Annals of neurology
-
Annals of neurology · Sep 2011
Review Meta AnalysisComputed tomography and magnetic resonance perfusion imaging in ischemic stroke: definitions and thresholds.
Cerebral perfusion imaging with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) is widely available. The optimum perfusion values to identify tissue at risk of infarction in acute stroke are unclear. We systematically reviewed CT and MR perfusion imaging in acute ischemic stroke. ⋯ CT and MR perfusion imaging viability thresholds in stroke are derived from small numbers of patients, variable perfusion analysis methods and definitions of tissue states. Greater consistency of methods would help determine reliable perfusion viability values for wider clinical use of perfusion imaging.
-
Annals of neurology · Sep 2011
Randomized Controlled TrialA randomized, pilot trial of etanercept in dermatomyositis.
The aims of this pilot study were to assess (1) the safety and tolerability of etanercept in dermatomyositis (DM); (2) the feasibility and safety of a forced prednisone taper; and (3) outcome measures, including those recommended by the International Myositis Assessment Clinical Study (IMACS) group. ⋯ The findings of no major safety concerns and a steroid-sparing effect in our study suggest that further investigation of etanercept as a treatment for DM is warranted.
-
Annals of neurology · Sep 2011
Biography Historical ArticleRichard Olney's perspective as physician-scientist and patient.
-
Patients with epilepsy are often concerned that switching between brand-name and generic formulations of antiepilepsy drugs (AEDs) may cause clinically significant changes in plasma drug concentrations. We assessed bioequivalence (BE) studies for approved generic AEDs to evaluate US Food and Drug Administration claims that: (1) generic AEDs are accurate copies of reference formulations; (2) delivery of reference formulations may be as variable as generic AEDs and so provide no increased benefit; and (3) switches between generic AED formulations are safe and effective. ⋯ Most generic AED products provide total drug delivery (AUC) similar to reference products; differences in peak concentrations between formulations are more common. Switches between generic AED products may cause greater changes in plasma drug concentrations than generic substitutions of reference products.