Bleeding from esophageal varices (EVs) or gastric varices (GVs) is a catastrophic complication of chronic liver disease. In this paper, we review the management of bleeding EVs and GVs. DIAGNOSIS OF EVS AND GVS: The grading system for esophagogastric varices proposed by the Japan Society for Portal Hypertension classifies GVs into those involving the cardia (Lg-c), the fundus (Lg-f), and both t...

This is a period of rapid developments in radiotherapy for malignant disease. New methods of targeting tumors with computed tomography (CT) virtual simulation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron-emission tomography (PET) fusion provide the clinician with information heretofore unknown. Linear accelerators (linacs) with multileaf collimation (MLC) have replaced lead-alloy blocks. Ind...

BACKGROUND Gambling disorder (GD) is defined as persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. The prevalence of GD has been shown to be 1.2-7.1% in the general population. GD can severely impact on personal and vocational wellbeing as well as lead to financial problems, and has been known to be difficult to treat. This review de...

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, thus numerous therapeutic approaches have been developed. Optimal treatment outcome should comprise complete removal of the tumor to the margin of normal tissue with the best possible aesthetic result. Surgical treatment remains the “gold standard” in therapy of BCC, showing excellent cure rates when used within the guidelines. ...

The prevalence of disease-related malnutrition in patients with cancer ranges from 40% to 80%, which is the highest of all hospital groups. This variation in prevalence is the result of the different definitions of malnutrition used, and it also depends on tumour type, stage and anticancer treatment. Malnutrition is associated with negative outcome, including increased morbidity, poor prognoses...

BACKGROUND Thyroid cancer is a heterogeneous disease that is classified into differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), undifferentiated/anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) and medullary thyroid carcinoma. Results of conventional treatment modalities in advanced thyroid cancer have been disappointing and therefore, new therapies are needed. METHODS We searched PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Medlin...

OBJECTIVE Scar contracture of the neck after a burn-injury can cause both functional and aesthetic problems, and still presents a challenge for plastic surgeons. The anatomic area and adjacent structures such as the lower lip, trachea and neuro-vascular structures which are affected by the scar make treatment diffucult. Scarring and contracture of the neck region may severely limit function, ca...