British medical bulletin
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British medical bulletin · Dec 2014
ReviewPlatelet-rich plasma injections for chronic plantar fasciopathy: a systematic review.
There is an increasing interest in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection as a treatment for chronic plantar fasciopathy (PF). We wished to evaluate the evidence for the use of PRP in PF/fasciitis. ⋯ Evidence for the use of PRP in PF shows promising results, and this therapy appears safe. However, the number of studies available is limited and randomized placebo-controlled studies are required. Characterizing the details of the intervention and standardizing the outcome scores would help to better document the responses and optimize the treatment.
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British medical bulletin · Dec 2014
ReviewMemory difficulties are not always a sign of incipient dementia: a review of the possible causes of loss of memory efficiency.
Memory problems are a very common reason for presenting to primary care. There is a need for better treatments for dementia. Increased government and media interest may result in greater number seeking help for memory problems, which may not reduce the dementia gap but rather increase numbers seen who do not have dementia. This review highlights the issues around the diagnostic criteria and terminology used for people with memory complaints. ⋯ The accurate distinction of premorbid dementia syndromes from benign non-progressive memory problems. Studies of treatment options for people with benign non-progressive memory problems and longer-term follow-up to determine which patients develop chronic problems.
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Genomic science is developing rapidly, and engagement of public health professionals will be necessary to appraise new technologies and use them effectively. ⋯ Public health researchers should address how to accelerate the implementation of genomics for health benefit in developed and developing countries.
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British medical bulletin · Dec 2014
ReviewHigh-resolution imaging of bone and joint architecture in rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by local and systemic bone loss caused by increased bone resorption. We describe the current utilization of high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) in the evaluation of bone and joint in RA. ⋯ Although HR-pQCT is currently a research tool, there is potential for its use in the clinical diagnosis and management in RA. Further research is required to evaluate the clinical relevance of imaging abnormalities identified in RA patients.
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British medical bulletin · Dec 2014
ReviewCare of the dying: how do we replace the Liverpool Care Pathway?
Death is an inescapable certainty of life. Variability in care for dying persons, however, is present. The Liverpool Care Pathway (LCP) sought to guide care for the last days of life but was phased out after intense scrutiny. ⋯ Perceptions of relevant terminology; review of the definition of dying; improved recognition of the dying process and measuring the impact of communication skills training.