Brit J Hosp Med
-
Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia is a rare, genetic disorder that can present at any age. It is characterised by epistaxis, mucocutaneous telangiectasia and visceral arteriovenous malformations, which can affect multiple organs. Early diagnosis and management reduces the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. ⋯ This article presents the experience to date from two regional UK centres (Liverpool and Dundee) where care for patients with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia is being coordinated and streamlined. While there is still a lot to learn, this article highlights some of the successes and challenges identified so far, with suggestions for how these could be addressed. Collaborative regional networks such as these can facilitate the sharing of best practice and ensure that all patients with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia are able to access safe, high-quality care.
-
Cystic fibrosis is a life-limiting, inherited, multi-organ disease which affects many systems of the body. Until recently, treatments were only able to ameliorate symptoms, but the introduction of precision medications which modulate the underlying defect in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene has changed this. ⋯ This article summarises the discussion of a group of healthcare professionals from different specialties and an expert patient, representing their personal views and experience of treating patients who are using CFTR modulators. The discussion was sponsored by an unrestricted grant from Chiesi Limited (Manchester, UK).
-
In recent years, the number of people pursuing a surgical career in the UK has decreased. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cancellation of surgical placements for medical students and has affected surgical education. This study evaluates the perceptions and impact of a 1-day virtual surgical conference for medical students considering pursuing a surgical career. ⋯ Virtual surgical conferences have many benefits and can help encourage medical students towards a surgical career. They could help bridge the surgical educational gap in medical school during these unprecedented times. Virtual conferences, which have a broader and more inclusive reach, could be an important complement to conventional conferences after the pandemic.
-
Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic condition characterised by autoimmune destruction of intralobular bile ducts. Publications have shown widespread gaps in the care of patients with primary biliary cholangitis. This article reviews the literature regarding currently licensed first- and second-line therapies and evaluates therapeutic options for symptomatic management of primary biliary cholangitis. ⋯ There is no licensed therapy for primary biliary cholangitis-related fatigue; treating underlying causes where applicable is recommended. Disease-modifying and symptomatic therapies must be considered in tandem when managing patients with primary biliary cholangitis. Emerging therapies show initial promise but further randomised trials with long-term follow up are required to evaluate their efficacy as single or combination therapies.