The 50 most-cited articles in DMW - Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift, 2018

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Die außerklinische Beatmung erfährt in Deutschland eine rasante Entwicklung. Patienten mit chronischer respiratorischer Insuffizienz werden in deutlich zunehmender Zahl nichtinvasiv oder invasiv in einem häuslichen Setting beatmet. Diese Patienten müssen im Rahmen von Kontrolluntersuchungen oder Akut-Problemen immer wieder stationär behandelt werden. Die für die Steuerung des Gesundheitswesens wichtige Entwicklung der stationären Behandlungsfälle ist bislang ebenso unbekannt wie die Morbidität und Krankenhaussterblichkeit der häuslich beatmeten Patienten. Methode Von 2006 – 2016 wurden alle stationären Aufnahmen analysiert, bei denen eine Langzeit-Abhängigkeit vom Respirator (mindestens 3 Monate) bestand (Daten des Deutschen Statistischen Bundesamtes). Ergebnisse Es zeigte sich eine exponentielle Zunahme von stationären Behandlungsfällen, wobei 2006 noch 24 845 Patienten stationär behandelt werden mussten, im Jahr 2016 hingegen 86 117 Patienten. Im gleichen Zeitraum zeigte sich eine Abnahme der Krankenhaussterblichkeit von 13,2 % (2006) auf 5,7 % (2016).…

Was ist neu? Calcitonin-Bestimmung Die neuen vollautomatischen Chemilumineszenz-Immunoassays erlauben eine sichere Festlegung geschlechtsspezifischer oberer Referenzwerte für Calcitonin. Calcitonin-Erhöhung Der Graubereich mit unspezifisch erhöhten Calcitonin-Spiegeln durch andere Erkrankungen oder Medikamente ist inzwischen besser zu definieren. Calcitonin-Screening bei Struma nodosa Eine Empfehlung zur Schilddrüsenoperation wird ab einem basalen Calcitonin-Grenzwert von über 30 pg/ml bei Frauen und über 60 pg/ml bei Männern gesehen. Damit gelingt aus unserer Sicht eine gute Balance zwischen Übertherapie, d. h. Schilddrüsenoperationen bei erhöhtem Calcitonin und benigner Histologie, und dem Risiko, ein im Frühstadium befindliches MTC zu übersehen. Die Durchführung eines Calcitonin-Stimulationstests ist nicht mehr erforderlich. Werte im Graubereich (20 – 30 pg/ml bei Frauen und 30 – 60 pg/ml bei Männern) sollten im Abstand von 3 – 6 Monaten kontrolliert und bei Überschreitung der Grenzwerte operiert werden. Berücksichtigt man zusätzlich die Tatsache, dass bei Calcitonin-Werten < 100…

BACKGROUND: It is regularly criticized that the detection of dementia in primary care is not effective enough, especially with regard to early stages of dementia. Previous research results suggest that there are reservations among general practitioners towards dementia diagnostics. So far, however, the causes for this or the positions and strategies of general practitioners towards dementia care have not been sufficiently investigated. The aim of the study was to investigate the attitudes of general practitioners towards dementia diagnostics, to identify common challenges in day-to-day practice and to derive starting points for optimization. METHODS AND PARTICIPANTS: In the course of a survey, which was developed on the basis of a separate preliminary interview study, 425 general practitioners in Rhineland-Palatinate were interviewed (survey period: November 2017 - January 2018). RESULTS: The results show that a considerable part of the doctors surveyed have withdrawn from dementia diagnostics and delegated the care of dementia patients exclusively to the medical specialist level.…

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Die Zeit der ärztlichen Weiterbildung ist der Grundstein für die Karriereentwicklung junger Internisten und für die Aufrechthaltung einer hochwertigen ärztlichen Versorgung. Bereits 2014 haben die Nachwuchsgruppen der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Innere Medizin (DGIM) und des Berufsverbandes Deutscher Internisten (BDI) eine Befragung ihrer jungen Mitglieder durchgeführt und wesentliche Konfliktfelder beschrieben. Mit dieser überarbeiteten Folgeuntersuchung soll ein aktualisiertes Abbild der Konflikte im Arbeitsleben junger Ärzte erstellt und eine Verlaufsbeurteilung ermöglicht werden. Ein neuer Schwerpunkt ist das Spannungsfeld von Beruf und Familie. Methoden Ende 2016 wurde eine webbasierte Befragung aller bei DGIM und BDI organisierten Weiterbildungsassistenten durchgeführt. Dafür wurde der Fragebogen von 2014 modifiziert und um Items zur Untersuchung des Spannungsfeldes von Familie und Beruf ergänzt. Zusätzlich wurde erneut das Modell beruflicher Gratifikationskrisen eingesetzt. Ergebnisse Insgesamt konnten 1587 Fragebögen ausgewertet werden. Im…

Since 2007, patients with severe advanced life-limiting illnesses and high, complex symptom burdens have a right to receive specialized outpatient palliative care (SAPV). Multi-professional teams with heterogeneous organizational structures provide care in cooperation with primary care givers, not limited to cancer patients. The aim of SAPV is to foster patient's autonomy and quality of life. SAPV can be provided as counseling of patient and care givers, coordination of care, additional supportive and full care provision. While the basis of SAPV provision is regulated by a SAPV directive, different contracts between care providers and health care insurances regulate organization, cooperation, definition of care levels, service provision and compensation. Some regions have model contracts that are binding for all SAPV teams in the area; in other regions teams negotiate e. g. compensation, individually with insurances. The article gives an overview of the regulations regarding SAPV.

