Diagnosing colorectal polyps and masses - the use of CT colonography.
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BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer is common, over 13,000 cases were diagnosed in Australia in 2005. The pathogenesis of colorectal cancer has been well investigated and usually occurs in a predictable sequence progressing from dysplasia, to carcinoma in situ before becoming an invasive malignancy. The symptoms and signs of colorectal polyps and masses are often nonspecific, however, given that polyps are easily cured with polypectomy, it is vital to have an accurate and acceptable diagnostic test. Traditional tests include conventional (optical) colonoscopy and double contrast barium enema. Computed tomographic (CT) colonography is a newer, minimally invasive method for examining the colon for colorectal polyps. OBJECTIVE: To inform general practitioners about CT colonography, its evidence, indications, controversies and extracolonic ancillary findings. DISCUSSION: The evidence supporting CT colonography is discussed along with how it is performed, as well as a discussion of the factors unique to it, such as extracolonic findings and polyp management. (+info)
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis - current management.
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BACKGROUND: Management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis can be problematic, and current guidelines are limited by scant evidence. METHOD: The authors found no research on how clinicians manage this condition and whether existing guidelines were followed. To ascertain how recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is managed in current clinical practice, a survey was conducted of delegates at a seminar for health professionals with a special interest in vulval conditions. RESULTS: Of the 160 delegates 66 completed the survey, providing a response rate of 41%. The authors found little adherence to current guidelines - only 50% reported using the recommended suppression and maintenance therapy, and only 57% reported using confirmatory diagnostic testing. DISCUSSION: The wide variation in health professionals' management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis reflects the difficulty in treating and managing this condition. The results suggest that clinicians are 'tailoring' treatment to their patients due to a lack of good evidence of effective treatments to guide them. (+info)
Progress and challenges for measles elimination by 2012 in the Western Pacific Region.
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Isolated low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease: an individual participant data meta-analysis of 23 studies in the Asia-Pacific region.
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