Dtsch Arztebl Int
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Chronic congestive heart failure is a common condition that, if untreated, markedly impairs the quality of life and is associated with a high risk of recurrent hospitalization and death. ⋯ The treatment of chronic systolic heart failure as recommended in the relevant guidelines, with drugs and implanted devices if indicated, can significantly improve the clinical outcome.
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Adequate immunity to so-called childhood diseases can lower the occupational risk of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases in persons who work in day-care centers for children. ⋯ Childcare workers have a higher occupational risk of infection but do not always receive the appropriate vaccinations. In particular, women of child-bearing age working in day-care centers should be made more aware of the need for vaccination.
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Neurofibromatosis of types 1 and 2 (NF1, NF2) and schwannomatosis are the diseases that make up the neurofibromatosis spectrum. With respective incidences of 1 in 3000, 1 in 33 000, and 1 in 60 000 births, they form part of the group of rare tumor-suppressor syndromes. They give rise to a greater tumor burden for the nervous system than any other type of neoplastic disease. New approaches to symptomatic treatment are emerging. ⋯ Patients with neurofibromatoses need individualized care. They should be treated in centers of expertise where interdisciplinary consultation is available and new types of pharmacotherapy can be provided.
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The various epidemiological indicators used to communicate the impact of COVID-19 have different strengths and limitations. ⋯ Various indicators of the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic at population level are used in daily communication. Considering the relevance of the pandemic and the importance of relevant communications, however, the strengths and the limitations of each parameter must be considered carefully.
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Stent thrombosis (ST) is a dreaded complication after stent implantation and is associated with a mortality between 5% and 45%. The mechanisms by which ST arises are complex. Because of the seriousness of this situation, all phy - sicians should have at least basic knowledge of it. In this article, we present the risk factors for ST and discuss some innovative approaches to its treatment. ⋯ As the pathophysiology of ST is multifactorial, research in this area presents a special challenge. Prospective clinical trials will be needed to determine whether the systematic use of imaging techniques can lower the frequency of ST.