1. science
2. medicine
3. surgery
4. transplants

American International School of Medicine
AISM TIMES
Volume 1, Issue 2
Special points of interest:
 American
International
School of Medicine medical
outreach program
 Annual Debating Competition
 New Campus Site for AISM
 What’s new
Research.
in
Medical
Inside this issue:
AISM Medical Outreach Program
1
AISM BASIC SCIENCE
DEBATE
1
EDITORIAL:
2
PATIENT EDUCATION
ALUMNI FOCUS
3
WHATS NEW IN
MEDICINE
5
SALUTE TO Asst.
DIRECTOR OF
STUDENT SERVICES.
6
NEW AISM CAMPUS
6
Winter 2011/2012
AISM PARTICIPATED IN MEDICAL OUTREACH PROGRAM
“ A USAID PROJECT FOR GUYANA”
A ISM
alumni, Dr. Aftaab Aliahmed of Kingston
Development Centre, successfully organized a
Medical outreach exercise last October for resi-
dents of his home town, Corriverton, Upper
Corentyne Berbice, Guyana. This exercise was
one of the project s of the United States of America Humanitarian Assistant Program (USHAP) in
Guyana. Dr. Aliahmad in his organizing , invited
the students, faculty and staff of AISM to participate in the day’s activity. Dr. Aliahmad recalled
that as a Medical Student his passion of becoming
a physician grew when he had similar opportunities at AISM, to participate in medical outreach
programs in underserved communities in Guyana.
He said that he would like his ALMA MATER to
have similar experiences so that they can appreciate their education and training at all level. He
recalled the school’s mission which states inter
alia….inspiring them to be life-long learners and
compassionate physicians to improve, treat and
prevent human illnesses in diverse communities.
Students, Faculty and staff expressed that the
experience was purposeful. They reported that
AISM TEAM, Headed by Dr. S. Ovid Isaacs
they were engaged at every level of the exercise,
that is from organizing the order of seeing the
patients to the time the patient exit after consultation and evaluation. They learned from interactions with other licensed physicians and were
also able to identify some of the medical problems and related issues from their own training .
The team expressed appreciation for working in
the community, to provide caring, nonjudgmental,
and interdisciplinary health services. They also
observed that bringing health care and patient
education program to the communities motivates persons who are hesitant to visit hospitals
and clinics to seek help on their own conditions.
(continued on Page 3)
BASIC SCIENCES ANNUAL DEBATING COMPETITION—2012
‘Patient Compliance improve patient health status’
The Debating Teams
L-R Christina Cumaaran, Temidayo Olajide,
Jessica Shewnandan (Time Keeper) ,
Priya Singh, Paul Garriques, Kimberley
Morgan and Mayveena Seepersaud
AISM held its Annual Basic Sciences Debating competition
Wednesday, 29 February, 2012 at the Guyana Campus. The
moot, ‘Patient Compliance improve patient health status’,
was proposed by second year student doctor Mayveena
Seepersaud and her team mates student doctors Paul
Garriques and Priya Singh. Opposing the moot were first year
student doctor Temidayo Olajide, second year student doctors Christina Cumaaran and team leader, Kimberley Morgan. While the proposing team was praised by the judges
for their thorough research and rebuttal, it was the opposing
team that was victorious (Continued on Page 2 …….)
Page 2
AISM TIMES
EDITORIAL
Patient Education , (Dr. Melissa Varswyk)
At our recent Medical outreach exercise we saw more than 200 patients from the Corriverton
community. More than 70% of adults who sought our services that day had complications related
to Hypertension and/or diabetes. Many were not aware of their conditions and those who knew
they were diabetic or hypertensive had no clue that these were conditions which demands life
style changes and proper management to improve health and wellness.
Dr. Melissa Varswyk
“Patient
Education
is a First Step
to Life
Changing
Medicine and
Wellness.”
I reflected on a conversation I had with Dr. Gadraj following her attendance at the opening of the
new dialysis center at Ananadale. She expressed her concern that patients who have had a diagnosis or a prognosis for a particular illness, quickly learnt about medicinal treatment such as prescriptive medications or alternative medicine. The problem is that patients are not thinking
‘prevention’ only ‘cure’. She highlighted that there are lots of literature and electronic
campaigns on many common issues like Hypertension and Diabetes, which she describe as
Health Education however there is still need for Clinical Patient Education in an organized and
continuous Program.
