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Biomedical subjects

A S Daar

Publications and source records attributed to A S Daar.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1999

Animal-to-human organ transplants--a solution or a new problem?

Xenotransplantation is seen by some mainly as an opportunity and by others mainly as a danger. It could help overcome the shortage of organs from human donors, but it raises a number of questions, particularly about safety, ethics and human nature. This article reviews the progress of research, debate and decision-making in this area.

Animals↗
PubMed1998

Analysis of factors for the prediction of the response to xenotransplantation.

Predicting the response to xenotransplantation is difficult, but can be based upon (i) past clinical experience, (ii) opinion surveys and focus groups, (iii) predictable variables, and (iv) the allotransplant experience. Baby Fae, the Pittsburgh baboon liver transplants, and the Jeff Getty baboon marrow transplant have taught us (a) not to underestimate hurdles, (b) to communicate professionally, (c) not to promise too much, (d) that lobbying can be effective, (e) that "being the first" is important, and (f) that the media can be fickle. The Swedish islet cell and the U.S. neural tissue transplants suggest that patients without immediately life-threatening illnesses will accept xenogeneic tissue and that the public/media will not respond negatively when there is little fanfare. Limited opinion surveys/focus groups suggest a degree of reluctance/revulsion that is more common in women, minorities, and the less-educated, and when the likely donor is a subhuman primate. Predictable positive public-response variables include perceptions of (a) adequacy of the scientific base, (b) adherence to globally agreed upon guidelines, (c) legitimacy/competence of regulatory bodies, and (d) adequate infectious risk assessment and management. A likely negative predictor is the role of animal rights activists (more in Europe, less in the U.S. and the developing world). Less predictable is the response of the media and what other societal concerns dominate the news at the time. Cultural concerns will need careful study. Allotransplant experience suggests that informed religious opinion can be accommodating a new technology. Psychological factors will be important and will need professional management.

Animals↗
PubMed1998

Culture and psychology in organ transplantation.

The cultural and psychological dimensions of organ transplantation are often overlooked in the process of meeting its exacting technical requirements. This new branch of medicine has brought with it new ways of understanding death, human rights, commerce, gift giving, and ethics. It produces strong emotions in recipients, donors and transplanters alike. These factors need to be taken fully into consideration if organ transplantation is to evolve in ways that are felt to be beneficial for all concerned.

Attitude to Death↗
PubMed1998

Cultural and psychological dimensions of human organ transplantation.

Human organ transplantation is practiced in local cultural worlds that shape beliefs about appropriate conduct for its development and application. The psychological response of individuals to the transplant experience mediate and condition its life-changing force in the context of family and community. In this paper, three cases are examined to illustrate the impact of cultural and psychological influences on human organ replacement therapies. First, we explore brain death and its implications for the definition of death and the procurement of organs. A case example from Japan provides the framework for addressing the cultural foundations that contribute to perceptions of personhood and the treatment of the body. Second, we examine marketing incentives for organ donation using a case from India where, until recently, explicit forms of financial incentives have played a role in the development of renal transplantation involving non-related living donors. Third, we focus on the psychological remifications of organ transplantation using a case that demonstrates the profound experience of being the recipient of the "gift of life". Resolution of scientific and ethical challenges in the field of organ transplantation must consider the complex and significant impact of cultural and psychological factors on organ replacement therapies.

Attitude to Health↗
PubMed1997

Brachial plexus palsy and spinal subarachnoid pneumatosis following trauma.

The case of a 33-year-old male involved in a road traffic accident, resulting in brachial plexus palsy associated with subarachnoid pneumatosis, is described. A knowledge of the regional anatomy at the root of the neck is used to explain the patient's neurological signs and the mechanism of entry of air into the subarachnoid space.

Accidents, Traffic↗
PubMed1997

Chondroid syringoma of the nose: report of a case.

Chondroid syringoma or mixed tumour of the skin is a rare benign tumour which can present on the face. We present here the case of a patient who underwent an excisional biopsy of a small painless nodule in the soft triangle of the nose for cosmetic reasons. The clinical presentation, histology and treatment, with review of the relevant literature, is discussed.

Adenoma, Pleomorphic↗