Internal medicine journal
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Internal medicine journal · Jul 2024
Meta AnalysisUltrasound for acute pyelonephritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
There is little consensus regarding the indications and utility of urinary tract imaging and type of imaging to perform in patients presenting with acute pyelonephritis (APN). ⋯ Patients with APN are commonly investigated with US, but only a small proportion have abnormalities and appear to be associated with changes in clinical management. The use of routine US for APN is therefore questioned. The identification of clinical variables for appropriate selection of patients to investigate with US requires further research.
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Internal medicine journal · Jul 2024
ReviewDemystifying normal-anion-gap metabolic acidosis: pathophysiology, aetiology, evaluation and diagnosis.
Normal-anion-gap metabolic acidosis (NAGMA) is a common but often under-recognised and poorly understood condition, especially by less-experienced clinicians. In adults, NAGMA might be an initial clue to a more significant underlying pathology, such as autoimmune diseases, hypergammaglobulinemia or drug toxicities. ⋯ A better understanding of the pathophysiology of NAGMA can help treating physicians suspect and evaluate the condition early and reach the correct diagnosis. This article provides an overview of renal acid-base regulation, discusses the pathophysiological processes involved in developing NAGMA and provides a framework for evaluation to reach an accurate diagnosis.
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Internal medicine journal · Jul 2024
Heart failure and the cost of dying: must the ferryman always be paid?
Provision of palliative care in chronic heart failure (CHF) can support complex decision-making, significantly improve quality of life and may lower healthcare costs. ⋯ A palliative approach in terminal CHF admission may improve quality at the end of life and decrease costs associated with care.
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Internal medicine journal · Jul 2024
Effect of a person-centred goals-of-care form and clinical communication training on shared decision-making and outcomes in an acute hospital: a prospective longitudinal interventional study.
Patients with a life-limiting illness (LLI) requiring hospitalisation have a high likelihood of deterioration and 12-month mortality. To avoid non-aligned care, we need to understand our patients' goals and values. ⋯ The implementation of a SDM programme was associated with increased documentation of person-centred GoC, changed patient treatment preference to lower intensity care and reduced hospital utilisation.
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Internal medicine journal · Jul 2024
Variation in approaches to acute ANCA-associated vasculitis in Australia and New Zealand: rituximab, plasma exchange and glucocorticoids.
Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a rare autoimmune disease which is managed by a range of specialities. There are limited data on treatment practices in Australia and New Zealand. ⋯ There is substantial variation in approaches to the acute management of AAV in Australia and New Zealand, including differences in resource availability. This variation in care demonstrates the need to implement current practice guidelines and institute contemporary monitoring of AAV management, to achieve best patient outcomes.