Dtsch Arztebl Int
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Sunlight induces a wide variety of dermatoses. Their differential diagnosis is problematic not only because of similar phenotypes, but also because of confusing nomenclature and classification. ⋯ Photodermatoses are not life-threatening but can cause considerable suffering. Prevention is just as important as treatment.
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Euro 1.1 billion were spent in 2009 for disease management programs (DMPs) in Germany, among them the DMP for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Earlier studies of DMPs failed to take sufficient account of patient- and physician-related selection effects. We used innovative methods to study the medical benefit of the DMP for T2DM among insurees of the Techniker Krankenkasse, a German health insurance provider. ⋯ The current DMP for T2DM in Germany is not adequately effective. This study does not reveal any clear medical benefit from DMP participation. Selection effects were largely eliminated by means of a sophisticated control group design. Analyses of other DMPs with this method are currently being planned.