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CONTEXT (BACKGROUND): In recent times, it has become important to determine the prevalence of different Aspergillus species in clinical samples in view of difference in antifungal susceptibility noted in some species. AIMS: To determine the species prevalence of Aspergillus isolates in various clinical samples received in the Mycology Laboratory at our institute. METHOD: Over a period of 4-years, a total of 18,731 samples were processed, and species identification carried out by standard microbiological methods. RESULTS: Four hundred and fifty six samples (2.43%) were culture positive for Aspergillus species. A.flavus (46.93%) was the most common isolate, followed by A.fumigatus (37.72%) and A.niger (15.35%). It was observed that A.fumigatus was the predominant species isolated from blood and respiratory specimens, A.flavus was predominantly isolated from nasal polyps whereas A.niger predominated in nail specimens. Culture positivity was highest in the age group 12-65 years and in males. Sixty-nine patients (15.13%) were admitted to the intensive care unit. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights the diverse manifestations caused by Aspergillus species in human beings and also throws light on the different species prevalent locally. The knowledge would prove useful in selecting empirical antifungal therapy and formulating prophylactic and pre-emptive strategies.

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BACKGROUND: DNA damage has been found to play an important role in atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Genetic polymorphisms of the genes coding for enzymes involved in the metabolism of genotoxins result in different phenotypes with respect to their ability to detoxify these agents. In the present study the contribution of the polymorphism in the glutathione S-transferase gene to the development of coronary artery disease has been investigated. METHODS: One hundred and ninety seven angiographically proven patients with coronary artery disease and one hundred and ninety eight age-matched controls were genotyped for glutathione S- transferase polymorphism by polymerase chain reaction. Genotype frequencies were compared in patients and controls by Chi-square test. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between genotype and disease, incorporating other variables into the model. RESULTS: GSTT1 null genotype was significantly decreased in patients with coronary artery disease. No significant association was found with GSTM1 genotypes. No such association was seen with smokers. CONCLUSION: Null genotype of GSTT1 is protective against coronary artery disease in our population.

[ABSTRACT]  [FULL TEXT]  [PDF] [CITATIONS]  [PubMed]

[FULL TEXT]  [PDF] [CITATIONS]  [PubMed]

[FULL TEXT]  [PDF] [CITATIONS]  [PubMed]