Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery
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Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Jun 2006
ReviewEvaluation and management of angioedema of the head and neck.
Sudden occurrence of subcutaneous or submucosal swelling, the so-called angioedema, is an established and potentially life-threatening condition. Several forms of angioedema show a great variety of tissue localizations and different underlying mechanisms such as genetic mutations, allergic reactions and nonallergic reactions exist. Unfortunately, angioedema is often unrecognized and/or incorrectly treated. To change this situation, a better understanding of angioedema and possible therapeutic approaches appears necessary. ⋯ Current data suggest that the nonapetide bradykinin plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of most forms of nonallergic angioedema, while histamine acts as the main biogenic mediator in allergic angioedema. Thus, correct diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Standard antiallergic drugs such as glucocorticoids and antihistamines are most probably ineffective in nonallergic angioedema forms.
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Disorders of the sense of smell can result through hundreds of different processes, but most commonly occur from upper-respiratory-tract infections, trauma, and chronic rhinosinusitis. ⋯ Currently, aside from the possible therapeutic potential of systemic steroids, we have no effective treatment for the most common causes of olfactory loss. Recent advances in the basic science of olfaction provides us with an opportunity to develop new and novel clinical studies in an attempt at improving the quality of life for many of these patients.
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Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Aug 2005
ReviewScar management: prevention and treatment strategies.
Aberrant wound healing results in unsightly scar, hypertrophic scar, and keloid formation, causing functional and cosmetic deformities, discomfort, psychological stress, and patient dissatisfaction. Scar prevention and management, both surgical and nonsurgical, continue to be important issues for the otolaryngologist. ⋯ Despite optimal efforts to avoid scar formation, aberrant wound healing may occur. The use of topical agents and intralesional steroid injections can minimize early scar formation. Strategies for prevention and management of keloids and hypertrophic scars continue to develop, as the basic science mechanisms underlying aberrant wound healing are elucidated.
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Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Jun 2005
ReviewSevere acute respiratory syndrome: responses of the healthcare system to a global epidemic.
To evaluate recent developments in the response of the healthcare system to the threat of severe acute respiratory syndrome in the context of the Toronto experience. ⋯ The ongoing response to severe acute respiratory syndrome is continued effective infection control education, development of local and global policies for reacting to a severe acute respiratory syndrome-like outbreak in the future, and continued work on a vaccine for severe acute respiratory syndrome.