Arch Otolaryngol
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To characterize the relationship between allergic rhinitis, the severity and duration of nasal disease, olfactory function, and self-reported olfactory symptoms, including fluctuations or distortions in odor perception. ⋯ There appears to be a continuum of duration and severity of olfactory loss in allergic rhinitis that parallels increasing severity of nasal-sinus disease. As a result of the increased frequency of respiratory infection associated with allergic rhinitis, these patients are at risk for damage to the olfactory epithelium.
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To determine the safety of a relatively brief (<3-hour) period of postoperative observation prior to discharge in children undergoing outpatient tonsillectomy. ⋯ A short postoperative observation period is safe, with a low rate of complications, in appropriately selected children scheduled for ambulatory tonsillectomy.
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Xerostomia (dry mouth) is a clinical symptom due to a number of factors, including Sjögren syndrome and radiation treatment to the head and neck region. It has been reported that acupuncture increases the salivary flow rate (SFR) in healthy subjects and in patients with xerostomia. A prognostic tool that would allow the care provider to identify patients who may respond to acupuncture treatment will aid in early intervention and thus lead to normalized SFR or relief of symptoms. ⋯ The pilocarpine test was found to have a high sensitivity and good positive predictive value in identifying patients who may respond to acupuncture for the treatment of xerostomia.
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To review the medical records of neonates found to have birth-associated trauma of the head and neck region. To describe the anomalies, physical findings, and possible sequelae of these injuries and to bring attention to the cause of mechanical birth injury as a potential cause of anomalies in the infant. ⋯ Birth-associated head and neck trauma is rare. However, mechanical birth-associated trauma must be considered when assessing anomalies, injuries, respiratory difficulty, or feeding difficulties in the neonate or infant. A comprehensive approach is required to diagnose and manage these patients.
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To report the benefits and complications of subcutaneous interferon alfa-2a therapy for hemangiomas in children. ⋯ In pediatric patients with massive or life-threatening hemangiomas, interferon alfa-2a therapy is an effective treatment option. However, neurological evaluation before and during therapy with interferon alfa-2a should be performed owing to a significant incidence of neurological abnormalities (28%). Although all children with neurological findings demonstrated neurological recovery after discontinuation of therapy, we have changed our protocol and now more gradually increase the dosage of interferon alfa-2a up to 3 million U/m2 per day. The effect of this modification on the development of neurological abnormalities has not yet been determined.