Monatsschr Kinderh
-
The actual reality of abortion in the Federal Republic of Germany is shocking: in 1984, 100 000-340 00 abortions took place. In contrast to the goals established in the reform of criminal law in Para. 218ff. (StGB) from 1976, unborn life is not protected. Moreover, for "social indications" abortion is being carried out more and more frequently, which results in the killing of new life. ⋯ For the most part the abortions were performed on account of social indications. Since life begins when the sperm and egg fuse, which is also recognized by basic law 14 days after conception, the paediatrician in particular must feel himself responsible for life yet unborn. However, the paediatrician must also stand up for the disabled child and its right to life, because Para. 218ff. did not intend to eliminate disabled children from society.
-
An infant with uremia due to congenital renal hypoplasia was treated with oral aluminum hydroxide for 9 months in an attempt to reduce hyperphosphatemia. An increasingly painful osteopathy with pathological fractures ensued with loss of thoracic wall stability and respiratory failure. Increased serum aluminium levels and histochemically proved deposits of aluminium at the mineralisation front between calcified and noncalcified osteoid were demonstrated. ⋯ Though a low phosphate diet normalized hyperphosphatemia after aluminium hydroxide treatment had been stopped, no effect on the progressive osteopathy was observed. Since aluminium hydroxide as a phosphate binder can be replaced by calcium carbonate or a low phosphate diet at least in young children, it should not be further recommended in this age group. This seems especially important in nondialyzed patients.