Irish journal of medical science
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Target blood pressure control in patients with type 2 diabetes should be 130/85 mmHg or less; however, it is not clear how achievable this target is in clinical practice. ⋯ Adequate blood pressure control was underachieved in this patient group underlying the difficulty in treating blood pressure to target values in patients with type 2 diabetes in the setting of outpatient diabetes clinics. A more aggressive strategy, in particular the use of multiple antihypertensive agents should be adopted.
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Comparative Study
Risperidone compared with olanzapine in a naturalistic clinical study in Ireland: a cost analysis.
Risperidone and olanzapine are thought to have similar clinical effects. This study was designed to compare costs of treatment. ⋯ Risperidone was associated with significantly lower drug treatment costs.
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[corrected] Urological complications are the major cause of ill health during childhood and adult life of patients with spina bifida but the significance of urinary tract disease on the individual and the healthcare services is underemphasised. ⋯ This study highlights the surgical commitment for units caring for patients with spina bifida, the important considerations for the future healthcare services, and the range and severity of urological diseases encountered by these patients.
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Benzodiazepines, which are commonly administered perioperatively, can depress immune function. Neutrophil apoptosis plays a central role in the regulation of inflammation. This is particularly important during and after surgery. ⋯ Administration of benzodiazepines in clinically relevant doses inhibits neutrophil apoptosis. In the perioperative period, this may influence the inflammatory response to surgery.
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Hydatid disease is rare in Ireland and its incidence and prevalence are unknown. Most cases are diagnosed by a combination of clinical findings, morphological features on imaging and by serological testing. ⋯ The diagnosis of this rare disease requires a high index of suspicion. Treatment is primarily surgical, with a role for antihelminthic agents.