The American journal of medicine
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We sought to assess the diagnostic accuracy of routine chest radiography for the acute aortic syndrome (dissection, intramural hematoma, penetrating ulcer, or nondissecting aneurysm). ⋯ Chest radiography is of limited value for diagnosing the acute aortic syndrome, particularly for conditions confined to the ascending aorta. Since a definitive diagnosis is required in any patient with clinically suspected acute aortic syndrome, routine chest radiography should be replaced by tomographic aortic imaging.
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Multicenter Study
Obesity-associated hypoventilation in hospitalized patients: prevalence, effects, and outcome.
Severe obesity is associated with hypoventilation, a disorder that may adversely affect morbidity and mortality. We sought to determine the prevalence and effects of obesity-associated hypoventilation in hospitalized patients. ⋯ Hypoventilation frequently complicates severe obesity among hospitalized adults and is associated with excess morbidity and mortality.
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This paper reviews the current literature pertaining to calcium channel blockers, including their classification, properties, and therapeutic indications, in light of several recent trials that have addressed their safety. Calcium channel blockers are a structurally and functionally heterogeneous group of medications that are used widely to control blood pressure and manage symptoms of angina. They are classified as dihydropyridines or nondihydropyridines. ⋯ Even so, the use of these agents has been linked with an increased risk of heart failure. Thus, long-acting calcium channel blockers may be safely used in the management of hypertension and angina. However, as a class, they are not as protective as other antihypertensive agents against heart failure.