Dtsch Arztebl Int
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Pain and sensory disturbance in the distribution of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve in the ventrolateral portion of the thigh is called meralgia paresthetica (MP). The incidence of MP has risen along with the increasing prevalence of obesity and diabetes mellitus and was recently estimated at 32 new cases per 100 000 persons per year. In this review, we provide an overview of current standards and developments in the diagnosis and treatment of MP. ⋯ The state of the evidence is limited in both quantity and quality, corresponding to evidence level 2a for surgical and non-surgical methods. Advances in imaging and neurophysiological testing have made the diagnosis easier to establish. When intervention is needed, good success rates have been achieved with surgery (decompression, neurectomy), and variable success rates with infiltration.
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There are approximately 140 000 people in Germany with spinal cord injury, with approximately 2400 new patients each year. Cervical spinal cord injuries cause, to varying degrees, weakness and impairment of everyday activities of the limbs (tetraparesis, tetraplegia). ⋯ Modern techniques of hand surgery can help suitably selected tetraparetic and tetraplegic patients regain the use of their upper limbs. Competent interdisciplinary counseling about these surgical options should be offered as early as possible to all affected persons as an integral part of their treatment plan.
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Recent studies suggest that low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) can lower pregnancy-associated morbidity. ⋯ ASA use during pregnancy has benefits beyond reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia. The indications for taking ASA during pregnancy may be extended at some point in the future; at present, in view of the available evidence, it is still restricted to high-risk pregnancies.
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The treatment of dyslipidemias plays a major role in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Proper evaluation of the patient's lipid status is very important for risk assessment and as a guide to treatment. ⋯ Measurement of the concentration of cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL- and LDL-cholesterol and calculation of the non-HDL-C suffice as a guide to lipid-lowering treatment. The primary therapeutic goal is to lower LDL cholesterol.