Enzyme antioxidant defences and oxidative damage in red blood cells of variegate porphyria patients.

Variegate porphyria is the result of decreased protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPOX) activity, the penultimate enzyme of haem biosynthesis. Haem precursors can produce free radicals and activate oxygen-inducing oxidative stress. Our aim was to analyse the effects of variegate porphyria on haemoglobin levels, antioxidant enzyme activities and oxidative damage in circulating erythrocytes.

Implementation of neuroreflexotherapy for subacute and chronic neck and back pain within the Spanish public health system: audit results after one year.

Controlled randomized trials have demonstrated the efficacy, safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of neuroreflexotherapy (NRT) for the management of non-specific back pain. In this audit study, we describe the implementation of NRT into the routine practice of primary care within the Spanish public health service of the Balearic Islands and the results obtained after one year (2004). A referral protocol was made available to all general practitioners (GPs) who could refer eligible patients to specialized units in performing NRT interventions.