COVID-19 Associated Rhino-Orbital-Cerebral Mucormycosis - An Institutional Series

Case Report | DOI: https://doi.org/10.31579/2692-9562/041

COVID-19 Associated Rhino-Orbital-Cerebral Mucormycosis - An Institutional Series

  • Nishant Rana 1

Associate Professor, Department of ENT, India.

*Corresponding Author: Nishant Rana, Associate Professor, Department of ENT, India.

Citation: Nishant Rana (2022). COVID-19 Associated Rhino-Orbital-Cerebral Mucormycosis - an Institutional series. J. Clinical Otorhinolaryngology, 4(1); DOI:10.31579/2692-9562/041

Copyright: © 2022, Nishant Rana. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Received: 01 November 2021 | Accepted: 15 December 2021 | Published: 04 January 2022

Keywords: cerebral mucormycosis; fungal; hypergycemia

Abstract

Invasive fungal infection or mucormycosis is almost always confined to the patients with altered host defenses such as in transplant recipients, diabetics or patients with malignancies. Hypergycemia or uncontrolled diabetes, particularly diabetes acidosis is considered as the strongest and very well known risk factor for mucormycosis. It has spread like fire amongst the active COVID-19 and post COVID-19 diabetic patients. Many studies across the world have established the definitive severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection amongst diabetic patients.

Introduction

India is recognized as the diabetes and mucormycosis ‘capital’ of the world [1]. Diabetes is the fastest growing non-communicable disease in India. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) second wave in India has presented in a catastrophic way as compared to the first wave and startled the medical fraternity. Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was found to be associated with systemic immune alterations causing wide range of manifestations including various bacterial and fungal infections [2]. This time India faced a major morbidity and mortality in the form of post COVID-19 sepsis and the abrupt spike of COVID-19 associated mucormycosis (CAM). In the previous 3 years (January 2018 to March 2021) before COVID-19 pandemic we encountered only 5 cases of rhinomaxillary or rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis. COVID-19 infection has led to worst consequences in the patients especially with uncontrolled diabetes, immunocompromised, immunosuppressed (post organ transplant) and those who were managed with long periods or high doses of systemic corticosteroid therapy [3].

Invasive fungal infection or mucormycosis is almost always confined to the patients with altered host defenses such as in transplant recipients, diabetics or patients with malignancies. Hypergycemia or uncontrolled diabetes, particularly diabetes acidosis is considered as the strongest and very well known risk factor for mucormycosis. It has spread like fire amongst the active COVID-19 and post COVID-19 diabetic patients. Many studies across the world have established the definitive severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection amongst diabetic patients [4]. A small number also includes post-transplant (renal transplant) patients, many of which were diabetic also which proved lethal collectively.

Mucormycosis can be classified based on site of involvement as rhino-orbital-cerebral, pulmonary, cutaneous, gastrointestinal and disseminated form [5]. In literature only a limited case series of post COVID-19 mucormycosis have been published [6-11].In this paper we are discussing our institutional experience of a series of 79 cases of rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis related to COVID-19 infection, which to our best knowledge is one of the biggest institutional case series. 

Institution series

In this case series we are retrospectively analyzing the 79 proven cases of COVID-19 related rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis. Throughout the second wave of COVID-19 infection in India, we operated 96 suspected cases of mucormycosis between mid April 2021 and mid September 2021 that also included 7 patients operated elsewhere and referred for further management. Out of all 96  operated cases 79 were histopathologically diagnosed as mucormycosis. These patients presented to us with varied disease load. There were 62 males and 17 females. The youngest patient was 21 years old and eldest one was 72 years old. 15 patients were operated during their active COVID-19 infection whereas rest 64 patients operated during post COVID-19 status after an initial recovery. 

All patients had one or other symptoms or signs of sinusitis including facial pain or numbness, facial swelling, headache and nasal congestion. Of these 79 patients of mucormycosis, in 27 patients disease was restricted to nose and paranasal sinuses (PNS) (rhinomucormycosis) [Figure 1], 43 showed orbital involvement as well (rhino-orbital mucormycosis) and 9 patients had severe disease involving brain also (rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis). Hence, total 52 patients (43+9) had orbital involvement. All 52 patients who had orbital involvement had lid edema with proptosis, orbital pain with periocular swelling, conjunctival edema and double vision in varied severity. 

Figure 1: Endoscopic images of (A) necrotic middle turbinate (mucormycosis) and (B) Black turbinate due to rhino-mucormycosis.

