Duodecim; lääketieteellinen aikakauskirja
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Fibromyalgia is a controversial pain syndrome with chronic widespread pain (occurring on both sides of the body as well as axially below and above the waist) and unexplained fatigue as the predominating features. Fibromyalgia involves lots of symptoms focusing on different organ systems. In sensory examination the most significant finding is general allodynia. The widespread chronic pain and tender points at certain locations as reported by the patient differentiate fibromyalgia patients from those suffering from other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
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For a long time, the EEG examination has been used as a laboratory examination especially in the diagnostics of epilepsy, but both technical difficulties and problems in interpretation have limited its use in emergency medicine outside special neurological intensive care units. Development of monitoring technology and easier data transfer is making EEG monitoring possible also in the emergency area. The greatest need focuses on the diagnostics and treatment of status epilepticus underlying an unclear unconsciousness. In other indications the usually required information can be obtained by daytime measurements.
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Long-term oxygen therapy extends the life span of hypoxemic patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patients often have great expectations concerning the quality of life, but oxygen therapy does neither relieve dyspnea nor reduce the need for hospital treatments. ⋯ It is worthwhile to start in-hospital oxygen therapy by determining the oxygen flow with a device given to the patient, and the effect of the therapy on the nocturnal accumulation of carbon dioxide is checked. In the future, focus should be on other forms of therapy, such as rehabilitation.
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Letter Comparative Study
[What are the responsibilities for a doctor-scientist?].