Dtsch Arztebl Int
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Postoperative surgical site infections (SSI) account for almost 25% of all nosocomial infections in Germany and are a source of increased morbidity and mortality. ⋯ The evidence shows that perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis is a component of a bundle of measures that can help prevent SSI. Strict indications and adherence to the basic principles of PAP are essential for therapeutic success.
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Phenibut (β-phenyl-γ-aminobutyric acid) is an analog of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Like gabapentin and pregabalin, it inhibits α2-δ-subunits of voltage-dependent presynaptic calcium channels. The potential harm resulting from the use of these gabapentinoids is currently a matter of debate. ⋯ Phenibut causes symptoms resembling those of gabapentinoid and benzodiazepine use. There have been reports of phenibut use in combination with other psychotropic drugs; in particular, its use together with opiates could increase the risk of coma and respiratory depression. No deaths due to phenibut intoxication have been published in Germany or elsewhere in Western Europe, although such cases may have been overlooked, as this drug is still largely unknown to Western medicine.
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Observational Study
Differences in Anthropometric Measures Based on Sex, Age, and Health Status: Findings From the German National Cohort (NAKO).
Obesity is a worldwide health problem. We conducted detailed analyses of anthropometric measures in a comprehensive, population-based, current cohort in Germany. ⋯ Obesity is widespread in Germany, with notable differences between the sexes in anthropometric values. Obesity was more common in older participants and those with chronic diseases other than cancer. Elevated values were especially common in multimorbid individuals.
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Review
The Clinical Features of Hereditary Alpha-Tryptasemia—Implications for Interdisciplinary Practice.
Hereditary alpha-tryptasemia (HAT) is a genetic predisposition of autosomal dominant inheritance that leads to a high normal (≥ 8-11.4 μg/L) or pathologically elevated (>11.4 μg/L) basal serum tryptase (BST) concentration. Its prevalence in the United Kingdom and France is reportedly 5%-6%; its prevalence in Germany is unknown. Symptomatic persons with HAT suffer from a complex constellation of symptoms. As described in this review, HAT is an important differential diagnosis in interdisciplinary practice. ⋯ A diagnosis of hereditary alpha-tryptasemia can be strongly suspected on the basis of thorough history-taking and BST measurement and then confirmed by molecular genetic testing.
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After an acute deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of the lower limb, 20% to 65% of patients develop post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). In this review, we address the efficacy of compression therapy in the treatment of acute DVT of the lower limb, and for the prevention of PTS. ⋯ Compression therapy relieves symptoms in acute DVT and lessens the frequency and severity of PTS. It is therefore recommended as standard treatment.