The Journal of infection
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The Journal of infection · Nov 2013
Review Meta AnalysisCommercial MPT64-based tests for rapid identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex: a meta-analysis.
We did a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies to evaluate the accuracy of commercial MPT64-based immunochromatographic tests for rapid identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. ⋯ Commercial MPT64-based immunochromatographic tests are highly sensitive and specific for rapid identification of M. tuberculosis complex. They are good alternatives to biochemical test and molecular assays. Nevertheless, additional studies are required in setting with high prevalence of mpt64 mutations or high contamination of cultures.
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The Journal of infection · Nov 2013
A population based study of the epidemiology of Herpes Zoster and its complications.
To assess the incidence of Herpes Zoster (HZ) and its complications in the Israeli general population and specifically in immune-compromised individuals, and to identify risk factors for developing HZ and post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). ⋯ Extrapolating to the entire Israeli population, we estimate over 24,000 new cases of HZ and 1250 new cases of PHN each year. Cost-effectiveness analysis should be performed to determine the threshold age for vaccination against HZ.