11 out of 43 patients of rhino-orbital mucormycosis had positive perception of light (PL) only, 6 of 43 patients had no perception of light with dilated non-reactive pupil (total ophthalmoplegia) whereas rest had just diminished vision of variable grade.[Figure 2] One patient among 6 patient of total ophthalmoplegia had bilateral involvement and 2 also developed pulmonary mucormycosis who died during ICU care.[Figure 3]

Figure 2: Images showing right orbital involvement due to mucormycosis (total ophthalmoplegia).
Figure 3: Images showing bilateral orbital involvement due to mucormycosis (A) and non reactive dilated pupil with total ophthalmoplegia (B).
Figure 4: Endoscopic image showing pus draining from maxillary sinus (positive for fungal culture).
Figure 5: CEMRI (A:coronal; B:axial) of brain and orbits showing features of fungal sinusitis predominantly involving left side ethmoid and frontal sinuses with extension of the disease in intraorbital region through the medial orbital wall with resultant stranding of the retro-orbital and extraconal fat and thickening and hyperintensity of the extraocular muscles. There is proptosis of the left eye. The fat stranding is extending upto the orbital apex with mild asymmetry of the left cavernous sinus.
Figure 6: Plain MRI brain and orbit (A:coronal; B:axial) showing features of fungal sinusitis predominantly involving the right side sinuses. There is proptosis of the right eye with fat stranding up to the orbital apex.
Figure 7: T2 MRI coronal cut of brain and orbits showing postoperative sinus changes with intracranial extension of the disease through cribriform plate.
Figure 8: CEMRI axial cut of brain showing multiple predominantly rim enhancing thick walled lesions with surrounding oedema in left frontal, right thalamus and right ganglio-capsular regions.
 
Figure 9: CEMRI coronal cut of brain showing mild asymmetry with thickening convexity of lateral walls of right cavernous sinus with hypo-enhancement suggesting early signs of cavernous sinus thrombosis.
Figure 10: Transoral images showing palatal (floor of right maxiila) involvement due to mucormycosis (in increasing order of severity).
Figure 11: Images showing 
Figure 12: Plain ct scan (coronal) showing erosion of maxilla and alveolus (fungal osteomyelitis).
Figure 13: (A)showing necrosed and eroded upper alveolus and (B) showing the same after sequestrectomy.
Figure 14: Images showing cutaneous involvement due to mucormycosis. Both patients (A and B) had orbital and cerebral involvement (rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis) and died during ICU care.
 

In 6 out of 43 patients of rhino-orbital mucormycosis and 4 out of 9 patients of rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis with no visual potential, the decision of orbital exenteration was taken after sub-optimal response of anti-fungals in 72 to 96 hours. But consent for orbital exenteration was not given by 2 patients and their family. So, total 8 orbital exenterations were done during the second stage surgery after initial endoscopic sinus debridement. It was performed by combination of external eyelid sparing and endoscopic power-assisted technique. In all patients who had total ophthalmoplegia PL (-) (10), was due to direct spread or indirect inflammation of orbital apex. These all orbital exenterated patients had extensive necrotic orbital tissue which showed evidence of fungal elements except in one specimen where no fungal element was seen in histopathology but sinus specimen in previous tissue shown fungal elements. Out of these 8 patients 5 patients (4 rhino-orbital mucormycosis and 1 rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis) did not survive but rest 3 patients (2 rhino-orbital mucormycosis and 1 rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis) are doing well in follow up. Rest 37 out of 43 rhino-orbital mucormycosis patients showed improvement in ptosis, propotosis, congestion and vision with anti-fungal therapy. Those 2 patients whose family did not give consent were also having cerebral involvement and died after few days of ICU care. 

 Amongst systemic anti-fungals, liposomal amphotericin-B (5mg/kg/day) was started in all operated 96 patients with close monitoring of renal parameters. In all histopathology proven mucormycosis, oral posaconazole was started, as 300mg twice a day on the first day as loading dose followed by 300mg once daily. Due to overloading of mucormycosis patients, we face a great shortage of liposomal form of amphotericin-B, as a result of which patients were switched to conventional amphotericin-B therapy. Many patients developed acute or chronic renal injury which made us switching them to posaconazole or isavuconazole monotherapy. High blood sugar level was managed by endocrinologist with insulin as per sliding scale. All 27 patients with disease limited to sinuses underwent extended endoscopic sinus surgery and debridement. 4 patients showed residual or new enhancement on serial radiological investigation and underwent revision and further debridement.

