Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences

11 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Pathological Skin Picking: Case Presentation and Review of the Literature

by Maria Isabela Sarbu, Mircea Tampa, Diana Leahu, Cristina Raileanu, Vasile Benea and Simona Roxana Georgescu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 78-88; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1014 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

Pathological skin picking is a condition in which patients induce skin lesions through repetitive, compulsive excoriations of normal skin or skin with minor surface irregularities and they admit their role in the production of the lesions, but are unable to stop their behavior. [...] Read more.

Pathological skin picking is a condition in which patients induce skin lesions through repetitive, compulsive excoriations of normal skin or skin with minor surface irregularities and they admit their role in the production of the lesions, but are unable to stop their behavior. Psychiatric comorbidities most often associated with skin picking include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, mood disorders, body dysmorphic disorders, trichotillomania and compulsive-buying disorder. We report the case of a 17 year old female patient who addressed the dermatology department of our hospital with an eruption consisting of erythematous papules and plaques. The local examination revealed several clues of paramount importance in drawing the final conclusion and the psychiatric examination helped establish the diagnosis of pathological skin picking in a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Full article

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6 pages, 605 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Management of a Case of Colovesical Fistula with Fecaluria as First Sign

by C. Gingu, A. Dick, I. Ianiotescu, C. Baston, M. Crasneanu, A. Andresanu, L. Domnisor, V. Brasoveanu, A. Martiniuc and I. Sinescu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 72-77; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1013 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

Introduction. Fecaluria and pneumaturia are the patognomonic signs of an abnormal communication between the bladder and the intestinal tract. Therefore, when a history of digestive signs, symptoms or digestive diseases is missing, this borderline pathology leads the patients in the care of [...] Read more.

Introduction. Fecaluria and pneumaturia are the patognomonic signs of an abnormal communication between the bladder and the intestinal tract. Therefore, when a history of digestive signs, symptoms or digestive diseases is missing, this borderline pathology leads the patients in the care of urologists. From diagnosis to treatment the management of these cases can be difficult and challenging. Materials and Methods. A 48 year old patient, without any significant medical history, presented to the emergency room for fecaluria, pneumaturia and an episode of haematuria. He had no prior digestive symptoms. The contrast enhanced abdominal and pelvic CT scan revealed a pelvic mass involving the sigmoid colon and the dome and the posterior wall of the bladder. The cystoscopy objectifies a tumor mass involving the right postero-lateral bladder wall, with extravasation of faeces. A biopsy was taken and the frozen section found mainly uncertain inflammatory type tissue. A colonoscopy couldn’t be done because of an impassable obstacle at 15 cm from the anus. Together with general surgeons we decided for en bloc resection of the tumor with partial cystectomy, right ureterocystoneostomy and rectosigmoid resection with mechanic end to end anastomosis. Results. The postoperative period was uneventful. The histopathological examination revealed an abscessed sigmoid diverticulum with vesico-sigmoid fistula and perilesional inflammatory tissue. Two years after the surgery the patient is asymptomatic with a normal function of the right kidney and restored bladder capacity. Conclusions. Being a borderline pathology, patients with fecaluria and pneumaturia and lack of digestive symptoms are referred and managed by the urologists. Despite extensive investigations, even when preoperative biopsies reveal inflammatory tissue the patients should be treated as oncologic cases. A close cooperation with general surgeons for en bloc multiorgan resection within oncologic safety margins is mandatory. Full article

5 pages, 215 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Psychological Barriers in Long Term Non-Operative Treatment of Retroperitoneal Hematoma

by Bogdan Socea, Alexandru Carȃp, Simona Bobic and Vlad Denis Constantin

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 67-71; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1012 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

The retroperitoneal hematoma can have, mainly, a traumatic etiology - blunt abdominal trauma (falls from height, road accidents, aggression of any kind, etc.), or open (incised wounds, puncture, penetration or gunshot wounds). Ruptured arterial aneurysms can cause hemorrhage in the retroperitoneal space. There [...] Read more.

