SEMINARS IN PERINATOLOGY Geaghan, S. M. 2011; 35 (3): 148-154

  Abstract

  Maternal-fetal blood group incompatibility is common but less commonly results in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). HDFN is associated with greater peak bilirubin, at an earlier age, and for longer duration than other causes of hyperbilirubinemia. It poses a substantial risk for kernicterus and accounts for the majority of exchange transfusions for hyperbilirubinemia. Advances in diagnosis and management are described, from identification of the alloimmunized pregnancy by maternal ABO and Rh typing, antibody screen (indirect Coombs test), identification and titration; laboratory evaluation of the maternal-fetal unit with a critical maternal antibody titer to prompt fetal antigen status determination; assessment of fetomaternal hemorrhage by conventional Kleihauer-Betke testing or by flow cytometric methodology; to antenatal management of isoimmunization and fetal status assessments using the systems of Liley, Queenan, and serial Doppler fetal middle cerebral artery peak velocity measurements. The utility of laboratory diagnostics in the approach to hemolysis in the neonate, including hematology, chemistry, and peripheral blood smear review, is reviewed. The goal of management, to deliver a healthy infant at or near term, is attained for the majority of cases using current modalities; future directions include noninvasive genotyping of fetal blood from maternal serum to fully eliminate RhD alloimmunization and HDFN; and development of prophylaxis and intervention strategies for non-RhD alloimmunizations for which immune globulin is currently unavailable.

  View details for DOI 10.1053/j.semperi.2011.02.009

  View details for Web of Science ID 000292057900008

  View details for PubMedID 21641488

• Fetal health assessment in utero by laboratory technologies: Clinical benefits, risks and controversies 12th International Congress of Pediatric Laboratory Medicine (ICPLM) Geaghan, S. M. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD. 2011: 460–62

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2011.03.015

  View details for Web of Science ID 000290359600008

  View details for PubMedID 22036326

• Critical values for the maternal-fetal unit, fetus, infant, child and adolescent: Bilirubin reporting practice in North American Children's Hospitals as a paradigm for critical value reporting assessment 12th International Congress of Pediatric Laboratory Medicine (ICPLM) Geaghan, S. M. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD. 2011: 483–84

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2011.03.127

  View details for Web of Science ID 000290359600020

  View details for PubMedID 22036337

• Diagnostic Test Sample Volume: How Much Is Too Much?: Leveraging Point-of-Care Testing to Reduce Sample Volumes, Iatrogenic Anemia, and Transfusion Requirement in Adult Populations Point of Care The Journal of Near-Patient Testing and Technology Sharon M. Geaghan 2011; 10 (4): 157-162
• Teaching pediatric laboratory medicine to pathology residents ARCHIVES OF PATHOLOGY & LABORATORY MEDICINE Pysher, T. J., Bach, P. R., Geaghan, S. M., Hamilton, M. S., Laposata, M., Lockitch, G., Brugnara, C., Coffin, C. M., Pasquali, M., Rinaldo, P., Roberts, W. L., Rutledge, J. C., Ashwood, E. R., Blaylock, R. C., Campos, J. M., Goldsmith, B., Jones, P. M., Lim, M., Meikle, A. W., Perkins, S. L., Perry, D. A., Petti, C. A., Rogers, B. B., Steele, P. E., Weiss, R. L., Woods, G. 2006; 130 (7): 1031-1038