Condition of 12 patients deteriorated over the next few days after debridement surgery due to acute respiratory distress syndrome and were shifted to non-invasive ventilation whereas 11 of 12 patients got intubated and later on switched to mechanical ventilation and ionotrope support. All 11 patients who were on ventilator support did not survive. Thromboembolic event and cardiac arrest was suspected in all of them.

13 patients (excluding those who required exenteration during second surgery) required revision and further debridement of sinonasal tissue, including those (7 patients) who were operated at some other centres previously.

A different pattern of presentation has been encountered amongst the patients who presented during later phase of this post-COVID-19 mucormycosis. These patients had locally restricted disease to unilateral sinuses and maxilla (palate) [Figure 14 to 17]. 7 patients (out of 27 rhino-mucormycosis patients) presented with floor of maxilla and sinus involvement with blackish discoloration within nose or palate, loosening of teeth and abscess in the gingival tissue. They had history of COVID-19 infection of more than 3 months, all were diabetics and had history of corticosteroid treatment. All the patients with maxillary involvement had a common clinical presentation of draining sinuses and mobility of teeth, for which routine dental treatment was given. Few had history of multiple consultations of dentists for tooth pain. Hence, the delay in definitive clinical management of mucormycosis. They all showed sequestrum and erosions in maxillary floor and sinusitis in MRI. None had orbital or intracranial involvement. Later, all these patients underwent sequestrectomy and debridement of the infected area along with extraction of involved teeth with the guidance of maxillo-facial surgeon.[Figure 18] Primary closure was achieved in all patients.  All the patients with maxillofacial involvement were subjected to amphotericin B and posaconazole therapy and have not reported any complications and are doing good on follow up.

Interestingly, 3 patients (out of this case series) reported with exclusive involvement of mandible with no signs of disease in maxilla. The presentation in mandible was that of mobile teeth and draining sinuses, possibly suggesting hematogenous spread. The clinical expression of mandibular involvement was classically similar to osteomyelitic process, wherein, the superior alveolar bone was necrotic and easily separable from the underlying basal bone.however, the basal bone was also found to be avascular, necessitating the need to make multiple bur holes for neovascularization.

 During this course of time, 14 mortality occurred accounting 18.18% of mortality rate. All 14 patients who died had thromboembolic events, cardiac arrest and respiratory failure (acute respiratory distress syndrome, ARDS). Most of the patients were discharged after completion of 10 to 14 days of amphoterin-B therapy. They were discharged with oral posaconazole 300mg once a day for 3 months and were called for regular sino-nasal endoscopic examination. [Table]

Table: Demographic data of the case series

Discussion

Mucorales are the moulds found abundantly in the environment, predominantly in hot and humid conditions of tropical countries like India. Rhizopus and Mucor are the two most common species causing mucormycosis. The prevalence of mucormycosis in India is attributed around 140 cases per million population [12]. As mucormycosis is considered a ‘diabetes-defining illness’, a major bulk is seen among diabetic patients and its aggressiveness is seen more prevalent among uncontrolled diabetics. Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis is a serious invasive fungal disease, the mortality rate of which is very high even with best treatment. It acts by invading blood vessels and mycotic thrombosis causing infarction and ischemic necrosis of host tissue including surrounding bones [13, 14]. Mucormycosis has put a significant burden over medical system of India and emerged as life threatening complication of COVID-19.

 Several factors are considered responsible for this sudden spike in incidence of invasive fungal infection. SARS-CoV-2 infection and post COVID-19 sepsis results in dysregulated and altered immune response causing cytokine storm, thromboembolic events and secondary bacterial and fungal infections [15].  There are some pathophysiological phenomenons like immune dysregulation, reduced CD4+ T and CD8+T cells and impaired phagocytic immune-cell response that may enhance the risk of invasive fungal infections [16, 17]. Further the prolonged corticosteroid treatment in such patients especially with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes mellitus, organ transplant, neutropenia and high free iron levels made them a susceptible host for invasive fungal infections like mucormycosis, aspergillosis, cryptococcosis and candidiasis [18]. Corticosteroid induces immunosuppression, lymphopenia and hyperglycemia predisposing to invasive fungal infection [19]. Another indirect potential correlation has been established between COVID-19 and mucormycosis in India, the use of contaminated water with fungal spores for oxygen humidifier or use of contaminated and poor quality industrial oxygen during the shortfall of medical oxygen during the second wave of COVID-19 Infection.