There is a need for Public Health and General Preventative Medicine programs in Guyana which
will focus on promoting healthy lifestyles. It's much easier to prevent a disease or deal with its
earliest stages as apposed to experiencing a major health condition. Screening tests can be very
effective, although it's important to understand the risks of each test compared with the
benefits .
Medical practitioners or health care providers should involve patients as their partner of care.
Patients must have knowledge of their health status, the risks involved and the importance of
their role in treatment decisions. As a Medical Education Institution in Guyana, AISM must be
proactive in the response ; first to emphasize in its training of new physicians the understanding
of the significance of Patient Education in Health Care and second, to introduce a public health
program encouraging participation from strategic institutions and stakeholders for the
promotion of health and wellness of the Society. Medical
Students interested in Research
and Development can also benefit from a dual degree program.
This edition of AISM times was compiled by Drs. Jose Humphreys, Melissa Varswyk, S. Ovid Isaacs and Miriam Gadraj. Art and
Design and Photography, By Earl J. Gittens. We welcome your feedback, comments, suggestions and contributions to our
newsletter. This Newsletter is among the projects and activities the Alumni Association has undertaken within the structure of
AISM.
HUMOR IN MEDICINE
A mother and her daughter were at the gynecologist's office. The mother asked the doctor to examine her
daughter. "She has been having some strange symptoms and I'm worried about her," the mother said. The
doctor examined the daughter carefully and then announced, "Madam, I believe your daughter is pregnant."The mother gasped, "That's nonsense! Why, my little girl has nothing whatsoever to do with men."
She turned to the girl." You don't, do you, dear?" "No, mumsy," said the girl. "Why, you know that I have never so much as
kissed a man!" The doctor looked from mother to daughter, and back again. Then, silently he stood up and walked to the window, staring out. He continued staring until the mother felt compelled to ask, "Doctor, is there something wrong out there?"
"No, Madam," said the doctor. "It's just that the last time anything like this happened, a star appeared in the East and I was
looking to see if another one was going to show up."
Volume 1, Issue 2
Page
Page 33
Medical Outreach Continued from page 1…….
The USHAP team thanked the Administration of AISM for facilitating the process for their participation in the exercise.
In an Interview with Dr. Aliahmad he stated that without the
services so willingly rendered by AISM, the outreach program
would not have been successful as it was. The selfless and
honest services shown by the student doctors and staff of
AISM displayed the true quality and character of the products
of that Institution. I am very proud of my Alma Mater!
He also took the opportunity to extend gratitude to the AISM
Team and conveyed that the members of the Kingston DevelDr. Aftaab Aliahmed
opment Centre wish all the future doctors much success in
Class of 2010
their endeavors and that AISM continue to bring good citizens
of the world to answer the call of duty and service to humanity. He said “You did exceptionally well. Keep up the good work.” The USHAP Team congratulated AISM and stated that their participation made a difference and has significantly contributed
to the success of the exercise at Corriverton. The USHAP team also indicated that they would like
to involve AISM in other projects in Guyana and would be visiting the institution to discuss as
the need arise. The United States Humanitarian Assistance Program (USHAP) is an initiative under
the U.S. Embassy to assist Guyana's communities in the areas of social, economic and medical
development. HAP works to bring together multiple local and international agencies to reach
common goals.
Basic Science Debating Competition continued from Page 1
Opposition team: (L-R) K Morgan, T.Olajide, C. Cumaaran
Student doctor Olajide copped the Best Speaker
award while his team mate student doctor Cumaaran
was awarded runners-up position. The teams were
judged based on their “matter”, “manner” and
“method”. Ms. Riley, head of Student Affairs department remarked that, she was very excited about the
outcome of the exercise, and proud of the students
for their enthusiasm and participation. The clinical
sciences debating competition is slated for summer
2012 semester.
The panel of judges comprised of members of
AISM Alumni who are practicing Physicians at the
Guyana Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Dr.
Youlanda Hendricks, Dr. Ilona Pereira -Roach and
Dr. Reyaud Rahman. Students, staff, faculty and
other members of the alumni were also in attendance to listen as the debaters articulate their response to the top and to support the teams. They
have all expressed that Debating is always good for
student participation and encouraging active student life. Chief Judge, Dr. Youlanda Hendricks declared the opposition teams the winner citing that
they showed more team effort and exceptional
debating skills.
