MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews' source. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:43:24 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3381603&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FEarly-switch-to-oral-treatment-in-patients-with-moderate-to-severe-community-acquired-pneumonia-a-meta-analysis%2F The objectives and inclusion criteria of the review were clear. Relevant sources were searched for studies without language restriction. As no specific attempts were made to locate unpublished studies, there was a risk of publication bias. Publication bias was not formally assessed. Steps were taken to reduce the risk of error and bias by having more than one reviewer conduct study selection, data extraction and validity assessment. Few details were reported on the quality characteristics of individual studies (such as allocation concealment and number of ... (Source: NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews) NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3381603 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3381603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3381602&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FGenetic-testing-for-warfarin-therapy-initiation%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review concluded that the routine use of pharmacogenomic testing for the initiation of warfarin therapy was not supported by the evidence. Given the lack of reporting of the review process and quality assessment, the small number of participants and the likelihood that the review did not include the entire evidence base, the reliability of the conclusions are uncertain. CRD Commentary: The authors addressed a clear review question, but had poorly defined inclusion criteria. The search for studies was limited and restricted to studies published in English. The review process was poorly reported, and it was unclear whether methods were used to reduce error and bias. The authors did not assess the quality of the includ... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3381602 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3381602 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3377244&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FEffects-of-recombinant-human-growth-hormone-therapy-in-obesity-in-adults-a-metaanalysis%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: The authors concluded that recombinant human growth hormone therapy was associated with a reduction in total and visceral adiposity, an increase in lean body mass and favourable changes in lipid profile, but not in overall body weight. Given the uncertainty around the quality of included studies and the suitability of the analyses, the reliability of the authors' conclusions is unclear. CRD Commentary: The review addressed a clear question with well-defined inclusion criteria for intervention, participants and outcomes. Inclusion criteria for study design were not stated. Several relevant databases were searched for articles in any language, thereby minimising the risk of language bias. No attempts appeared to be made to... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3377244 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3377244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3377243&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FMeta-analysis-can-Helicobacter-pylori-eradication-treatment-reduce-the-risk-for-gastric-cancer%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This generally well-conducted review concluded that Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment appeared to reduce gastric cancer risk, but the generalisability of the findings may be limited. Also, they are based on evidence of variable reliability. These conclusions are an accurate reflection the results of the review and appear to be reliable. [Eradication treatment regimes included differing combinations and doses of the following agents: amoxicillin, metronidazole, bismuth subsalicylate, omeprazole, lansoprazole, clarithromycin. ] CRD Commentary: The review question was clear and was supported by specific inclusion criteria. The search included a number of relevant databases and other sources. This, along with the l... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3377243 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3377243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3369281&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FBiphosphonates-for-the-therapy-of-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-I-systematic-review%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: The review assessed the effectiveness of biphosphonates for the treatment of CRPS 1 patients with bone loss. It concluded that very limited available data suggested that biphosphonates had the potential to reduce pain associated with bone loss in CRPS 1 patients. The conclusions reflect the limited data presented and are appropriate. CRD Commentary: The review question was clear with respect to study design, participants, interventions and outcomes. Relevant databases were searched without language restriction, thus minimising the possibility of language bias. Relevant studies may have been missed as no attempts were made to search for unpublished literature. Potential for reviewer bias and error was minimised through du... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3369281 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3369281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3330322&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FDTB-Managing-primary-hyperparathyroidism-in-primary-care%2F Source: Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews In this review in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) on the management of primary hyperparathyroidism in primary care, the authors discuss the condition, assessment of the hypercalcaemic patient, management options and guidelines. (Source: NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews) NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3330322 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3330322 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3305505&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FUse-of-antiemetic-agents-in-acute-gastroenteritis-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review concluded that ondansetron therapy decreased the risk of persistent vomiting, use of intravenous fluid and hospital admissions in children with vomiting due to gastroenteritis. The review was generally well-conducted. The authors' conclusions reflected the data and are likely to be reliable. [The included studies evaluated the antiemetic agents ondansetron, domperidone, trimethobenzamide hydrochloride, pyrilamine-pentobarbital, metoclopramide, dexamethasone and promethazine hydrochloride. ] CRD Commentary: The review question was clear, although very broad. Inclusion criteria were not explicitly stated for outcomes or study designs, which may have increased the risk of bias and error at the selection stage... