Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine
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Ischemic stroke may be a presenting feature of COVID-19. Its etiology remains unclear, but severe COVID-19 disease might increase the risk of large-artery strokes. More evidence is needed to substantiate the current reports and provide insights for optimal management.
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The hospitalized patient with COVID-19 on the medical ward: Cleveland Clinic approach to management.
SARS-CoV-2-infected inpatients who are admitted to a noncritical care medical ward require a standardized approach that is based on evidence if available, and effective supportive and respiratory care. Outcomes are better when patients receive standardized care, in special COVID-19 wards in the hospital, from clinical teams with expertise. ⋯ Inpatient pharmacologic therapy at this time consists primarily of dexamethasone and remdesivir, along with thromboprophylaxis, given the coagulopathy associated with COVID-19. This article summarizes current practices in our organization.
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Electrodiagnostic testing, consisting of nerve conduction studies and needle electrode examination, serves as an extension of a neurologic examination for evaluating a variety of focal and generalized neuromuscular conditions. By providing important clues on location, chronicity, severity, and pathophysiology, it can help to establish a diagnosis, evaluate the need for surgery, and assess patients who do not improve as expected after surgery.
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While promising, convalescent plasma remains experimental and is not proven effective for COVID-19. In addition, many questions remain regarding the accuracy and predictive value of antibody testing of donors and patients, optimal donor selection, optimal timing, and selection of patients most likely to benefit. Until these questions are answered, convalescent plasma should ideally be used in the context of well-designed clinical trials.