Judges (L) Dr. Youlanda Hendricks,
Dr. Reyaud Rahman, Dr. IIonia Roach
“the selfless and
honest services
shown by the
student doctors
and staff of AISM
displayed the true
quality and
character of the
products of that
institution ……..
I am very proud of
my ALMA MATER”
“AISM celebrates the success of each student,
graduate and members.
Every success is our institution’s glory”
Dr. Aftaab Aliahmed
Page 4
AISM TIMES
T
José V. A. Humphreys MD
Fellow Inter-American College
Of
Physicians and Surgeons
ALUMNI FOCUS
he AISM Family would like to Join Family and all well wishers in recognizing
Dr. José V. A. Humphreys.
Dr. Humphreys is a registered/licensed physician with the Antigua and Barbuda Medical
Council and currently serves as the Medical Director of Optimum Health Limited and
Resident Physician and Director of Education at Belmont Medical and Surgical Centre
Antigua. He is the recipient of the Church of God World Mission Service Award for his
missionary efforts in Haiti, post 2010 earthquake and Co-Founder and Executive Director of St. Sampson the Hospitable Missions Inc, a non-profit organization that engages in
missionary work in South America (Guyana), Antigua and Barbuda and Haiti. Dr. Humphreys is also one of the physicians involved in the first Laser Transurethral Resection of
the prostate surgery in the Eastern Caribbean done in 2011 at Belmont Medical and
Surgical Centre. Dr. Humphreys serves as Clinical Faculty with the American International School of Medicine and approved clinical preceptor for Ryerson University, Ontario , Canada. Dr. Humphreys graduated from AISM and completed internship attachments at Hospital Dr. Herzog (Germany), Belmont Medical & Surgical Centre (Antigua)
and Alexandra Hospital (St. Kitts/Nevis). He has also completed Postgraduate Masters
Level modules in Allergy with the University of Southampton, School of Medicine and a
short course in Epidemiology with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine/
University of London, UK. Congratulations Dr. Humphreys; AISM is very proud of you; a
distinguished alumni.
CONGRATULATIONS
“ It was
during
medical
school , when
I met the man
of my
dreams…
At this point
in my life I am
very much
looking forward to
building a
family and
The AISM Family wishes to Congratulate
We wish you both A Life full of Love, Happiness,
Peace and Success.
May God Bless your marriage and watch over you
as you begin a new life together
Dr. Patterson is currently a Medical Research Coordinator at Healthcare Informatics
Cooperation where she is engaged in research of minority health disparities. She has
conducted independent research in areas of diabetes and obesity. Dr. Patterson has
also been making contributions to several publications on Health Issues as it relates to
minorities and medically underserved communities. She is preparing to return to Clinical
Medicine where she can be directly involve in the treatment and healing process of the
various illnesses which is her lifelong dream.
Volume 1 issue 2
Page 5
Dr. Anara Kayser Abbay
Anara Kayser Abbay was born in Kazakhstan, a transcontinental country in Central Asia and Europe
(Former Soviet Union). She started her medical education and training at Kazakh State Medical Academy in Astana Kazakhstan. After migrating to the United States she studied English Language as a Second
Language which was necessary to continue her medical education and training in the United States of
America . She gained acceptance at AISM in 2007 and completed the full requirements for graduation by
December 2009 including passing USMLE Steps 1 and II (CS) and (CK).
Dr. Anara’s passion for medicine was inspired by her late father who was the Chief Cardiologist at the
Regional Hospital in Kazakhstan, whom she said always remarked that his satisfaction in his profession is observing his
patients feeling better and enhancing the quality of their lives. “ Listening to the many stories from my father about doctors
having a profound impact on patients health, helped me to believe that helping people get well is my true destiny and that
is what I intend to dedicate my life to”. Dr. Anara is currently finishing her first year as resident in Internal Medicine at the
Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, United States of America.
What’s NEW in the world of MEDICINE
Chinese high school student Angela Zhang, from California
have just recently devised a cure for cancer. Angela mixed
cancer drugs in a polymer that would attach to
nanoparticles. These nanoparticles would fasten
themselves to cancer particles which would be visible on
MRI enabling doctors to view exactly where these cancer
cells are located. Top scientists predict that this method
would be ready for use within 15 years.
