An intrathyroid thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) presented as an anterior neck mass in a 62-year-old male without history of prior thyroid disease or infection. This cyst was clinically indistinguishable from a thyroid nodule. In addition to that, fine needle aspiration cytology revealed normal–looking squamous cells. Diagnosis, work-up, management approach, and treatment of intrathyroid TGDC are discussed as well as distinguishing features between intrathyrod TGDC with tract and without tract. This is the very rare case of intrathyroid TGDC in Korean population and the possibility of intrathyroid TGDC should remain in the differential diagnosis of thyroid nodule.
Biopsy, Fine-Needle ; Diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Epithelial Cells ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Neck ; Thyroglossal Cyst ; Thyroid Diseases ; Thyroid Gland ; Thyroid Nodule

This nationwide, prospective cohort study evaluated pulmonary function and radiological sequelae according to infection severity in 73 survivors from the 2015 Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) outbreak in Korea. Patients with severe pneumonia in MERS-coronavirus infection had more impaired pulmonary function than those with no or mild pneumonia at the 1-year follow-up, which was compatible with the radiological sequelae. Severe pneumonia significantly impairs pulmonary function and makes long radiological sequelae in MERS.
Cohort Studies ; Coronavirus ; Coronavirus Infections* ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Korea ; Middle East* ; Pneumonia* ; Prospective Studies ; Survivors

OBJECTIVE: Outcomes of stent-assisted coil embolization (SACE) have not been well established in the setting of vertebrobasilar dissecting aneurysms (VBDAs) due to the low percentage of cases that need treatment and the array of available therapeutic options. Herein, we presented clinical and radiographic results of SACE in patients with VBDAs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 47 patients (M:F, 30:17; mean age ± SD, 53.7 ± 12.6 years), with a VBDA who underwent SACE between 2008 and 2014 at two institutions were evaluated retrospectively. Medical records and radiologic data were analyzed to assess the outcome of SACE procedures. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors that were associated with aneurysmal recanalization after SACE. RESULTS: Stent-assisted coil embolization technically succeeded in all patients. Three cerebellar infarctions occurred on postembolization day 1, week 2, and month 2, but no other procedure-related complications developed. Immediately following SACE, 25 aneurysms (53.2%) showed no contrast filling into the aneurysmal sac. During a mean follow-up of 20.2 months, 37 lesions (78.7%) appeared completely occluded, whereas 10 lesions showed recanalization, 5 of which required additional embolization. Overall recanalization rate was 12.64% per lesion-year, and mean postoperative time to recanalization was 18 months (range, 3-36 months). In multivariable analysis, major branch involvement (hazard ratio [HR]: 7.28; p = 0.013) and the presence of residual sac filling (HR: 8.49, p = 0.044) were identified as statistically significant independent predictors of recanalization. No bleeding was encountered in follow-up monitoring. CONCLUSION: Stent-assisted coil embolization appears feasible and safe for treatment of VBDAs. Long-term results were acceptable in a majority of patients studied, despite a relatively high rate of incomplete occlusion immediately after SACE. Major branch involvement and coiled aneurysms with residual sac filling may predispose to recanalization.
Aneurysm ; Aneurysm, Dissecting* ; Embolization, Therapeutic* ; Follow-Up Studies ; Hemorrhage ; Humans ; Infarction ; Medical Records ; Retrospective Studies ; Stents

PURPOSE: To compare the dose distribution between carotid sparing intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and opposed lateral field technique (LAFT), and to determine the effects of carotid sparing IMRT in early glottic cancer patients who have risk factors for atherosclerosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten early glottic cancer patients were treated with carotid sparing IMRT. For each patient, the conventional LAFT plan was developed for comparison. IMRT and LAFT plans were compared in terms of planning target volume (PTV) coverage, conformity index, homogeneity index, and the doses to planning organ at risk volume (PRV) for carotid arteries, spinal cord and pharyngeal constrictor muscle. RESULTS: Recurrence was not observed in any patients during the follow-up period. V95% for PTV showed no significant difference between IMRT and LAFT plans, while V100% was significantly higher in the IMRT plan (95.5% vs. 94.6%, p = 0.005). The homogeneity index (11.6%) and conformity index (1.4) in the IMRT plan were significantly better than those in the LAFT plans (8.5% and 5.1, respectively) (p = 0.005). The median V5Gy (90.0%), V25Gy (13.5%), and V50Gy (0%) for carotid artery PRV in the IMRT plan were significantly lower than those in the LAFT plan (99.1%, 89.0%, and 77.3%, respectively) (p = 0.005). CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that carotid sparing IMRT can significantly decrease the dose to carotid arteries compared to LAFT, and it would be considered for early glottic cancer patient with high risk of atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis ; Carotid Arteries ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Radiotherapy* ; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated ; Recurrence ; Risk Factors ; Spinal Cord