 Invasive mucormycosis has not only been seen in severe cases but also in mild and moderate cases of SARS-CoV-2 infections. These patients found to have uncontrolled hyperglycemia, or steroid induced hyperglycemia and on immunosuppresants (renal recipients). Low dose, short duration of corticosteroids has shown benefit in patients of moderate to severe illness. But in second wave of SARS-CoV-2 infection higher doses and longer duration of corticosteroids have been used in many patients with severe diseases. The invasive fungal infections in such patients in itself alters the natural history of disease resulting in poor prognosis [20, 21]. Uncontrolled diabetes and persistent hyperglycemia is considered to effect neutrophil function and hence phagocytosis. Furthermore, diabetic acidosis impairs binding of iron to transferrin letting high free iron promoting fungal growth [22].  These fungi causing invasive infection thrive best in individuals having high serum glucose and acidic condition [23]. It is pertinent to note that majority of invasive fungal infections develop during the later stage of COVID-19 infection. Similar pattern was also noted by Song et al in their study [21].

The fungal spores reach sinuses through inhalation via nares, depositing in nasal mucosa and reaching orbit through lamina papyraceae, ethmoid bone, inferior orbital fissure or via orbital apex. Brain is involved when fungal infection directly involves cribriform plate, supraorbital fissure or by   perineural invasion and  hematagenous spread [24]. These patients can present with unilateral facial swelling, numbness, proptosis, diminished vision, palatal involvement and headache. The intracranial extension can be in the form of cavernous sinus thrombosis, cerebral infarction, aneurysm or abscess formation. These patients can present with confusion and disorientation. Majority of the patients came into medical attention when they develop some orbital signs and symptoms such as orbital swelling, blurred or double vision, visual loss or ophthalmoplegia. 

The nasal endoscopy of suspected patients may show necrosis or discoloration of nasal mucosa with blackish crusting, with or without anesthesia of nasal mucosa. The different diagnostic methods for mucormycosis include KOH fungal mount, biopsy, fungal staining (calcofluor) and culture. KOH is a rapid test which shows the presence of broad aseptate filamentous hyphae with right angled irregular branching. Computed tomography(CT)/ magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) of paranasal sinuses, orbits and brain should be obtained to see the extent of the disease. CT may show bony erosion or soft tissue invasion but MRI is more sensitive for detecting characteristic paranasal sinus, orbital and intracranial invasion. MRI may reveal non-enhancing mucosal tissue of sinuses and turbinates, subcutaneous facial tissue infratemporal and temporal fossa inflammatory infiltration. Orbital involvement can be depicted as thickening of medial rectus, proptosis, preseptal edema or orbital apex infiltration. Culture takes many days to grow fungus, but biopsy of the suspected tissue is the mainstay method of definitive diagnosis. Detection of fungal elements can be enhanced by using special fungal stains such as calcofluor white.

Treatment of mucormycosis includes surgical drainage of paranasal sinuses, debridement of necrotic and unhealthy tissues, intravenous anti-fungal therapy and treating underlying predisposing factors. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be added to the regimen but no controlled studies have shown it effective. Early surgical debridement of nasal, paranasal sinus and orbital tissue along with systemic antifungal therapy is the mainstay of treatment of mucormycosis [25].

According to few studies, orbital exenteration is a crucial part of management in extensively diseased orbit, preventing further deterioration [26, 27].But in a retrospective analysis a high mortality rate (88.9%) had been seen in patients who underwent exenteration. Deciding the need and timing of orbital exenteration is quite complicated. In limited involvement of orbit with preserved vision, resection of lamina papyracea should be considered. If disease progresses after 72 hours of aggressive antifungal therapy and in non-reactive pupil or no visual perception, orbital exenteration should be done without any further delay.

Among anti-fungal agents, amphotericin-B is the standard antifungal used against invasive mucormycosis. Lipid complex amphotericin-B is well known for its nephrotoxicity which is the major dose-limiting toxicity of using it. Liposomal amphotericin-B is less or non nephrotoxic form of amphotericin-B. Its standard dose is 5 to 10mg/kg/day. Other labelled antifungal against invasive mucormycosis used are triazoles like posaconazole and isavuconazole, for atleast 6 weeks. Posaconazole and isavuconazole are the good option as salvage therapy in patients of chronic kidney disease (CKD) or in patients who may develop renal failure with uncontrolled diabetes. These can be used as monotherapy but in refractory cases are usually given as combined therapy. Posaconazole is given twice a day (300mg) orally for one day followed by 300mg once a day upto 6 months. Similarly isavuconazole is given thrice daily (200mg) orally for 1 day followed by 200 mg once a day upto 6 months. They are used as step-down therapy after initial intravenous amphotericin-B therapy.