  Abstract

  Laboratory data are essential to the medical care of fetuses, infants, children, and adolescents. However, the performance and interpretation of laboratory tests on specimens from these patients, which may constitute a significant component of the workload in general hospitals and integrated health care systems as well as specialized perinatal or pediatric centers, present unique challenges to the clinical pathologist and the laboratory. Therefore, pathology residents should receive training in pediatric laboratory medicine.Children's Health Improvement through Laboratory Diagnostics, a group of pathologists and laboratory scientists with interest and expertise in pediatric laboratory medicine, convened a task force to develop a list of curriculum topics, key resources, and training experiences in pediatric laboratory medicine for trainees in anatomic and clinical pathology or straight clinical pathology residency programs and in pediatric pathology fellowship programs.Based on the experiences of 11 training programs, we have compiled a comprehensive list of pediatric topics in the areas of clinical chemistry, endocrinology, hematology, urinalysis, coagulation medicine, transfusion medicine, immunology, microbiology and virology, biochemical genetics, cytogenetics and molecular diagnostics, point of care testing, and laboratory management. This report also includes recommendations for training experiences and a list of key texts and other resources in pediatric laboratory medicine.Clinical pathologists should be trained to meet the laboratory medicine needs of pediatric patients and to assist the clinicians caring for these patients with the selection and interpretation of laboratory studies. This review helps program directors tailor their curricula to more effectively provide this training.

  View details for Web of Science ID 000238984300019

  View details for PubMedID 16831030

• Reduction in red blood cell transfusions using a bedside analyzer in extremely low birth weight infants. Journal of perinatology Madan, A., Kumar, R., Adams, M. M., Benitz, W. E., Geaghan, S. M., Widness, J. A. 2005; 25 (1): 21-25

  Abstract

  Preterm infants typically experience heavy phlebotomy losses from frequent laboratory testing in the first few weeks of life. This results in anemia, requiring red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. We recently introduced a bedside point-of-care (POC) blood gas analyzer (iSTAT, Princeton, NJ) that requires a smaller volume of blood to replace conventional Radiometer blood gas and electrolyte analysis used by our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The smaller volume of blood required for sampling (100 vs 300-500 microl), provided an opportunity to assess if a decrease in phlebotomy loss occurred and, if so, to determine if this resulted in decreased transfusions administered to extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants.We hypothesized that the use of the POC iSTAT analyzer that measures pH, PCO(2), PO(2), hemoglobin, hematocrit, serum sodium, serum potassium and ionized calcium would result in a significant decrease in the number and volume of RBC transfusions in the first 2 weeks of life.A retrospective chart review was conducted of all inborn premature infants with birth weights less than 1000 g admitted to the NICU that survived for 2 weeks of age during two separate 1-year periods. Blood gas analysis was performed by conventional laboratory methods during the first period (designated Pre-POC testing) and by the iSTAT POC device during the second period (designated post-POC testing). Data collected for individual infants included the number of RBC transfusions, volume of RBCs transfused, and the number and kind of blood testing done. There was no effort to change either the RBC transfusion criteria applied or blood testing practices.The mean (+/-SD) number of RBC transfusions administered in the first 2 weeks after birth was 5.7+/-3.74 (n=46) in the pre-POC testing period to 3.1+/-2.07 (n=34) in the post-POC testing period (p<0.001), a 46% reduction. The mean volume of RBC transfusions decreased by 43% with use of the POC analyzer, that is, from 78.4+/-51.6 ml/kg in the pre-POC testing group to 44.4+/-32.9 ml/kg in the Post-POC testing group (p<0.002). There was no difference between the two periods in the total number of laboratory blood tests done.Use of a bedside blood gas analyzer is associated with clinically important reductions in RBC transfusions in the ELBW infant during the first two weeks of life.

  View details for PubMedID 15496875

• Imaging cell death with radiolabeled annexin V in an experimental model of rheumatoid arthritis JOURNAL OF NUCLEAR MEDICINE Post, A. M., Katsikis, P. D., Tait, J. F., Geaghan, S. M., Strauss, H. W., Blankenberg, F. G. 2002; 43 (10): 1359-1365

