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Biomedical subjects

A B Follender

Publications and source records attributed to A B Follender.

5 recordsLinked to original sources

The clinical value of commonly used spinal fluid diagnostic studies in the evaluation of patients with suspected multiple sclerosis.

OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to evaluate the diagnostic value of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) oligoclonal banding and immunoglobulin G (IgG) production in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. STUDY DESIGN: Spinal fluid changes in patients with suspected multiple sclerosis were compared with clinical data to determine sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of the procedures. The results were evaluated in terms of cost compared with clinical utility in the managed care environment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The CSF oligoclonal banding and CSF IgG index were measured in 50 patients being evaluated for possible multiple sclerosis at a multispecialty group practice clinic. RESULTS: CSF oligoclonal banding had a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 92% in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. The CSF IgG index had a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 95% in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. CONCLUSIONS: Although neither test would identify 100% of patients with multiple sclerosis, the combination of CSF oligoclonal banding and an elevated CSF IgG index correctly identified most patients with multiple sclerosis and excluded all patients without the disease in this patient population.

Adolescent↗

Interfascicular neurolysis in the severe carpal tunnel syndrome. A prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study.

There is significant difference of opinion whether an adjunctive interfascicular neurolysis will improve the results of lysis of the transverse carpal ligament in patients with severe carpal tunnel syndrome (thenar atrophy and/or fixed sensory deficit). Fifty such cases were prospectively and consecutively selected and then randomized into two groups prior to surgery. Half were treated by standard ligament release alone; the other half also had adjunctive interfascicular neurolysis. All patients had neurologic examination and nerve conduction studies performed by a "blind" examiner at one and three months postoperatively with comparison of these findings with preoperative data. Analysis of the data revealed no significant difference between the two groups and, therefore, demonstrated no benefit from adjunctive interfascicular neurolysis. Additionally, as the majority of patients in both groups improved significantly, the study demonstrated frequent benefit from transverse carpal ligament release even in the presence of fixed neurologic deficit in severe carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome↗

Chronic headache. A realistic approach to management.

Chronic headache is one of the most common human ailments, yet the layperson's conception of headache is fraught with conjecture and misunderstanding. The physician often finds little satisfaction in dealing with the headache sufferer and may overlook one of the most important aspects of management--patient education. This article outlines the types of chronic headache and reviews a recommended approach to treatment of each. When treatment goals are realistic, Dr Follender believes results can be gratifying to both physician and patient.

Chronic Disease↗

Neurologic problems prevalent in alcoholics.

The chronic alcoholic who is fortunate enough to escape the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic, hematologic, and other systemic effects of alcohol still has little to look forward to. Once neurologic damage has been sustained, abstinence may not result in a return of normal function.

Alcoholism↗