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3305505 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3305505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3300940&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FTherapy-of-peri-implantitis-a-systematic-review%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: The authors concluded that mechanical debridement with antiseptic or antibiotic therapy, Er:YAG laser and resective or regenerative surgical techniques could not be ruled out as being useful treatments for peri-implantitis, but it was not possible to determine relative efficacy. The authors acknowledged limitations in the quality of the studies and their cautious conclusions were appropriate. The reliability of the conclusions was unclear, as relevant studies may have been missed. CRD Commentary: The review had clearly stated inclusion criteria for study design, participants and interventions. Outcomes were not specified, although some outcomes were listed in table form. The authors searched two relevant databases and ha... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3300940 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3300940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290142&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FEndometrial-preparation-for-women-undergoing-embryo-transfer-with-frozen-embryos-or-embryos-derived-from-donor-oocytes%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Abstract   Background If a fresh embryo, assisted reproductive technology procedure cycle is unsuccessful and there are frozen embryos available, a frozen-thawed embryo transfer is performed. In some specific cases women may undergo oocyte donation treatment. In both situations the endometrium is primed by the administration of estrogen and progesterone. To prevent the possibility of spontaneous ovulation, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are frequently used.   Objectives To evaluate the most effective endometrial preparation for women undergoing transfer with frozen embryos or embryos from donor oocytes with regard to the subsequent live birth rate.   Search strategy We searched the... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290142 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3290142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3261769&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FDTB-Management-of-community-associated-MRSA%2F Source: Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews In this review of community-associated MRSA in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB), the authors discuss the management of patients with 'healthcare-associated' and 'community-associated' MRSA (HA-MRSA and CA-MRSA). The following topics are covered:   . About HA-MRSA and CA-MRSA . CA-MRSA skin and soft tissue infections . CA-MRSA pneumonia . Diagnosis of CA-MRSA infection . Principles of management of CA-MRSA . Surgical incision and drainage . Antibacterial drugs: clinical evidence, choosing antibacterial drugs . Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) . Published guidance: diagnosis, drainage, antibacterial drugs, referral, use of immunoglobu... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3261769 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3261769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3234621&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FFactors-associated-with-treatment-failure-in-patients-with-diabetic-foot-infections-an-analysis-of-data-from-randomized-controlled-trials%2F The objectives of the review and supporting inclusion criteria were clearly stated. The literature search was limited to two electronic databases and one further appropriate source. Although no attempts to minimise publication or language bias were reported, tests showed no evidence of publication bias. The study selection and data extraction processes were made explicit, thus minimising the risk for reviewer error and bias. The authors stated that most studies were of low quality, but criteria used to assess studies were not reported, so it ... (Source: NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews) NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3234621 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3234621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3234620&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FStatins-for-infection-and-sepsis-a-systematic-review-of-the-clinical-evidence%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review assessed the effectiveness of statins in treating sepsis and infection. It concluded that statins may have a positive role, but that trial results were needed before firmer conclusions could be drawn. The authors' cautious conclusions reflected the limited evidence well, and are likely to be reliable. CRD Commentary:  The review addressed a clear question and was supported by appropriately broad inclusion criteria. Attempts to identify all relevant studies in any language were undertaken by searching electronic databases and checking references. Suitable methods were employed to minimise the risks of reviewer error and bias throughout the review. Study quality was assessed and the assessment was used in ... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3234620 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3234620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3234624&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCochrane-review-Regular-treatment-with-formoterol-and-an-inhaled-corticosteroid-versus-regular-treatment-with-salmeterol-and-an-inhaled-corticosteroid-for-chronic-asthma-serious-adverse-events%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background An increase in serious adverse events with both regular formoterol and regular salmeterol in chronic asthma has been demonstrated in comparison with placebo in previous Cochrane reviews. This increase was significant in trials that did not randomise participants to an inhaled corticosteroid, but less certain in the smaller numbers of participants in trials that included an inhaled corticosteroid in the randomised treatment regimen.   Objectives We set out to compare the risks of mortality and non-fatal serious adverse events in trials which have randomised patients with chronic asthma to regular formoterol versus regular salmeterol, when each are used with an inhaled corticosteroid as part of the random... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3234624 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3234624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3234623&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCochrane-review-Repeated-use-of-pre--and-postcoital-hormonal-contraception-for-prevention-of-pregnancy%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Repeated use of postcoital hormonal contraception is not currently recommended due to the higher risk of side effects and lower contraceptive effectiveness compared to other modern methods of contraception. However, emerging evidence indicates renewed interest in a regular coitally-dependent method of oral contraception. We re-evaluated the existing data on safety and effectiveness of pericoital use of levonorgestrel and other hormonal drugs to prevent pregnancy.   Objectives To determine the effectiveness and safety of repeated use of pre- and postcoital hormonal contraception for pregnancy prevention.   Search strategy We searched the computerized databases MEDLINE, POPLINE, CINAHL, LILACS, ... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3234623 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3234623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3234622&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCochrane-review-Treatment-for-Barretts-oesophagus%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Treatments for Barrett's oesophagus, the precursor lesion of adenocarcinoma, are available but whether these therapies effectively prevent the development of adenocarcinoma, and in some cases eradicate the Barrett's oesophagus segment, remains unclear.   Objectives To summarise, quantify and compare the efficacy of pharmacological, surgical and endoscopic treatments for the eradication of dysplastic and non-dysplastic Barrett's oesophagus and prevention of these states from progression to adenocarcinoma.   Search strategy We searched CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2004, issue 4), MEDLINE (1966 to June 2008) and EMBASE (1980 to June 2008).   Selection criteria Randomised controlled tri... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3234622 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3234622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3219358&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCochrane-review-Complex-interventions-for-preventing-diabetic-foot-ulceration%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Abstract   Background Ulceration of the feet, which can lead to the amputation of feet and legs, is a major problem for people with diabetes mellitus, and can cause substantial economic burden. Single preventive strategies have not been shown to reduce the incidence of foot ulceration to a significant extent. Therefore, in clinical practice, preventive interventions directed at patients, health care providers and/or the structure of health care are often combined (complex interventions).   Objectives To assess the effectiveness of complex interventions on the prevention of foot ulcers in people with diabetes mellitus compared with single interventions, usual care or alternative complex interventions. A com... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3219358 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3219358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3207462&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FOral-contraceptive-pill-progestogen-or-estrogen-pre-treatment-for-ovarian-stimulation-protocols-for-women-undergoing-assisted-reproductive-techniques%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background For many subfertile women, assisted reproductive techniques (ART) is the only hope for a pregnancy and live birth. The combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) given prior to the hormone therapy in an IVF cycle may result in better pregnancy outcomes of ART.   Objectives To assess whether pre-treatment with combined OCPs, progestogens or estrogens in ovarian stimulation protocols affects outcomes in subfertile couples undergoing ART.   Search strategy We searched the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Specialised Register, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO. Other electronic resources on the Internet, reference list of ... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3207462 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3207462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3207461&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FAcupuncture-for-osteoarthritis%2F The objectives are as follows:   To review all randomized or quasi-randomized (not strictly randomized methods of allocation e.g., by date of birth, hospital record number or alternation) controlled trials pertaining to the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of OA of the knee, hip or hand. The three specific objectives of this systematic review are: 1) To assess the efficacy of acupuncture compared to standard medical treatment for osteoarthritis. 2) To assess the efficacy of true acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture for osteoarthritis of the knee. 3) To assess the efficacy of acupuncture plus standard medical treatment compared to standard medical care alone for osteoarthritis of the knee.   (Source: NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews) NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3207461 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3207461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3207460&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FAcupuncture-for-uterine-fibroids%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Uterine fibroids (UFs) are benign growths within the uterine muscle and are present in 30% of women during their reproductive years. With the exception of hysterectomy, there are no effective medical and surgical treatments for women with uterine fibroids . Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese method which has been used for both the prevention and treatment of diseases for over three thousand years. There are many types of acupuncture used to manage UFs, with body acupuncture being the most commonly used. The literature reporting the benefits or harms of acupuncture for the management of UFs has not yet been systematically reviewed.   Objectives To assess the benefits and harms of acupuncture in women with ... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3207460 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3207460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3184572&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FInterventions-for-previously-untreated-patients-with-AIDS-associated-Non-Hodgkins-Lymphoma%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is known to be associated with an increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). The majority of lymphomas (>80%) occurring during immunosuppression are aggressive B-cell in origin and have a high-to-intermediate histology grade. Treatment of NHL is not standardized.   