Tropical Doctor最新文献

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an emerging respiratory pathogen causing infections across various age groups, particularly among children, the elderly, and immuno-compromised individuals. The recent surge of cases reported in late 2024 and early 2025 across Asia, Europe, and North America highlights its re-emergence as a pathogen of global concern. Laboratory confirmation, particularly using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, remains the gold standard for diagnosis, while antigen detection and serology have supplementary roles. No licensed antivirals or vaccines are currently available, and management remains largely supportive, although ribavirin and intravenous immune globulin have been trialled in select severe cases. Strengthened surveillance networks, including WHO influenza-like illness/severe acute respiratory infections monitoring and national programmes, are crucial for early detection and control. This review provides an overview of HMPV's virology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and management strategies, with emphasis on the recent global resurgence and the need for continued vigilance and research.

Scrub typhus, caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, is a zoonotic infection endemic to the Asia-Pacific region. Its severity ranges from mild illness to life-threatening complications and case fatality rate upto 30%, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis. This study analyzed the clinical profile and pregnancy outcomes of 34 pregnant women diagnosed with scrub typhus at a tertiary care and referral centre. Poor foetal outcomes were observed in 18 (53%) pregnancies with intra-uterine deaths and spontaneous abortion occurring in 12 cases, while six had preterm births between 32 and 35 weeks of gestation. There was no maternal mortality. In endemic regions, scrub typhus should be considered in all pregnant women presenting with unexplained fever. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial to improving maternal and foetal outcomes.

This ecological time-series study analysed tuberculosis (TB) mortality trends in the Americas from 2000 to 2019 using data from the Pan American Health Organization. Age-adjusted mortality rates by country and sex were assessed with Joinpoint regression to estimate annual percentage changes. Results showed a general decline in TB mortality, with average annual reductions of -2.3% in men and -1.9% in women. Brazil, Colombia, and Canada exhibited continuous decreases, while Saint Lucia, Jamaica, and Honduras had episodes of increase or fluctuation. The highest mortality rates persisted in Bolivia, Mexico, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Peru. Regional analyses indicated periods of trend stabilisation, especially in Central and South America during the latter years. Despite overall progress, significant disparities by region and sex remain, reflecting complex social, economic, and healthcare factors. Strengthening surveillance systems and tailoring interventions to specific local contexts are crucial for further reducing TB mortality across the continent.

Infection with the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei can cause melioidosis, a potentially life-threatening disease. As a facultative intracellular pathogen, it poses challenges for treatment and demands long-term follow-up. Neck abscesses caused by Burkholderia are rare, but it is essential to consider their possibility, as prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing complications. We report three cases of neck abscesses that were treated.

Ulcerative colitis is usually localised to the colon, leading to a uniform mucosal inflammation. Rarely, endoscopic findings or even an abdominal radiograph may reveal mucosal islands, which are defined as patches of residual normal mucosa within inflamed areas. They usually portend a poor prognosis. We report such a case where cytomegalovirus colitis, confirmed via immuno-histochemistry, was found. This case highlights the potential prognostic value of these findings, which, though subtle, can guide early, aggressive, but effective management.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT are revolutionising academic work, particularly for researchers in the Global South who often face inequitable access to resources and publishing support. This article explores how AI can empower early-career scholars, non-native English speakers, and unaffiliated researchers by aiding literature review, scientific writing, and language refinement - functions traditionally limited to those with institutional privileges. Drawing a parallel with the historical evolution from library binders to PubMed, the article challenges prevailing scepticism around AI use in academia. It questions the rationale behind journal policies that stigmatise AI-assisted writing, probing whether such resistance stems from genuine ethical concerns or a form of academic gatekeeping rooted in neo-colonial attitudes. Rather than dismiss AI, the article advocates for transparent, ethical use that democratises academic publishing and bridges global disparities in knowledge production.