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Antibiotics reverse local immunosuppression in Buruli ulcer

A recent study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that eight weeks of antibiotic treatment can reverse local immunosuppression in patients with Buruli ulcer. This reversal leads to an active inflammatory response, which ultimately results in tissue repair and the restoration of normal immune function.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 30, 2007

Drugstore in the dirt

Researchers have discovered that French clay can kill several types of bacteria, including MRSA and Mycobacterium ulcerans, which causes the flesh-eating disease Buruli ulcer. The study, led by Lynda Williams at Arizona State University, used laboratory tests to confirm the antibacterial properties of the clay.

Dermatologists advance science of wound healing, care

Researchers investigate various aspects of wound healing, including exercise, compression therapy, and medication. Studies show that patients with leg ulcers often lack physical activity and use inadequate compression therapy, while medication may have a protective association against leg ulcers. Additionally, injection drug use is lin...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateOct 15, 2007

Maggots rid patients of MRSA

Researchers at the University of Manchester have successfully treated diabetic patients with MRSA-contaminated foot ulcers using green bottle fly larvae. The study found that all but one patient were cured within three weeks, significantly shorter than conventional treatment.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 3, 2007

Clinical studies evaluate potential treatments for mouth ulcers

A clinical study found that a cream commonly used to treat eczema may be effective in treating oral erosive lichen planus, a severe inflammatory condition. Another study showed limited benefit of pentoxifylline in treating recurrent apthous stomatitis, but the treatment was associated with significant adverse effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateApr 16, 2007

Tipsheet: Focus on gait training, pain relief, pressure ulcers and hearing aid training

Researchers highlight the importance of understanding risk factors for heel ulcers, which are often linked to peripheral neuropathy and diminished vascular function. Additionally, studies demonstrate the effectiveness of lateral-wedge insoles in relieving pain and stiffness in people with knee osteoarthritis. The study also explores th...

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateOct 11, 2006

Pine tree bark reduces diabetic microangiopathy

A study published in Angiology found that Pycnogenol, an antioxidant extract from pine tree bark, significantly improved blood flow and reduced swelling in patients with diabetic microangiopathy. Blood flow improvements were 34% when lying down and 68% when standing up.

SourceMWW Group·JournalAngiology·DateOct 3, 2006

Pine tree bark reduces diabetic leg ulcers

A study found that Pycnogenol heals diabetic leg ulcers by improving blood circulation and reducing tissue necrotization. Patients treated with oral and local Pycnogenol experienced a significant decrease in ulcer size and had higher oxygen presence in the skin.

SourceMWW Group·JournalClinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis·DateSep 5, 2006

U of T research examines nursing home quality of care

Researchers from U of T examined approximately 40 nursing home comparisons between 1990 and 2002, revealing that not-for-profit homes generally offer better patient care than their for-profit counterparts in the US. In contrast, the Canadian study found limited data on nursing home quality, highlighting the need for further investigation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMedical Care Research and Review·DateApr 19, 2005

Use of cell phone images appears feasible for visualizing leg wounds

A new study by University Hospital of Geneva suggests that cell phone images can be used to visualize and diagnose leg wounds remotely. The researchers evaluated the use of cell phones to take images of leg ulcers, transmit them to experts, and receive diagnoses, with high levels of agreement between remote and in-person evaluations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateFeb 21, 2005

Spiders or scapegoats

A study challenges the common perception that spiders cause many diseases, including skin ulcers and flesh-eating skin disease. In reality, spider bites are rare and generally harmless, while other causes of these conditions are more likely.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 5, 2004

Chronic pain: treatment, rehabilitation, and quality of life

Researchers investigated chronic pain management through surveys, questionnaires, and studies. The results highlighted the importance of pain treatment outcomes, associations with health-risk behaviors, and post-traumatic stress disorder relationships. Additionally, a new exercise program improved arm and hand recovery after stroke.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateSep 30, 2003

Lengthening achilles tendon reduces recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers

A study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that lengthening the Achilles tendon can reduce the recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers by up to 75% after seven months. The procedure, which involves stretching the tendon and immobilizing the foot for six weeks, also requires caution to prevent increased stress on the heel.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 31, 2003

Harnessing computer technology to advance rehabilitative strategies

This article explores the use of computer technology to improve rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and hearing losses. Studies demonstrate the effectiveness of neuroprosthetics, equinometers, brain-computer interfaces, telemedicine, and computer head controls in enhancing health, redu...

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateMay 30, 2003

HRT could protect against leg ulcers

A recent study published in The Lancet found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help prevent venous leg ulcers and pressure sores in elderly women. Researchers analyzed data from over 45,000 patients and discovered a 35% lower risk of developing these chronic wounds among HRT users.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 21, 2002