NEW
TECHNIQUE
USED IN KIDNEY
TRANSPLANT
A new technique has
been introduced into
the world of Kidney
transplant. This new
technique,
normothermic
perfusion, involves
warming the kidney
with
oxygenated
blood after it has
been in cold storage.
This
reverses the
damage caused by low temperatures. Another advantage
of such a technique is that it enhance the function of
damaged kidneys from marginal donors. The experts
believe that this technique would increase the success
rate of kidney transplant and also extend the life of the
donor kidney.
KEEP ALZHEIMER PATIENTS ON ARICEPT FOR LONGE
PERIOD
A new study from the New England Journal of Medicine
(NEJM) found that patients who stayed on the drug
Aricept for a year had a slower decline in their memory.
The NEJM studied 295 patients who had been treated
with Alzheimer’s for at least three months and who had
moderate to severe stages of the disease. It was
concluded in the research that patients whose treatment
was continued with Aricept showed marked improved
cognitive benefits for the twelve months period.
Transplant: The kidneys used in the operations are warmed with oxygenated blood
after they have been in cold storage. This
reverses damage caused by low temperatures
SOURCES: www.nejm.org www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
For Clinical Update see also :http://www.mayoclinic.org/
mcitems/mc2000-mc2099/mc2024-0312.pdf
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/
Submissions
Unsolicited story ideas, articles and photographs are welcome. "Submissions should be written using a word processor software program (Microsoft Word is preferred) and e-mailed as an attachment to aismtimes@aism.edu .
Be
sure the subject of the e-mail reflects what type of submission is being sent. Please observe editorial deadlines.
PUBLICATIONS
CANCER CURE
Page 6
AISM TIMES
Student Services
Beverley A. Riley
Asst. Director
Student Affairs
My satisfaction is
embracing and
supporting the
challenges
Students face
throughout the rigors
of medical school ,
Individually as well as
a group.
Eleven (11) years ago in February 2000, I commenced working with the American
International School of Medicine. Working at an academic institution was new to
me as AISM was to the students who dedicated themselves in pursuit of being
future physicians. I realized that my responsibilities in the student affairs department was very strategic, It serves as a catalyst for the educational, social, cultural, recreational and welfare needs of every student at all stages of their journey
through AISM. My major challenge was understanding the various groups of
students representing every class, culture, religion, creed and social status, this
was easily overcome by policy guidelines of the institution, my personal training
and parenting. My satisfaction is embracing and supporting the challenges students face throughout the rigors of medical school , individually as well as a
group. It is even more fulfilling 4 year later when I have see them and have to address them as Doctors. AISM has indeed come a long way in a very short time
and I am very happy to be associated with an institution which have set the
standard for the delivery of quality medical education. I am very optimistic that
there will be no limit to the growth and development of AISM.
The 2012 –2015 PROGRAM - AISM CAMPUS
AISM is setting the pace to establish a
new campus at Brickery, East Bank
Demerara, approximately 20 minutes
from The Cheddi Jagan International
Airport and 20 Minutes from the City,
Georgetown. This site is expected to
hold a modern campus including
School of Public Health and Other
Allied Sciences, dormitories, recreation facilities and center for research
and development.”
Site for AISM Academic Complex
The AISM Foundation has set up a giving program to
participate in the funding of the development of this
project. Persons willing to contribute and be
associated with the AISM building fund are advised
to contact Dr. Rose Marie Johnson-Matsomoto by
email foundation@aism.edu. Contributions will be
Tax Deductible. Persons making a contribution will
be acknowledged by the Foundation and also be
listed with the other AISM noble ranks who continue
to support the development of our institution.
AISM Foundation is the Trust Fund for Future Development of AISM . It was established in 2005 to
attract and accept investment endowment gifts. The Interest-only income is returned to the
school to fund various projects and programs.
Volume 1, Issue 2
Page 7Page
Crossword Puzzle
Across
Down
2. Heel bone
4. Collar bone
6. Smallest bones in fingers and toes
7. Chest bone
8. The smaller of two lower leg bones
10. Entire back bone
11. Upper arm bone
13. Knee cap
17. Lower jaw bone
18. Any of the small bones
that make up the back
bone
19. Ribs
1. Head or skull
2. Tail bone
3. One of two lower arm
bones, spelled with four
letters
4. Hand bones
5. Thigh bone
7. Shoulder blade
9. Upper jaw bone
12. One of two lower
arm bones
14. The larger of two
lower leg bones
15. Ankle bone
16. Hip bones
Answers would be published in Summer issue of AISM
Times.
