Training and assessment of musculoskeletal ultrasound and injection skills-a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

To examine how residents are trained and assessed in musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS), MSUS-guided and landmark-guided joint aspiration and injection. Additionally, to present the available assessment tools and examine their supporting validity evidence.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines and studies published from January 1, 2000 to May 31, 2021 were included. Two independent reviewers performed the search and data extraction. The studies were evaluated using the Medical Education Research Quality Instrument (MERSQI).

RESULTS

9,884 articles were screened, and 43 were included; 3 were randomized studies, 21 pre- and post-test studies, 16 descriptive studies, and 3 studies developing assessment tools. The studies used various theoretical training modalities e.g. lectures, anatomical quizzes and e-learning. The practical training models varied from mannequins and cadavers to healthy volunteers and patients. The majority of studies used subjective "comfort level" as assessment, others used practical examination and/or theoretical examination. All training programs increased trainees' self-confidence, theoretical knowledge, and/or practical performance, however few used validated assessment tools to measure the effect. Only one study met the MERSQI high methodical quality cut-off score of 14.

CONCLUSION

The included studies were heterogeneous, and most were of poor methodological quality and not based on contemporary educational theories. This review highlights the need for educational studies using validated theoretical and practical assessment tools to ensure optimal MSUS training and assessment in rheumatology.

[Medicine-caused itch, wounds and bullous skin in three patients with pseudoporphyria]

Pseudoporphyria cutanea tarda is a well described bullous skin disorder which resembles porphyria cutanea tarda. However, the levels of porphyrins in plasma, urine and faeces are normal. We present three cases of patients with classical symptoms of pseudoporphyria. Two of the patients developed pseudoporphyria after the combination of intensive sunbathing and medications well known to cause pseudoporphyria. The third case received haemodialysis and furosemide.

[Clinical review of pseudoporphyria]

Pseudoporphyria is a photosensitive bullous disease, which resembles porphyria cutanea tarda. Normal porphyrin levels in urine, stool and blood define pseudoporphyria. Pseudoporphyria is associated with chronic renal failure, haemodialysis, a variety of drugs (e.g. naproxen, nabumetone, furosemide, ciprofloxacin, voriconazole, acitretin), tanning beds and UVA exposure. Treatment consists of UV protection and cessation of suspected agents. Patients in haemodialysis can benefit from treatment with N-acetylcysteine or glutathione.