Deutsche medizinische Wochenschrift
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Infections represent one of the most frequent complications during therapy of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition to associated prolonged phases of neutropenia, damage to the mucosal barrier by cytotoxic agents favors infections caused by endogenous pathogens. The source often remains unknown with bacteremia being the most common evidence of infection. ⋯ Viruses, on the other hand, are rarely the cause of neutropenic fever. Because of the limited inflammatory response in neutropenic patients, fever is often the only sign of infection and therefore always represents a hematologic emergency. Prompt diagnosis and initiation of an adequate anti-infective therapy are critical to avoid progression to sepsis and possibly death.
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Dtsch. Med. Wochenschr. · Apr 2023
[Diagnostic delaying factors in hepatic alveolar echinococcosis].
The purpose of this study was to analyze the diagnostic workflow of patients with alveolar echinococcosis (AE) and to identify possible diagnosis-delaying factors. ⋯ The diagnostic clarification process of AE patients is lengthy and stressful. The psychological burden of a questionable malignant diagnosis is considerable. Early use of contrast-enhanced sonography and, if necessary, puncture of unclear hepatic masses helps to shorten the difficult diagnostic process.
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Dtsch. Med. Wochenschr. · Apr 2023
[Enhanced targeted influenza vaccines - New evidence shows higher effectiveness in older adults].
Seasonal influenza causes a significant burden of disease in the German population and is associated with high societal costs. Persons aged 60 years and older are particularly at risk due to immunosenescence and chronic disease and account for a large proportion of influenza-associated hospitalizations and deaths. ⋯ Some countries have already considered the new evidence in their vaccination recommendations for the current or earlier seasons. The availability of the vaccines for older adults should also be ensured in Germany to guarantee a high level of vaccination protection.