Significant Reduction In Symptom Scores Research Articles

Safety and efficacy of robotic anti-reflux surgery in geriatric patients: a comparative analysis.

As our population ages, older adults are being considered for anti-reflux surgery (ARS). Geriatric patients typically have heightened surgical risk, and literature has shown mixed results regarding postoperative outcomes. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of robotic ARS in the geriatric population. We conducted a single-institution review of ARS procedures performed between 2009 and 2023. Patients ≥ 65 were assigned to the geriatric cohort. We compared operative details, lengths of stay (LOS), readmissions, reoperations, and complications between the two cohorts. The gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) survey and review of clinic notes were used to evaluate ARS efficacy. 628 patients were included, with 190 in the geriatric cohort. This cohort had a higher frequency of diabetes (16.3% vs 5.9% p < 0.0001), hypertension (50.0% vs 21.5% p < 0.0001), and heart disease (17.9% vs 2.3% p < 0.0001). Geriatric patients were more likely to exhibit hiatal hernias on imaging (51.6% vs 34.2% p < 0.0001) and were more likely to have large hernias (30.0% vs 7.1% p < 0.0001). Older adults were more likely to undergo Toupet fundoplications (58.4% vs 41.3%, p < 0.0001), Collis gastroplasties (9.5% vs 2.7% p < 0.0001), and relaxing incisions (11.6% vs 1.4% p < 0.0001). Operative time was longer for geriatric patients (132.0min vs 104.5min p < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in LOS, readmissions, or reoperations between cohorts. Geriatric patients exhibited lower rates of complications (7.4% vs. 14.6%, p = 0.011), but similar complication grades. Both groups had significant reduction in symptom scores from preoperative values. There were no significant differences in the reported symptoms between cohorts at any follow-up timepoint. Geriatric robotic ARS patients tend to do as well as younger adults regarding postoperative and symptomatic outcomes, despite presenting with larger hiatal hernias and shorter esophagi. Clinicians should be aware of possible need for lengthening procedures or relaxing incisions in this population.

Predictor of clinical response to subcutaneous immunotherapy with dust mites in polysensitized allergic rhinitis patients

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of 1-year subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) with dust mites in polysensitized allergic rhinitis (AR) patients and to analyze the serological markers associated with clinical response. Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from 69 polysensitized AR patients who completed 1-year SCIT with dust mites from Oct 2020 to Mar 2022 in Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital was conducted. The median patient age was 21 years, including 41 males and 28 females. The changes in symptoms and serum IgE, IgG4 assessed before and after treatment were evaluated. The differences in serological markers between effective and ineffective groups were analyzed. Multivariate regression analysis was used to investigate the predictors of clinical response. SPSS 22.0 software was used for data processing. Results: After immunotherapy, there was a significant reduction in symptom scores and a substantial improvement in the quality of life of polysensitized AR patients (all P<0.001). Dust mite specific IgG4 (sIgG4) significantly increased and dust mite specific IgE (sIgE)/sIgG4 significantly decreased (all P<0.05). sIgE, total IgE (tIgE), sIgE/tIgE and sIgE/sIgG4 were significantly lower in ineffective group than effective group (all P<0.05). The clinical response of SCIT related only to dust mite sIgE (r=0.29, P=0.036), and sIgE≥53.86 kU/L had the best sensitivity (77.78%) and specificity (57.89%) to predict effective SCIT in polysensitized AR patients. Conclusions: One-year dust mite SCIT is effective for polysensitized AR patients. Pre-treatment serum dust mite sIgE≥53.86 kU/L may play a role in predicting clinical response of dust mite SCIT in polysensitized AR patients.

Long-term outcomes and quality of life after Manchester procedure for pelvic reconstructive surgery in women with cervical elongation

ObjectiveNative-tissue techniques for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) repairs, such as the Manchester Procedure (MP), have recently been revitalized. However, there are conflicting opinions regarding correcting cervical elongation support by the MP, and the risk of possible poor outcomes and postoperative complications.Therefore, this study aimed to investigate anatomical and patient-reported outcomes during one year after MP. DesignProspective cohort study. SettingThis study was conducted on women who underwent the MP for cervical elongation between 2010 and 2020. PatientsWomen with apical compartment prolapse up to stage 3 due to cervical elongation. InterventionsManchester Procedure. MeasurementsPre and postoperative evaluations by POP Quantification (POP-Q) system were performed, and patients filled out the quality-of-life questionnaires including Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Short Form 20 (PFDI-20), and POP/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) before and 12 months after the procedure. Anatomical outcomes were measured by POP-Q and the changes in POP-related symptoms were evaluated and reported. Main Results33 participants were recruited in the study. Significant anatomical improvements were obtained in all compartments after the surgery. After 12 months in POP-Q examination, the mean (±SD) of Ba was changed from +1.82 (±1.71) to −1.18 (±1.50), C was changed from −1.25 (±2.81) to −6 (±1.82), and D from −6.30 (±1.42) to −7.1 (±1.25) respectively (P < 0.001). POP-Q stage 0–1 was obtained inof7% in the apical compartment (C < −1), but only in 45.4% in the anterior compartment (Ba < −1). A significant reduction in symptom scores was obtained for PFDI-20 (P < 0.01) and PISQ-12 (P = 0.011). ConclusionsOur findings suggest that the MP provides adequate apical support with improvement in anatomic and subjective findings for patients with cervical elongation.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide predicts therapeutic response to midodrine hydrochloride in children with vasovagal syncope

