Latest Articles
- Recognizing and treating cutaneous signs of liver disease
If we can recognize these manifestations early, we will be better able to promptly diagnose and treat the underlying liver disease as well as the skin lesions.
- Less-invasive ways to remove stones from the kidneys and ureters
Lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy all have advantages and disadvantages in different situations. But not all patients with stones need intervention.
- Ulcerative leg nodules in a transplant recipient
Three weeks after undergoing bilateral lung transplantation, the patient has developed new nodules on his leg. What is the cause?
- Update on 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus
The approaches to vaccination, prophylaxis, and treatment will be more complex this year. Unsuspected cases of influenza in hospitalized patients or health care workers working with influenza pose the greatest threat for transmission of influenza within the hospital. Health care workers need to stay home when sick.
- Ablation of atrial fibrillation: What can we tell our patients?
More patients are asking their physicians about radiofrequency ablation. Although it has shown promising clinical results, some patients may have unrealistic expectations.
- Should catheter ablation be the first line of treatment for atrial fibrillation?
Antiarrhythmic drugs should remain the first line of treatment until trials prove otherwise.
- Role of MRI in breast cancer management
MRI might be indicated for workup of possible breast cancer, but not for screening except in women at high risk.
- Beta-blockers for hypertension: Are they going out of style?
The outcomes of clinical trials have been disappointing, and the value of beta-blockers in treating hypertensive patients who do not have compelling indications for them has been questioned.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (July 2009)
A reader comments on the need to avoid unnecessary testing in medicine, as illustrated in an article about a man with uncontrolled diabetes (July 2009).