OBJECTIVE: The dual microcatheter technique is common practice for coil embolization of a wide-necked aneurysm, due to safety and efficacy. However, technical limitations of some complex configurations may necessitate additional microcatheters to bolster coil stability, compact the coil, or for protection. Described herein is a triple microcatheter technique for endovascular management of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data accruing prospectively between January 2006 and October 2014 on simultaneously executed triple microcatheter coil embolization procedures done in 38 saccular aneurysms were reviewed. Clinical and morphological outcomes were assessed, with emphasis on technical aspects of treatment. RESULTS: The triple microcatheter technique was successfully applied to all 38 saccular aneurysms, involving the posterior communicating artery (n = 13), the middle cerebral artery (n = 10), the basilar tip (n = 7), the anterior cerebral artery (n = 5), and the internal carotid artery (n = 3). Stent protection was added in four patients and balloon remodeling in one. Dual microcatheters (n = 24) were usually deployed to deliver the coil within sacs of aneurysms, with the additional microcatheter used for protection. Otherwise, triple microcatheters were deployed for coil delivery (n = 11) or coils were delivered via a single microcatheter, with dual microcatheters deployed for protection (n = 3). Successful occlusion of aneurysms was achieved in 89.5% of cases, with no procedure-related morbidity or mortality. Stable occlusion was maintained in 72.2% (26/36) of the aneurysms at the final follow-up (mean interval, 30.2 +/- 22.7 months). CONCLUSION: The outcomes of this limited study suggest that the triple microcatheter technique may be an effective and safe therapeutic option for wide-necked aneurysms, using technical strategies tailored to complex angio-anatomic configurations.
Aged ; Angiography ; Carotid Arteries/radiography ; Embolization, Therapeutic ; Female ; Humans ; Intracranial Aneurysm/*therapy ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; *Stents

PURPOSE: Concurrent chemoradiation (CRT) with 3-weekly doses of cisplatin is a standard treatment for loco-regionally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, treatment with 3-weekly doses of cisplatin is often associated with several adverse events. Therefore, we conducted this retrospective analysis to determine the efficacy and tolerance of CRT with a low weekly dose of cisplatin in stage IV HNSCC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical records of patients who were diagnosed with stage IV HNSCC and received concurrent CRT were analyzed. All patients were treated weekly with cisplatin at 20-30 mg/m2 until radiotherapy was completed. RESULTS: A total of 35 patients were reviewed. Median follow up was 10.7 months (range, 1.7 to 90.5 months), the median radiation dose was 7,040 cGy, and the median dose of cisplatin received was 157 mg/m2. Eleven patients received docetaxel combination chemotherapy. Overall, 25 patients (71.4%) achieved complete response (CR), eight (22.9%) showed partial response. The median overall survival was 42.7 months, the 3-year survival rate was 51.2% and the 3 year disease-free survival rate was 72.8%. Overall survival was improved in patients who achieved CR relative to others (59.7 months vs. 13.4 months; p=0.008). There were significant differences in survival between patients who received docetaxel combination and cisplatin alone (51.8 months vs. 7.9 months; p=0.009). Grade 3-4 adverse events included stomatitis (82.9%), dermatitis (22.9%), infection (11.4%), dysphagia (8.6%), and neutropenia (5.7%). CONCLUSION: CRT with low dose weekly cisplatin is likely effective and tolerable, even in patients with locally advanced-stage IV HNSCC.
Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* ; Chemoradiotherapy ; Cisplatin* ; Deglutition Disorders ; Dermatitis ; Disease-Free Survival ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Follow-Up Studies ; Head and Neck Neoplasms ; Head* ; Humans ; Medical Records ; Neck* ; Neutropenia ; Radiotherapy ; Retrospective Studies ; Stomatitis ; Survival Rate

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a very rare and often fatal demyelinating disease of central nervous system (CNS), which mostly occurs in patients with immunosuppression such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients, transplant patients and patients receiving chemotherapy. PML usually manifests with acute or subacute neurologic deficit. and its late diagnosis may lead death or significant permanent disability. We report a 33-year old man diagnosed with PML in AIDS, who initially presented with gradual onset of dementia. Most symptoms of PML were progressed rapidly for several months, and characterized by focal neurological symptoms. On the other hand, we were experienced in patients without focal neurological symptoms and ongoing overall cognitive decline slowly. Patients with immunosuppression can be presented in a variety of neurological symptoms, detailed examinations for cognitive functions were needed in early stage of the disease.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome* ; Adult ; Central Nervous System ; Delayed Diagnosis ; Dementia* ; Demyelinating Diseases ; Drug Therapy ; Hand ; Humans ; Immunosuppression ; Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal* ; Neurologic Manifestations