The vasoconstriction agent midodrine hydrochloride is a vital treatment for pediatric patients diagnosed with vasovagal syncope (VVS), although the efficacy is variable. This study was designed to explore the value of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in predicting the effect of midodrine hydrochloride treatment upon VVS patients. In total, 55 children diagnosed with VVS were treated with midodrine hydrochloride for 3 months. Therapeutic response was evaluated using a symptom score system. CGRP levels were significantly higher in VVS patients (68.700 ± 6.460) than in control subjects (43.400 ± 5.810; t = 18.207, P < 0.001) and symptom scores correlated positively with CGRP concentrations (r = 0.779, P < 0.001). Patients treated with midodrine hydrochloride showed a significant reduction in symptom scores [4 (0, 6.5) vs. 1 (1, 2); z = –6.481; P < 0.001]. However, the value of plasma CGRP were potently elevated in the positive-response subjects than in the negative-response subjects (70.080 ± 5.040) vs. (61.150 ± 3.090); t = 5.817; P < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve showed that the value of CGRP for predicting the therapeutic response to midodrine hydrochloride was 0.946 (95% CI: 0.879–0.997, P < 0.001). With high sensitivity (97.7%) and specificity (83.3%), CGRP predicted the therapeutic response to midodrine hydrochloride (cut-off value, 62.56 pg/ml). In conclusion, CGRP can be used to predict the effect of midodrine hydrochloride administration in VVS patients.

Endoscopic Per Oral Myotomy in the Treatment of Achalasia: Initial Experience on 7 Patients in a Morocco Center

Endoscopic per-oral myotomy (POEM) is innovative an endoscopic technique for treatement of achalasia. This new technique has recently introduced in Morocco. It was performed on 7 patients at our institution. We collected patients data, the duration of the procedure, the location of the myotomy and patients follow-up. Results: Per-oral endoscopic myotomy was successfully performed in all patients, with adverse events observed in only one patient. Two months after POEM, significant reductions in symptom scores (Eckhardt Score 7.5vs 3) and this persisted at 3 years after POEM. Gastroesophageal reflux was observed in 16.8% of patients at 1 month and 21.3% at 3 years of follow-up. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy was successfully performed in all cases. Complications were rare (1.4%) and there was no mortality. Significant improvements in Eckhardt score were observed at 2 months, 1 year after POEM. Conclusions: Based on our series, POEM is a safe and effective treatment for achalasia, there are relatively few contraindications, and the procedure can be used as first- or second-line treatment.

Open-label Non-blinded Cohort study on Anti-Histaminic Resistant Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria in Western India.

Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a chronic relapsing disease with hives for a period of six weeks or more. It has a significant impact on the physical and mental well-being of patients. Open-label non-blinded study of over 600 patients diagnosed with CIU was done. The aim of the study was to observe the following: 1. Characteristics of patients of anti-histaminic resistant CIU, 2. Efficacy of cyclosporin and any adverse events in the study population and 3. Prognosis and relapse rates of these patients at the end of one year. Detailed history taking and guided clinical evaluation were done to include chronic resistant urticarias in the study and their clinical characteristics and prognosis were studied. A total of 610 patients were diagnosed with CIU over a period of four years. Of these, 47 patients (7.7%) were diagnosed with anti-histaminic resistant urticaria. Of these, 30 patients (4.9%) who took treatment with cyclosporin at the above dosages were included in group 1. Rest 17 patients were in group 2 that were continued on anti-histaminics. Patients in cyclosporin group 1 showed a significant reduction in symptom scores as compared with group 2 at the end of six months. A lower need for corticosteroid therapy was noted in the cyclosporin group. Cyclosporin in low doses is very useful in anti-histaminic resistant urticaria with the duration of therapy being six months. It is cost-effective in low and medium-income countries and easily available.

Non-steroid, non-antibiotic anti-biofilm therapy for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis: a systematic review.