Case Study: Surgery for adenocarcinoma of the prostate
A 64-year-old male visited his primary
care physician for a regularly scheduled exam. During the intake discussion with his physician, he described
his general overall health as good,
except that recently he had the urge
to urinate more frequently, particularly at night, with periodic difficulty initiating urine flow. Otherwise, he had no
other major complaints. On digital
rectal examination (DRE), the physician felt asymmetry, with abnormal
hardening on his right prostate lobe.
The patient's serum prostate-specific
antigen (PSA) was subsequently measured at 9.5 ng/mL.
The patient was referred to a urologic
oncologist, who performed transrectal
ultrasound (TRUS) guided fine needle
biopsy of the prostate gland. Pathologic analysis subsequently indicated an
adenocarcinoma with a Gleason score
of 6.7. The patient's prostate cancer
was tentatively staged as T2b. No metastases
were
detected
using
computed
tomography (CT) or bone scans.
In discussing possible management strategies, the oncologist explained that there
was a range of options including active surveillance (or "watchful waiting") to prostatectomy, external beam radiation therapy
(RT), interstitial brachytherapy, cryotherapy, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), or
some combination of these approaches.
After consulting with members of the
healthcare team as well as his family, the
patient decided to undergo retropubic,
nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy (RP).
Pelvic lymphadenectomy conducted at the
time of surgery revealed no evidence of
local metastases, and the cancer appeared
to be confined to the prostate gland. Postoperatively, the patient began experiencing
some impotence and erectile dysfunction,
but there was no evidence of malignant
disease.
Background
Prostate cancer (PCa) is currently the most
commonly diagnosed malignancy in men in
the US, with more than 240,000 new cases
predicted in 2011, and the second
leading cause of male cancer-related
mortality (after lung cancer) with
33,720 expected deaths.1 However, it
should be noted that the mortality
rate for men with PCa has been declining over the last decade, and the 5
-year survival rate for patients with
localized disease is nearly 100%. Risk
stratification for PCa is based on clinical staging, PSA levels, and Gleason
score at presentation. The benefit of
aggressive treatment versus surveillance in men with low-risk PCa remains somewhat controversial. Surgery and/or radiation therapy are the
standard treatments for newly diagnosed PCa but can be associated with
altered sexual and urinary function
and decreased quality of life. Observation is now thought to be a reasonable management option in elderly
patients with limited life expectancy
and low
(Continue on Page 12)
7
Page 8
AISM TIMES
The Immunological Response
“White
Blood Cells
are a
crucial
component
of immune
response.”
J. Humphreys MD
The Immune Response also known as innate immunity or acquired immunity is the recognition
and consequent protection against foreign bodies
known as antigens. The immune response to
allergens can be summed up in three (3) simple
steps; (1) antigen detection or recognition, (2)
Helper T-Cell Activation and (3) Antibody production by B-Cells.
Foreign bodies may include viruses,
bacteria, fungi and other substances that may be
potentially harmful to the body. These other substances may be inanimate and include toxins,
chemicals, drugs, venom and foreign invading
inorganic particles like a thorn.
When the body is exposed to an foreign
body, an immune response is mounted and the
antigen is destroyed. Our immune system is a
complex framework that functions in various
capacities to protect the body from potentially
harmful antigens. The primary or innate immunity includes barriers that act as first defense immunity by keeping harmful substances elements
from entering the body. These first line defense
barriers is congenital and remain with us lifelong,
however diminishes as we get older.
Among such barriers are the skin, certain
enzymes that are present in bodily fluids,
mucus which traps harmful substances and is
later expelled from the body, and the hydrochloric
acid within the stomach. Reflex responses like
sneezing and coughing are other inherited
immune response.
White Blood Cells are a crucial
component of immune response. Once the first
line defenses are breached, the body needs a
quick response to protect itself from invading
antigens.
Interferons also called Lymphokines
are regulatory proteins or cytokines/chemical
messengers produced by the cells (white blood
cells and other cells exposed to antigens). They
are also another key factor in launching assaults
against antigens, specifically viruses. Research
also proves that Interferons, particularly alpha
interferon, are important in the fight against
cancer.
