Gouty arthritis: not just a big toe problem.

Gout is a metabolic disease characterized by recurrent episodes of acute arthritis. High blood levels of uric acid lead to inflammation, joint swelling, and severe pain. Treatment is aimed at relieving the acute attack and preventing recurrent episodes of gouty arthritis.     

Human parvovirus B-19: not just a pediatric problem.

Parvoviruses have long been associated with disabling and even fatal illnesses in animals. The discovery of the human parvovirus B-19 in 1975 (1) and subsequent studies of its effects in humans identified this virus as the causative agent of erythema infectiosum ("fifth disease") in children. (2). Erythema infectiosum (EI) is a common, self-limited infectious disorder in children, easily recognized by the classic "slapped cheek" facial erythema and fine reticular rash. Only in the 1980s have further investigations linked HPV B-19 infection with more significant clinical syndromes, among which is an adult polyarthropathy. This presentation in adults is more common than is currently understood and is easily confused with other symmetric polyarthropathies. Recognition and conservative treatment of this disorder are important for the emergency physician, to whom these patients may present.     

Managing patients with metastatic colorectal cancer on bevacizumab

Bevacizumab (Avastin) is a humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key molecule controlling tumour blood vessel formation (angiogenesis). By inhibiting VEGF and thus tumour angiogenesis, bevacizumab inhibits tumour growth and survival. In patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC), first-line use of bevacizumab in combination with fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy improves outcomes compared with chemotherapy alone. The side-effect profile of bevacizumab does not overlap with that of conventional chemotherapy, and it does not significantly exacerbate chemotherapy-induced adverse events. Specific side-effects of special interest for bevacizumab include hypertension, proteinuria, arterial thromboembolic events, wound-healing complications, bleeding events and gastrointestinal perforation. Oncology nurses are key to early recognition and management of side-effects, in addition to having a key role in patient education, facilitating the optimal use of bevacizumab and thus survival of patients with metastatic CRC.     

Lymphorrhoea: 'leaky legs' are not just the nurse's problem

Lymphorrhoea, the weeping of lymph through the skin, is a complication of chronic oedemas, and is generally poorly known or understood by the majority of nurses and doctors. It can occur not just in the legs, but also in other parts of the body affected by lymphoedema such as arms and axilla, chest and genitals. Using a case study to illustrate the key messages, this article discusses the management of lymphorrhoea and highlights the need for all health professionals to be more aware of this unpleasant and disruptive condition.     

运用高灵敏度COLD-PCR法检测胰腺癌和结直肠癌患者KRAS基因突变

目的 评价COLD-PCR法检测胰腺癌和结直肠癌患者KRAS基因突变的价值.方法 采用COLD-PCR/Sanger测序法与普通PCR/Sanger测序法检测KRAS基因野生型结直肠癌细胞系SW116中混有的KRAS基因突变型和结直肠癌细胞系SW480中的KR4S基因突变,确定两种方法 的灵敏度,并采用两种方法 分别检测20例胰腺癌和39例结直肠癌患者石蜡包埋组织的KRAS基因突变,并评价两种方法 的符合率.结果 细胞系检测结果 显示,普通PCR/Sanger测序法和COLD-PCR/Sanger测序法检测KRAS基因突变的灵敏度分别为1∶20和1∶100(突变型:野生型).COLD-PCR/Sanger法检测20例胰腺癌患者KRAS基因突变率[75%(15/20)]高于普通PCR/Sanger测序法[40%(8/20),x2=5.013,P<0.05];COLD-PCR/Sanger测序法检测39例结直肠癌患者的KRAS基因突变率[44%(17/39)]高于普通PCR/Sanger测序法[31%(12/39),x2=1. 372,P=0.174)].两种方法 检测胰腺癌标本的符合率为65%,但一致性较差(Kappa=0.364,P<0.05);而两种方法 检测结直肠癌标本的符合率为87%,且一致性较好(Kappa=0.730,P<0.05).结论 COLD-PCR/Sanger测序法是一种高灵敏性检测胰腺癌和结直肠癌患者KRAS基因突变的方法 .     

Simulation: not just a manikin

Simulation education is currently flourishing in the United States and around the world. Simulation technology has improved, and its costs have dropped. When faced with demands for more accountability for quality education and increased enrollment, disciplines and specialties are embracing the idea of simulation as a valuable tool. Frequently, institutions develop simulation programs based on a narrow understanding of the technology and teaching potential of this tool. The purchase of simulation equipment often precedes the development of a sound program "vision" and plan. Only after understanding the tools and equipment can a meaningful plan be developed. This article introduces and clarifies the different types of simulation equipment, and attempts to make sense of the roles and limitations of these technologies. It is through this knowledge that educators and program directors can best develop programs that are educationally meaningful. Similarly, a good understanding of simulation technology and terminology will likely lead to more thoughtful and cost-effective purchases.     

Human papillomavirus and cervical cancer: not just a sexually transmitted disease

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the cause of virtually all cancers of the cervix, the fourth most common cancer in women in the United States. HPV is sexually transmitted, and the lifetime risk of contracting the virus is estimated to be 75%-90%. New methods of detecting HPV infection and cellular changes (dysplasia) caused by HPV can greatly reduce the mortality associated with this virus. More than 100 types of HPV exist and may be classified as low-, intermediate-, or high-risk in terms of causing cancer. The virus can cause genital warts, subclinical dysplasia, and cancer. Nurses play an important role in educating patients regarding HPV and preventive measures as well as in screening and treatment. Most women diagnosed with HPV need emotional support and factual information provided in a supportive, nonjudgmental manner. Nurses can meet this challenge and make a difference in reducing the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer.