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The case for the case report: refine to save

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Abstract

Introduction

The case report is the cornerstone of both medical teaching and writing. However, during recent years the value of the case report has been questioned, so much so that it has been abandoned by many journals. The aim of this study was to assess case reports published by the Irish Journal of Medical Science (IJMS) and to examine ways to preserve this type of article.

Methods

A review of all single-patient case reports published in the IJMS in 2008 and 2009.

Results

Forty-eight cases were published from nine countries. The range of authors was 2–11, length 525–1,787 words and number of references 4–24. All cases contained abstracts.

Conclusion

Stricter guidelines with regards to a shorter more focused article should help to preserve this form of publication.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Mid-Western Regional Hospital and University of Limerick Medical School, Limerick, Ireland

    P. Lennon & J. E. Fenton

Authors
  1. P. Lennon
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  2. J. E. Fenton
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Correspondence to P. Lennon.

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Lennon, P., Fenton, J.E. The case for the case report: refine to save. Ir J Med Sci 180, 529–532 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-010-0649-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-010-0649-1

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