Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice. In patients with AFib, controlling the ventricular rate is a fundamental therapeutic goal aimed at alleviating symptoms, preventing tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy, and improving overall cardiovascular outcomes. Ventricular rate control refers to the regulation of the rapid and irregular ventricular response that characterizes
Ventricular premature beats (VPBs), also referred to as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), are early depolarizations originating in the ventricles. They disrupt the normal rhythm of the heart by causing an extra, abnormal beat before the regular heartbeat resumes. While often benign, frequent VPBs may signify underlying cardiac pathology and can predispose to more serious arrhythmias
Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia characterized by chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles, resulting in the cessation of effective cardiac output. As the most common cause of sudden cardiac death (SCD), VF requires immediate recognition and defibrillation to prevent irreversible brain damage or death. The disorganized impulses prevent the heart from pumping
Ventricular arrhythmias are potentially life-threatening cardiac rhythm disturbances originating from the ventricles. They range from benign premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) to lethal ventricular fibrillation (VF). These arrhythmias disrupt the heart’s ability to pump effectively, often resulting in hemodynamic instability, syncope, or sudden cardiac death (SCD). Pathophysiology of Ventricular Arrhythmias Abnormal ventricular rhythms are caused by
Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) due to Acinetobacter species, particularly Acinetobacter baumannii, presents a formidable challenge in critical care settings. Known for its ability to colonize the respiratory tract and persist on hospital surfaces, Acinetobacter is a significant cause of nosocomial infections, especially in patients undergoing prolonged mechanical ventilation. Its multidrug-resistant (MDR) profile further complicates treatment strategies
Ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia (VABP) is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that occurs in patients receiving mechanical ventilation for at least 48 hours. As a subtype of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), VABP significantly contributes to morbidity, mortality, prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stays, and increased healthcare costs. Pathogenesis and Risk Factors of VABP VABP develops when
Variegate porphyria (VP) is a rare genetic disorder that affects heme biosynthesis—the process responsible for producing heme, an essential component of hemoglobin. Caused by mutations in the PPOX gene, this autosomal dominant condition leads to the accumulation of porphyrin precursors in the body, triggering both neurovisceral and cutaneous symptoms. VP is one of the hepatic
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) is an opportunistic, multidrug-resistant pathogen and a major cause of nosocomial infections. It poses a significant challenge in healthcare settings due to its ability to colonize, persist in the environment, and resist first-line antimicrobial agents. Infections range from asymptomatic colonization to life-threatening conditions such as bacteremia, urinary tract infections, endocarditis, and
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) represents a formidable nosocomial pathogen, responsible for a growing number of bloodstream infections worldwide. These infections predominantly affect immunocompromised patients, individuals with prolonged hospital stays, and those exposed to broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. Due to limited therapeutic options, high transmission potential, and increased morbidity and mortality, VRE bacteremia has emerged as a
Vaginal cuff surgery, commonly performed during total hysterectomy, involves suturing the top of the vagina after removal of the uterus. While typically safe, post-operative infections are a significant concern, especially those caused by anaerobic organisms such as Bacteroides species. These infections can escalate rapidly and lead to severe complications if not promptly addressed. Understanding Bacteroides