Dtsch Arztebl Int
-
Conflicting information about the proper treatment of head lice has given rise to uncertainty among patients and treating personnel. For example, the reported efficacy of permethrin fell from 97% in the 1990s to 30% in 2010. ⋯ Outbreaks of head lice can be successfully terminated by synchronous treatment with ovicidal dimethicones.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Interprofessional Medication Management in Patients With Multiple Morbidities.
Medication reviews and medication management are being used more and more around the world to improve medication safety. Both of these tools were originally conceived as pharmaceutical care activities and have recently been developed into interdisciplinary approaches. We studied the efficacy of interprofessional medication management for multimorbid patients that takes their medical conditions, but also their general living situation into account. ⋯ In this study, interprofessional collaboration increased medication safety. Working across disciplinary boundaries allowed for a decrease in drugrelated problems and brought up aspects outside the purview of the primary care physician.
-
In 2001, calculations in models based on atomic bomb survivors indicated that children exposed to ionizing radiation by computed tomography (CT) would be expected to have an increased risk of cancer. This led to the issuance of new recommendations in Germany concerning CT in children. ⋯ In view of the risks, children should undergo CT only for the indications listed by the German Commission on Radiological Protection (Strahlenschutzkommission). Further epidemiological studies are needed for estimation of the risk associated with the use of newer CT technology.
-
Practice Guideline
The Diagnosis and Treatment of Peripheral Arterial Vascular Disease.
In peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), arterial stenosis or occlusion impairs perfusion in the territory of the distal portion of the aorta and the iliac and leg arteries. In Germany, the prevalence of PAOD rises with age, reaching 20% among persons over age 70. ⋯ The diagnostic assessment of PAOD is based on physical examination, measurement of the ankle-brachial index (ABI), and duplex ultrasonography. Acetylsalicylic acid and statins are indicated for patients with symptomatic PAOD. Endovascular procedures should be used if indicated. Randomized studies are needed to provide better evidence on many open questions in the treatment of PAOD.
-
Cardiovascular disease continues to be the single most common cause of death and to account for the largest single portion of treatment costs in Germany. Reliable data on regional differences in the frequency of cardio - vascular disease are important for the planning of targeted care structures and preventive measures. ⋯ There are relevant differences among the German federal states in the lifetime prevalence of major cardiovascular disease, which are only partly accounted for by differences in age and sex distribution, socioeconomic status, and community size.