More articles from 1-Minute Consult
How should I follow a patient with mildly elevated serum calcium and PTH, but no symptoms?The first thought is asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism. Surgery may be indicated.
Is there a role for metformin or acarbose as a weight-loss agent in the absence of diabetes?The evidence so far indicates that neither drug can be recommended for this indication in this situation.
When does an adult need a tonsillectomy?Tonsillectomy may improve quality of life, but hard data are lacking.
Should primary care physicians screen for depression?Yes, if they have the time and resources to do something about it if they find it.
Do patients with total joint replacements need antibiotics before dental work?Opinions vary, but I recommend an antibiotic for patients with prosthetic joints who have rheumatoid arthritis or other risk factors before dental procedures known to induce bleeding.
What is the target TSH level in thyroid hormone replacement for primary hypothyroidism?My goal is between 0.4 and 3.0, at the low end of the normal range.
- Do patients who fail to complete a hepatitis A or hepatitis B vaccination series have to restart it?
Limited data indicate that neither series need he restarted.
- When should prophylactic colectomy be considered in patients with ulcerative colitis?
Prophylactic colectomy eliminates the risk of colorectal cancer, but almost always leads to a lower quality of life.
What are the key issues women face when ending hormone replacement therapy?A logical approach is to review why the patient is on HRT and to consider alternatives.
- What is the appropriate treatment for Dupuytren contracture?
The diseased tissue is either watched with benign neglect or surgically excised.