Strict volume control can improve structure and function of common carotid artery in hemodialysis patients.

Background: Damage in large arteries, characterized by increased intima-media thickness and decreased compliance, is frequent in hemodialysis patients and increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Since volume overload and hypertension may accelerate atherosclerosis in patients with chronic renal failure, the aim of this 1-year study was to assess whether strict volume control would improve structural and functional abnormalities of the com-mon carotid artery in hypertensive hemodialysis patients.

Methods: We conducted a prospective study (n=16) for 1 year to investigate the effect of strict volume control on intima-media thickness and compliance of the common carotid artery.

Gabapentin therapy for pruritus in haemodialysis patients: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.

Background: Uraemic pruritus is a common and distressing symptom in patients on haemodialysis for chronic renal failure. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant that alleviates neuropathic pain. We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study to assess its effectiveness against renal itch.

Early and vigorous fluid resuscitation prevents acute renal failure in the crush victims of catastrophic earthquakes.

This study analyzes the effects of fluid resuscitation in the crush victims of the Bingol earthquake, which occurred in May 2003 in southeastern Turkey. Questionnaires asking about demographic, clinical, laboratory, and therapeutic features of 16 crush victims were filled in retrospectively. Mean duration under the rubble was 10.