Inflammatory marker testing for Hodgkin lymphoma

Several months before diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), increases have been found in inflammatory marker blood test requests, and abnormal results. In the year before diagnosis, two-thirds of inflammatory marker-tested HL patients had abnormal results, with almost half having no other red-flag feature. These findings suggest a ‘diagnostic window’ exists during which HL diagnosis could potentially be brought forward in some patients. Inflammatory marker testing could help expedite diagnosis in those presenting with non-specific symptoms if supported by future diagnostic advances.

Improving asthma prescribing with feedback

The National Review of Asthma Deaths identified excessive prescribing of reliever drugs, under-prescribing of preventer medication, and inappropriate prescribing of long-acting bronchodilator inhalers. A new study. Locums are more likely to be younger and male than other GPs, and to be working in underperforming practices in rural areas. Quality of care is usually more about the organisations than the locums themselves. What matters is how locums are used in order to provide safe care. This research on variations in locum use across general practices can help to inform workforce policy.

Blood-test result communication

People who have blood tests in primary care are often unsure how to get their test results, according to a new study which found that test result communication varies between doctors and is often based on habits and personal preferences rather than protocols. Doctors generally expect that patients know how to access their test results, and assume that patients will proactively seek out their results, but patients are largely uncertain. This study makes a strong case for improving systems of test communication for patient-centred care and patient safety.