2011/08/01 by Charlotte Paterson, Rod Taylor, Rod S Taylor +6
Immunology and Microbiology · Medicine · #Reproductive Health and Contraception #Reproductive tract infections research #Urinary Tract Infections Management
paper · pdf · doi:10.3399/bjgp11x588376
openalex publication_date 2011/08/01 · openalex created_date 2022/05/12 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/11
Paterson et al 1 conclude from their randomised controlled trial (CACTUS study) that an addition of 12 sessions of five-element acupuncture to usual care resulted in improved health status and wellbeing. We were immediately attracted to their article by the clinical relevance of investigating treatment in patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS). MUPS are an interesting and relevant problem in primary health care, because these patients are often 'frequent attenders' and this leads to high medical costs, frustrated doctors, and patients who feel misunderstood. The authors recommend in their study the use of fiveelement acupuncture for patients with MUPS as a safe and potentially effective intervention. However, we have some questions and comments about the outcome measures applied and the selection of patients in their study.