Cochrane Db Syst Rev
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Cochrane Db Syst Rev · Oct 2007
ReviewDrugs for preventing red blood cell dehydration in people with sickle cell disease.
Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder of haemoglobin, which results in abnormal red blood cells. These can deform and cause blockages in blood vessels, leading to acute crises such as pain; stroke and splenic sequestration; and chronic organ and tissue damage. Recently research has begun to focus on therapies which prevent the red blood cells deforming by reducing the loss of water and ions from the cells. However, little is known about the effectiveness and safety of such drugs. ⋯ While the results of zinc for reducing sickle-related crises are encouraging, larger and longer-term multicentre studies over a number of years are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of this therapy for people with sickle cell disease.
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Cochrane Db Syst Rev · Oct 2007
ReviewProphylactic antibiotics to reduce morbidity and mortality in neonates with umbilical artery catheters.
Umbilical artery catheters are often used in unwell neonates. Infection related to the use of these catheters may cause significant morbidity and mortality. The use of prophylactic antibiotics has been advocated for all newborns with umbilical artery catheters in order to reduce the risk of colonisation and acquired infection. Countering this is the possibility that harm, such as the emergence of antibiotic resistant organisms, may outweigh benefit. ⋯ There is insufficient evidence from randomised trials to support or refute the use of prophylactic antibiotics when umbilical artery catheters are inserted in newborn infants, and no evidence to support or refute continuing antibiotics once initial cultures rule out infection in newborn infants with umbilical artery catheters.