The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
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Treatment strategies for herpes zoster infection include limiting viral replication with anti-infective agents as well as limiting associated acute and chronic neuropathic pain with a variety of analgesics. The author outlines currently available pharmacotherapeutic options, from first-line (eg, anti-infective agents, tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioid analgesics, and topical agents) through adjuvant treatments (eg, oral corticosteroids). A summary of adverse event profiles is provided for each medication. Vaccination is recommended as a preventive measure.
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J Am Osteopath Assoc · Jun 2009
Personality types and performance on aptitude and achievement tests: implications for osteopathic medical education.
Several studies have shown that the personality types of medical and dental students affect performance on aptitude and achievement examinations. However, such studies are lacking in osteopathic medical literature. ⋯ The differences in scores obtained on COMLEX-USA Level 1 were statistically significant when students were identified by personality type. This finding suggests that using the MBTI during training could enhance learning and improve academic performance in osteopathic medical schools.
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The incidence and severity of herpes zoster increases with advancing age, as does its most common complication-postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). The most effective management strategy for herpes zoster and PHN is prevention of the disease through vaccination, particularly in the most vulnerable patient population (ie, individuals aged 70 years or older). ⋯ Despite the benefits of zoster immunization, administration of the vaccine may be met by certain barriers, including issues related to reimbursement, storage, and availability of the vaccine. Educating physicians and the public about the importance of herpes zoster prevention, while underscoring the pain associated with this disease and the challenges in managing it, will help to overcome these barriers.
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J Am Osteopath Assoc · Apr 2009
Evaluation and management of status epilepticus in the neurological intensive care unit.
Status epilepticus (SE) is a common and potentially life-threatening neurologic emergency characterized by prolonged seizures that are the result of primary neurologic disease or secondary to critical illness and medical management. It is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, presentation is subclinical in many cases and requires a high index of suspicion. The authors discuss diagnostic and management schemes for SE in the neurological intensive care unit, emphasizing the importance of reducing the duration of SE through prompt recognition and aggressive treatment protocols.
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Specialty board certification, though voluntary, has become an indispensable designation for many osteopathic physicians. The authors report rates of osteopathic specialty board certification and recertification. ⋯ In addition, time limits on board eligibility have been established for certification candidates. As the healthcare environment continues to evolve, the American Osteopathic Association, the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists, and the 18 osteopathic specialty boards continue to adapt to meet the professional needs of osteopathic physicians.