Chronic rhinosinusitis patients with biofilms cultured from their sinonasal cavity have greater symptom burden and risk of recalcitrant disease. A number of non-antibiotic, 'anti-biofilm' treatments exist which show anti-biofilm properties in preclinical studies. There is little evidence evaluating their impact on clinical symptom scores in chronic rhinosinusitis. A systematic review was performed to assess the literature regarding the efficacy of non-steroid, non-antibiotic, anti-biofilm specific topical therapies in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. The primary outcome assessed was change in validated patient reported outcome measures before and after anti-biofilm treatment. Thirteen studies assessing the effect of anti-biofilm therapies in chronic rhinosinusitis through validated patient-reported outcome measures were included. Seven different anti-biofilm specific therapies for chronic rhinosinusitis were identified. None of the seven anti-biofilm therapies was identified as being confidently efficacious beyond placebo. Only one therapy (intranasal xylitol) showed a statistically significant reduction in symptom scores compared with placebo in more than one trial. Robust evidence supporting the use of various anti-biofilm therapies in chronic rhinosinusitis is lacking. Further high quality, human, in vivo trials studying the effect of anti-biofilm therapies in chronic rhinosinusitis are needed to address the deficiencies of the current evidence base.

Efficacy, Safety and Steroid-sparing Effect of Topical Cyclosporine A 0.05% for Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis in Indian Children

PurposeTo evaluate the efficacy, safety, and steroid-sparing effect of topical cyclosporine A (Cs A) 0.05% in patients with moderate to severe steroid dependent vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).MethodsA prospective, comparative, placebo controlled study was carried out on 68 VKC patients, with 34 patients treated with topical Cs A 0.05% and the remaining 34 with topical carboxymethyl cellulose 0.5% (placebo). Both groups also received topical loteprednol etabonate 0.5%. Symptom (itching, photophobia, tearing, and discharge) score, sign (tarsal and limbal papillae, corneal involvement, and conjunctival hyperemia) score, and drug score (steroid drop usage/day/eye) were recorded at baseline and each follow-up visit. The intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement and evaluation of any ocular side effects were carried out.ResultsSignificant reduction in symptom score and sign score was seen in both groups. Cs A group significantly showed more reduction in symptom (P 0.0001 in all follow-up visits) and sign (P 0.0001 in all follow-up visits) scores compared to the placebo group. At day 7, mean steroid usage reduced from 4 to 3.44 0.5 and 3.79 0.4 in Cs A and placebo groups, respectively (P 0.0001). Steroid drops completely stopped in 21 patients at day 60 in the Cs A group compared to none in the placebo group. No significant rise in IOP or any side effects were noted in either group.ConclusionTopical Cs A 0.05% is effective and safe in patients with moderate to severe VKC with good steroid-sparing effect.

Ectoine-Containing Inhalation Solution versus Saline Inhalation Solution in the Treatment of Acute Bronchitis and Acute Respiratory Infections: A Prospective, Controlled, Observational Study.

Purpose This study investigated an inhalation solution containing ectoine, a bacterial-derived extremolyte, for the treatment of acute bronchitis and acute respiratory infections in comparison with saline inhalation solution. Methods This prospective, controlled, observational study comprised an inclusion visit (day 1), a final visit (day 7), and a follow-up questionnaire (day 17). The treatment itself was administered from day 1 to day 7. The Bronchitis Severity Score, patients' general health, general effectiveness of the treatment, tolerability, and adverse events were compared between two groups. Results In total, 135 patients were recruited; 79 patients received ectoine inhalation solution and 56 saline inhalation solution. After treatment, symptom scores decreased significantly in both groups (P < 0.05); the reduction in symptom scores was slightly greater in the ectoine group than in the saline group. The first significant reduction in symptom scores (P < 0.05) occurred earlier in the ectoine group than in the saline group. The differences in the area under the curve for the symptoms of dyspnea and auscultation findings were significant in favor of ectoine (P < 0.05). After treatment, more patients and physicians in the ectoine group assessed their or their patients' condition as “completely recovered” or “greatly improved” than those in the saline group. Almost all patients and physicians assessed the tolerability of both treatments as “good” or “very good”. Conclusions Ectoine inhalation solution seems to be slightly more effective than saline inhalation solution for the treatment of acute bronchitis and acute respiratory infections.

Pelvic floor biofeedback therapy in children: Assessment of symptom scores in responders and non-responders.

