Atopic eczema, hyponatraemia, and hypoalbuminemia
Article Abstract:
Atopic eczema (allergic dermatitis) is a skin condition found in allergic-prone patients and is characterized by an extremely itchy, dry rash. A six-month-old boy with atopic eczema was treated by a registered homeopathic who prescribed many homeopathic remedies. A positive experience with an older child persuaded the parents to seek similar care for the younger child. The child developed red, itchy, weeping skin patches, and swollen limbs that began one week prior to visiting a dermatologist. The parents had refused conventional treatment except during one hospital admission when the child was four months old. Chemical evaluations of the nine homeopathic remedies were made and they were found to contain iron and arsenic trace metals. Upon hospital admission, the child had low blood and urine concentrations of sodium (salt), and low blood albumin (protein) concentrations, caused by the chronic weeping and loss of serum through the skin. Sodium chloride and albumin infusions were initiated, along with two antibiotics, flucoxacillin and benzylpenicillin. Potassium permanganate (topical anti-infective agent) baths and hydrocortisone and clioquinol ointments were given twice a day. The concentrations of sodium and potassium returned to normal, and after a bout with an intestinal infection, the boy's skin symptoms gradually subsided. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Archives of Disease in Childhood
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-9888
Year: 1990
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Homeopathic products
Article Abstract:
Most homeopathic products are probably not effective for any disease. Homeopathic treatment is based on the principle that a chemical that would produce certain symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat the same symptoms in a sick person. Homeopathic products are derived from natural products and are often extremely diluted. For this reason, it is unlikely that any active therapeutic agent is present. An analysis of 89 controlled trials of homeopathic treatments found that some had effects beyond the placebo effect but were still not effective for most conditions.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1999
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Testim and striant -- two new testosterone products
Article Abstract:
Clinical testing reveals that the two new topical testosterone products, Testim and Striant, are effective against hypogonadism in men. Testin normalizes serum testosterone, increases lean body mass, and improves sexual function. Striant increases serum testosterone levels. They are FDA approved in the form of a 1% gel and a buccal tablet form, respectively.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2003
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