CRD summary The review found the vaginoscopic approach to outpatient hysteroscopy significantly reduced the pain experienced by patients during the procedure compared to the traditional technique using a vaginal speculum and with no significant difference for visualising the uterine cavity. The review was generally well-performed. Limitations to the evidence presented imply that the authors' co...

In prelabour rupture of membranes (PROM) or preterm PROM the amniotic membranes rupture prior to labour. Where this is not overt a speculum examination is undertaken to confirm diagnosis. The Vision Amniotic Leak Detector (ALD) is a panty liner that can diagnose amniotic fluid as a cause of vaginal wetness. It was evaluated by the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as p...

A.D. 150 Galen describes incising “caries of the auditory meatus” 1363 Guy de Chauliac’s device to inspect ear by direct sunlight 1640 – Banzer uses pig bladder as artificial tympanic membrane 1646 Aural speculum by Hildanus 1653 Light microscope by Antony van Leeuwenhoek 1791 Death of Baron von Berger after mastoid trephination for tinnitus and deafness 1832 “Inspector Auris” by Thomas Buchana...

Ricania speculum (Walker, 1851) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Ricaniidae) is reported for the first time in Europe. Both nymphs and adults were observed from 2009 in several municipalities of Liguria (Italy). Since the species is extremely polyphagous and is a real pest for several crops in tropical and subtropical areas, the presence of this alien insect is noteworthy, representing a new possible...