Pelvic Floor Biofeedback Therapy (PFBT) can be an effective treatment for pediatric lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Due to differing perceptions of efficacy and practice patterns, we sought to further evaluate PFBT in our practice. We hypothesized that PFBT results in quiescence of EMG activity during voiding and improves questionnaire scores in patients with LUTS. We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing PFBT and refined the analysis to females ≥6 years old with ≥2 sessions with completed voiding questionnaires pre- and post-treatment, active EMG during voiding, with non-neurogenic urinary tract complaints refractory to standard urotherapy. Validated Bladder Bowel Dysfunction (BBD) questionnaires were collected at each visit. Quiescence of EMG activity and changes in BBD score were the primary outcomes. 229 patients underwent ≥1 PFBT session, of which 64 females ≥6 years of age with ≥2 PFBT sessions and completed pre and post PFBT voiding questionnaires were identified. In this group, mean age at PFBT start was 10.1 (6.2-17.0). Patients completed 3.1 sessions (2-6). No difference was seen in post-void residual (PVR) between first and last session (23.8 vs 22.6 mL, P = 0.55). Median questionnaire score decreased from 18 (4-42) before to 13 (2-28) following PFBT (P < 0.0001). Responders, characterized by silencing of the EMG after PFBT, occurred in 31% (20/64). Non-responders were younger (P = 0.007) with higher pre-PFBT questionnaire scores. The use of PFBT appears to result in a significant reduction in symptom scores, though quiescence of EMG was observed following therapy in less than 1/3 of patients.

The Manchester procedure: anatomical, subjective and sexual outcomes.

Classical native-tissue techniques for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repairs, such as the Manchester procedure (MP), have been revitalized because of vaginal mesh complications. However, there are conflicting opinions regarding sufficient apical (mid-compartment) support by the MP and concerns about the risk of dyspareunia. The aims of this study were therefore to investigate anatomical and patient-reported outcomes 1year after MP. Prospective cohort study of 153 females undergoing an MP for anterior compartment POP between October 2014 and June 2016. Pre- and 1-year postoperative evaluations included POP-Q measurements and the questionnaires Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Short Form 20 (PFDI-20) and POP/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12). At 1year, 97% (148/153) attended the follow-up. Significant anatomical improvements (p < 0.01) were obtained in all compartments. Mean Ba was -1.1 (± 1.4), mean C -5.9 (± 1.7) and mean D -7.0 (± 1.2) at follow-up. Point C ≤ -5 was present in 81.1%. POP-Q stage 0-1 was obtained in 99.3% in the mid-compartment (C < -1), but only in 48.6% in the anterior compartment (Ba < -1). A significant reduction in symptom scores was obtained for PFDI-20 (p < 0.01) and PISQ-12 (p = 0.01). No significant changes were seen in dyspareunia rates (q.5, PISQ-12), but 5.6% reported de novo dyspareunia. Concerning POP symptoms, 96.0% reported being cured or significantly improved. The Manchester procedure provides adequate apical support, albeit inferior anatomical anterior compartment results, and 96.0% reported being subjectively cured or substantially better at 1-year follow-up, with no significant change in dyspareunia.

Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation for acute asthma in children.

Asthma is one of the most common reasons for hospital admission among children and constitutes a significant economic burden. Use of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) in the care of children with acute asthma has increased even though evidence supporting the intervention has been considered weak and clinical guidelines do not recommend the intervention. NPPV might be an effective intervention for acute asthma, but no systematic review has been conducted to assess the effects of NPPV as an add-on therapy to usual care in children with acute asthma. To assess the benefits and harms of NPPV as an add-on therapy to usual care (e.g. bronchodilators and corticosteroids) in children with acute asthma. We identified trials from the Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register (CAGR). The Register contains trial reports identified through systematic searches of bibliographic databases, including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, AMED and PsycINFO, and by handsearching of respiratory journals and meeting abstracts. We also conducted a search of ClinicalTrials.gov (www.ClinicalTrials.gov) and the WHO trials portal (www.who.int/ictrp/en/). We searched all databases from their inception to February 2016, with no restriction on language of publication. We included randomised clinical trials (RCTs) assessing NPPV as add-on therapy to usual care versus usual care for children (age < 18 years) hospitalised for an acute asthma attack. Two review authors independently screened titles and abstracts. We retrieved all relevant full-text study reports, independently screened the full text, identified trials for inclusion and identified and recorded reasons for exclusion of ineligible trials. We resolved disagreements through discussion or, if required, consulted a third review author. We recorded the selection process in sufficient detail to complete a PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) flow diagram and 'Characteristics of excluded studies' table. We identified the risk of bias of included studies to reduce the risk of systematic error. We contacted relevant study authors when data were missing. We included two RCTs that randomised 20 participants to NPPV and 20 participants to control. We assessed both studies as having high risk of bias; both trials assessed effects of bilateral positive airway pressure (BiPAP). Neither trial used continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Controls received standard care. Investigators reported no deaths and no serious adverse events (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE): very low quality of evidence due to serious risk of bias and serious imprecision of results). Both trials showed a statistically significant reduction in symptom score. One trial did not report a standard deviation (SD), but by using an estimated SD, we found a statistically significantly reduced asthma symptom score (mean difference (MD) -2.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) -4.70 to -0.30, P = 0.03, 19 participants, GRADE: very low quality of evidence). In the other trial, NPPV was associated with a lower total symptom score (5.6 vs 1.9, 16 participants, very low quality of evidence) before cross-over, but investigators did not report an SD, nor could it be estimated from the first phase of the trial, before the cross-over. These gains could be clinically relevant, as a reduction of three or more points in symptom score is considered a clinically meaningful change. Researchers documented five dropouts (12.5%), four of which were due to intolerance to NPPV, and one to respiratory failure requiring intubation. Owing to insufficient reporting in the latter trial and use of different scoring systems, it was not possible to conduct a meta-analysis nor a Trial Sequential Analysis. Current evidence does not permit confirmation or rejection of the effects of NPPV for acute asthma in children. Large RCTs with low risk of bias are warranted.

Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy: A Series of 500 Patients

After the first case of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) at our institution in 2008, the procedure was quickly accepted as an alternative to surgical myotomy and is now established as an excellent treatment option for achalasia. This study aimed to examine the safety and outcomes of POEM at our institution. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy was performed on 500 consecutive achalasia patients at our institution between September 2008 and November 2013. A review of prospectively collected data was conducted, including procedure time, myotomy location and length, adverse events, and patient data with short- (2 months) and long-term (1 and 3 years) follow-up. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy was successfully completed in all patients, with adverse events observed in 3.2%. Two months post-POEM, significant reductions in symptom scores (Eckardt score 6.0 ± 3.0 vs 1.0 ± 2.0, p < 0.0001) and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressures (25.4 ± 17.1 vs 13.4 ± 5.9 mmHg, p < 0.0001) were achieved, and this persisted at 3 years post-POEM. Gastroesophageal reflux was seen in 16.8% of patients at 2 months and 21.3% at 3-year follow-up. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy was successfully completed in all cases, even when extended indications (extremes of age, previous interventions, or sigmoid esophagus) were used. Adverse events were rare (3.2%), and there were no mortalities. Significant improvements in Eckardt scores and LES pressures were seen at 2 months, 1 year, and 3 years post-POEM. Based on our large series, POEM is a safe and effective treatment for achalasia; there are relatively few contraindications, and the procedure may be used as either first- or second-line therapy.

Janus kinase-1 and Janus kinase-2 inhibitors for treating myelofibrosis.

Myelofibrosis is a bone marrow disorder characterized by excessive production of reticulin and collagen fiber deposition caused by hematological and non-hematological disorders. The prognosis of myelofibrosis is poor and treatment is mainly palliative. Janus kinase inhibitors are a novel strategy to treat people with myelofibrosis. To determine the clinical benefits and harms of Janus kinase-1 and Janus kinase-2 inhibitors for treating myelofibrosis secondary to hematological or non-hematological conditions. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, the Cochrane Library 2014, Issue 11), Ovid MEDLINE (from 1946 to 13 November 2014), EMBASE (from 1980 to 12 January 2013), and LILACS (from 1982 to 20 November 2014). We searched WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and The metaRegister of Controlled Trials. We also searched for conference proceedings of the American Society of Hematology (from 2009 to October 2013), European Hematology Association (from 2009 to October 2013), American Society of Clinical Oncology (from 2009 to October 2013), and European Society of Medical Oncology (from 2009 to October 2013). We included searches in FDA, European Medicines Agency, and Epistemonikos. We handsearched the references of all identified included trials, and relevant review articles. We did not apply any language restrictions. Two review authors independently screened search results. We included randomized clinical trials comparing Janus kinase-1 and Janus kinase-2 inhibitors with placebo or other treatments. Both previously treated and treatment naive patients were included. We used the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for overall survival, progression-free survival and leukemia-free survival, risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI for reduction in spleen size and adverse events binary data, and standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% CI for continuous data (health-related quality of life). Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias of included trials. Primary outcomes were overall survival, progression-free survival and adverse events. We included two trials involving 528 participants, comparing ruxolitinib with placebo or best available therapy (BAT). As the two included trials had different comparators we did not pool the data. The confidence in the results estimates of these trials was low due to the bias in their design, and their limited sample sizes that resulted in imprecise results.There is low quality evidence for the effect of ruxolitinib on survival when compared with placebo at 51 weeks of follow-up (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.98) and compared with BAT at 48 weeks of follow-up (HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.20 to 2.47). Similarly there was very low quality evidence for the effect of ruxolitinib on progression free survival compared with BAT (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.39).There is low quality evidence for the effect of ruxolitinib in terms of quality of life. Compared with placebo, the drug achieved a greater proportion of patients with a significant reduction of symptom scores (RR 8.82, 95% CI 4.40 to 17.69), and treated patients with ruxolitinib obtained greater MFSAF scores at the end of follow-up (MD -87.90, 95% CI -139.58 to -36.22). An additional trial showed significant differences in EORTC QLQ-C30 scores when compared ruxolitinib with best available therapy (MD 7.60, 95% CI 0.35 to 14.85).The effect of ruxolitinib on reduction in the spleen size of participants compared with placebo or BAT was uncertain (versus placebo: RR 64.58, 95% CI 9.08 to 459.56, low quality evidence; versus BAT: RR 41.78, 95% CI 2.61 to 669.75, low quality evidence).There is low quality evidence for the effect of the drug compared with placebo on anemia (RR 2.35, 95% CI 1.62 to 3.41), neutropenia (RR 3.57, 95% CI 1.02 to 12.55) and thrombocytopenia (RR 9.74, 95% CI 2.32 to 40.96). Ruxolitinib did not result in differences versus BAT in the risk of anemia (RR 1.35, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.99, low quality evidence) or thrombocytopenia (RR 1.20; 95% CI 0.44 to 3.28, low quality evidence). The risk of non-hematologic grade 3 or 4 adverse events (including fatigue, arthralgia, nausea, diarrhea, extremity pain and pyrexia) was similar when ruxolitinib was compared with placebo or BAT. The rate of neutropenia comparing ruxolitinib with standard medical treatment was not reported by the trial. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to allow any conclusions regarding the efficacy and safety of ruxolitinib for treating myelofibrosis. The findings of this Cochrane review should be interpreted with caution as they are based on trials sponsored by industry, and include a small number of patients. Unless powered randomized clinical trials provide strong evidence of a treatment effect, and the trade-off between potential benefits and harms is established, clinicians should be cautious when administering ruxolitinib for treating patients with myelofibrosis.