There are approximately 20 different types of
Interferons. Interferons act like
messengers
or "alarm systems". When they migrate to ...
Continued on Page 11
HOWARD UNIVERSITY SYMPOSIUM
T
he Howard University Hospital Medical Association (HUHMA) held its
19th Annual Edition Scientific Symposium at the Sonesta Maho Beach
Resort on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten, January 12th -17th,
2012. This symposium was jointly facilitated by Belmont Clinic Antigua
(Ltd) and Ashby and Greene Holdings LLC. It attracted speakers from a variety of
specialties who presented on various topics of interest. The Guest Speaker was
Dr. Jorien Wuite; Secretary General, Ministry of Public Health, St. Maarten.
Our very own Dr. José Humphreys made a well received presentation. His topic
was: Metabolic Syndrome – Prevalence, Identification and Diagnosis, Prevention
and Management.
The motto for this year’s symposium was: "HELPING ONE ANOTHER HELP OTHERS." Up to 14.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Continuing Medical Education credits were granted by Howard University College of Medicine, Office of Continuing Medical Education.
Please visit http://huhma.belmontclinic.com for more details.
Volume 1, Issue 2
PagePage
9
9
Graduate Medical Education
Information
for Residency
Matching.
The AISM team
thanked the Administration
of AISM for
facilitating the
process for their participation in the exercise. Members of USAHAP
The Accreditation Council
for Graduate
Education
(ACGME)
congratulated
the AISM teamMedical
and stated that
their participation
made
a difference
and hasfor
significantly
contributed
to the7,800
success
of the
is a private professional organization
responsible
the accreditation
of nearly
residency
exercise
at Corriverton.
education programs. Residency
education
is the period of clinical education in a medical specialty
that follows graduation from The
medical
school,
and
prepares
physicians
the independent
USAHAP
team
also
indicated
that theyfor
would
like to involvepracour
tice of medicine.
students in other projects in Guyana and would be visiting us to discuss as the need arise.
American Medical Association (AMA)
Medical Education, 515 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: 312-464-5333 | Fax: 312-464-5830 | E-mail: fred_lenhoff@ama-assn.org
The American Medical Student Association (AMSA)
is the oldest
and largest independent association of physicians in-training in the U.S. Founded in 1950, AMSA
is a student-governed, non-profit organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training.
Careers in Medicine
is a four-phase course that is designed to assist you in under-
standing your options for choosing a specialty and selecting and applying to a residency program
to meet your career objectives. Careers in Medicine can be used as both a self-managed course
and/or combined with career/specialty guidance programs provided by your medical school. Career MD.com is produced by Career Publications, Inc. Program directors pay for the opportunity
to have their program descriptions included in the web site; students may also find the articles
on personal statements and interview preparation to be informative.
Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS)
is a service which
transmits residency applications, letters of recommendation, Dean’s Letters, transcripts, and other supporting credentials from medical schools to residency program directors using the Internet.
The Commencement and Award
Exercise for the
Class of 2012 of
The America
International
School of Medicine
will be held on
Friday, May 25
2012 at 10:00
a.m. at the Georgia Pacific Building, 133 Peachtree
Street, Atlanta,
Georgia 30303.
FREIDA Online – Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database Access is a database containing information on approximately
7,500 graduate medical education programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate
Medical Education (ACGME) and 200 combined specialty programs. By defining and prioritizing
various selection criteria you can select several programs or key in on a specific program for
viewing. For AMA student and resident members FREIDA Online provides a mailing label service
at no charge for 30 programs.
The National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) is a private, not
-for-profit corporation established in 1952 to provide a uniform date of appointment to positions
in graduate medical education (GME).
The San Francisco Match handles applications for residencies in Ophthalmology,
Otolaryngology, Neurology, Neurological Surgery & Plastic Surgery. (Residents who have completed 3-5 years of general surgery may apply for plastic surgery positions through the San Francisco match. Senior medical students apply for plastic surgery positions through the NRMP.
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is home of the Boards.
See next issue for PLAB & CAMCE
“AISM celebrates the
success of each
student, graduate
and members.
Every success is our
institution’s glory”
Page 10
AISM TIMES
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
May—August, 2012

May 2012—Semester Starts

25 May—Graduation Dinner

26 May 2012—Graduation ceremony - Atl. Ga

26 May 2012— First Aid Training Program Begins

4 July—US Independence Day Celebration

6 July—First AID Training Program—Session #2

7 July—AISM Career Day ( Georgetown Campus )

13 July— Gamesamania AISM Georgetown Campus ( Games Night )

27 July—Completion of the First Aid Training Program. ( Certificate Award Ceremony )

17 August - Deadline for Applying for Fall Semester

7 September—Orientation for Fall Semester

10 September—Beginning of Fall Semester
RESOURCES COLUMN
Conferences 2012
 ADA 2012: American Diabetes Association 72nd Scientific Sessions
Dates:08 June 2012 - 12 June 2012
Location: Philadelphia, United States of America (USA)
Email for more information:professionaleducation@diabetes.org
 International Academy of Cardiology, 17th World Congress on Heart Disease, Annual Scientific Sessions 2012
Dates:27 July 2012 - 30 July 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Contact Name: Asher Kimchi, M.D., Congress Chairman
Email for more information:klimedco@ucla.edu
Scholarships / Grants 2013
 American College of Surgeons - International Guest Scholarships 2013
The American College of Surgeons offers International Guest Scholarships to young surgeons from countries other than the
United States or Canada who have demonstrated strong interests in teaching and research. The scholarships, in the amount of
$10,000 each, provide the Scholars with an opportunity to visit clinical, teaching, and research activities in North America and
to attend and participate fully in the educational opportunities and activities of the American College of Surgeons Clinical
Congress. For more information visit: http://www.facs.org/memberservices/igs.html
Volume
1, Issue
2
viruses to attach
to cells.
Without the
Immunological Response continued…...
specificthe
to an
antigen. Mast
cellsfor
arefacilitating the
The AISM team thanked
Administration
of AISM
PagePage
11
ability to attach to cells viruses cannot
cells common
the Members
connec- of
process
for their large
participation
in the within
exercise.
USAHAP
Neighboring cells, they modify
the cells.
reproduce.
tissues
of the
body.
Theyparticipation
are
congratulated
AISM
team and
stated
that their
made
Another key factor in the
immune thetive
After an immune complex is formed, i.e.
predominantly
found
within
the
digesa
difference
and
has
significantly
contributed
to
the
success
of
the
response
is
the
inflammatory
antigen-antibody complex after an antitive system, blood vessels and the resat Corriverton.
response. This occurs when asexercise
a response
gen has been neutralized a certain type of
piratory system. When antigens into tissue destruction or injuryThe
by USAHAP
an anti- team
also indicated that they would like to involve
white our
blood cell called Eosinophils
vade Mast cells are large cells common
gen (bacteria), heat, injury students
or trauma,
in other projects in Guyana and would be visitingdestroy
us to disthese complexes. These comthe connective tissues of the
harsh chemical exposure on the
andneed within
cussskin
as the
arise.
bined antigen/antibody complexes are
body. They are predominantly found
toxins.
thought to be the causative agents of
within the digestive system, blood
This inflammatory process is initiated by
some
autoimmune
diseases.
vessels and the respiratory system.
the release of certain chemicals including
When antigens invade the body, mast
serotonin, histamine and bradykinin by the
cells explode, releases histamine and IgE is a type of antibody or immunoglobudamaged tissue. Swelling then follows as
serotonin and thereby starting the lin that is present is very small amounts in
fluid is leaked into the tissue, a direct funcinflammatory process.
the blood stream. IgE also known as
tion of these chemicals. This swelling reEpsilon Globulin or Immunoglobulin E
Similarly, during an asthma attack,
sponse keeps the foreign particles isolated
plays a very important role in the
large quantities of histamine and seroor rather confined within this fluid filled
immune response to allergens, thus its
tonins are released from the mast cells
cavity.
heightened roles in allergic responses.It is
within in the respiratory system. The
Acting with a certain level of "intelligence"
produced by IgE Plasma Cells which are a
category of mast cells found within the
phagocytes (a type of white blood cell)
specialized type of B-Lymphocytes.
