Trypanocidal drugs for chronic asymptomatic Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Abstract Background Prevention of chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCC) by treating infected populations with trypanocidal therapy (TT) remains a challenge. Despite a renewed enthusiasm for TT, uncertainty regarding its efficacy, concerns about its safety and limited availability remain barriers for a wider use of conventional drugs. We have updated a previous version of this review. Objectives […]
Intraventricular antibiotics for bacterial meningitis in neonates
Abstract Background Neonatal meningitis may be caused by bacteria, especially gram-negative bacteria, which are difficult to eradicate from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using safe doses of antibiotics. In theory, intraventricular administration of antibiotics would produce higher antibiotic concentrations in the CSF than intravenous administration alone, and eliminate the bacteria more quickly. However, ventricular taps may […]
Mannitol and other osmotic diuretics as adjuncts for treating cerebral malaria
Abstract Background Cerebral oedema occurs with cerebral malaria, and some clinicians think osmotic diuretics, such as mannitol or urea, may improve outcomes. Objectives To compare mannitol or urea to placebo or no diuretic for treating children or adults with cerebral malaria. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register (Issue 4, 2010), […]
Treatment of acute cryptococcal meningitis in HIV infected adults, with an emphasis on resource-limited settings
Abstract Background Despite the advent and increasingly wide availability of antiretroviral therapy, cryptococcal meningitis (CM) remains a significant cause of mortality and morbidity amongst individuals with HIV infection in resource-limited settings. The ideal management of CM remains unclear. The aim of this review is to assess the evidence for deciding on which antifungal regimen to […]
Interventions for skin changes caused by nerve damage in leprosy
Abstract Background More than three million persons are disabled by leprosy worldwide. The main complication of sensory nerve damage is neuropathic ulceration, particularly of the feet. In this review we explored interventions that can prevent and treat secondary damage to skin and limbs. Objectives To assess the effects of self-care, dressings and footwear in preventing […]
Third generation cephalosporins versus conventional antibiotics for treating acute bacterial meningitis
Abstract Background Antibiotic therapy for suspected acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) needs to be started immediately, even before the results of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture and antibiotic sensitivity are available. Immediate commencement of effective treatment using the intravenous route may reduce death and disability. Objectives The objective is to compare the effectiveness and safety of third […]
Management of toxoplasmic encephalitis in HIV-infected adults (with an emphasis on resource-poor settings)
Abstract Background Cerebral toxoplasmosis or toxoplasmic meningoencephalitis (hereafter referred to as TE) was one of the first opportunistic infections to be described in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) -infected patients. Treatment of TE has been relatively successful in comparison to other opportunistic infections. Prior to the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), a median survival […]
Routine surgery in addition to chemotherapy for treating spinal tuberculosis
Abstract Background Tuberculosis is generally curable with chemotherapy, but there is controversy in the literature about the need for surgical intervention in the one to two per cent of people with tuberculosis of the spine. Objectives To compare chemotherapy plus surgery with chemotherapy alone for treating people diagnosed with active tuberculosis of the spine. Search […]
Intramuscular arteether for treating severe malaria
Abstract Background Quinine and artemisinin drugs are used in severe malaria, but quinine resistance is increasing. Arteether is a recently developed artemisinin derivative that is oil soluble, has a long elimination half life, and is more stable than other derivatives. Objectives To compare intramuscular arteether with other antimalarial drugs to treat severe malaria. Search methods […]
Diazepam for treating tetanus
Abstract Background Clinical management of the muscle spasms and rigidity of tetanus poses a difficult therapeutic problem to physicians everywhere, especially in resource poor countries. There are wide variations in therapeutic regimens commonly used in clinical practice due to uncertainties about effectiveness of conventional drugs. Diazepam compared to other drugs (eg phenobarbitone and chlorpromazine) may […]