Irish journal of medical science
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In addition to its direct cytotoxic effects, radiation therapy renders tumor cells more susceptible to T cell-mediated cytotoxicity by modulating cell surface molecules involved in antigen presentation. The purpose of the present study was to determine the benefit of combined 89Sr radiation and dendritic cell (DC) vaccine therapy in bone metastasis patients. ⋯ The study has important implications for that combined 89Sr radiation, and DC vaccine therapy can benefit cancer patients with bone metastasis.
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The MAGIC/UK Medical Research Council (MRC) trial set the standard of care for treatment of resectable gastric and junctional adenocarcinoma, demonstrating that perioperative chemotherapy with epirubicin, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (ECF) confers a survival benefit over surgery alone. The randomized ECF for advanced and locally advanced esophagogastric cancer (REAL-2) trial showed that, in the metastatic setting, the EOX regimen (epirubicin, oxaliplatin and capecitabine) is as effective as ECF, with a favourable toxicity profile. ⋯ This study in a high-volume centre demonstrates that EOX in resectable gastric and junctional adenocarcinoma is associated with a reasonable safety profile, and efficacy consistent with that reported for ECF.
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In patients with large gland volume, open prostatectomy/adenoma enucleation remains a valuable surgical option in treating large obstructing prostates. We report our series of open prostatectomies spanning 32 years from a single institution. ⋯ Open Millin's prostatectomy popularized over half a century ago continues to be a valuable option for the surgical treatment of high-volume prostate glands with excellent outcomes for patients.
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A meta-analysis of 25 international studies suggests that 4.2-6.0% of medical admissions are the result of an adverse drug reaction (ADR). One Irish study has found that 8.8% of admissions to a university teaching hospital were attributable to ADRs. ⋯ This study outlines the feasibility of screening for ADR-related admission in the hospital setting. ADRs constitute an important and avoidable cause of hospital admission.
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Observational Study
An audit of drug shortages in a community pharmacy practice.
There are no firm data on drug shortages in Irish community pharmacy. This prospective observational study aimed to characterise the drug shortage problem in an Irish community pharmacy. ⋯ This study highlights the drug shortage problem in an Irish community pharmacy. We propose that enhanced communication between all stakeholders is the most worthwhile solution. Further studies are needed.