Goiter literally means the enlargement of the thyroid gland, independent of its cause. Historically, this terminology specifically was reserved for a visibly enlarged thyroid gland. During the past few decades of modern medical practice, the term has come to include both visible as well as palpable thyroid enlargement. This article will review the pathophysiologic processes leading to goiter formation and will provide a logical approach to the diagnosis and management of different entities, the end result of which is an enlarged thyroid gland.
Oral rofecoxib (Vioxx) may have a role in controlling postoperative pain patients undergoing knee surgery.
This monograph provides an overview of allergic disorders and reviews the current understanding of the mechanism of the allergic response. Due to the extensive nature of the topic, the discussion has been limited to systemic reactions eliciting an IgE-mediated response. Further, the intimate relationship between organs involved is reviewed, particularly the relationship between allergic rhinitis and asthma.
The FDA has approved a new drug for the management of alcohol dependence.
Studies on HCV infection resolution show that PBMC HCV-RNA may remain, despite clearance of the virus from plasma.