The Medical journal of Australia
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Hospital and laboratory data indicate that human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is endemic to central Australia, but no community-based studies of its prevalence or disease burden have been reported. We determined the prevalence rates of HTLV-1 infection and of HTLV-1-associated diseases in a remote Indigenous community. ⋯ The prevalence of HTLV-1 infection and the rate of disease potentially attributable to HTLV-1 were high among adults in this remote community.
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Barrett's oesophagus is a condition characterised by partial replacement of the normal squamous epithelium of the lower oesophagus by a metaplastic columnar epithelium containing goblet cells (intestinal metaplasia). Barrett's oesophagus is important clinically because those afflicted are predisposed to oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Prevalence surveys suggest that up to 2% of the population may be affected; most will be unaware of their diagnosis. ⋯ While generalised population screening for Barrett's oesophagus is not recommended, endoscopic surveillance of patients with confirmed Barrett's oesophagus is recommended, with surveillance intervals dependent on segment length and presence of dysplasia. New techniques such as endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic radiofrequency ablation are now available to treat patients with dysplasia and early oesophageal adenocarcinoma. New screening and surveillance technologies are currently under investigation; these may prove cost-effective in identifying and managing patients in the community.