Objectives To assess the clinical effectiveness and safety of single agent or combination chemotherapy with or without immunochemotherapy (rituximab) and with or without highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) for previously untreated patients with AIDS-related NHL.   Search strategy The Cochrane Central Register of Cont... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3184572 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3184572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3184571&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCochrane-review-Intrapartum-antibiotics-for-known-maternal-Group-B-streptococcal-colonization%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Maternal colonization with group B streptococcus (GBS) during pregnancy increases the risk of neonatal infection by vertical transmission. Administration of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) during labor has been associated with a reduction in early onset GBS disease (EOGBSD). However, treating all colonized women during labor exposes a large number of women and infants to possible adverse effects without benefit.   Objectives To assess the effect of IAP for maternal GBS colonization on neonatal: 1) all cause mortality and 2) morbidity from proven and probable EOGBSD, late onset GBS disease (LOD), maternal infectious outcomes and allergic reactions to antibiotics.   Search strategy We s... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3184571 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3184571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088300&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCKS-topic-review-Restless-legs-syndrome%2F Source: CKS Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews This CKS topic covers the diagnosis and management of idiopathic restless legs syndrome (RLS) in adults. (Source: NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews) NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088300 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3088300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088299&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCKS-topic-review-Rubella%2F Source: CKS Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews This CKS topic covers the management of suspected rubella, and the management of people who have been in contact with someone with rubella. It includes the management of pregnant women. (Source: NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews) NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088299 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3088299 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084147&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FNHS-Health-Technology-Assessment-Antiviral-drugs-for-the-treatment-of-seasonal-influenza%2F Conclusions are as follows:   Results:   Amantadine was excluded at an early stage, owing to a lack of any new trials that met the inclusion criteria and the limitations of the ... (Source: NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews) NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084147 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3084147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3078142&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FAcute-migraine-therapy-recent-evidence-from-randomized-comparative-trials%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: The review found that triptan/NSAID combination therapy was more effective than one agent. All triptans were similarly effective, but almotriptan was better tolerated than sumatriptan. Limitations of the review methodology, including a limited validity assessment, meant that the reliability of the results could not be assessed. [Interventions in the included studies were sumatriptan, sumatriptan/naproxen sodium, indomethacin/caffeine/prochlorperazine (IndoProCaf), ketoprofen, zolmitriptan, eletriptan, caffeine/ergotamine, aspirin, ibuprofen, almotriptan, aspirin/metoclopramide, rofecoxib and naproxen sodium.] CRD Commenatary: The review question was clearly stated and the search strategy appeared appropriate, although ... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3078142 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3078142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3043391&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FGabapentin-versus-tricyclic-antidepressants-for-diabetic-neuropathy-and-post-herpetic-neuralgia-discrepancies-between-direct-and-indirect-meta-analyses-of-randomized-controlled-trials%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review concluded that there was no difference in pain relief between gabapentin and tricyclic antidepressants in patients with diabetic neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia, although direct evidence was limited. The review was well conducted and these findings are likely to be reliable. [Tricyclic antidepressants evaluated included nortriptyline, amitriptyline, desipramine, imipramine and clomipramine. ] CRD Commentary: The review addressed a focused question supported by clearly defined inclusion criteria. The literature search was limited to two electronic databases and some attempts were made to minimise publication bias; the potential for this was assessed and some evidence was found for tricyclic studie... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3043391 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3043391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3043390&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FOptimal-duration-of-first-line-chemotherapy-for-advanced-non-small-cell-lung-cancer-a-systematic-review-with-meta-analysis%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review aimed to identify the optimal duration of first-line chemotherapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer. The authors concluded that four cycles of treatment with third-generation doublets appeared to be the optimal first-line treatment. This was a generally well-conducted review that appeared to reflect the limited evidence available, so the authors' conclusions are likely to be reliable. CRD Commentary: The review question was clear and was supported by appropriate criteria for patients, intervention and study design. An adequate search of the literature was undertaken in any language, reducing the potential for language bias. Only published studies were searched, which may have introduced publication bias... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3043390 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3043390 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2966088&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FMeta-analysis-beta-blocker-dose-heart-rate-reduction-and-death-in-patients-with-heart-failure%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review concluded that the magnitude of heart rate reduction was statistically significantly associated with the survival benefit of beta-blockers in heart failure, but the dose of beta-blocker was not. The majority of the review process and the synthesis were well conducted. Despite the absence of a validity assessment, the conclusions appear likely to be reliable. [Included studies assessed metoprolol, carvedilol, bisoprolol, bucindolol, nebivolol and atenolol. ] CRD Commentary: The review question was clear and was supported by specific inclusion criteria. The authors searched several relevant databases and included attempts to locate unpublished studies in their strategy. This, together with the lack of languag... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2966088 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2966088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2911231&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FTreatment-of-pressure-ulcersa-systematic-review%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review, which evaluated therapies for pressure ulcers, concluded there was little evidence favouring any particular support surface or dressing, nor evidence favouring other treatments compared to standard care. The authors' conclusions are likely to be reliable. CRD Commentary: The review addressed a clear question and was supported by appropriate inclusion criteria. A number of electronic databases were searched and, although a search was made for studies published not in English, the authors did not report searching for unpublished studies, so some relevant trials may have been missed. Suitable methods were employed to minimise the risks of reviewer error and bias for the process of assessing study quality but th... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2911231 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2911231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2904193&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FCannabinoids-for-Tourettes-Syndrome%2F Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome (GTS) is a developmental neuropsychiatric disorder characterised by the presence of chronic motor and phonic tics. Drugs currently used in the treatment of GTS either lack efficacy or are associated with intolerable side effects. There is some anecdotal and experimental evidence that cannabinoids may be effective in treating tics and compulsive behaviour in patients with GTS. There are currently no systematic Cochrane reviews of treatments used in GTS. There is one other Cochrane review being undertaken at present, on the use of fluoxetine for tics in GTS.   Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids as compared to placebo or other drugs in treati... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2904193 Sun, 18 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2904193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2878561&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FAntimicrobial-central-venous-catheters-in-adults-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review assessed the efficacy of antimicrobial central venous catheters in adults, concluding that chlorhexidine-silver sulfadiazine or minocycline-rifampicin central venous catheters can be considered when the baseline incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections is above institutional goals. The authors' conclusions reflect the limitations of the evidence and are likely to be reliable. CRD Commentary: This review addressed a clear question and undertook a thorough search for studies with no language restrictions. No evidence of publication bias was detected. Appropriate methods were used to minimise reviewer error and bias during the review process. Only RCTs were included and the validity of the included t... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2878561 Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2878561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2795623&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FComparative-benefits-and-harms-of-competing-medications-for-adults-with-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-a-systematic-review-and-indirect-comparison-meta-analysis%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This generally well-conducted review assessed the efficacy and safety of treatments for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults. The authors concluded that the use of immediate release methylphenidate as a first-line treatment was supported. The questionable quality of many of the included studies and some concerns over the appropriateness of the synthesis may mean these conclusions were overstated. [Studies of the following treatments were eligible: amphetamine mixture, dextroamphetamine sulphate, methylphenidate HCl, dexmethylphenidate HCl, modafinil, atomoxetine HCl and bupropion HCl. ] CRD Commentary: The review question and inclusion criteria were clearly specified. The authors searched a number of rele... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2795623 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2795623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2750783&cid=s_38937_49_f&fid=38937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nelm.nhs.uk%2Fen%2FNeLM-Area%2FEvidence%2FDisease-Focused-Reviews%2FInfection-control-interventions-for-cancer-patients-after-chemotherapy-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis%2F Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews CRD Summary: This review concluded that protective isolation interventions including administration of prophylactic antibiotics reduced mortality in cancer patients or stem cell transplant recipients at high risk of infection. Outpatient management of stem cell transplant recipients reduced mortality in observational studies and should be evaluated in randomised trials. The authors' conclusions reflected the evidence presented and appeared likely to be reliable.   CRD Commentary: This review had clear inclusion criteria. The search covered a number of relevant databases without language restrictions and included an attempt to locate unpublished studies. Study selection and data extraction were done by two independent reviewers... NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews organizations http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2750783 Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2750783