The diagnosis of diabetes is associated with pre-analytical and analytical problems. Fasting glucose (FG), oral glucose tolerance test (oGTT) and HbA1c have advantages and shortcomings and have no equal diagnostic validity. oGTT is the most sensitive test, but its reproducibility is rather poor (CV± 15 %). FG detects only 70 - 80 % of overt diabetes. FG is falsified by inappropriate blood sampling, intra-individual fluctuations and mistakes with the oGTT. HbA1c despite IFC- standardization, but with a tolerable coefficient of variation of ± 18 % in round robin tests and use of not commutable control material is not easy to interpret. HbA1c analysis shows also interferences and is therefore of limited diagnostic value. Its threshold value of ≥ 6.5 % (≥ 48 mmol/mol Hb) is based on consensus and not on evidence. The diagnostic effort (FG and/or oGTT+HbA1c) with serious consequences is minimal invasive, reasonable and cheap. It prevents over- and underdiagnosis.

The use of Point-of-care ultrasonography (POC Ultrasonography) is getting more and more important in the bedside care of patients, especially in emergency- and intensive care units. In addition to the focused sonography of the heart, lungs and abdomen, the POC Ultrasonography recently includes also cases in prehospital care. Increasingly special applications in intensive care, e.g. the assessment of weaning from mechanical ventilation or evaluation of the hemodynamics of a patient by means of sonographic control, gain meaning.The German Society for Internistic Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine e. V. (DGIIN), the German society for Ultrasound in Medicine e. V. (DEGUM) and the German Society of Cardiology e. V. (DGK) recently published a common recommendation for a training concept in POC Ultrasonography. The aim is quality assurance and accordingly the improvement of patient care in emergency- and intensive care.

Was ist neu? Risikostratifizierung der Dualen Plättcheninhibition (DAPT) Die neuen Leitlinien befassen sich mit grundlegenden Empfehlungen zu Form und Dauer der DAPT. Die Individualisierung der Therapie liegt deutlich im Fokus. Dabei wird geraten, mithilfe von Expertenteams bzw. Scores das individuelle Ischämie- bzw. Blutungsrisiko des jeweiligen Patienten einzuschätzen. In Abhängigkeit davon wird die Dauer einer DAPT festgelegt. Dabei wird hervorgehoben, dass die Entscheidung über die DAPT-Dauer dynamisch ist und in regelmäßigen Abständen reevaluiert werden sollte. Duale Plättchenhemmung nach elektiver koronarer Stentimplantation Aufgrund der durch die neuen Stenttechnologien deutlich seltener auftretenden Stentthrombosen ist erstmals die Dauer der DAPT unabhängig vom Stenttyp (Bare-metal- oder Drug-eluting-Stent). Dabei ist eine Dauer von einem Monat bis zu 36 Monaten möglich. Damit hat sich die Sicht der DAPT von einer stentbezogenen auf eine systemische Behandlungsstrategie gewandelt. Duale Plättchenhemmung im Rahmen eines akuten Koronarsyndroms In diesem Kontext wurden auch die…

In Germany, the "Dietary Schedule for the 1st year of life" and the "Optimised Mixed Diet" for children and adolescents serve as scientifically based and generally applicable dietary concepts throughout the period of growth and development. Vegetarian diets as the lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet (exclusion of meat, fish) and the vegan diet (exclusion of all food groups of animal origin) need to be evaluated for their potential to safely meet the high and specific requirements for growth and development. In this regard, high-quality studies are needed. In individuals on lacto-ovo-vegetarian diets, the safe supply with critical nutrients should be checked by thorough dietary history, possibly additional laboratory tests in risk situations like pregnancy, infancy and toddlerhood. Children on pure vegan diet need ongoing elaborate dietary strategies and continuous supplementation at any age, similar to nutritional management in children with metabolic disorders. A vegan diet is disadvised during all periods with intense growth and development.

Cancer patients and their relatives suffer from multiple psychological and social problems associated with the illness itself and its treatment. The major challenge for an excellent psychooncological support is the further development and nationwide implementation of effective, patient-centered, quality assured, and affordable concepts of treatment and care.

Severe hyperlactaemia in intensive care patients is most often due to underlying sepsis or septic, cardiogenic or haemorrhagic shock. Hyperlactaemia is an independent predictor of death in various groups of critically ill patients. With serum lactate values > 10 mmol/l 80 % of the patients die in intensive care, and if the severe lactic acidosis persists for 48 hours, all patients die. Increased lactate levels require immediate diagnostic work-up and classification. The new sepsis definition requires a serum lactate > 2 mmol/l for septic shock with adequate volume substitution and vasopressor administration in order to achieve a mean arterial pressure in persistent hypotension ≥ 65 mmHg. The 1-hour bundle of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign published in 2018 recommends as a first measure the determination of the lactate serum concentrations, and increased values should be closely monitored. In addition, blood culture sampling, broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluid resuscitation and vasopressor administration are recommended within the first hour. Large amounts of crystalloids should be…

Was ist neu? Epidemiologie Clostridium-difficile-Infektionen (CDI) gehen auch in Deutschland mit unverändert hoher Krankheitslast und einem Anstieg der Zahl schwerer bzw. letaler Verläufe einher. Der Anteil ambulant erworbener CDI steigt weltweit weiter an und umfasst selten auch Patienten mit einer Reisediarrhö. Es gibt eine gute Evidenz dafür, dass nosokomiale Fälle durch Implementierung von Antibiotic-Stewardship- (ABS-) Programmen stark verringert werden können. Diagnostik Nur Patienten mit unklarer, neu aufgetretener Diarrhö sollten getestet werden. Die mikrobiologische Untersuchung auf toxigene C.-difficile-Stämme sollte mehrstufig erfolgen, d. h. mittels Glutamatdehydrogenase- (GDH-) Test plus Toxinnachweis oder Nukleinsäureamplifikationstests (NAAT), oder NAAT plus Toxinnachweis. Von einem alleinigen Toxinnachweis mittels Enzymimmunoassay (EIA) oder einem alleinigen Einsatz von NAAT wird abgeraten. Neue Therapieleitlinien Nach den 2017/18 aktualisierten US-amerikanischen Leitlinien gilt oral verabreichtes Vancomycin inzwischen als Mittel der ersten Wahl. Fidaxomicin ist…

