'Not your father's MRSA': What you need to know -- and do -- about community-associated MRSA
November 9th 2007The notoriously adaptable and increasingly common pathogen requires a new approach including routine I&D and culturing of infected tissues; the use of more-potent antibiotics, but only when needed; and a focus on hygiene in patients with recurrent infections.
Prediction Tool Targets Undifferentiated-arthritis Dilemma: To Treat or Not to Treat?
May 31st 2007A prediction model and simple scoring form developed by Dutch rheumatologists can help physicians determine which early-arthritis patients are most likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis and should therefore receive prompt, aggressive treatment.
Binge Eating Disorder: Surprisingly Common, Seriously Under-treated
March 30th 2007Binge eating disorder is more common than anorexia and bulimia combined, according to a national survey, but many physicians are unaware of the problem. The guidance and evidence discussed here highlight the key issues in recognizing and managing the disorder.
Online Social Networking Brings Further Change to Doctor-patient Relationships
February 21st 2007A new generation of healthcare Web sites is connecting patients to each other, allowing them to share information and advice on virtually any medical condition. Despite concerns over some sites' accuracy and credibility, physicians are encouraged to accept, even embrace the trend.
Despite Pfizer's high-profile drug failure, boosting HDL still a key heart-disease strategy
December 20th 2006Despite Pfizer's high-profile drug failure, boosting HDL still a key heart-disease strategy. Several drugs in development use various mechanisms to raise levels of "good cholesterol." Meanwhile, physicians can do plenty right now to raise patients' HDL levels.
PSA Screening Should Emphasize Changes Over Time, Study Suggests
December 6th 2006PSA velocity, not a man's absolute PSA level, is a better predictor of prostate cancer risk, according to a study from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. The findings suggest that screening should begin at age 40, not 50.