[Toxocariasis]. / La toxocarose.

A COSMOPOLITAN PARASITIC ZOONOSIS: Toxocariasis is a widespread native parasitosis. It is due to the presence of Toxocara-type nematode larvae in the organism, that is at the origin of various clinical pictures. Transmitted by dogs and more rarely by cats, contamination occurs by ingestion of embryos deposited on the ground (animal excrements). MULTIPLE CLINICAL FORMS: The clinical forms are non-specific but frequent and varied (neurological, ophthalmologic, pulmonary, cutaneous and sometimes rheumatological). DIAGNOSIS: Diagnostic presumption is made in the presence of hypereosinophilia, proof of progressing toxocariasis. However, this increase is non-specific and is found in many other parasitosis. Diagnosis should therefore be confirmed using an IgG ELISA test and confirmed by Western Blot. TREATMENT: Currently, there is no consensus regarding treatment, however certain data are available in the literature. Prophylaxis appears to be the best weapon against this little known disease.

[Prescriptions of aerosol therapy. A survey of practices at the Besançon University Hospital]. / Les conditions de prescription de l'aérosolthérapie. Une enquête de pratique réalisée au CHU de Besançon.

OBJECTIVE: Prescriptions of aerosol sprays concomitantly with other drugs can raise problems of incompatibility. METHODS: Medical practices in the clinical units of the Besançon University Hospital were analyzed to assess the therapeutic indications, the most frequently prescribed drugs, possible admixtures, the nature and volume of solvents used, drug protocols and type of aerosol therapy and nebulizer used. Sixty questionnaires were sent to all the units of the University Teaching Hospital of Besançon. RESULTS: Analysis of 48 questionnaires completed by head nurses showed that 28 different drugs and 26 different admixtures were prescribed. Only 2 of the admixtures had undergone prior validation. Only 7 (26%) of the drug formulations prescribed had received marketing approval. Recognized clinical practices for the administration of aerosol therapy were not applied and the aerosol sessions were not standardized. CONCLUSION: Many prescriptions are carried out without knowledge of the chemical compatibility of co-administered medicines.