During the last 135 years, the average temperature in Germany has increased by 1.4 °C. By 2050, a further rise by 1.5 °C is expected. This is associated with an increase of precipitation during the winter months. This climate change probably will improve both the growth conditions for mosquitoes and ticks, as well as their ability to transmit infectious diseases. Today, vectors that have not yet been present are invading into Germany. Among them is Aedes albopictus, which transmits Chikungunya, Zika, and Dengue Fever. Also, spreading of autochthonous malaria and West Nile Fever appear possible in Germany. Because of the increased presence of Phlebotomus species, leishmaniasis should be considered as a potential differential diagnosis in unclear hematologic diseases. Among the tick-borne diseases, climate change has already led to increased case numbers of Borreliosis and Tick Borne Encephalitis (TBE), and Crimean Congo Virus is spreading from the Balkan region towards Central Europe. This requires physicians to consider additional differential diagnoses in febrile illnesses.

Zusammenfassung Einleitung Staphylococcus-aureus-Bakteriämien sind schwere Infektionserkrankungen mit oftmals langwierigen klinischen Verläufen und hoher Sterblichkeit. Retrospektive Studien zeigen, dass infektiologische Konsile die Adhärenz an Therapiestandards erhöhen und das Überleben von Staphylococcus-aureus-Bakteriämie-Patienten verbessern können. Methoden In dieser retrospektiven, monozentrischen Beobachtungsstudie wurde der Einfluss von infektiologischen Konsilen auf das Überleben von Patienten mit Staphylococcus-aureus-Bakteriämie am Universitätsklinikum Jena mittels logistischer Regressions- und Überlebenszeitanalyse untersucht. Der primäre Endpunkt der Studie war die Krankenhaussterblichkeit. Ergebnisse Insgesamt wurden Daten von 297 Patienten (≥ 18 Jahre) mit Staphylococcus-aureus-Bakteriämie im Zeitraum zwischen Dezember 2012 und August 2015 analysiert. Bei 159 dieser Patienten wurde ein infektiologisches Konsil durchgeführt. Die Durchführung eines Konsils war mit einer geringeren Krankenhaussterblichkeit assoziiert (23 % ohne Konsil, 11 % mit Konsil; multiple…

Triiodothyronine (T3) is a key regulator of bone, muscle and articular cartilage. Musculoskeletal symptoms of hyperthyroidism include loss of bone mass finally leading to osteoporosis and weakness of the skeletal musculature. Hypothyroidism on the other side frequently leads to muscle stiffness and cramping and, occasionally, results in rhabdomyolysis. To prevent terminal differentiation of chondrocytes with consecutive cartilage degeneration, cartilage probably depends on exact regulation of local T3 availability by the intracellular deiodinase system. Recent findings underline the importance of local T3 generation by deiodinase type 2 and support the existence of local hypo- or hyperthyroidism.In the review, the implications of the recent literature for current understanding of osteoarthritis, myopathies and diabetic osteoarthropathy will be discussed. Further emphasis will be placed on the association of autoimmune thyroiditis with musculoskeletal diseases and fibromyalgia.

Was ist neu? Ursachen Die Ursachen der Immunthrombozytopenie (ITP) sind sehr vielfältig. Eine ITP liegt gemäß der aktuellen Definition nur vor, wenn die Thrombozyten wiederholt unter 100 × 109/l liegen. Klinisches Bild Die Blutungsneigung bei einer ITP ist geringer als bei Patienten mit einer vergleichbaren Thrombozytopenie anderer Ursache. Diagnostik Die ITP ist eine Ausschlussdiagnose. Es gibt keinen Labortest und keine Untersuchung, die eine ITP „beweist“. Stadieneinteilung und Therapieziele Die neue Einteilung der ITP in 3 Stadien hat die traditionelle Einteilung in „akut“ und „chronisch“ abgelöst. Thrombozyten-Schwellenwert Die Indikationsstellung zur Therapie richtet sich nicht allein nach der Thrombozytenzahl, sondern berücksichtigt weitere individuelle Patientenfaktoren. Therapie Arzneimittel der Wahl in der Erstlinientherapie sind Predniso(lo)n oder Dexamethason. Bei lebensbedrohlichen Blutungen ist die zusätzliche Gabe von Thrombozyten-Konzentraten indiziert. Die wirksamsten Zweitlinientherapien sind die Gabe von Thrombopoetin-Rezeptor-Agonisten oder die Splenektomie. In…

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a severe and common side effect induced by a variety of anticancer drugs. CIPN presents as a sensory, motor, and sometimes autonomic dysfunction with a large variability, from a mild tingling sensation and hyperesthesia, to severe neuropathic pain. Up to 40 % of patients will develop CIPN which may lead to dose-reduction or discontinuation of their current treatment and largely affects their quality of life (QoL). This review presents specific clinical features and pathomechanisms and discusses current preventive strategies and therapeutic options.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic ketoacidosis and the hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state are the most serious diabetic emergencies. Before the discovery of insulin in 1921 by Banting and Best the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes was fatal ending in diabetic ketoacidosis equivalent to a torturous death. Today, mortality from diabetic ketoacidosis is low at approximately 2 %. But each death from these two acute metabolic complications of diabetes is potentially avoidable by improved patient and healthcare professional education. Therefore, there is a need to raise awareness of hyperglycemic crisis and its management amongst physicians. PATHOGENESIS: Insulin deficiency or resistence and increased concentrations of counterreulatory hormones (glucagon, catecholamines, cortisol and growth hormone) are responsible for the development of diabetic ketoacidosis and the hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. Hyperglycemia develops as a result of increased gluconeogenesis and accelerated glyconeogenesis. In DKA, the absolute insulin deficiency additionally leads to increased lipolysis and production of ketone bodies…

BACKGROUND: For the prevention of cardiovascular risk factors (RF) there are numerous recommendations of professional societies, which relate to the personal way of life of individuals (for example nutrition/diet, physical activity, stress reduction etc.). The implementation of these recommendations is so far poor. In the ELITE study, data on RF, nutritional behavior, physical activity and quality of life in the Oldenburger Münsterland region are to be collected prospectively and improved by individual information. Reasons for the lack of implementation of preventive measures should be recognized. METHODS: The study is conducted as an interventional cohort study (DRKS-No.: 00 006 813, Ethics vote University of Göttingen). Up to 5000 people (with or without pre-existing RF) are aimed to be included. All participants receive a computer-generated report of their personal risk profile with detailed recommendations based on current guidelines. In addition, it is recommended to visit the family doctor to discuss the findings and, if necessary, initiate diagnostic or therapeutic measures.…

Pioneering work has unraveled the role of the immune system in the development and control of cancer. This knowledge has set the basis for the successful implementation of immunotherapy into the standard of care for a large number of cancer types. Based on response rates and prolongation of overall survival, immunotherapeutic approaches have been approved in a growing number of tumor diseases. Activation or therapeutic utilization of T cells represent the basis of these concepts. Checkpoint inhibitory antibodies inhibiting CTLA-4, PD1 and PD-L1 receptors and ligands induce long-term clinical tumor control in a significant number of cancer patients including metastatic melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer. As an alternative concept of T cell activation, the dual CD19 - CD3 targeting bispecific antibody blinatumomab has been approved for refractory acute lymphatic B-cell leukemia (ALL). Moreover, T cells genetically engineered with an anti-CD19-chimeric antigen receptor have also been approved for ALL and malignant B-cell lymphoma by the food and drug administration (FDA). In all…

Was ist neu? Natürlicher Verlauf und Therapieindikation Die Nomenklatur der 4 Phasen der chronischen Hepatitis-B-Virus (HBV) -Infektion wurde modifiziert. Es wird zwischen HBeAg-positiver Infektion, HBeAg-positiver Hepatitis, HBeAg-negativer Infektion und HBeAg-negativer Hepatitis unterschieden. Eine klare Therapieindikation besteht bei einer Hepatitis, insbesondere bei Leberfibrose oder Leberzirrhose. Die Therapie von Schwangeren mit hoher HBV-DNA > 200 000 IU/ml zur Verhinderung der vertikalen Transmission auf das Neugeborene hat nun einen höheren Stellenwert. Unter immunsuppressiver Therapie kann eine inaktive oder „ausgeheilte“ HBV-Infektion in lebensbedrohlicher Form reaktivieren. Die Prävention einer HBV-Reaktivierung ist daher ein zentrales Thema in neuen Leitlinien. Therapie der chronischen Hepatitis B Neben dem Standard (direkt antiviral wirkende Nukleosid/Nukleotidanaloga [NA]) steht mit Tenofovir-Alafenamid (TAF) ein neues NA zur Verfügung. Die antivirale Wirksamkeit ist mit Tenofovir-Disoproxil (TDF) vergleichbar. Durch höhere intrazelluläre Konzentrationen des…

Both acute crises and chronically incriminating circumstances in people's lives may lead to their being afflicted by psychological and somatic ailments. "Burnout" has been coined and established as the term for chronic occupational strain. Many professions claim to be extraordinarily affected by burnout, amongst others physicians and nurses, especially those working in anaesthesiology and critical care. Usually assessed with the Maslach Burnout Inventary, the prevalence of moderate or severe burnout in these areas is estimated at about 30 % amongst nurses and about 40 % to 50 % amongst physicians. Both individual characteristics of those afflicted and occupational factors - as well as their interactions - are made responsible for causing burnout. The complexity of potentially stressful impingements, though, particularly within anaesthesiology and critical care, cannot be covered by the traditional burnout-paradigm. The plethora of recommendations found in popular science may be helpful in individual cases. However, there are no evidence-based preventive or therapeutic measures yet,…

BACKGROUND: Chronic reflux patients with long-term PPI therapy frequently have persistent symptoms. A critical source of the persistent acid reflux is the acid pocket, which can be treated effectively by the non-systemic reflux suppressing action of alginates. METHODS: GERD patients with at least one year of PPI long-term therapy, who were dissatisfied with their therapy, were treated over a period of 14 days with alginate as add-on and when required (up to 4 times daily) in a prospective, multi-centre, non-randomised, non-interventional and uncontrolled study in GP practices. The frequency of symptoms in the week before treatment was recorded, as well as in the second week of the study phase and the consumption of alginate. The validated GERD Q score was also applied. The patients assessed satisfaction with the therapy on a five-point Likert scale (very unhappy - happy) before the beginning and at the end of the study. The primary endpoint of the study was improvement in satisfaction with the therapy by ≥ 1 point. RESULTS: 155 patients (54 % women, median age 57 (18 - 85) years)…

The metabolic diseases gout and calciumpyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) (formerly: chondrocalcinosis/pseudogout) are crystal arthropathies which are caused by crystals in synovial fluid and in the case of gout also in periarticular structures. Today, in particular gout is considered as an auto-inflammatory process since phagocytosis of monosodium urate crystals by monocytes/macrophages results in the activation of the innate immune system by activation of the NRLP3-Inflammasome and consecutive secretion of the key cytokine interleukin-1ß and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. The prevalence of both crystal arthropathies rises with increasing age of patients. Most often they present clinically as an acute monarthritis of different locations. Beside typical clinical presentation, performance of ultrasonography, conventional X-Ray of joints and under special circumstances dual-energy-computer tomography could be also helpful diagnostic tools. There are EULAR guidelines describing the diagnostic algorithm for making right diagnosis. The arthrocentesis with microscopic detection of…

Was ist neu? Antithrombotische Therapie bei stabiler PAVK Die aktuellen deutschen und europäischen Leitlinien empfehlen bei Patienten mit einer peripheren arteriellen Verschlusskrankheit (PAVK) die Monotherapie mit einem Thrombozytenaggregationshemmer (ASS 100 mg oder Clopidogrel 75 mg). In der COMPASS (Cardiovascular OutcoMes for People using Anticoagulation StrategieS) -Studie wurde Patienten mit PAVK 2 × 2,5 mg Rivaroxaban zusätzlich zu ASS 100 mg gegeben. Dies führte zur signifikanten Reduktion kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse (MACE = Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events) wie kardiovaskulärer Tod, Myokardinfarkt und Schlaganfall. Ebenfalls signifikant reduziert wurden periphere Ereignisse (MALE = Major Adverse Limb Events) wie ischämiebedingte Major-Amputation und eine akute schwere Ischämie. Liegt bei Patienten mit einer PAVK die Indikation zur oralen Antikoagulation vor (z. B. bei Vorhofflimmern), empfehlen die aktuellen deutschen und europäischen Leitlinien die Monotherapie mit oralen Antikoagulantien ohne zusätzliche Thrombozytenaggregationshemmung. Antithrombotische Therapie nach…

The prevalence of peripheral artery disease (PAD) is increasing worldwide. Patients with PAD not only have a reduced quality of life, they are at high risk for cardiovascular events such as stroke, myocardial infarction and death. Recent nationwide studies in Germany demonstrate an increase of PAD burden, particularly of the advanced stages of PAD, i.e. of the subset with critical limb ischemia (CLI).Despite the awareness campaigns and the advances in medical and technical management of the disease in the last decades, the total number of ischemic limb amputations in Germany remains high (> 50 000/year). The total number and the rate of minor amputation are increasing. However, the rate of major amputation is continuously decreasing (- 31% from 2005 to 2014). In contrast to the trend in major amputation, cardiovascular and overall mortality remains at high rates and almost unchanged compared to historical data. Limb amputation and mortality in patients with PAD strongly depends on disease severity: the risk of limb amputation at 4-years follow-up in patients at Rutherford categories…

Was ist neu? Diagnose des ST-Strecken-Hebungsinfarkts Die aktualisierte Leitlinie zum ST-Hebungsinfarkt (STEMI) der Europäischen Gesellschaft für Kardiologie (ESC) definiert den ersten qualifizierten medizinischen Kontakt genauer: Hierunter versteht man die Anwesenheit von medizinischem Personal, welches in der Lage ist, ein EKG zu schreiben und zu interpretieren. Von diesem sollte die Arbeitsdiagnose STEMI gestellt und die definierten Maßnahmen zur schnellstmöglichen Revaskularisation organisiert werden (ideal < 90Minuten). In der EKG-Beurteilung wurde der Nachweis eines neu aufgetretenen kompletten Rechtsschenkelblocks in der Bewertung dem eines entsprechenden Linksschenkelblocks gleichgestellt. Akutmanagement und Notfallversorgung Die perkutane Koronarintervention (PCI) ohne vorherige Lysetherapie ist als Standardversorgung etabliert. Eine Versorgungszeit von Diagnosestellung bis PCI von unter 90 Minuten ist zu gewährleisten, in einem PCI-Zentrum binnen 60 Minuten. Die medikamentöse Notfallversorgung besteht aus unfraktioniertem Heparin, ASS und ggf. Sedativa und Analgetika.…

Zusammenfassung Die Influenza 1918 war die größte Pandemie des 20. Jahrhunderts und hat eine große Zahl an Opfern gefordert. Das öffentliche Echo der Pandemie war in Deutschland aufgrund des Endes des Ersten Weltkrieges eher verhalten, allerdings wurde die Pandemie ausführlich in der wissenschaftlichen Literatur behandelt. In Europa war die Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift das erste Publikationsorgan, das von der Pandemie ab Juli 1918 ausführlich berichtete. Von Beginn an war die Frage des Erregers kontrovers, sie wurde 1930 endgültig geklärt. Zeitgenössische Publikationen und aktuelle Untersuchungen demonstrieren klar die prominente Rolle bakterieller Koinfektionen für die hohe Rate von Komplikationen und Todesfällen. Der Ablauf der Pandemie und die wissenschaftliche Aufarbeitung bis in die heutige Zeit werden hier dargestellt.

OBJECTIVE: This study examines the real length of postgraduate medical education in Germany. The regulations define minimal time periods in months for each discipline. We especially analyze the differences between minimum and real length, as well as the percentages of interrupting or dropping out physicians by gender. METHODS: Within the KarMed study, annual postal surveys were sent to graduates of seven medical faculties in Germany from their last year of undergraduate education until after six years of postgraduate training. The return rate at baseline was 48 % (n = 1012) and the 5 surveys after baseline reached rates of 85 % and more. Descriptive statistics were used for analyses. RESULTS: Half of the residents did not finish within the minimum time period. This proportion was higher among women (65 %) then men (43 %); among women with child/children this proportion reached 91 %. Female residents expecting a prolongation estimated an average time period of 19.6 months (SD = 14.7), male residents of 11.5 months (SD = 8.6).Female residents named problems in relation to children as…

Adrenal insufficiency is a potentially life-threatening endocrine disorder. Therefore, it is very important to detect the symptoms in sufficient time and treat effectively to avoid acute adrenal insufficiency. This article provides an insight into diagnostically procedures and therapeutically specific aspects of this rare endocrine disease.

Ascertaining critical indications for antibiotics and rational prescribing can delay and minimize the spread of antibiotic resistance. Room for improvement lies in particular in a stricter indication, in shortening antibiotic treatment and in initiating more targeted therapies with narrow-spectrum drugs. Not all infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms require treatment with reserve drugs. Detailed susceptibility testing together with enhanced knowledge of pharmacokinetics and -dynamics are needed for adequate treatment decisions. There are some new drugs with interesting spectrum of activity in development. The problem of antimicrobial resistance in human medicine, however, must also be seen in the context of "One Health" interactions between various systems including environmental issues and food production.

An adrenal crisis (Addisonian crisis) is an acute life-threatening complication of adrenal insufficiency. It occurs when hydrocortisone demand is not met by supplementation in the context of an infection - often gastrointestinal, fever, trauma, acute psychological or physical stress. Symptoms of weakness, nausea, muscle/joint pain and drowsiness may develop out of robust health within few hours. If overlooked, treated too late, with insufficient dose or route of application, there exists a considerable risk of mortality. Treatment consists of immediate parenteral hydrocortisone (100 mg bolus) and subsequent continuous infusion until the underlying precipitating cause is cured and/or when regular supplementation can be continued. Physicians and nurses must not underestimate the condition, since diagnosis and treatment must not be delayed. Patients, relatives and spouses need to be trained in prevention and early recognition through educational programs and emergency cards.

Interstitial lung diseases compromise a group of diffuse predominantly chronic inflammatory and fibrosing disorders of the lung parenchyma. This article reviews practice-relevant publications on the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - the most common form of idiopathic interstitial lung diseases. The new patient questionnaire of the German Society of Pneumology facilitates collection of a complex case history of diverse interstitial lung diseases in individual patients. The Fleischner Society White Paper emphasize the importance of high-resolution computer tomography in the diagnosis of IPF. Histological diagnosis of the fibrotic changes is necessary in two situations: in case of CT findings indeterminate or suggestive for a diagnosis other than IPF and in case of inconsistence of medical history, laboratory findings and diagnostic imaging. The new international guidelines emphasize the importance of the interdisciplinary discussion prior to invasive diagnostic procedures, especially in the case of nonspecific interstitial lung changes. Bronchoscopy with lung…

Low back pain is common, but serious underlying disorders are infrequent in ambulatory care. Extensive diagnostic testing is neither feasable nor reasonable due to epidemiological and economical considerations. A structured step wise approach allows to differentiate between specific and unspecific low back pain.

The advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) has improved prognosis and outcome of patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) considerably. In comparison to imatinib, first line use of second generation inhibitors nilotinib, dasatinib and bosutinib lead to faster and deeper molecular remissions accompanied by a novel adverse event profile. Essential part of the management of CML patients is a consequent use of cytogenetic and molecular follow up with standardized methods to regularly assess the remission status. Long lasting remission without treatment in an important minority of patients prompted the hope for curability of CML. The use of interferon alpha in parallel with or after TKI therapy is associated with the induction of an immune response against the leukemic clone with further improved remission rate. The cooperative management of CML patients permits the early use of novel treatment options in patients at risk.

BACKGROUND: Comprehensive Cancer Centers are characterized by interdisciplinary exchange for meeting increasingly complex care needs during the course of the disease. Tumor consultations hours and fellowship rotations build hereby bridges between the subjects and disciplines. OBJECTIVES: In order to be able to provide support in the Comprehensive Cancer Center Network for the further integration of specialized palliative medicine, it was highlighted to what extent consultation hours and fellowship rotations for the palliative care are integrated into the centers. METHODS: Information about the spS and fellowship rotation of the Comprehensive Cancer Center (n = 16), which had previously been funded by the Cancer Aid, was paper-based collected with a survey questionnaire. For this purpose, the heads of the palliative care departments of the centers were interviewed from July to August 2017. The evaluation was performed by SPSS (frequency, mean value, median, range). RESULTS: 15 from 16 centers responded to the survey (93.75 %). Nine centers (60 %) have a consultation hour for…

OBJECTIVE: The study aims to elucidate the state of gender equality in high-impact medical research, analyzing the representation of female authorships from January, 2008 to September, 2017. METHODS: 133 893 male and female authorships from seven high-impact medical journals were analyzed. The key methodology was the combined analysis of the relative frequency, odds ratio and citations of female authorships. The Prestige Index measures the distribution of prestigious authorships between the two genders. RESULTS: 35.0 % of all authorships and 34.3 % of the first, 36.1 % of the co- and 24.2 % of the last authorships were held by women. Female authors have an odds ratio of 0.97 (KI: 0.93 - 1.01) for first, 1.36 (KI: 1.32 - 1.40) for co- und 0.57 (KI: 0.54 - 0.60) for last authorships compared to male authors. The proportion of female authorships exhibits an annual growth of 1.3 % overall, with 0.5 % for first, 1.2 % for co-, and 0.8 % for last authorships. Women are underrepresented at prestigious authorship compared to men (Prestige Index = -0.38). The underrepresentation accentuates…

At the end of life patients with a life-limiting disease are often admitted to emergency departments (ED). Mostly, in the setting of an ED there may not be enough time to meet the needs for palliative care (PC) of these patients. Therefore, integration of PC into the ED offers a solution to improve their treatment. In the outpatient setting a cooperation between prehospital emergency services, the patient's general practitioner and specialized outpatient PC teams may allow the patient to die at home - this is what most patients prefer at the end of life. Furthermore, due to the earlier integration of PC after admission the hospital stay is shortened. Also the number of PC consultations may increase. Additionally, a screening of PC hneeds among all patients visiting the ED may be beneficial: to avoid not meeting existing PC needs and to standardize the need of PC consultation. An example for such a screening tool is the "Palliative Care and Rapid Emergency Screening" (P-CaRES).

