Clin Med
-
Biography Historical Article
Isolation in time: a cause of suffering in the elderly. Lessons from Krapp's last tape.
This column explores the links and synergies between medicine and literature. What roles can literature play in reflecting and influencing good practice, and what sorts of images of doctoring are to be found in drama, poetry, fiction, biography, electronic fora and film? The editors would be pleased to receive short papers, ranging from 500–1,000 words, on relevant topics. Those interested in contributing should email brian.hurwitz@kcl.ac.uk or neil.vickers@kcl.ac.uk
-
Keeping well during Hajj is a challenge for people with diabetes. However, with proactive planning and education, it may prove to be an excellent opportunity for reviewing management and enhancing diabetes education to reduce diabetes-related short- and long-term problems. People with diabetes should have enough time to consider a management plan. It is important that healthcare professionals are well informed regarding the effects of Hajj on diabetes and are able to offer advice, guidance and change of medications as required during pre-Hajj counselling to enable patients to stay healthy.
-
ALF is a multisystem disorder necessitating both predictive and reactive management strategies to support and protect organs from the initial and subsequent insults encountered. Early referral to a specialist liver centre with the option of liver transplantation is recommended. Furthermore, a good understanding of the poor prognostic variables is necessary to determine those most at risk of developing ALF in order to facilitate timely, safe transfer and listing for liver transplantation.