Medicina clinica
-
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease characterized by adverse remodeling of the arterial tree leading to increased vascular resistance with subsequent increase in right ventricular afterload and eventual development of heart failure. The nonspecific clinical manifestations and lack of knowledge of pathology lead to a poor prognosis associated with delay in diagnosis and initiation of treatment. The most recent recommendations focus on optimizing the early differential diagnosis with other causes of pulmonary hypertension to initiate appropriate treatment based on the mortality risk estimation. In the last years, with the improvement in the diagnostic process, the emergence of new specific treatments, and the creation of specialized referral units for this pathology, the prognosis, and quality of life of patients with PAH have improved significantly.
-
The effect of immunomodulatory therapy with tocilizumab for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in real-life clinical practice remains controversial. ⋯ No apparent benefit was observed in patients with severe COVID-19 treated with tocilizumab as compared to a matched retrospective cohort.
-
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive meta-inflammatory disorder, which induce micro and macrovascular complications. Resveratrol is a nutraceutical known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It improves insulin resistance; however, no clear evidence regarding its effects in patients with T2DM. ⋯ We concluded that resveratrol beneficially modulates glycemic control as well as cardiometabolic parameters in patients with T2DM.
-
A considerable improvement in the knowledge of gout has taken place in the 2decades of the XXIth century. Definitions of disease, estate, and clinical situations, along with a new nomenclature, have been agreed. More importantly, the concept of gout as a "curable" or "controllable" disease has been settled. ⋯ Different primary therapeutic targets have been defined depending on the burden of disease, and targets for secondary prevention considered. We know how to best prescribe available medications and prevent the risk of adverse events. Finally, we have understood the importance of adherence, education, and empower patients during treatment instead of blaming them.
-
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in patients admitted with severe COVID-19. However, there is limited data about the management of chronic anticoagulation therapy in these patients. We assessed the anticoagulation and incidence of major cardiovascular events in hospitalized patients with AF and COVID-19. ⋯ AF patients admitted with COVID-19 represent a population at high risk for bleeding and mortality during admission. It seems advisable to individualize anticoagulation therapy during admission, considering patient specific bleeding and thrombotic risk.