Latest Articles
- Managing acetaminophen overdose
Alcohol and certain drugs potentiate the hepatotoxic effects of this common, over-the-counter analgesic. Treatment with acetylcysteine and, possibly, Cimetidine can prevent irreversible liver damage.
- Drugs for the prevention and treatment of acute renal failure
Mannitol, loop diuretics, dopamine, and calcium antagonists show promise, but they have not yet been rigorously tested for this indication. Caution is advised.
- Identifying early markers of type II diabetes
Earlier identification of people at risk may permit intervention with diet and exercise to prevent NIDDM.
- Oral disease in the geriatric patient: the physician’s role
By being alert for common oral problems, physicians can help their elderly patients maintain function and quality of life.
- Stress echocardiography: its emerging role in identifying viable myocardium
In patients with chronic ischemia or left ventricular systolic dysfunction, this test can indicate whether the damaged myocardium is still viable and, therefore, whether revascularization would be beneficial.
- Back pain: medical evaluation and therapy
Most patients with acute low back pain or sciatica improve with conservative therapy, and most require no immediate diagnostic studies beyond a careful history and exam.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease: an overlooked cause of asthma
Osler noted this association a century ago. Chronic hoarseness, cough, globus sensation, laryngeal cancer, and dental erosions are other conditions GERD can cause.
- Left ventricular hypertrophy and cardiovascular prognosis
LVH is an important independent predictor of cardiovascular risk, but the therapeutic implications remain to be explored.