[Is hip sonography meaningful as a screening method?].

The results of screening 162 non-selected neonates by sonography of the hips indicate that this is not a desirable screening method. Sonography is, however, indicted in neonatal groups which are considered to be at risk.

[Growth curves as a screening instrument--possibilities and limits].

The application of growth charts as screening tools for children is a commonplace. Growth charts published during the past 15 years in Germany are now under debate with respect to their validity. An analysis of the problems related to growth curves gave the following results: A clear, sharp boundary between normal and non-normal permitting reliable grouping of children does not exist.

[First examination of neonates. Results of early diagnostic documentation].

There is an annual statistical evaluation of documentation, done since 1971, of an early disease diagnosis programme for children. At first examination of neonates in the years 1977-1981, sex-specific difference was low as regards data on pregnancies at risk, but definite and constant differences were recorded as regards psychic and social stress during pregnancy. Pregnancies at risk without any special features at birth were registered in 12.

[Early detection program for children in West Germany].

Programs for early detection of diseases and developmental disorders during childhood, in order to prevent or to diminish permanent health damages, have a long history. The Federal Republic of Germany started in 1970 a legal screening program, in order to make such a service available to all children in the whole nation. The program consists of eight examinations, beginning at birth and spread over the first four years of life.

Liver lectins: mediators for metastases?

Development of liver metastases in 1542 cancer patients was investigated. It was found that in certain liver diseases the incidence of liver metastases was reduced compared to that in cancer patients with otherwise normal livers. We propose that this reduction may be due to a reduced function of the liver-specific lectins.