The British journal of dermatology
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Medical professionals require data about the structure and delivery of dermatological services in primary and secondary care in order to identify and tackle variations in standards and monitor the impact of healthcare reforms. The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) commissioned an audit of the provision of care for patients with psoriasis. ⋯ Units varied in their capacity to meet BAD guidelines and standards. Among the most significant deficiencies identified were a shortage of specialist dermatology nurses, treatment delivery by untrained nurses and financial constraints on the prescription of biologics for psoriasis. Gaps in data collection and record keeping jeopardize efforts to improve standards of care.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Once weekly administration of etanercept 50 mg is efficacious and well tolerated in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: a randomized controlled trial with open-label extension.
In previous studies, etanercept 25 mg twice weekly (BIW) or 50 mg BIW significantly reduced disease severity in patients with plaque psoriasis and demonstrated a favourable safety profile. ⋯ Nearly three-quarters of patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis receiving etanercept 50 mg QW achieved significant improvement in disease severity over 24 weeks. This study also showed a favourable tolerability and safety profile with etanercept 50 mg QW.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Infliximab improves health-related quality of life in the presence of comorbidities among patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis.
Psoriasis affects patients both physically and psychologically. ⋯ Disease severity, depression and PsA were significant predictors of poor HRQoL. Infliximab significantly improved HRQoL, regardless of these characteristics.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Reduction of relapses of atopic dermatitis with methylprednisolone aceponate cream twice weekly in addition to maintenance treatment with emollient: a multicentre, randomized, double-blind, controlled study.
The relapsing nature of atopic dermatitis (AD) presents a challenge for its long-term treatment. Efficacy and safety of corticosteroids have been proven in the acute treatment of active AD, but their long-term efficacy and potential to reduce or prevent relapses have only partially been addressed. ⋯ MPA twice weekly plus an emollient provides an effective maintenance treatment regimen to control AD. Once stabilized, treatment with MPA significantly reduces the risk of relapse and the intensity of itching, and improves the overall patient status.
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Itching (pruritus) following burns is a well-known clinical problem. However, there are no long-term prospective studies that document the course and the extent of the problem. Studies on risk factors are anecdotal. ⋯ Itching remains a significant problem over a 2-year period. Individuals having undergone surgical procedures and experiencing early post-traumatic distress are more likely to suffer from long-term and persistent itching. Implications regarding practice and research are discussed.