Irish journal of medical science
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The study investigates the diagnostic and prognostic value of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) in patients with sepsis and septic shock. ⋯ PCT was a reliable diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of septic shock compared to CRP. Both CRP and PCT were shown to have poor predictive value with regard to 30-day all-cause mortality and were not associated with the risk of all-cause mortality in patients admitted with sepsis or septic shock.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Erectile dysfunction and metabolic syndrome components in obese men with psoriasis: response to a 12-week randomized controlled lifestyle modification program (exercise with diet restriction).
Erectile dysfunction (ED) and metabolic syndrome (MeTS) are highly prevalent in chronic plaque psoriasis (CPP). ⋯ A 12-week lifestyle modification program as a tool for weight loss in obese men with CPP is a good therapeutic method to improve psoriasis severity and psoriasis-associated ED and MeTS.
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Denosumab is commonly used by general practitioners (GPs) in Ireland to treat osteoporosis though drug holidays are not recommended with rebound bone loss and risk of vertebral fractures if stopped. We aimed to investigate GP practice and knowledge regarding denosumab including use and reasons for use, therapy duration, blood monitoring and recommended vitamin D status/calcium intake on treatment, staff administering, methods of recall, delays in receiving injections, management of and awarenes of guidelines if stopped, reasons for stopping and concerns about same. ⋯ We identified a knowledge gap in denosumab prescribing among a sample of Irish GPs. Findings suggest a need for education to increase awareness around denosumab use and to consider recall systems in GP practices as suggested elsewhere to ensure persistence with therapy.
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It is difficult to predict the expected survival after lumbar instrumented surgery for metastases owing to the difference among different cancer origins and the relatively short survival after surgery. ⋯ The postoperative survival period of patients with lumbar metastatic spinal tumors according to different primary cancers after instrumented fusion was ˃1 year overall, with differences according to different primary origins. This result may provide information regarding the expected postoperative survival after instrumented surgery for lumbar spinal metastases.