Serial radiological investigation (preferably MRI brain, orbit and PNS) is the part of management and is a must to assess the progression or response to therapy. Some studies concluded PET-CT as a useful investigation for postoperative assessment, but cost is the limiting factor [28-30].

The quick identification and diagnosis of invasive fungal infection, subsequently early surgical debridement is the essential management modality in reducing the disease burden and can significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality. Surgical debridement helps in penetration of intravenous antifungal agents more efficiently and limits further spread of disease. Correction of the underlying metabolic and immune derangement is equally important for favorable outcome.

Mucormycosis is a fatal oppurtunistic invasive fungal infection, the prognosis of which is poor affecting mainly immunocompromised and patients with uncontrolled diabetes. The mortality rate for rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis is about 40 to 80

Conclusion

COVID-19 in diabetics and in immunocompromised patients is associated with various manifestations amongst which mucormycosis is one of the grave association. Further the use of corticosteroids in COVID-19 treatment exaggerates the probability of developing invasive fungal infection. Delay in treatment even of few days can increase the mortality. Timely diagnosis and intervention in the form of surgical debridement and anti-fungal therapy are critical aspects in improving clinical outcomes in such patients. The clinicians should now be cautious of possibility of development of invasive fungal infection during the management of covid-19 patients with risk factors and continuous vigilance with regular follow-up in these recovered patients should be strictly followed.

Acknowledgements

Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Dental and Maxiloofacial Surgery, Pathology, Microbiology and Radiology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, India.

Conflict of interest

None.

Conflict of interest

None.

References

Clearly Auctoresonline and particularly Psychology and Mental Health Care Journal is dedicated to improving health care services for individuals and populations. The editorial boards' ability to efficiently recognize and share the global importance of health literacy with a variety of stakeholders. Auctoresonline publishing platform can be used to facilitate of optimal client-based services and should be added to health care professionals' repertoire of evidence-based health care resources.

img

Virginia E. Koenig

Journal of Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Intervention The submission and review process was adequate. However I think that the publication total value should have been enlightened in early fases. Thank you for all.

img

Delcio G Silva Junior

Journal of Women Health Care and Issues By the present mail, I want to say thank to you and tour colleagues for facilitating my published article. Specially thank you for the peer review process, support from the editorial office. I appreciate positively the quality of your journal.

img

Ziemlé Clément Méda

Journal of Clinical Research and Reports I would be very delighted to submit my testimonial regarding the reviewer board and the editorial office. The reviewer board were accurate and helpful regarding any modifications for my manuscript. And the editorial office were very helpful and supportive in contacting and monitoring with any update and offering help. It was my pleasure to contribute with your promising Journal and I am looking forward for more collaboration.

img

Mina Sherif Soliman Georgy

We would like to thank the Journal of Thoracic Disease and Cardiothoracic Surgery because of the services they provided us for our articles. The peer-review process was done in a very excellent time manner, and the opinions of the reviewers helped us to improve our manuscript further. The editorial office had an outstanding correspondence with us and guided us in many ways. During a hard time of the pandemic that is affecting every one of us tremendously, the editorial office helped us make everything easier for publishing scientific work. Hope for a more scientific relationship with your Journal.

img

Layla Shojaie

The peer-review process which consisted high quality queries on the paper. I did answer six reviewers’ questions and comments before the paper was accepted. The support from the editorial office is excellent.

img

Sing-yung Wu

Journal of Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery. I had the experience of publishing a research article recently. The whole process was simple from submission to publication. The reviewers made specific and valuable recommendations and corrections that improved the quality of my publication. I strongly recommend this Journal.

img

Orlando Villarreal

Dr. Katarzyna Byczkowska My testimonial covering: "The peer review process is quick and effective. The support from the editorial office is very professional and friendly. Quality of the Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions is scientific and publishes ground-breaking research on cardiology that is useful for other professionals in the field.

img

Katarzyna Byczkowska

Thank you most sincerely, with regard to the support you have given in relation to the reviewing process and the processing of my article entitled "Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of The Prostate Gland: A Review and Update" for publication in your esteemed Journal, Journal of Cancer Research and Cellular Therapeutics". The editorial team has been very supportive.