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is not to be considered a disease as it is present in about 25 % of people. Yet, it is the prime reason for paradoxical embolism that can cause serious problems, such as death, stroke, myocardial infarction, and peripheral ischemia. The frequency of such events is probably underestimated as other causes tend to be blamed for them. Device PFO closure can be easily accomplished as outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort and risk and it has been referred to as mechanical vaccination. Randomized trials have proved its value for reduction of recurrent stroke. There is also good evidence that PFO closure solves problems like platypnoea orthodeoxia and exercise desaturation, improves migraine, and is helpful in sleep apnoea. In addition, it renders diving and high altitude climbing safer. The absolute risk of a PFO is dependent on its size and its association with an atrial septal aneurysm, a Eustachian valve, or a Chiari network. The number needed to treat to prevent one stroke by PFO closure may be as low as 2 over lifetime in selected patients.

HISTORY AND FINDINGS UPON ADMISSION: A 50-year-old man presented at the emergency unit with abdominal pain in the right lower quadrant and dysuria. He described an increase in pain during micturition. EXAMINATIONS: After multiple examinations (CT-scan, MR-scan, ileocolonoscopy) were performed to no avail, a toothpick was detected in the terminal ileum during an ultrasound scan of the small intestine. Prompted elevation of intra-abdominal pressure led to migration of the radiolucent sharp foreign body into the wall of the urinary bladder, inducing pain. TREATMENT: Median laparotomy revealed a two-sided perforation of the terminal ileum with ileosigmoidal fistula, which was induced by an ingested toothpick. The patient underwent en-bloc resection of the infectious tumor by segmental ileal resection and sigma resection. Anastomoses were performed as hand-sewn end-to-end ileoileostomy and end-to-end stapled colorectal anastomosis, respectively. CONCLUSION: Ingested foreign bodies and perforation of the gastrointestinal tract by foreign bodies are rare events but may cause serious gut…

Die Ablösung der körperlichen Untersuchung des Patienten durch eine Vielzahl technischer Verfahren dürfte in den meisten Fällen die diagnostische Sensitivität und Spezifität erheblich steigern. Der bedauerliche Preis ist eine Einbuße an empathischer Bindung zwischen Arzt und Patient. Erstaunlicherweise genießt die Blutdruckmessung nach Riva Rocci und Korotkoff nach wie vor hohe Akzeptanz – sie erscheint geradezu als Symbol der Betreuung. Wie aber steht es mit der Validität ihrer Messergebnisse? Bei Beachtung aller Regeln ist die Übereinstimmung mit dem aktuellen Druck im arteriellen System, wie er mit invasiver Methodik gemessen werden kann, hoch. Daher erfolgt die Validierung automatischer Blutdruckmessgeräte nach wie vor über Vergleichsmessungen mit standardisierten Korotkoff-Messungen. Anders verhält es sich jedoch mit der Repräsentativität der so von Arzt oder Praxispersonal gewonnenen Werte für den durchschnittlichen Blutdruck, dem Herz und Gefäßsystem des Patienten auf Dauer ausgesetzt sind. Dieser Druck ist es, der über das Ausmaß seiner möglichen Pathogenität entscheidet.…

Chronic pancreatitis is a fibroinflammatory syndrome of the exocrine pancreas, which is characterized by an increasing incidence, high morbidity and lethality. Common etiologies besides alcohol and nicotine consumption include genetic causes and risk factors. The life time risk for the development of pancreatic cancer is elevated 13- to 45-fold depending on the underlying etiology. In patients with chronic pancreatitis clinical, laboratory and imaging surveillance for early detection of complications, including pancreatic cancer, is recommended, although the available methods lack the desired sensitivity and specificity. In this article we review the epidemiology, etiologies and risk factors for chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer and discuss current recommendations for screening and management of patients at risk for tumor development.

Was ist neu? Suchtest Anti-nukleäre Antikörper (ANA) Fast alle SLE-Patienten sind ANA-positiv. Anti-DFS70-Antikörper sprechen gegen das Vorliegen einer Kollagenose. Neue Klassifikationskriterien fast am Ziel EULAR (European League Against Rheumatism) und ACR (American College of Rheumatology) haben ein Projekt zur Überarbeitung der Klassifikation gefördert: ANA-Positivität gilt nun als Eingangskriterium, die Gewichtung der Kriterien hat sich verändert. Kardiovaskuläres Risiko SLE-Patientinnen haben ein 10-fach erhöhtes kardiovaskuläres Risiko. Neben einer Reduktion klassischer Risikofaktoren sind Eindämmung der Entzündung und Glukokortikoidreduktion entscheidend. ASS und mäßiger Alkoholkonsum wirken sich positiv aus. Remission und niedrige Krankheitsaktivität Die Definitionen beinhalten fehlende klinische Aktivität und sehr niedrige Glukokortikoiddosen. Niedrige Krankheitsaktivität ist erreichbar und geht mit weniger Schüben einher. Hydroxychloroquin Hydroxychloroquin gilt heute beim kutanen Lupus erythematodes als Mittel der Wahl. Das Erblindungsrisiko wird als extrem niedrig…

Thyroid storm and myxedema coma are the most severe clinical forms of thyroid dysfunction. While both hyper- and hypothyroidsm are common diseases, thyroid storm and myxedema coma are rare. Due to their unspecific signs and symptoms they are often difficult to diagnose. Both disorders are medical emergencies, which still show a significant mortality. The following article summarizes diagnostic tools and treatment options for these disorders.

