Scientific research published on the Anais Brasileiros de Case reports: Their role in a medical journal

Abstract

Case reports are an old tradition in medical literature and, until the advent of more sophisticated study designs, they reigned as the one and only type of publication. In spite of their unquestionable qualities, case reports have lost part of their importance and prestige. Some outstanding medical journals accept case reports only as letters to the editors or in the electronic version while others simply do not accept them at all. This article critically reviews the pros and cons of case reports and their importance in medical education. Even in a medical world where evidence is a must, case reports can still play an important role. © 2008 by Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia.