/library/oar/handle/123456789/38947 Fri, 14 Nov 2025 23:24:45 GMT 2025-11-14T23:24:45Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/715 Title: A review of neuroleptic malignant syndrome : incidence and features in Malta Authors: Grech, Anton; Saliba, Joseph R. Abstract: This paper describes Malta’s first sample of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) and reviews the current literature. A retrospective sample of all diagnosed cases of NMS was reviewed using Pope’s (1986) criteria. Twelve cases were identified yielding an incidence of 0.67%. The range of associated risk factors and complications agreed with other reports. There were also two cases of uncontrolled diabetes. Treatments commonly used were Bromocriptine and Levodopa. There were no deaths due to NMS and no recurrence on re-exposure. The sample is too small to draw any statistically significant conclusions, however, the results are mostly in line with those obtained from larger samples. Malta’s incidence is towards the lower end of the reported range of 0.02% to 3.23%, but higher than that reported in centres trying to recognise NMS early and reduce risk factors. This suggests that Malta could benefit from trying to adopt such measures. Given Malta’s small size, it would be relatively easy to disseminate such information. This study, despite its comprehensive sample, failed to reveal any other reported cases. Nor has it been demonstrated that diabetics were at higher risk of developing NMS or its complications. It would be important to explore these possibilities further in future studies. Sun, 01 Jan 1995 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/715 1995-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/713 Title: The return of brucellosis Authors: Amato-Gauci, Andrew J. Abstract: Brucellosis, also known under the names of Undulant fever, Mediterranean fever and Malta fever is closely linked with Malta’s medical history and for long endemic to our Islands. Every reported case was investigated by the medical officers of health who contacted the head of each affected household for an epidemiological enquiry including a food history. All these cases were associated with the consumption of fresh cheeselets made from unpasteurised milk. During the investigation some 900 kgs of cheeselets from 27 producers, 12 wholesalers and 384 retailers were seized and tested. Sun, 01 Jan 1995 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/713 1995-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/635 Title: Local workshops on palliative care Authors: Ciantar, Victoria Abstract: The Malta Hospice Movement was established in 1989 with the aim to help in providing palliative care to cancer and motor neurone disease patients. Every year, professionals from Hayward House Palliative Care Unit in Nottingham visit the Malta Hospice Movement to carry out workshops and seminars. During the workshops organised the topics covered were: Time Management and Patient Assessment for Hospice staff as well as on Spirituality and Bereavement ¸£ÀûÔÚÏßÃâ·Ñ. Sun, 01 Jan 1995 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/635 1995-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/622 Title: Ebola : the English connection Authors: Vella, E.E. Abstract: When one considers that many persons from the African continent arrive in Malta legally or otherwise, it is not inappropriate to surmise that some unfamiliar and possibly highly dangerous exotic disease, to which we are not accustomed, may someday be introduced into the island and may primarily and principally expose our medical, nursing and laboratory staff and their families to an alien infection with unpleasant and possibly fatal consequences. This essay illustrates such an incident including medical emergency. Sun, 01 Jan 1995 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/622 1995-01-01T00:00:00Z