Brief answers to specific clinical questions

We launch a new series, designed to give brief answers to specific clinical questions.
J.D. Clough and P.E. Canuto

 Should methotrexate be a first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?
The evidence is in: Methotrexate is safe and effective as a first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis for many patients.
W.S. Wilke

  Should all diabetic patients take ACE inhibitors, even those without proteinuria?
To give ACE inhibitors to all diabetic patients would be premature, but these agents have clear indications in some patients.
B.J. Hoogwerf

Angioedema: Frightening and frustrating
The dramatic swelling of angioedema develops in minutes to hours. Often, no cause is apparent.
W.O. Wagner

The UKPDS trial: Effects of glucose and blood pressure control on complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus
A 20-year study shows that intensive blood glucose control is beneficial in type 2 diabetes.
C.E. Nasr, B.J. Hoogwerf, C. Faiman, and S.S.K. Reddy

Management of perimenopause: Focus on alternative therapies
What unregulated over-the-counter products are your patients taking? What do these products do? 
H.L. Thacker and D.L. Booher

Diagnosis and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis
Nearly everyone loses bone mass when they take corticosteroids long-term. Physicians should take proactive steps to mitigate the problem.
D. Zaqqa and R.D. Jackson

Diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis: A conservative approach to plantar heel pain
A simple diagnostic and treatment strategy that emphasizes nonsurgical treatment for this frustrating condition.
C.L. Tisdel, B.G. Donley, and J.J. Sferra

Hypersensitivity syndrome to antiepileptic drugs: A review including new anticonvulsants
How to recognize this potentially fatal adverse reaction and choose a safe substitute drug.
H.M. Hamer and H.H. Morris