img

Anthony Kodzo-Grey Venyo

Testimony of Journal of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology: work with your Reviews has been a educational and constructive experience. The editorial office were very helpful and supportive. It was a pleasure to contribute to your Journal.

img

Pedro Marques Gomes

Dr. Bernard Terkimbi Utoo, I am happy to publish my scientific work in Journal of Women Health Care and Issues (JWHCI). The manuscript submission was seamless and peer review process was top notch. I was amazed that 4 reviewers worked on the manuscript which made it a highly technical, standard and excellent quality paper. I appreciate the format and consideration for the APC as well as the speed of publication. It is my pleasure to continue with this scientific relationship with the esteem JWHCI.

img

Bernard Terkimbi Utoo

This is an acknowledgment for peer reviewers, editorial board of Journal of Clinical Research and Reports. They show a lot of consideration for us as publishers for our research article “Evaluation of the different factors associated with side effects of COVID-19 vaccination on medical students, Mutah university, Al-Karak, Jordan”, in a very professional and easy way. This journal is one of outstanding medical journal.

img

Prof Sherif W Mansour

Dear Hao Jiang, to Journal of Nutrition and Food Processing We greatly appreciate the efficient, professional and rapid processing of our paper by your team. If there is anything else we should do, please do not hesitate to let us know. On behalf of my co-authors, we would like to express our great appreciation to editor and reviewers.

img

Hao Jiang

As an author who has recently published in the journal "Brain and Neurological Disorders". I am delighted to provide a testimonial on the peer review process, editorial office support, and the overall quality of the journal. The peer review process at Brain and Neurological Disorders is rigorous and meticulous, ensuring that only high-quality, evidence-based research is published. The reviewers are experts in their fields, and their comments and suggestions were constructive and helped improve the quality of my manuscript. The review process was timely and efficient, with clear communication from the editorial office at each stage. The support from the editorial office was exceptional throughout the entire process. The editorial staff was responsive, professional, and always willing to help. They provided valuable guidance on formatting, structure, and ethical considerations, making the submission process seamless. Moreover, they kept me informed about the status of my manuscript and provided timely updates, which made the process less stressful. The journal Brain and Neurological Disorders is of the highest quality, with a strong focus on publishing cutting-edge research in the field of neurology. The articles published in this journal are well-researched, rigorously peer-reviewed, and written by experts in the field. The journal maintains high standards, ensuring that readers are provided with the most up-to-date and reliable information on brain and neurological disorders. In conclusion, I had a wonderful experience publishing in Brain and Neurological Disorders. The peer review process was thorough, the editorial office provided exceptional support, and the journal's quality is second to none. I would highly recommend this journal to any researcher working in the field of neurology and brain disorders.

img

Dr Shiming Tang

Dear Agrippa Hilda, Journal of Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery, Editorial Coordinator, I trust this message finds you well. I want to extend my appreciation for considering my article for publication in your esteemed journal. I am pleased to provide a testimonial regarding the peer review process and the support received from your editorial office. The peer review process for my paper was carried out in a highly professional and thorough manner. The feedback and comments provided by the authors were constructive and very useful in improving the quality of the manuscript. This rigorous assessment process undoubtedly contributes to the high standards maintained by your journal.

img

Raed Mualem

International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews. I strongly recommend to consider submitting your work to this high-quality journal. The support and availability of the Editorial staff is outstanding and the review process was both efficient and rigorous.

img

Andreas Filippaios

Thank you very much for publishing my Research Article titled “Comparing Treatment Outcome Of Allergic Rhinitis Patients After Using Fluticasone Nasal Spray And Nasal Douching" in the Journal of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology. As Medical Professionals we are immensely benefited from study of various informative Articles and Papers published in this high quality Journal. I look forward to enriching my knowledge by regular study of the Journal and contribute my future work in the field of ENT through the Journal for use by the medical fraternity. The support from the Editorial office was excellent and very prompt. I also welcome the comments received from the readers of my Research Article.

img

Dr Suramya Dhamija

Dear Erica Kelsey, Editorial Coordinator of Cancer Research and Cellular Therapeutics Our team is very satisfied with the processing of our paper by your journal. That was fast, efficient, rigorous, but without unnecessary complications. We appreciated the very short time between the submission of the paper and its publication on line on your site.

img

Bruno Chauffert

I am very glad to say that the peer review process is very successful and fast and support from the Editorial Office. Therefore, I would like to continue our scientific relationship for a long time. And I especially thank you for your kindly attention towards my article. Have a good day!

