Dtsch Arztebl Int
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Technical advances in the field of molecular genetics permit precise genomic characterization of malignant tumors. This has not only improved our understanding of tumor biology but also paved the way for molecularly stratified treatment strategies in routine clinical practice. ⋯ Quality-assured molecular pathology assays are universally available for the determination of currently relevant predictive biomarkers. However, the integration of extensive genomic analyses into routine molecular pathology diagnostics represents a future challenge in precision oncology.
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The increasing use of cranial tomographic imaging has led to the more frequent discovery of pituitary tumors. In this review, we discuss the clinical symptoms that point toward a pituitary tumor, the required diagnostic studies, the potential need for follow-up studies, and the indications for neurosurgical treatment. ⋯ The manifestations of pituitary tumors are first recognized by primary care physicians. The further diagnostic evaluation of these patients should be carried out in standardized and interdisciplinary fashion.
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Some 5-10% of the German population are affected by Raynaud's phenomenon (RP). In around 10-20% of cases RP arises from an underlying disease, most commonly a connective tissue disease. This review encompasses the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of RP and examines the efficacy of the currently available pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatment options. ⋯ At onset or after years of latency, patients with Raynaud phenomenon may have an underlying disease (most commonly a connective tissue disease). Long-term specialist care is necessary for asymptomatic patients with risk factors and for those with clinically manifest symptoms of an underlying condition alike.