Ugeskrift for laeger
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Sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock are syndromes. The incidence of sepsis is as high as 35% and with mortality rates in the intensive care unit from 27% to 54% in sepsis and septic shock, respectively. ⋯ The treatment of severe sepsis and septic shock is based on the Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines developed by an international expert panel. Early diagnosis, optimization of haemodynamics, rapid identification of focus and adequate antibiotic treatment are the most important strategies.
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Ugeskrift for laeger · Jun 2014
Review[Assessment of the prognosis in patients who remain comatose after resuscitation from cardiac arrest].
In Denmark there are around 3,500 unexpected cardiac arrests (CA) out of hospital each year. There is an unknown number of CA in hospitals. ⋯ The purpose of this work is to disseminate new knowledge and to help standardizing the treatment in the group of patients who remain comatose after being resuscitated from CA. Assessment of the prognosis for a patient in this group can be made after 72 hours and a multi-modal approach to the patient is required.
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Optic disc oedema describes the nonspecific, localized swelling of the optic nerve head regardless of aetiology. Therefore, differentiating among the various aetiologies depends on a thorough history and knowledge of the clinical characteristics of the underlying conditions. ⋯ It is usually a bilateral condition and visual function is preserved until late. Optic disc oedema caused by an anterior optic neuropathy is usually unilateral and accompanied by the loss of visual function.
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Ugeskrift for laeger · Feb 2014
Review[Faecal transplantation as a treatment for Clostridium difficile infection, ulcerative colitis and the metabolic syndrome.]
Faecal transplantation as a therapeutic tool is increasingly reported in the scientific literature. Faecal transplantation is currently becoming a treatment for nosocomial, refractory infections with C. difficile. ⋯ In the accumulated literature faecal transplantations appear to be safe, effective and superior to current treatments. Faecal transplantation remains a sparsely investigated treatment, however, especially for other diagnoses than C. difficile infection.
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Ugeskrift for laeger · Feb 2014
Review[Bladder pain and urinary tract symptoms as a consequence of ketamine abuse].
A recent study has shown that ketamine has become popular among Danish clubgoers. The drug can induce psychedelic effects but it also has serious urological side effects, such as frequency and urgency in relation to voiding as well as pain from the bladder and haematuria. ⋯ Mild changes are reversible on cessation of ketamine abuse but long-term abuse can cause fibrosis of the bladder and may necessitate cystectomy. Therefore, physicians should ask young patients with bladder symptoms of unknown pathology about ketamine abuse.