South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde
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Controversy persists with regard to the diagnosis and treatment of the acute scrotum in children. The differential diagnosis includes torsion of the testis, torsion of one of the appendices testis and epididymo-orchitis. Clinical differentiation is notoriously difficult and our policy has been to explore the scrotum of all who present with signs of an acute scrotum. ⋯ Only in one-third was there any clinical supportive evidence of the diagnosis. Surgical complications were infrequent. We advocate expedient surgical exploration and derotation with contralateral orchidopexy, since clinical differentiation between torsion of the testis, testicular appendages and epididymo-orchitis is inexact, even with highly specialised investigation such as Doppler ultrasound and radionuclide scanning, which may not be widely available, may delay definitive treatment and suggest a lack of urgency where time is of the essence.
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Letter Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Antipyretic effect of oral v. rectal paracetamol.
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Comparative Study
Field evaluation of a novel haemoglobin measuring device designed for use in a rural setting.
To evaluate the use of a robust, cheap method for haemoglobin estimation by non-laboratory-trained personnel in a rural setting. ⋯ Haemoglobin estimates obtained with the World Health Organisation colour scale are generally reliable, although cognisance should be taken of individual variability. While the utility of the device in monitoring response to therapy remains to be seen, it promises to be a suitable method for mass screening for anaemia.
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This guideline has been developed in order to recommend the correct and safe usage of isotretinoin (Roaccutane) in the treatment of acne and related conditions. Aspects such as correct dosage related to the patient's weight and the minimal requirement in relation to blood tests and physician visits have been addressed. ⋯ This guideline is similar to those recommended by other groups outside South Africa. It has been scrutinised by all the practising dermatologists in the country. It is endorsed by the Medical Association of South Africa.