  Abstract

  Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with chronic synovial inflammation due to the abnormal accumulation of macrophages and autoreactive T lymphocytes in joints. The autoreactive cells cause an inflammatory proapoptotic response to self-antigens resulting in eventual bone, cartilage, and soft-tissue loss and destruction. The goal of our study was to determine the timing and intensity of apoptosis in joints using 99mTc-labeled annexin V, an in vivo marker of apoptosis, in a murine model of immune arthritis.We used 99mTc-annexin V and autoradiography to study the extent and severity of apoptosis in the front and rear paws of DBA/1 mice with type II collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis.Compared with control values (n = 10), there was a significant (P < 0.002) nearly 3-fold increase in uptake of 99mTc-annexin V in the front foot pads, rear toes, rear foot pads, and heels at the time of maximal extremity swelling as determined by serial caliper measurements at 4 wk after inoculation with type II bovine collagen (n = 9). The front toes had a 5- to 6-fold increase in uptake compared with control values (P < 0.001). Histologic analysis revealed only scattered rare lymphocytes in the periarticular soft tissues, without joint destruction. Dual autoradiography with 125I-bovine serum albumin as a control showed that 99mTc-annexin V localization was specific. Treatment with methylprednisolone for 1 wk (n = 8) at 4 wk after immunization with type II collagen decreased 99mTc-annexin V uptake by 3- to 6-fold compared with control values (P < 0.002).99mTc-annexin V can detect collagen-induced immune arthritis and its response to steroid therapy before joint destruction.

  View details for PubMedID 12368374

• Pediatric laboratory medicine - Current challenges and future opportunities AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PATHOLOGY Coffin, C. M., Hamilton, M. S., Pysher, T. J., Bach, P., Ashwood, E., Schweiger, J., Monahan, D., Perry, D., Rogers, B. B., Brugnara, C., Rutledge, J., Weiss, R., Ash, O., Hill, H., Meikle, W., Roberts, W., Geaghan, S. 2002; 117 (5): 683-690

  Abstract

  The practice of pediatric laboratory medicine involves unique challenges related to development, nutrition, growth, and diseases during different periods of infancy, childhood, and adolescence. This article discusses key aspects of pediatric laboratory medicine faced by clinical pathologists, clinical laboratory scientists, and clinicians, including point-of-care testing, preanalytic variables, analytic factors, age-specific reference intervals, esoteric laboratory tests, clinical impact, andfuture opportunities. Although challenging, pediatric laboratory testing offers many opportunities for improved patient care, clinical- and laboratory-based research, and education.

  View details for Web of Science ID 000175305600001

  View details for PubMedID 12090415

• Pathological case of the month - Primary bone lymphoma: Diffuse large B-cell type ARCHIVES OF PEDIATRICS & ADOLESCENT MEDICINE Geaghan, S. 2001; 155 (3): 409-410

  View details for Web of Science ID 000167324000016

  View details for PubMedID 11231811

• Hematologic values and appearances in the healthy fetus, neonate, and child CLINICS IN LABORATORY MEDICINE Geaghan, S. M. 1999; 19 (1): 1-?

  Abstract

  Morphologic and laboratory aspects of diagnostic pediatric hematology are reviewed, including developmental hematopoiesis in normal fetal blood, the principal morphologic features unique to examination of pediatric blood samples, special preanalytic considerations for the laboratory, and important analytic interferences common in the pediatric setting.

  View details for Web of Science ID 000080605900002

  View details for PubMedID 10403073

• LACK OF EFFECT OF PROPHYLACTIC AEROSOLIZED PENTAMIDINE ON THE DETECTION OF PNEUMOCYSTIS-CARINII IN INDUCED SPUTUM OR BRONCHOALVEOLAR LAVAGE SPECIMENS ARCHIVES OF PATHOLOGY & LABORATORY MEDICINE Ng, V. L., Geaghan, S. M., Leoung, G., Shiboski, S., Fahy, J., Schnapp, L., YAJKO, D. M., Hopewell, P. C., Hadley, W. K. 1993; 117 (5): 493-496

