New Jersey medicine : the journal of the Medical Society of New Jersey
-
Initially used to treat the vasomotor and vaginal symptoms of menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) appeared to have many unexpected beneficial effects in early observational trials. It was hailed as a deterrent of atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer disease. While its salutary effects on bone mass were substantiated, randomized clinical trials noted an increased risk of breast cancer, coronary artery disease, and thromboembolism, and raised doubts about the efficacy of HRT in improving quality of life. This article summarizes the literature and discusses current recommendations on the use of HRT.
-
A radiological terrorist attack on the United States is a possibility. This could involve the dispersal of radioactive material by an attack on a nuclear facility, deployment of a radiation dispersal device, or, less likely, detonation of a nuclear weapon. To decrease our vulnerability to this type of threat, the medical community should have a basic understanding of radiation hazards and their medical management, and it should be prepared to interact with appropriate federal agencies to facilitate the employment of emergency response plans.
-
Radiation-induced skin injury is an underdiagnosed, significant complication for patients undergoing fluoroscopy-guided interventional procedures. With proper equipment, fluoroscopic technique, and physician education, patient radiation exposure can be decreased by 75% or more and skin injuries can be minimized.