Rheumatology
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Using a structured evaluation framework to systematically review and document the outputs and outcomes of research funded by the Arthritis Research Campaign in the early 1990s. To illustrate the strengths and weaknesses of different modes of research funding. ⋯ There is a wide diversity of research payback. Short focused project grants seem to provide value for money.
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The aim of the study was to examine the validity of a translated and culturally adapted version of the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2, Short Form (AIMS2-SF) in patients suffering from osteoarthritis (OA) in primary care. ⋯ The German AIMS2-SF is a reliable and valid instrument to assess the quality of life in primary care patients suffering from OA. When addressing the different impacts of OA, the physical scale should be divided into an upper body scale and a lower body scale. The floor and ceiling effects revealed are in accordance with the disease characteristics of the study sample and do not limit the significance of the questionnaire.
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To examine the role of gender, age and coping in psychological adjustment of patients with early inflammatory polyarthritis (IP). ⋯ The study found higher levels of depression and anxiety for women than men with early IP. Psychological distress was predicted by younger age, specific coping strategies and high levels of pain.
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: To examine adherence to validated quality indicators assessing the quality of allopurinol use in the treatment of gout and asymptomatic hyperuricaemia. ⋯ One-quarter to one-half of all patients eligible for at least one of the validated quality of care indicators were subject to possible allopurinol prescribing error, suggesting that inappropriate prescribing practices are widespread with this agent. Future interventions aimed at reducing inappropriate allopurinol use are needed and should be targeted towards high-risk groups, including older men and those receiving multiple concomitant medications.