img

Baheci Selen

"We recently published an article entitled “Influence of beta-Cyclodextrins upon the Degradation of Carbofuran Derivatives under Alkaline Conditions" in the Journal of “Pesticides and Biofertilizers” to show that the cyclodextrins protect the carbamates increasing their half-life time in the presence of basic conditions This will be very helpful to understand carbofuran behaviour in the analytical, agro-environmental and food areas. We greatly appreciated the interaction with the editor and the editorial team; we were particularly well accompanied during the course of the revision process, since all various steps towards publication were short and without delay".

img

Jesus Simal-Gandara

I would like to express my gratitude towards you process of article review and submission. I found this to be very fair and expedient. Your follow up has been excellent. I have many publications in national and international journal and your process has been one of the best so far. Keep up the great work.

img

Douglas Miyazaki

We are grateful for this opportunity to provide a glowing recommendation to the Journal of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. We found that the editorial team were very supportive, helpful, kept us abreast of timelines and over all very professional in nature. The peer review process was rigorous, efficient and constructive that really enhanced our article submission. The experience with this journal remains one of our best ever and we look forward to providing future submissions in the near future.

img

Dr Griffith

I am very pleased to serve as EBM of the journal, I hope many years of my experience in stem cells can help the journal from one way or another. As we know, stem cells hold great potential for regenerative medicine, which are mostly used to promote the repair response of diseased, dysfunctional or injured tissue using stem cells or their derivatives. I think Stem Cell Research and Therapeutics International is a great platform to publish and share the understanding towards the biology and translational or clinical application of stem cells.

img

Dr Tong Ming Liu

I would like to give my testimony in the support I have got by the peer review process and to support the editorial office where they were of asset to support young author like me to be encouraged to publish their work in your respected journal and globalize and share knowledge across the globe. I really give my great gratitude to your journal and the peer review including the editorial office.

img

Husain Taha Radhi

I am delighted to publish our manuscript entitled "A Perspective on Cocaine Induced Stroke - Its Mechanisms and Management" in the Journal of Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery. The peer review process, support from the editorial office, and quality of the journal are excellent. The manuscripts published are of high quality and of excellent scientific value. I recommend this journal very much to colleagues.

img

S Munshi

Dr.Tania Muñoz, My experience as researcher and author of a review article in The Journal Clinical Cardiology and Interventions has been very enriching and stimulating. The editorial team is excellent, performs its work with absolute responsibility and delivery. They are proactive, dynamic and receptive to all proposals. Supporting at all times the vast universe of authors who choose them as an option for publication. The team of review specialists, members of the editorial board, are brilliant professionals, with remarkable performance in medical research and scientific methodology. Together they form a frontline team that consolidates the JCCI as a magnificent option for the publication and review of high-level medical articles and broad collective interest. I am honored to be able to share my review article and open to receive all your comments.

img

Tania Munoz

“The peer review process of JPMHC is quick and effective. Authors are benefited by good and professional reviewers with huge experience in the field of psychology and mental health. The support from the editorial office is very professional. People to contact to are friendly and happy to help and assist any query authors might have. Quality of the Journal is scientific and publishes ground-breaking research on mental health that is useful for other professionals in the field”.

img

George Varvatsoulias

Dear editorial department: On behalf of our team, I hereby certify the reliability and superiority of the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews in the peer review process, editorial support, and journal quality. Firstly, the peer review process of the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is rigorous, fair, transparent, fast, and of high quality. The editorial department invites experts from relevant fields as anonymous reviewers to review all submitted manuscripts. These experts have rich academic backgrounds and experience, and can accurately evaluate the academic quality, originality, and suitability of manuscripts. The editorial department is committed to ensuring the rigor of the peer review process, while also making every effort to ensure a fast review cycle to meet the needs of authors and the academic community. Secondly, the editorial team of the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is composed of a group of senior scholars and professionals with rich experience and professional knowledge in related fields. The editorial department is committed to assisting authors in improving their manuscripts, ensuring their academic accuracy, clarity, and completeness. Editors actively collaborate with authors, providing useful suggestions and feedback to promote the improvement and development of the manuscript. We believe that the support of the editorial department is one of the key factors in ensuring the quality of the journal. Finally, the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is renowned for its high- quality articles and strict academic standards. The editorial department is committed to publishing innovative and academically valuable research results to promote the development and progress of related fields. The International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is reasonably priced and ensures excellent service and quality ratio, allowing authors to obtain high-level academic publishing opportunities in an affordable manner. I hereby solemnly declare that the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews has a high level of credibility and superiority in terms of peer review process, editorial support, reasonable fees, and journal quality. Sincerely, Rui Tao.