  Abstract

  Two independent studies were undertaken to determine the effect of prophylactic treatment with aerosolized pentamidine on the laboratory diagnosis of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in individuals at risk for or with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. The first study was a retrospective analysis to determine the effect of prophylactic treatment with aerosolized pentamidine on the diagnostic yield and sensitivity of detection of P carinii in induced sputum specimens. The results of examinations of 110 induced sputum specimens from patients who had not received aerosolized pentamidine were compared with the findings in 57 specimens from patients who had. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups for the diagnostic yield in induced sputum specimens (48% vs 47%) or in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid specimens subsequently obtained from patients with nondiagnostic induced sputum examinations (33% vs 37%). The sensitivity of induced sputum specimens for identifying P carinii was 76% to 78% for patients who had not received aerosolized pentamidine and 71% to 75% for patients who had received the drug. The second study was a prospective comparison of 118 bronchoalveolar lavage fluid specimens to determine the effect of prophylactic treatment with aerosolized pentamidine on the number of organisms present. One hundred eighteen bronchoalveolar lavage fluid specimens were quantitatively examined and scored according to the number of clumps of P carinii present. No statistically significant difference was seen in the number of clumps of P carinii found in specimens from patients who had received aerosolized pentamidine vs the number of clumps found in specimens from patients who had not. In conclusion, prophylactic treatment with aerosolized pentamidine had no effect on (1) the diagnostic yield and sensitivity of detection of P carinii in induced sputum specimens or (2) the number of organisms detected in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid specimens obtained from individuals at risk for or with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

  View details for Web of Science ID A1993LA78700010

  View details for PubMedID 8489338

• DISAPPEARANCE OF EOSINOPHILS FROM BRONCHOALVEOLAR LAVAGE FLUID AFTER PATIENT EDUCATION AND HIGH-DOSE INHALED CORTICOSTEROIDS - A CASE-REPORT HEART & LUNG JANSONBJERKLIE, S., Fahy, J., Geaghan, S., Golden, J. 1993; 22 (3): 235-238

  Abstract

  Inhaled steroid therapy is being emphasized in the treatment of asthma but requires patient adherence to regular dosing regimens and skilled inhalation techniques for treatment to be effective. If used correctly, high-dose inhaled corticosteroids may eradicate specific types of inflammatory cells from the airway, whereas use of systemic corticosteroids in chronic asthma may not significantly reduce airway inflammation or clinical symptoms. We report a case in which reduction in inflammatory cells in the airway was confirmed by bronchoalveolar lavage after individual patient education, training in self-monitoring, and treatment with inhaled corticosteroids. Clinical symptoms were reduced after conversion of this patient from systemic to inhaled corticosteroids.

  View details for Web of Science ID A1993LD53600007

  View details for PubMedID 8491659

• EFFECT OF AEROSOLIZED PENTAMIDINE PROPHYLAXIS ON THE CLINICAL SEVERITY AND DIAGNOSIS OF PNEUMOCYSTIS-CARINII PNEUMONIA AMERICAN REVIEW OF RESPIRATORY DISEASE Fahy, J. V., Chin, D. P., Schnapp, L. M., Steiger, D. J., SCHAUMBERG, T. H., Geaghan, S. M., Klein, J. S., Hopewell, P. C. 1992; 146 (4): 844-848

  Abstract

  To determine if the use of aerosolized pentamidine prophylaxis decreases the clinical severity or the sensitivity of diagnostic tests for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), we conducted a retrospective matched cohort comparison study of patients admitted to San Francisco General Hospital with PCP from August 1, 1989, to June 30, 1990. Patients who had received pentamidine prophylaxis during at least the 2 months prior to the diagnosis of PCP were matched with patients who had not received the drug. Matching was based on the number of prior episodes of PCP, sex, age, and risk factors for human immunodeficiency virus infection. As markers of clinical severity, we chose alveolar-arterial oxygen difference, serum lactate dehydrogenase levels, outpatient versus inpatient treatment, length of hospitalization, length of intravenous anti-pneumocystis treatment, development of respiratory failure, in-hospital mortality, and chest radiographic appearance. Although, of the 27 matched pairs identified, significantly fewer of the pentamidine cohort were treated as inpatients, and significantly more of this cohort had upper lobe dominant disease on chest radiograph, we found no other significant differences between markers of clinical severity for the two cohorts. In addition, we found no significant differences in the rate of sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage positivity for P. carinii between the two cohorts. We conclude that, although hospitalization is less common in patients with a history of prophylactic pentamidine use, aerosolized pentamidine prophylaxis does not decrease the clinical severity or the sensitivities of sputum induction or bronchoalveolar lavage as diagnostic tests for PCP.

