Unconventional and conventional medicine: who should learn from whom?
Unconventional methods are increasingly used to treat allergic diseases. This article identifies various factors influencing physicians and patients in their choice of treatment and therapist. It is often difficult for patients and physicians to distinguish between the natural course of disease and the effects of medical intervention. The 'placebo-effect' as well as other mechanisms may contribute to the therapeutic success. Chances and risks of unconventional methods are discussed. However, only by considering controlled studies can conventional and unconventional diagnostic and therapeutic methods be advocated on the basis of evidence rather than ideology.
Niggemann
Bodo
B
Department of Pediatric Pneumology and Immunology, University Children's Hospital Charité, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany. bodo.niggemann@charité.de
Grüber
Christoph
C
D000529:Complementary Therapies; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D010361:Patients / Q000523:psychology*; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D015990:Placebo Effect