img

Rui Tao

Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions I testity the covering of the peer review process, support from the editorial office, and quality of the journal.

img

Khurram Arshad

Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, we deeply appreciate the interest shown in our work and its publication. It has been a true pleasure to collaborate with you. The peer review process, as well as the support provided by the editorial office, have been exceptional, and the quality of the journal is very high, which was a determining factor in our decision to publish with you.

img

Gomez Barriga Maria Dolores

The peer reviewers process is quick and effective, the supports from editorial office is excellent, the quality of journal is high. I would like to collabroate with Internatioanl journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews journal clinically in the future time.

img

Lin Shaw Chin

Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude for the trust placed in our team for the publication in your journal. It has been a true pleasure to collaborate with you on this project. I am pleased to inform you that both the peer review process and the attention from the editorial coordination have been excellent. Your team has worked with dedication and professionalism to ensure that your publication meets the highest standards of quality. We are confident that this collaboration will result in mutual success, and we are eager to see the fruits of this shared effort.

img

Maria Dolores Gomez Barriga

Dear Dr. Jessica Magne, Editorial Coordinator 0f Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, I hope this message finds you well. I want to express my utmost gratitude for your excellent work and for the dedication and speed in the publication process of my article titled "Navigating Innovation: Qualitative Insights on Using Technology for Health Education in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients." I am very satisfied with the peer review process, the support from the editorial office, and the quality of the journal. I hope we can maintain our scientific relationship in the long term.

img

Dr Maria Dolores Gomez Barriga

Dear Monica Gissare, - Editorial Coordinator of Nutrition and Food Processing. ¨My testimony with you is truly professional, with a positive response regarding the follow-up of the article and its review, you took into account my qualities and the importance of the topic¨.

img

Dr Maria Regina Penchyna Nieto

Dear Dr. Jessica Magne, Editorial Coordinator 0f Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, The review process for the article “The Handling of Anti-aggregants and Anticoagulants in the Oncologic Heart Patient Submitted to Surgery” was extremely rigorous and detailed. From the initial submission to the final acceptance, the editorial team at the “Journal of Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions” demonstrated a high level of professionalism and dedication. The reviewers provided constructive and detailed feedback, which was essential for improving the quality of our work. Communication was always clear and efficient, ensuring that all our questions were promptly addressed. The quality of the “Journal of Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions” is undeniable. It is a peer-reviewed, open-access publication dedicated exclusively to disseminating high-quality research in the field of clinical cardiology and cardiovascular interventions. The journal's impact factor is currently under evaluation, and it is indexed in reputable databases, which further reinforces its credibility and relevance in the scientific field. I highly recommend this journal to researchers looking for a reputable platform to publish their studies.

img

Dr Marcelo Flavio Gomes Jardim Filho

Dear Editorial Coordinator of the Journal of Nutrition and Food Processing! "I would like to thank the Journal of Nutrition and Food Processing for including and publishing my article. The peer review process was very quick, movement and precise. The Editorial Board has done an extremely conscientious job with much help, valuable comments and advices. I find the journal very valuable from a professional point of view, thank you very much for allowing me to be part of it and I would like to participate in the future!”

img

Zsuzsanna Bene

Dealing with The Journal of Neurology and Neurological Surgery was very smooth and comprehensive. The office staff took time to address my needs and the response from editors and the office was prompt and fair. I certainly hope to publish with this journal again.Their professionalism is apparent and more than satisfactory. Susan Weiner

img

Dr Susan Weiner

My Testimonial Covering as fellowing: Lin-Show Chin. The peer reviewers process is quick and effective, the supports from editorial office is excellent, the quality of journal is high. I would like to collabroate with Internatioanl journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews.

img

Lin-Show Chin

My experience publishing in Psychology and Mental Health Care was exceptional. The peer review process was rigorous and constructive, with reviewers providing valuable insights that helped enhance the quality of our work. The editorial team was highly supportive and responsive, making the submission process smooth and efficient. The journal's commitment to high standards and academic rigor makes it a respected platform for quality research. I am grateful for the opportunity to publish in such a reputable journal.

img

Sonila Qirko

My experience publishing in International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews was exceptional. I Come forth to Provide a Testimonial Covering the Peer Review Process and the editorial office for the Professional and Impartial Evaluation of the Manuscript.

img

Luiz Sellmann