Dtsch Arztebl Int
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Patients can only make well-informed decisions if the information they are given by health professionals is based on scientific evidence. In this study, we assessed the foundation in evidence of free, publicly available telephone consultations in Germany. ⋯ The medical and dental counselling now offered over the telephone by the types of institutions included in this study does not satisfy the criteria for evidence-based health information.
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Hair loss is caused by a variety of hair growth disorders, each with its own pathogenetic mechanism. ⋯ Hair loss is a symptom, not a diagnosis. The pathogenesis of the alopecias involves a range of genetic, endocrine, immune, and inflammatory processes, each of which calls for its own form of treatment.
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Falls and fall-related injuries are common in community-dwelling elderly people. Effective multifactorial fall prevention programs in the primary care setting may be a promising approach to reduce the incidence rate of falls. ⋯ A complex falls prevention program in a primary care setting was effective in reducing falls and fall-related injuries in community dwelling older adults at risk.
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Review Meta Analysis
Fine Needle Aspiration in the Investigation of Thyroid Nodules.
Thyroid nodules are a common finding in Germany. Most are benign; thyroid cancer is very rare. The challenge for the physician is to diagnose malignant tumors early. Fine needle aspiration is an important tool for this purpose. ⋯ Fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid gland in experienced hands is an easily performed diagnostic procedure with very little associated risk. It should be performed on ultrasonographically suspect nodules for treatment stratification and before any operation for an unclear nodular change in the thyroid gland.