Nephrology
- An abnormal peripheral blood smear and altered mental status
Therapeutic plasma exchange has greatly increased the survival rate in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
- Advanced-stage calciphylaxis: Think before you punch
Biopsy can cause or worsen ulceration at the incision site, increasing the risk of infection and sepsis.
- Renal failure in HCV cirrhosis
The patient was diagnosed with hepatitis C 15 years ago; now, his kidneys are failing.
- Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: The role of ADAMTS13
ADAMTS13 testing is useful in diagnosing this disease, guiding therapy, and predicting relapse.
- Anemia of chronic kidney disease: Treat it, but not too aggressively
Renal anemia is associated with bad outcomes, but attempting to normalize hemoglobin levels can be harmful.
- Blood pressure targets (March 2016)
Readers comment on the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (March 2016).
- Should I suspect obstructive sleep apnea if a patient has hard-to-control hypertension?
Yes. Obstructive sleep apnea is common and is associated with hypertension and resistant hypertension.
- When does chest CT require contrast enhancement?
It may be needed in cases of suspected cancer or thoracovascular disease.