American family physician
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Septic shock is an emergency that is best treated by establishing priorities beforehand. The first priority is early recognition. ⋯ The third priority is selected antibiotic therapy and drainage of pus. The fourth is corticosteroid therapy if the patient's response has been suboptimal.
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Suicide can be the tragic consequence of depression, even in childhood. Depression has been described in infants, is often overlooked in children and is a leading cause of death in adolescents. ⋯ The high incidence of suicide in adolescents is, in part, due to impulsive activity. While drug therapy can be helpful, the management of frightened and depressed suicidal youngsters requires a network of helping professionals.
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Genetic screening should greatly improve the quality of life. A thorough family and medical history is the basis for identifying families at high risk for genetic traits and diseases. Recognition is enhanced by awareness of diseases associated with certain racial, ethnic or geographic groups. Effective genetic screening requires close collaboration between physicians, public health officers and medical investigators.