Neurology Alert – January 1, 2012
January 1, 2012
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Spreading Depolarisations After TBI: A Clinical Context
Spreading depolarisations following severe traumatic brain injury are associated with a poor outcome. They serve to cause secondary injury and energy imbalance. This mechanism might provide a target for therapeutic intervention. -
Brain Involvement in Neuromyelitis Optica — An Evolving Concept
Based on a retrospective study of 34 patients, the authors report that clinical manifestations of brain involvement are not uncommon in the neuromyelitis optica spectrum of disorders. -
Plasma Exchange for Steroid-Unresponsive Optic Neuritis
This study shows improvement in visual acuity in some patients with steroid-unresponsive optic neuritis, but it is not clear if plasma exchange accounts for this improvement. -
Predicting Outcome after Epidural Steroid Injection
Response to treatment of unilateral lumbar radiculopathy can be predicted by an abnormal needle EMG in the appropriate root distribution. -
A New Look at an Old Medication for Migraine Headaches — Is It Worth It?
Dihydroergotamine, in a longer 5-day intravenous protocol for refractory primary headache appears to be efficacious, but this older medication needs to be compared directly to newer migraine treatments. -
Stroke Alert: A Review of Current Clinical Stroke Literature
Excessive daytime sleepiness appears to be an important risk factor for stroke. It is unknown whether this is related to obstructive sleep apnea or other mechanisms. -
CME Objectives\Questions
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Clinical Briefs in Primary Care
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Pharmacology Watch
New indication for rivaroxaban; new study on warfarin testing; medications causing adverse drug events; niacin as an add-on therapy; and FDA actions.