Internal Medicine Alert – May 15, 2004
May 15, 2004
View Issues
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New Treatments Dramatically Raise HDL Cholesterol
Drugs that inhibit Cholesterol Ester Transfer Protein markedly increase levels of HDL cholesterol. -
A Blood Test to Differentiate Bacterial From Viral Lower Respiratory Infections — Procalcitonin
The use of serum procalcitonin helps to differentiate bacterial from viral lower respiratory infections and may reduce the use of unnecessary antibiotics. -
Opioid Therapy for Chronic Pain
The common and increasing practice of opioid treatment for chronic pain is reviewed. Randomized trials support this therapy, however the risk benefit decision is complicated by new evidence of hazards making this practice more difficult. -
Long-Term Aspirin Therapy
Long-term treatment with aspirin is associated with a progressive diminution in platelet sensitivity to the drug. -
Vitamin D Reduces Risk of MS
High vitamin D intake is associated with lower incidence of MS. -
Pharmacology Update: Cetuximab Injection (Erbitux)
In February, the FDA approved a new monoclonal antibody for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. -
Clinical Briefs
Computed Tomographic Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy); Ejaculation Frequency and Subsequent Risk of Prostate Cancer; Cost-Effectiveness of Different Combinations of Bupropion SR dose and Behavioral Treatment for Smoking Cessation -
ECG Review: Class IV Symptoms Post-MI
The ECG in the Figure was obtained from a 60-year-old man with a history of two prior myocardial infarctions. How would you interpret his most recent ECG in view of his clinical picture? What types of interventions might be most likely to prolong his survival?