bloodstream is known as basophils
surround, engulf and destroy the subwhich comprise about 1% of the total IgE bind to antigens during an immune
stance or antigens and thereby hinder
white blood cell count. Basophils are response and brings into reaction the
further contact with body tissues. After
immobile and are not inhabitants of basophils in the blood stream and the
this process the phagocytes die and are
connective tissues. By releasing their mast cells in the connective tissue that
released in pus along with dead tissue,
store of heparin and histamine, baso- burst and release histamine and
dead cells, dead bacteria and live phagophils are able to ingest antigens during serotonin as a part of the defense mechacytes. This process of antigen engulfment
an immune response. The Immuno- nism. When histamine is released by
and destruction is known as phagocytosis.
globulin (Antibody) called IgE binds to these cells it binds to nearby blood
the
basophils
in
the
blood. vessels and causes them to dilate. This
By definition White Blood Cells are groups
of blood cells that function as an integral
then lead to an immune reaction such as
component of the immune system and by
itching, stuffiness, rhinorrhea, swelling,
This process is mediated by T-Cells
extension the immune response. They
etc. These symptoms are common in
which maintain a "memory" of every
defend the body against antigens.
rhinitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis/
type of invading antigen since
eczema, etc.
birth. Antibodies are then formed to
White Blood Cells differ from Red blood
counter these antigens. Should the Another Immunoglobulin that is common
cells in that they are nucleated, colorless
antigen try to invade the body in allergic responses is IgE, also known at
and are far less in number.
again, an immune response occurs and Gamma Globulin and Immunoglobulin G.
Leukocytosis or Granulocytosis is an
the antigen is quickly neutralized or IgG is mostly noted during an infective or
increase in the number of White Blood
destroyed because a "memory" of it inflammatory response. It permeates the
Cells usually resulting from a non-viral
exist, therefore the body knows how body’s tissue during an inflammatory
infection such as an allergic response.
to counter it. In other words antibod- response and encourages phagocytic
Antibodies are molecules that are found in
ies are "tailor-made" to specifically activity. It is also noted that IgG helps
the blood and other secretory fluids that
lock into the millions of different struc- with the prevention of reoccurring respirmark, destroy and or neutralize antigens.
tures of antigens.
atory tract infections. Person with lower
Antibodies are included in a class of proIgG levels usually have reoccurring respirAntibodies can destroy harmful bacteteins called Immunoglobulin which is proatory tract infections.
ria and viruses. They destroy harmful
duced within lymphoid tissue in the lymph
bacteria by attaching to them and
nodes and spleen by a type of white blood
viruses by neutralizing the outer
cell called B-lymphocytes. Each antibody is
coating of the viruses that enable the
11
American International School of Medicine
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AISM TIMES
Case Study: Surgery for adenocarcinoma of the prostate cont’d
Gleason scores. However, patients with a life
expectancy of at least 10-15 years should be
considered for definitive treatment. There
have been very few prospective studies comparing the outcomes of RP versus RT, and
the selection of treatment modality remains
strongly dependent on patient characteristics. Over the years, different approaches to
surgical removal of the prostate have been
described. Today, the most common techniques are open retropubic RP and roboticassisted laparoscopic RP. RP is most often
performed in younger patients in relatively
good health whose tumors are localized to
the prostate gland (stage I and stage II), as is
illustrated by the patient in this case study.
Pelvic lymph node dissection to evaluate
whether the disease has metastasized out of
the gland is usually only performed during
retropubic surgery.
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IT IS THE PLACE FOR THOSE WHO
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YOU WILL - BE CHALLENGED BY
DEMANDING SUPPORTIVE
PROFESSORS!
YOU WILL - LEARN THE ART OF
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PROFESSIONALISM!
YOU WILL - APPRECIATE YOUR
PURPOSE AND SERVICE
TO HUMANITY!
YOU WILL - VALUE YOUR CHOICEOF
BEING A MEDICAL DOCTOR
Complications of RP may include urinary incontinence, urethral stricture, and sexual impotence. For example, in a 2004 longitudinal analysis of men (N = 901; Prostate Cancer Outcomes Study) aged 55 to 74 years who had recently undergone RP, 15% of subjects had either frequent urinary incontinence or lack of
urinary control 5 years after surgery, and 20%
wore pads to stay dry. Inability to have an erection sufficient for intercourse was also reported
by 79% of subjects. However, continued refinements to RP techniques and strategies have
lead to ongoing overall improvements in clinical
outcomes.
References
Source:http://primeinc.org/casestudies/physician/study
“The worst thing about medicine is that
one kind makes another necessary “
~Elbert Hubbard