Internal medicine journal
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Internal medicine journal · Apr 2024
Nocardia species distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility within Australia.
Nocardia is a ubiquitous saprophyte capable of causing human disease. Disease is primarily respiratory or cutaneous, usually acquired via inhalation or inoculation. Under the influence of environmental and host factors, Nocardia incidence and species distribution demonstrate geographical variation. ⋯ We demonstrate geographical variation in the distribution of Nocardia incidence. Four species predominate in the Australian setting, and nationwide data confirm a high in vitro susceptibility to trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole and linezolid, justifying their ongoing role as part of first-line empiric therapy.
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Internal medicine journal · Apr 2024
Quality outcomes for end-of-life care among people with haematological malignancies at a New Zealand cancer centre.
Little is known about the end-of-life (EOL) experience and specialist palliative care use patterns of patients with haematological malignancies (HMs) in New Zealand. ⋯ The findings highlight the intensity of acute healthcare utilisation at the EOL and high rates of death in the acute setting in this population. The rate of specialist palliative care access was relatively high when compared with international experiences, with relatively fewer late referrals.
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Internal medicine journal · Apr 2024
Factors leading to diagnostic delay in tuberculosis in the tropical north of Australia.
Tuberculosis (TB) incidence is decreasing in the Northern Territory (NT) but still exceeds rates elsewhere in Australia. Deaths and morbidity from advanced TB continue, with delay in diagnosis a contributor to adverse outcomes. ⋯ The patient delays we report are longer than reported elsewhere in Australia. The next steps will require concerted efforts to improve community awareness of TB and strategies to strengthen health systems through better resourcing and healthcare provider support.