A growing number of literature reports positive effects of physical activity and exercise. These effects concern prevention, mortality and progress of cancer. Furthermore they show a reduction of disease- and treatment-specific side effects, which implies a better patients' quality of life. Evidence shows a decreased mortality risk in patients with physically active cancer of colon, breast, ovaries and prostate. Activity recommendations for patients with cancer do not differ from those for healthy persons. However, a decrease in physical activity can be observed in many cancer patients after diagnosis, and this fact concludes to a reduced physical capacity - although just physical capacity helps to overcome the burden of medical treatment and to recover. In fact, tailored exercise programs can counteract a decrease in physical capacity successfully. Further they reduce side effects such as fatigue, incontinence and lymphedema. Moreover, first studies report a positive influence on: chemotherapy-induced polyneuropathies, cancer-related cognitive impairments, bone health and sleep.…

Idiopathic ventricular tachycardia: Frequent monomorphic premature ventricular contractions or non-sustained ventricular tachycardia without underlying structural heart disease is not a rare condition and may cause significant symptoms. A subgroup of patients develops IVT-associated cardiomyopathy. Current ESC guidelines recommend primary catheter ablation in symptomatic patients with right ventricular outflow tract IVT. Catheter ablation is also recommended in symptomatic patients with a left ventricular outflow tract (or other rare) origin, if antiarrhythmic drugs are ineffective or not desired.Ventricular tachycardia associated with structural heart disease: Scar-associated ventricular arrhythmias may cause sudden cardiac death in a variety of heart diseases. While ICD implantation has been shown to reduce mortality, repetitive ICD shocks impact on survival and quality of life. In a recent meta-analysis, both amiodarone and catheter ablation reduce the incidence of recurrent ICD shocks. Discontinuation of amiodarone due to side effects is common. Current ESC guidelines recommend…

Renal involvement is common and heterogenous in connective tissue diseases and has a main influence on prognosis and mortality. In systemic lupus erythematosus proliferative glomerulonephritis is the most common manifestation, while in primary Sjogren's syndrome interstitial nephritis with tubular dysfunction is the predominant pathological feature. In systemic sclerosis the most serious renal manifestation is scleroderma renal crisis characterized by abrupt onset of hypertension and acute kidney injury associated with an increase in plasma renin activity. Risk factors for scleroderma renal crisis are diffuse cutaneous involvement, treatment with corticosteroids > 15 mg prednisolone/day and treatment with calcineurin inhibitors.Regular measurement of urine sediment, proteinuria-to-urine creatinine ratio, tubular proteinuria, measurement of plasma creatinine, and office as well as home blood pressure monitoring are strongly recommended. Diagnostic kidney biopsy is essential in differentiating the different types of lupus nephritis and renal involvement in sjogren's syndrome.The…

Was ist neu? Epidemiologie, Risikofaktoren, Screening und Sekundärprävention Die europäischen Fachgesellschaften der Kardiologen, Angiologen und Gefäßchirurgen haben erstmals eine gemeinsame Leitlinie für die Diagnostik und Therapie der peripheren arteriellen Erkrankungen erarbeitet. Die Kooperation der medizinischen Fachgruppen mündet in der Empfehlung, multidisziplinäre „Vascular Teams“ zur Behandlung der peripheren arteriellen Erkrankungen einzurichten, analog zu den „Heart Teams“ in der Kardiologie und Kardiochirurgie. Antithrombozytäre Therapie Erstmals wurde ein Kapitel zur antithrombotischen Therapie ergänzt. Eine antithrombozytäre Therapie wird bei asymptomatischer peripherer arterieller Verschlusserkrankung (PAVK) nicht länger empfohlen. Bei symptomatischer PAVK empfiehlt die Leitlinie hingegen eine lebenslange antithrombozytäre Therapie. Karotis-Stenose Ab einem Stenosegrad von 50 % wird symptomatischen Patienten eine Revaskularisation empfohlen. Für asymptomatische Patienten werden Prädiktoren für ein erhöhtes Schlaganfallrisiko definiert, nach denen auch in dieser…

Arthropathy is the most common and often the earliest clinical manifestation of hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). It is difficult to treat and there is a high risk for early endoprosthetic joint replacement. Research done during the last decade shows that it is a joint disease in its own right. Clinically, there are degenerative articular changes with an atypical pattern of distribution, a crystal arthropathy (CPPD) with congenital joint swelling and synovitis like in RA. The X-ray image shows typical but not exclusive findings. In MRI, groundbreaking subchondral findings are found, especially in the large joints, and ultrasound shows inflammatory lesions in non-arthropathy patients as well. In animal experiments and pathomorphological studies of the synovial membrane, the arthropathy can be differentiated from osteoarthrits and RA. The pathophysiological significance of iron overload can be distinguished from immunohistochemical and cytogenetic investigations in chronic degenerative HH arthropathy and inflammatory-destructive arthropathy in hemophilia. By elucidating the…

BACKGROUND: In 2002, the new version of the German Medical Licensure Act integrated Naturopathy and Complementary Medicine into the cross-sectoral unit 12 "Rehabilitation, Physical Medicine and Naturopathy" (QB12) of the medical undergraduate course. At the University of Heidelberg, Complementary Medicine (CAM) is an obligatory clinical subject of the medical undergraduate curriculum and is delivered in the form of lectures and small group work. As a central educational objective, medical students should be able to explain the principles of classical Naturopathy and the most commonly used CAM procedures. The aim was to explore the attitudes, learning needs and interests of medical students with regard to Naturopathy and CAM, and thus establish the teaching requirements. METHODS: The lectures and internships were evaluated using a faculty-based teaching evaluation form. The free-text of the evaluation forms between winter semester 2011/2012 and summer semester 2013 were assessed using Mayring qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: The free-texts were divided into three deductive main…