Viral hepatitis screening guideline before biological drug use in rheumatic patients.

Biological drugs (tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, rituximab, tocilizumab, abatacept, and tofacitinib) are important treatment alternatives in rheumatology, particularly for resistant patients. However, they may cause hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) reactivation; for instance, HBV reactivation may occur in a patient who is an inactive hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carrier or who has resolved HBV infection. Therefore, the screening of patients before biological treatment and the application of a prophylactic treatment, particularly with respect to latent HBV infections, are recommended when necessary.

Vaginal douching practices among Turkish married women.

Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of the practice of vaginal douching among Turkish married women and associations between their douching status, predisposing factors, and effects on their health.

Methods: This cross-sectional survey of women between 17 and 61 years of age was conducted between February 1, 2007, and May 18, 2007, in the Maternity-Gynecology and Children's Hospital in Ordu, Turkey. The sample of this study included 427 women.