BACKGROUND: Seizures occur in 2-20% of stroke patients. Recent studies have reported that post-stroke seizures are associated with poorer functional outcomesand higher mortality. However there are no official guidelines on how to use antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in stroke-related seizures. In this study we surveyed neurologists and neurosurgeons and compared the responses of subgroups categorized by department, specialty and workplace discrimination using a questionnaire containing questions concerning the present tendency to use AEDs in stroke patients. METHODS: 256 neurologists and neurosurgeons participated in the survey. The research instrument was a questionnaire comprising 9 parts and 30 questions. The questions concerned stroke mechanism, the prophylactic use of AEDs, and the choice of AED in early and late onset post-stroke seizures. RESULTS: Tendencies to use prophylactic AEDs in stroke differed depending on specialty and workplace(neurologist vs. neurosurgeon; 17.8% vs. 83.1%, p<0.001, hospital vs. university staff; 46.2% vs. 28.4%, p=0.05). The most commonly used prophylactic AEDs were valproic acid (75%) and levetiracetam (60%). Carbamazepine was the most commonly used AED and phenytoin and phenobarbital were still used in all subgroups to treat post-stroke seizures. CONCLUSIONS: There are significant differences between neurologists (17.8%) and neurosurgeons (83.1%) in the use of prophylactic AEDs after stroke. Valproic acid and levetiracetam are considered first-line prophylactic AEDs by neurosurgeon. Phenytoin and phenobarbital are still used in post-stroke seizure although they have been reported to have an adverse influence on motor recovery. We suggest that proper guidelines should be established for the use of AEDs in stroke-related seizures.
Anticonvulsants ; Carbamazepine ; Discrimination (Psychology) ; Humans ; Phenobarbital ; Phenytoin ; Piracetam ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Seizures ; Stroke ; Valproic Acid

Neuropsychiatric events are common in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The estimated incidence of neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE) is 30 to 40%. However, NPSLE poses a difficult diagnostic challenge because a variety of conditions should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially when patients present with uncommon or rare NPSLE features. We herein describe a 49-year-old man with SLE who initially presented with diplopia, ptosis, and gait disturbance that had developed 1 week after an upper respiratory tract infection. He was finally diagnosed with Miller Fisher syndrome (a variant of Guillain-Barre syndrome) according to clinical symptoms, anti-GQ1b antibody positivity, and neurological study results. The patient recovered without sequelae with intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. This is the first report to describe a case of Miller Fisher syndrome that developed in a patient with SLE in Korea and suggests that Miller Fisher syndrome should be included as a differential diagnosis of NPSLE.
Diagnosis, Differential ; Diplopia ; Gait ; Humans ; Immunization, Passive ; Incidence ; Korea ; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic ; Middle Aged ; Miller Fisher Syndrome ; Respiratory Tract Infections

PURPOSE: Radiotherapy for head and neck cancer does not impair the voice quality as much as laser treatment or surgery, but it can induce muscle wasting and fibrosis and symptoms of dry mouth. We investigated the effect of irradiation on the myosin heavy chain (MyHC) expression in laryngeal muscles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rats were irradiated with one dose of 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, or 35 Gy and other rats were irradiated with 20 Gy. The thyroarytenoid (TA), posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA), and cricothyroid (CT) muscles were subjected to reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS: Two weeks after irradiation with 10, 15, or 20 Gy, all the MyHC type expressions had decreased in a dose-dependent manner in the TA, PCA, and CT muscles, and especially the expression of MyHC IIa decreased much more than the expressions of the other MyHC isoforms in all muscles. In the 20 Gy-irradiated rats, almost all the MyHC isoform expressions declined over 12 weeks in the TA, PCA, and CT muscles, except for the MyHC I expression in the PCA and CT muscle. The MyHC IIa expression was markedly decreased in all the muscles. CONCLUSION: The laryngeal muscles responded differently to radiation, but they showed a time-dependent and long-lasting decrease in the expressions of all the MyHC isoforms in the TA, PCA, and CT muscles. In particular, the expression of the MyHC IIa isoform in all the muscles may be more sensitive to irradiation than the expressions of the other MyHC isoforms.
Animals ; Body Weight/radiation effects ; Gene Expression/radiation effects ; Laryngeal Muscles/*metabolism/*radiation effects ; Myosin Heavy Chains/*metabolism ; Protein Isoforms/*metabolism ; Rats ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction