Evaluation of continuing medical education in Al-Qasim, Saudi Arabia

To evaluate CME activities in All Qassim region in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia A study using a pre-structured questionnaire was conducted in AL- Qassim, targeting physicians working in he hospitals. The survey was conducted in two phases. The first phase has conducted at the inception of the department of professional education and the second one year later. Questionnaires were given to a sample of physicians working in the hospitals. Mean CME hours in the region increased from 5.5 [ +/- 5.9] to 14. 2 [ +/- 19.7], p = 0.0001. 50% said that the CME should be presented differently. There was need for regular courses [61%] departmental and bedside activities [52%] and visiting speakers [45%]. Only 47% of the physicians were using the Internet. There is a need to shift from credit counting to a process that can yield professional development through practical courses and departmental activities. The use of the Internet in CME activities should be encouraged

Peripheral neuropathy in patients with polyarteritis nodosa clinical and electrophysiological study

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and electrophysiological characteristics of peripheral neuropathy in patients with systemic polyarteritis nodosa. Thirteen patients with peripheral neuropathy and evidence of systemic vasculitis of polyarteritis nodosa type were included in this study. Eight patients presented with mononeuropathy multiplex. Three patients were presented with asymmetrical sensorimotor neuropathy. The remaining two patients presented with distal symmetrical polyneuropathy. Ulnar peroneal and sural nerves are the most common nerves affected in polyarteritis nodosa. The findings showed acute or subacute neuropathy. EMG and nerve conduction studies showed an evidence of axonal neuropathy with a significant reduction of the motor nerve action potential amplitudes