TREATMENT OF DIARRHEA-PREDOMINANT IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME WITH MESALAZINE AND/OR SACCHAROMYCES BOULARDII

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disease characterized by abdominal pain and altered intestinal habits. The pathophysiology of IBS remains unclear. Recent studies have demonstrated that some IBS patients, especially in diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D), display persistent signs of minor mucosal inflammation and a modified intestinal microflora. The mesalazine has known intestinal anti-inflammatory properties. Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic used for a long time in treatment of diarrhea, including infectious diarrhea. Evaluate the effects of mesalazine alone, combined therapy of mesalazine with liophylised Saccharomyces boulardii or alone on symptoms of IBS-D patients. Based on Rome III criteria, 53 IBS-D patients (18 year or more) were included. To exclude organic diseases all patients underwent colonoscopy, stool culture, serum anti-endomisium antibody, lactose tolerance test and ova and parasite exam. Patients were divided in three groups: mesalazine group (MG) - 20 patients received mesalazine 800 mg t.i.d. for 30 days; mesalazine and Saccharomyces boulardii group (MSbG) - 21 patients received mesalazine 800 mg t.i.d. and Saccharomyces boulardii 200 mg t.i.d. for 30 days and; Saccharomyces boulardii group (SbG) - 12 patients received Sb 200 mg t.i.d. for 30 days. Drugs that might have any effect on intestinal motility or secretion were not allowed. Symptom evaluations at baseline and after treatment were performed by means of a 4-point likert scale including: stool frequency, stool form and consistency (Bristol scale), abdominal pain and distension. Paired t test and Kruskal-Wallis test were used for statistical analyses. Compared to baseline, there were statistically significant reduction of symptom score after 30 th day therapy in all three groups: MG (P<0.0001); MSbG (P<0.0001) and in SbG (P = 0.003). There were statistically significant differences in the symptom score at 30 th day therapy of the MG, MSbG and SbG groups (P = 0.03). There were no statistical differences between MSbG and MG symptom score at 30th day therapy (P = 0.9). The use of mesalazine alone, Saccharomyces boulardii alone or combined treatment with mesalasine and Saccaromyces boulardii improved IBS-D symptoms. The improvement of the symptom score was greater with mesalazine alone or combined with Sb as compared with Sb treatment alone. These preliminary results suggest that mezalazine may be useful in treatment of IBS-d patients, and warrant further larger studies.

Effects of Arthro-7&amp;reg; in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis with mild to moderate arthralgia

