Coincident Salmonella Infections and Ulcerative Colitis: Problems of Recognition and Management

Five cases of coincident salmonellosis and ulcerative colitis are described. In three the diagnostic combination was recognized late. If corticosteroid therapy is given for the colitis once the combination is recognized, then simultaneous systemic antibiotic cover is advisable. One of the five patients died during corticosteroid therapy alone with salmonella septicaemia due to a usually non-invasive organism.     

Experience with Coeliac Axis Compression Syndrome

Seven patients with “coeliac axis compression syndrome” are reported. Five were treated surgically, but only two did well. A survey of 200 healthy adults showed epigastric bruits in 6·5%; only one of these had dyspepsia, though dyspepsia was present in 12·5% overall.Caution is urged in attributing a causal relationship between coeliac axis compression and pain and in proceeding to arteriography when compression is suspected on clinical grounds.     

Assessment of Birmingham Medical Students

At Birmingham University since 1966 the major medical examinations began to be replaced by a process of continuous assessment. This is based on fairly frequent tests, usually at the end of each course, including short essay questions, multiple-choice questions, and tests of ability in wards and laboratory. At the end of the first final-year course 96 students underwent assessment. Of these 77 passed; 19 were referred for re-examination, of whom a further 12 passed subsequently. The scheme was found suitable by both teachers and external examiners.