No abstract

We have examined smoking habits in 108 patients with psoriasis, including some with palmoplantar distribution, and compared the results with matched controls from the community. There was a significant association between psoriasis, current smoking status (OR = 2.7, 95% CI 1.44-5.42, P less than 0.01) and smoking habits prior to the onset of disease (OR = 3.75, 95% CI 1.68-9.47, P less than 0.001). There was also a marked dose-response relationship; the relative risk of psoriasis in those currently smoking more than 20 cigarettes/day was significantly elevated (OR = 5.3, 95% CI 2.1-13.0, P less than 0.001). Separate analysis of patients without palmoplantar distribution of psoriasis showed a significant association with smoking prior to onset of psoriasis (OR = 3.6, 95% CI 1.5-9.8, P less than 0.001). Smoking may play a role in the aetiology of this common skin disorder.

Eighty three patients in whom the diagnosis of Crohn's disease had been made before the age of 40 years and who had been resident in the city of Cardiff were asked to complete a detailed questionnaire about their educational and employment experiences. Responses were obtained from 58 patients (response rate= 70%), 23 buddy controls, and 27 community controls. The mean (SD)

The Spatz balloon is an effective procedure without mortality; however, it carries a risk of catheter impaction necessitating surgical extraction (4.1%). The failure rate--4.1%; intolerance without ability to adjust balloon--5.5%; major complications occurred in 3 (4.1%); minor (balloon deflations) in 3 (4.1%), and 2 asymptomatic gastric ulcers at extraction (2.7%). The longer implantation period and adjustment option combine to produce greater weight loss, albeit <10% weight loss beyond the pre-adjustment weight loss.