Correspondence: Rong Shi School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 227 South Chang Qing Road, Shanghai 200025, People’s Republic of China Tel +11 86 13 04065 5160 Email shirong61@yahoo.com.cn Background: Osteoarthritis is a common chronic disease affecting aged populations. Conventional therapies tend to result in side effects when used long-term. Arthro-7 (Robinson Pharma, Orange County, CA, USA) has been used by osteoarthritis patients for more than 10 years in the USA and has showed promising effects at relieving osteoarthritis-related symptoms. A previous small, double-blind study has shown some positive effects of Arthro-7 in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis. The current study was performed specifically in osteoarthritis patients with mild to moderate arthralgia. Methods: A total of 100 subjects over the age of 50 years old who were diagnosed with osteoarthritis and had at least one of the related symptoms were recruited to the study. After primary evaluation, 64 eligible males and females with mild or moderate degrees of arthralgia were randomly assigned 12-week treatment with either Arthro-7 or placebo. The primary outcome measurement was changes in the scores of the related symptoms before and after treatment, using the modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) 3.1 questionnaire. Prior to and at the end of the study, evaluations of symptom scores were recorded. Additionally, self-reported overall changes were recorded at the end of 2, 4, and 8 weeks of treatment and at the end of the study (12 weeks). Results: Arthro-7 improved most symptoms significantly compared with placebo, as indicated by significant reductions in symptom scores. In the Arthro-7 group, 74.5% of the participants reported symptom improvement over the study period versus only 16.3% in the placebo group. Conclusion: In this study, Arthro-7 has shown potent effects in improving and relieving osteoarthritis-related symptoms, particularly joint pain, anchylosis, and difficulty going down stairs.

The impact of a multifaceted ergonomic intervention program on promoting occupational health in community nurses

IntroductionCommunity nurses are exposed to high physical demands at work resulting in musculoskeletal disorders. The present study examined the short- and long-term benefits of a multifaceted intervention program designed especially for community nurses in Hong Kong. MethodsFifty community nurses working in 4 local hospitals participated in the study. All of them underwent an 8-week intervention program consisting of ergonomic training, daily exercise program, equipment modification, computer workstation assessment and typing training. ResultsAll participants showed significant improvement in musculoskeletal symptoms and functional outcomes comparing pre- and post-intervention results. Significant reduction in symptom score was observed at 1-year follow-up compared to post-intervention. Symptomatic group (n=40) showed more significant changes overall compared to asymptomatic group (n=10). ConclusionResults support the positive benefits, both short- and long-term, of the multifaceted ergonomic intervention programme for community nurses.

Investigation of different approaches to reduce allergens in asthmatic children's homes — The Breath of Fresh Air Project, Cornwall, United Kingdom

During 2001 to 2004, a study was conducted to assess the indoor environmental and health impact of installing allergen-reducing interventions in the homes of asthmatic children. Based on the results of a pilot study, to determine an intervention that would provide improved symptom scores and a reduction in house dust mite allergen ( Der p 1), mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) systems were installed in 16 homes. Environmental and respiratory health assessments were conducted before and after the installation of the MVHR systems. The results indicated that the installation of MVHR systems reduced Der p 1 concentrations in living room carpets and mattresses. There were significant reductions in symptom scores for breathlessness during exercise, wheezing, and coughing during the day and night. Although, there was not a parallel control group for the main study, the lack of change in the pilot study control group (who did not receive an intervention), indicated that the changes in symptom scores were in part to do with the intervention. Larger scale trials are needed to determine the efficacy of MVHR systems in homes to improve indoor air quality and reduce asthma symptoms.

