European urology
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To assess the clinical role of corticosteroids in the medical expulsive therapy of symptomatic distal ureteral stones. ⋯ When the medical expulsive therapy for symptomatic distal ureteral stones is considered, the use of steroids (deflazacort) proves efficient only when administered together with alpha(1)-blockers (tamsulosin). In addition, tamsulosin used on its own as a medical expulsive therapy can be considered as an alternative treatment for those patients who are not suitable for steroid therapy, as it is generally efficient.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Intra- and peri-operative outcomes comparing radical retropubic and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: results from a prospective, randomised, single-surgeon study.
To prospectively compare intra- and peri-operative outcomes of open radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) and laparoscopic prostatectomy (LRP) by a single surgeon. ⋯ Laparoscopic prostatectomy is an attractive alternative to open prostatectomy, offering the advantages of reduced blood loss and safe early catheter removal. Furthermore, the laparoscopic procedure proved to be safe oncologically. Long-term follow-up is required to compare functional results in terms of continence and potency.
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Short-course radiotherapy (RT) for metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) due to renal cell carcinoma: results of a retrospective multi-center study.
For MSCC treatment, a short treatment time is desirable, especially if survival prognosis is poor. Survival depends on the primary tumor, extent of disease, performance status, ambulatory status, and the number of involved vertebrae. These factors may help to define the appropriate regimen for the individual patient. Our study compares short-course (1 x 8 Gy, 5 x 4 Gy) and long-course RT (10 x 3 Gy, 15 x 2.5 Gy, 20 x 2 Gy) for functional outcome in MSCC patients with renal cell carcinoma. ⋯ Short-course and long-course RT appear similarly active for MSCC in patients with renal cell carcinoma. Short-course RT appears preferable, as it is means less patient discomfort. Because 1 x 8 Gy and 5 x 4 Gy were comparably effective, 1 x 8 Gy may be suggested the best actual choice.
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Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs) are frequent infections in the outpatient as well as in the nosocomial setting. The stratification into uncomplicated and complicated UTIs has proven to be clinically useful. Bacterial virulence factors on the one side and the integrity of the host defense mechanisms on the other side determine the course of the infection. ⋯ To combat this development several strategies can be followed. Decrease the amount of antibiotics administered, optimal dosing, prevention of infection and development of new antibiotic substances. The aim of this review is to highlight the current and to describe future treatment options for UTIs.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study in men with prostate cancer and rising PSA: effectiveness of a dietary supplement.
Epidemiological studies have shown significant relationships between the use of dietary components and prostate cancer incidence and mortality. Large studies of primary prevention, which confirm these findings, are desirable but costly and difficult to design. The present tertiary prevention study reports on the effect of a dietary supplement in comparison with placebo on the rate of increase of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). ⋯ The soy-based dietary supplement utilised in this study was shown to delay PSA progression after potentially curative treatment in a significant fashion. More extensive studies of the supplement may be indicated.