The Journal of family practice
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Lidocaine patch 5 for carpal tunnel syndrome: how it compares with injections: a pilot study.
A standard treatment option for mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a local injection of anesthetic-corticosteroid, but this can be painful and may cause complications. This pilot clinical trial was designed to compare the safety and efficacy of daily applications of the lidocaine patch 5% to that of a single injection of 0.5 cc lidocaine 1% plus methylprednisolone acetate (Depo-Medrol) 40 mg. ⋯ This pilot trial demonstrated that the lidocaine patch 5% was efficacious in reducing pain associated with CTS and was well tolerated. The lidocaine patch 5% may offer patients with CTS effective, noninvasive treatment for the management of their symptoms. Further controlled trials are warranted.
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Recent studies in primary care settings indicate that African Americans face health disparities in the treatment of major depression. We reviewed the literature to find evidence of specific patient, physician, and practice-setting factors related to such barriers. ⋯ Research indicates that African Americans who have depression may be frequently under diagnosed and inadequately managed in primary care as a result of patient, physician, and treatment-setting factors. Our systematic review can assist family physicians in understanding how to overcome such barriers to the diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders in African American patients.
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Practice Guideline
Which late-stage Alzheimer's patients should be referred for hospice care?