The retroperitoneal hematoma can have, mainly, a traumatic etiology - blunt abdominal trauma (falls from height, road accidents, aggression of any kind, etc.), or open (incised wounds, puncture, penetration or gunshot wounds). Ruptured arterial aneurysms can cause hemorrhage in the retroperitoneal space. There is also spontaneous retroperitoneal trauma in patients with chronic treatment with anticoagulant or antiaggregant drugs (1). Hemorrhage in the retroperitoneal space can be iatrogenic, after surgical, open or laparoscopic, interventions (2, 3). A particular type of retroperitoneal hematoma is the psoas muscle hematoma in patients with chronic oral anticoagulant treatment (Acenocumarol, Warfarin). Full article

12 pages, 589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metoclopramide Neurological Side Effects Screening; A Pharmacovigilence Study in Romanian Community Pharmacies

by Emil Ștefănescu, Mihaela Pleșu, Corina Scutari, Adrian Junghină and Horațiu Mireșan

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 55-66; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1011 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

Background. Metoclopramide is a pharmacological agent frequently used in therapy against nausea and vomiting that can occur in indigestion, motion sickness, gastric ulcer, pyloric spasm and after surgery as a side effect of some anesthetics. Knowing the frequency and intensity of metoclopramide [...] Read more.

Background. Metoclopramide is a pharmacological agent frequently used in therapy against nausea and vomiting that can occur in indigestion, motion sickness, gastric ulcer, pyloric spasm and after surgery as a side effect of some anesthetics. Knowing the frequency and intensity of metoclopramide neurological side effects is essential for an efficient management of the dysfunctions it addresses. Material and method. Based on a standard questionnaire containing questions regarding metoclopramide therapy, we analyzed the answers given by 1000 patients or patient tutors in 20 open circuit pharmacies situated all over Bucharest. All subjects freely consented to participate in this study that was coordinated only by pharmacists. Results. Our study highlights the fact that in certain situations having to do with the age of patients, with the use of multiple drugs or with the tendency to self medicate, the neurological side effects of metoclopramide can reach dangerous levels. In some cases it might even be necessary to immediately interrupt metoclopramide therapy, despite its positive benefit/ risk ratio. Conclusions. Respecting the physician’s recommendations, avoiding self medication and reporting side effects as quickly as possible, are essential elements for minimizing the consequences of metoclopramide side effects. Full article

12 pages, 276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alcohol Withdrawal—Therapeutical Management in Surgical Patients with Upper Intestinal Bleeding

by Bălălău Cristian, Cobani Oana Denisa, Trambitasu Gloria, Popescu Bogdan, Carolina Negrei and Scăunașu Răzvan Valentin

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 43-54; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1010 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

Psychological dependence involves a desire to use a drug to avoid the unpleasant withdrawal syndrome that results from cessation of exposure to it. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is one of the most feared complications of alcohol addiction and sometimes can be fatal if not [...] Read more.

Psychological dependence involves a desire to use a drug to avoid the unpleasant withdrawal syndrome that results from cessation of exposure to it. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is one of the most feared complications of alcohol addiction and sometimes can be fatal if not treated properly. Withdrawal syndrome is characterized by neurological hyperexcitability, which can lead to severe psychological and neurological symptoms. A survey was conceived in order to monitor the efficiency of several drug associations (Clonidine, Midazolam, IV ethanol), which were administered at the beginning of intensive therapy admission of achohol addicts. By comparing the postoperative evolution parameters and complications incidences for these patients (such as the hospitalization duration in AIT department, the tracheobronchitis incidence, complications as sepsis, pneumonia and cardiac complications), we managed to determine which treatment is the most beneficial for these cases. Benzodiazepines are frequently used for pharmacological therapy of alcohol addicted patients. In our study Midazolam was very efficient, compared to other therapies. When administered for a maximum of 7 days, the inccidence of side effects remains minimal. Full article

9 pages, 544 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Data Related to Breast Reconstruction; Looking Back on the 21th Century and Forward to the Next Steps

by Jecan Cristian Radu, Hernic Alexandru Daniel, Filip Iulia Cristina and Răducu Laura

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 34-42; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1009 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

Breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery represents a positive step in restoring a women’s idea of self by reestablishing her feminine features and confidence, thus improving essential aesthetic and emotional aspects. Regarded as the cornerstone in breast cancer management, the surgical treatment has [...] Read more.

Breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery represents a positive step in restoring a women’s idea of self by reestablishing her feminine features and confidence, thus improving essential aesthetic and emotional aspects. Regarded as the cornerstone in breast cancer management, the surgical treatment has come a long way since 1884 when W.S. Halsted performed the first radical mastectomy- a disfiguring procedure which was conducted until the late 70s when owing to contemporary advancements it was surpassed by modified radical mastectomies and other far less invasive approaches. Either performed in an immediate or a delayed fashion breast reconstruction can be achieved not only through alloplastic procedures using expander/ implant prosthesis but also through autologous tissue transfers wisely harvested from different parts of the body or through methods that combine the two. When planning a breast reconstruction, after the oncologist formally rules out any form of residual cancer, one must take into consideration several critical factors that will eventually condition the technique election process for example the possible local or systemic adjuvant therapy. Although a “one size fits all” breast reconstruction procedure has yet to prevail, the extensive volume of published literature regarding this matter enables a well-experienced plastic surgeon to proceed with careful procedural selection allowing for the best possible results. Full article

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16 pages, 515 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Concepts on Drug Abuse and Dependence

by Daniela Luiza Baconi, Anne-Marie Ciobanu, Ana Maria Vlăsceanu, Oana Denisa Cobani, Carolina Negrei and Cristian Bălălău

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 18-33; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1008 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

Drug addiction is a complex disease characterized by compulsive and uncontrollable desire to seek and consume the drug. In time, drug-related terminology has undergone many changes, arising from the deepening of the mechanisms of action, but also about the need for a greater [...] Read more.

Drug addiction is a complex disease characterized by compulsive and uncontrollable desire to seek and consume the drug. In time, drug-related terminology has undergone many changes, arising from the deepening of the mechanisms of action, but also about the need for a greater precision in the definition. Drug dependence can be assigned not only to pharmacological effects of the drugs of abuse, but also to their interaction with each particular neurological and psychological constitution. The research on the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction processes allows both a better understanding of current pharmacotherapy and the development of new treatment strategies in drug abuse and dependence. In this review we intend to present the current concepts related to drug abuse and dependence. Full article

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9 pages, 201 KiB

Open AccessReview

Genital Male Piercings

by Mircea Tampa, Maria Isabela Sarbu, Alexandra Limbau, Monica Costescu, Vasile Benea and Simona Roxana Georgescu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 9-17; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1007 - 4 Nov 2015

Viewed by 102

Abstract

Body piercing has been practiced for thousands of years all over the world for beautification, religion, initiation rites or status reasons. Genital piercings also have a significant background and have been practiced for enhancing sexual pleasure, chastity, shocking or as a protest against [...] Read more.

Body piercing has been practiced for thousands of years all over the world for beautification, religion, initiation rites or status reasons. Genital piercings also have a significant background and have been practiced for enhancing sexual pleasure, chastity, shocking or as a protest against a conservative society. As the popularity of genital piercings increased in the last years, the number of complications is also on the rise. It is therefore important for the medical professionals to have at least basic knowledge regarding this practice, as it might be required in the management of unpredictable complications. Full article

8 pages, 189 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Mind and Sexuality: Introduction to a Psychophysiological Perspective

by David L. Rowland and Ion G. Motofei

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2015, 2(1), 1-8; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1006 - 4 Nov 2015

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Abstract

Cognition and sexuality are two distinct relational functions that are partially interconnected through our mind. Even though medical sciences have progressed substantially over the past decades, the current understanding of the mind psycho-physiology is yet at an early stage. As an example, the [...] Read more.

Cognition and sexuality are two distinct relational functions that are partially interconnected through our mind. Even though medical sciences have progressed substantially over the past decades, the current understanding of the mind psycho-physiology is yet at an early stage. As an example, the “mind-body problem” draws attention to the fact that fundamental aspects related to the understanding of the mind are still unresolved. Thus, it continues to be unclear how abstract ideas and thoughts (which are immaterial in nature, unfolding in an intangible realm) interface (and in some cases, interfere) with the more concrete brain and body (which are physical in nature), thus resulting in an abstract/conscious control of concrete/biological functions of the body; such is the case with processes involved in both cognition and sexuality. Beginning with this seminal paper we therefore intend to approach the psycho-physiology of the mind as an essential element to the understanding of the two (cognitive and sexual) relational functions, using the premises for that model as a basis for understanding of the larger “mind-body problem”. Full article

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J. Mind Med. Sci., Volume 2, Issue 1 (November 2015) – 9 articles

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