American family physician
-
Human papillomavirus infection is the precursor for the development of cervical cancer and is detectable in 99.7% of squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma cases. Early detection of precancerous lesions with Papanicolaou testing remains the primary mechanism for cancer prevention. Once cervical cancer is diagnosed, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination. ⋯ Disease stage and lymph node involvement are the most prognostic factors. Pregnancy status and desire to preserve fertility should be considered when developing a treatment strategy. After treatment, close follow-up with a gynecologist-oncologist for pelvic examinations at regular intervals is recommended to assess for recurrence.
-
Screening in women has decreased the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer. Precancerous cervical lesions (cervical intraepithelial neoplasias) and cervical carcinomas are strongly associated with sexually-transmitted high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which causes more than 99% of cervical cancers. Screening methods include cytology (Papanicolaou test) and HPV testing, alone or in combination. ⋯ S. Preventive Services Task Force is in the process of updating its guidelines. In 2015, the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology and the Society of Gynecologic Oncology published interim guidance for the use of primary HPV testing.
-
American family physician · Apr 2018
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Common Questions About Diagnosis and Management.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the most commonly diagnosed systemic inflammatory arthritis, with a lifetime prevalence of up to 1% worldwide. Women, smokers, and those with a family history of the disease are most often affected. Rheumatoid arthritis should be considered if there is at least one joint with definite swelling that is not better explained by another disease. ⋯ Additional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or biologic agents should be added if disease activity persists. Comorbid conditions, including hepatitis B or C or tuberculosis infections, must be considered when choosing medical treatments. Although rheumatoid arthritis is often a chronic disease, some patients can taper and discontinue medications and remain in long-term remission.