| Issue 23 September 2009 - Contents | Other issues |
Welcome to BPJ 23
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| Topical corticosteroid treatment for skin conditions | Select |
Topical corticosteroids are used to treat many skin conditions. They should be used at the lowest potency possible for the shortest amount of time to gain control of symptoms. |
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| The treatment of psoriasis in primary care | Select |
| Psoriasis is an emotionally and physically debilitating disease which can significantly affect quality of life. Support with psychosocial factors and advice on lifestyle interventions is important. Topical treatments are first choice for mild psoriasis. Systemic treatments are used for severe symptoms and are usually initiated in secondary care. |  |
| Managing eczema | Select |
| Eczema can have a significant impact on the lives of patients and their families. The aims of treatment are to identify and minimise exposure to irritants, maintain the barrier function of the skin using emollients and use anti-inflammatory treatment to control exacerbations. |  |
| Having a senior moment? |
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| Differentiating normal age-related memory loss from early onset dementia Normal age-related memory loss affects everybody. Assessing cognitive impairment can be complex but a simple place to start is to differentiate between normal age-related cognitive decline and early stage dementia. Cognitive screening tools can be used, but implications should be carefully considered first. Simple reassurance and lifestyle advice is appropriate for most patients having a “senior moment”. |
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| Cervical smears – achieving equity | Select |
| After the introduction of the National Cervical Screening Programme, rates of cervical screening increased and the overall incidence of cervical cancer has decreased dramatically. However many women are still not being screened. Consider barriers in your practice which may be preventing women from accessing cervical smears. Target Māori, Pacific and Asian women, women from areas of high deprivation and women aged over 30 years who have never had a cervical smear. |  |
| Essentials | Select |
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