The American journal of the medical sciences
-
The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of treatment of hyperkalemia in hospitalized patients. ⋯ Almost all the patients were treated for hyperkalemia. Oral SPS monotherapy was the predominant treatment with the best response at the highest dose. Some combination therapies had greater K reductions but were used infrequently. An ECG was obtained in about 50% of the cases, but two thirds showed no K-related changes. Reduced kidney function was associated with 70% of hyperkalemic episodes. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and trimethoprim were the most commonly implicated medications.
-
The association between hepatitis B and metabolic syndrome (MetS) has not been well described. Overall epidemiologic evidences for this association have suggested conflicting results. The aim this study was to determine the association between hepatitis B infection and MetS using large U.S. population database, the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. ⋯ In this study, the authors noted significant inverse association between MetS and chronic hepatitis B.
-
Review Case Reports
The primary care physician in the early diagnosis of systemic sclerosis: the cornerstone of recognition and hope.
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a disease of unknown causative factor that manifests as a heterogenous group of multiorgan system manifestations and is characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs, with mortality related to pulmonary, cardiac, renal or gastrointestinal involvement. The prevalence of SSc may be underestimated in the general population. Cases are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, particularly cases with mild or no skin manifestations. ⋯ Early diagnosis of SSc with initiation of appropriate treatment is essential, with great impact on morbidity and mortality. This review examines presenting features, ensuing complications and treatment providing a focus on SSc as a treatable disease. Primary care providers play a pivotal role in recognizing initial symptoms associated with SSc and securing early diagnosis through early referral to specialists.
-
Screening for and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) have been essential components of the TB elimination strategy. ⋯ The current rate of reactivation TB in Texas is much lower than rates reported in the United States in the 1950s. Certain patients are at increased risk for reactivation and should be monitored more closely during LTBI therapy.