Cochrane review: Allergen injection immunotherapy for seasonal allergic rhinitis

AbstractBackgroundAllergic rhinitis is the most common of the allergic diseases. Despite improved understanding of the pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis and advances in its pharmacological treatment, its prevalence has increased worldwide. For patients whose symptoms remain uncontrolled despite medical treatment, allergen injection immunotherapy is advised. An allergen‐based treatment may reduce symptoms, the need for medication and modify the natural course of this disease.ObjectivesTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous specific allergen immunotherapy, compared with placebo, for reducing symptoms and medication requirements in seasonal allergic rhinitis patients.Search strategyWe searched the Cochrane Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders Group Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1 2006), MEDLINE (1950 to 2006), EMBASE (1974 to 2006), Pre‐MEDLINE, KOREAMED, INDMED, LILACS, PAKMEDINET, Scisearch, mRCT and the National Research Register. The date of the last search was February 2006.Selection criteriaAll studies identified by the searches were assessed to identify randomised controlled trials involving participants with symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis and proven allergen sensitivity, treated with subcutaneous allergen specific immunotherapy or corresponding placebo.Data collection and analysisTwo independent authors identified all studies reporting double‐blind, placebo controlled randomised trials of specific immunotherapy in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis due to tree, grass or weed pollens. Two authors independently performed quality assessment of studies. Data from identified studies were abstracted onto a standard extraction sheet and subsequently entered into RevMan 4.2.8. Analysis was performed using the Standardised Mean Difference (SMD) method and a random‐effects model; P values &lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The primary outcome measures were symptom scores, medication use, quality of life and adverse events.Main resultsWe retrieved 1111 publications of which 51 satisfied our inclusion criteria. In total there were 2871 participants (1645 active, 1226 placebo), each receiving on average 18 injections. Duration of immunotherapy varied from three days to three years. Symptom score data from 15 trials were suitable for meta‐analysis and showed an overall reduction in the immunotherapy group (SMD ‐0.73 (95% CI ‐0.97 to ‐0.50, P &lt; 0.00001)). Medication score data from 13 trials showed an overall reduction in the immunotherapy group (SMD of ‐0.57 (95% CI ‐0.82 to ‐0.33, p&lt;0.00001)). Clinical interpretation of the effect size is difficult. Adrenaline was given in 0.13% (19 of 14085 injections) of those on active treatment and in 0.01% (1 of 8278 injections) of the placebo group for treatment of adverse events. There were no fatalities.Authors' conclusionsThis review has shown that specific allergen injection immunotherapy in suitably selected patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis results in a significant reduction in symptom scores and medication use. Injection immunotherapy has a known and relatively low risk of severe adverse events. We found no long‐term consequences from adverse events.Plain Language SummaryImmunotherapy by allergen injections for seasonal allergic rhinitis ('hay fever')Seasonal allergic rhinitis ('hay fever') is a global health problem and its prevalence has increased considerably in the last two decades. Treatment includes allergen avoidance, drugs such as antihistamine tablets and nasal sprays, and immunotherapy (vaccination). For those patients whose symptoms remain uncontrolled despite drug treatment, specific allergen immunotherapy (SIT) is advised.Specific allergen immunotherapy is most commonly administered as subcutaneous (under the skin) injections by specialists requiring a building‐up period followed by a maintenance period of three to five years. Immunotherapy may also be delivered by the oral, nasal or sublingual route and these will be studied in separate Cochrane reviews, as will immunotherapy for perennial (all year round) allergic rhinitis. In this review we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of injection immunotherapy, compared with placebo, for reducing symptoms and the need for medication.We identified randomised, double‐blind, placebo controlled trials of specific allergen immunotherapy in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis due to tree, grass or weed pollens. Fifty‐one studies satisfied our inclusion criteria. In total there were 2871 participants (1645 in the treatment groups and 1226 in the placebo), each receiving on average 18 injections. The duration of treatment varied from three days to three years.This review has shown that injection immunotherapy in suitably selected patients with hay fever results in significant reductions in symptom scores and medication use. Injection immunotherapy has a known and relatively low risk of severe adverse events. We found no long‐term consequences from adverse events and no fatalities.

T1307 Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome with mesalazine and/or Saccharomyces Boulardii

Context - Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disease characterized by abdominal pain and altered in- testinal habits. The pathophysiology of IBS remains unclear. Recent studies have demonstrated that some IBS patients, especially in diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D), display persistent signs of minor mucosal inflammation and a modified intestinal microflora. The mesalazine has known intestinal anti-inflammatory properties. Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic used for a long time in treatment of diarrhea, including infectious diarrhea. Objective - Evaluate the effects of mesalazine alone, combined therapy of me- salazine with liophylised Saccharomyces boulardii or alone on symptoms of IBS-D patients. Methods - Based on Rome III criteria, 53 IBS-D patients (18 year or more) were included. To exclude organic diseases all patients underwent colonoscopy, stool culture, serum anti-endomisium antibody, lactose tolerance test and ova and parasite exam. Patients were divided in three groups: mesalazine group (MG) - 20 patients received mesalazine 800 mg t.i.d. for 30 days; mesalazine and Saccharomyces boulardii group (MSbG) - 21 patients received mesalazine 800 mg t.i.d. and Saccharomyces boulardii 200 mg t.i.d. for 30 days and; Saccharomyces boulardii group (SbG) - 12 patients received Sb 200 mg t.i.d. for 30 days. Drugs that might have any effect on intestinal motility or secretion were not allowed. Symptom evaluations at baseline and after treatment were performed by means of a 4-point likert scale including: stool frequency, stool form and consistency (Bristol scale), abdominal pain and distension. Paired t test and Kruskal-Wallis test were used for statistical analyses. Results - Compared to baseline, there were statistically significant reduction of symptom score after 30 th day therapy in all three groups: MG (P<0.0001); MSbG (P<0.0001) and in SbG (P = 0.003). There were statistically significant differ - ences in the symptom score at 30 th day therapy of the MG, MSbG and SbG groups (P = 0.03). There were no statistical differences between MSbG and MG symptom score at 30th day therapy (P = 0.9). Conclusions - The use of mesalazine alone, Saccharomyces boulardii alone or combined treatment with mesalasine and Saccaromyces boulardii improved IBS-D symptoms. The improvement of the symptom score was greater with mesalazine alone or combined with Sb as compared with Sb treatment alone. These preliminary results suggest that mezalazine may be useful in treatment of IBS-d patients, and warrant further larger studies. HEADINGS - Irritable bowel syndrome. Diarrhea. Mesalamine. Saccharomyces boulardii.