  View details for Web of Science ID A1992JR47100006

  View details for PubMedID 1416408

• TOXOPLASMA-GONDII PNEUMONITIS IN PATIENTS INFECTED WITH THE HUMAN-IMMUNODEFICIENCY-VIRUS ARCHIVES OF INTERNAL MEDICINE Schnapp, L. M., Geaghan, S. M., Campagna, A., Fahy, J., Steiger, D., Ng, V., Hadley, W. K., Hopewell, P. C., Stansell, J. D. 1992; 152 (5): 1073-1077

  Abstract

  Pulmonary toxoplasmosis is a rarely recognized opportunistic infection in immunocompromised patients. A few case reports have described pulmonary toxoplasmosis in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients in association with Toxoplasma gondii central nervous system disease. We encountered six cases of pulmonary toxoplasmosis in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients who presented with a protracted febrile illness, respiratory symptoms, and an abnormal chest roentgenogram in the absence of neurologic findings. No clinical or roentgenographic features distinguished T gondii pneumonitis from more common opportunistic pulmonary infections. As the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome epidemic progresses, the presenting illnesses have evolved. Toxoplasma gondii must be considered a potential cause of pulmonary disease during the evaluation of human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients with respiratory symptoms.

  View details for Web of Science ID A1992HU61600026

  View details for PubMedID 1304722

• CLINICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF BACILLARY PELIOSIS HEPATIS IN ASSOCIATION WITH HUMAN-IMMUNODEFICIENCY-VIRUS INFECTION NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE PERKOCHA, L. A., Geaghan, S. M., YEN, T. S., Nishimura, S. L., Chan, S. P., GARCIAKENNEDY, R., Honda, G., STOLOFF, A. C., Klein, H. Z., Goldman, R. L., VanMeter, S., Ferrell, L. D., LeBoit, P. E. 1990; 323 (23): 1581-1586

  Abstract

  Peliosis hepatis is characterized by cystic, blood-filled spaces in the liver and is seen in patients with chronic infections or advanced cancer and as a consequence of therapy with anabolic steroids. Cutaneous bacillary angiomatosis is a bacterial infection that occurs in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection; its histologic appearance is that of a pseudoneoplastic vascular proliferation.We studied liver tissue from eight HIV-infected patients with peliosis hepatis, two of whom also had cutaneous bacillary angiomatosis. For comparison we examined tissue from four patients who had peliosis hepatis without HIV infection. Tissues were examined histologically on routine sections and with special stains and electron microscopy.The histologic features seen in peliosis hepatis associated with HIV infection, but not in the four cases unrelated to HIV infection, were myxoid stroma and clumps of a granular purple material that on Warthin-Starry staining and electron microscopy proved to be bacilli. The bacilli, which could not be cultured, were morphologically identical to those found in the skin lesions of cutaneous bacillary angiomatosis. The clinical courses of two of the patients with this "bacillary peliosis hepatis" indicate that it responds to antibiotic treatment.HIV-associated bacillary peliosis hepatis is an unusual, treatable opportunistic infection, probably caused by the same organism that causes cutaneous bacillary angiomatosis. Our failure to find bacilli in non-HIV-associated cases implies that other pathogenetic mechanisms may also be responsible for peliosis hepatis.

  View details for Web of Science ID A1990EK69600002

  View details for PubMedID 2233946