Brit J Hosp Med
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Post-thrombotic syndrome and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension are two distinct clinical syndromes associated with adverse patient outcomes following a venous thromboembolism. Clinical manifestations of post-thrombotic syndrome include persistent pain, swelling and ultimately venous ulceration following a deep venous thrombosis. ⋯ The treatment of post-thrombotic syndrome mainly involves lifestyle modifications alongside the use of elastic compression stockings while patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension should be offered targeted surgical and medical treatment options available at expert centres. Further research is warranted for both conditions to determine the role of direct oral anticoagulants when used with a preventive or therapeutic intent.
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Psychological torture, in its broadest sense, is the intentional infliction of suffering without resorting to direct physical violence, in what is known as 'no-touch' torture. While several other definitions of psychological torture have been suggested, there is no one precise definition. Given the rapidly evolving current global political climate and the intensification of conflict, war and asylum seeking, the need for better recognition of psychological torture among clinicians, followed by the provision of appropriate treatment support for victims, has become increasingly pertinent. This article raises awareness of the concept of psychological torture among clinicians, through an overview of its debated definitions, the modalities which constitute this form of torture, and its clinical sequelae and treatment approach.
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The three main theories explaining major mental illness, namely mood disorders, psychoses and dementias, have been partially discredited. Alongside this, there are emerging links between perturbations of the immune system and the onset and phenotypic features of these disorders. This article outlines the alternative pathophysiology and suggests potential treatments which could improve disease burden and avoid the need for psychotropic medication, with their associated side effects and relapse following withdrawal.
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Perioperative neurocognitive disorders are a group of conditions characterised by changes in cognitive function, which affect older people after surgery and anaesthesia. Multicomponent interventions may reduce the impact of perioperative neurocognitive disorders on patients and healthcare systems.
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Racial microaggressions are often subtle and frequent occurences in the lives of people from marginalised racial groups. There is a broad lack of acknowledgement that they exist and when perpetrators are confronted, victims are often met with defensiveness or dismissal. ⋯ There is no single way to address microaggressions, but the authors propose some ways to identify and tackle them in the medical setting and beyond. It is hoped that this will encourage allyship and empower those who are bystanders to become more actively involved.