Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine
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The use of HS solutions has been shown to reduce ICP both in animal models and in human studies in a variety of underlying disorders, even in cases refractory to treatment with hyperventilation and mannitol. There are several possible mechanisms of action, and important complications such as central pontine myelinolysis and intracranial hemorrhage have not been reported in the human studies. Different types of HS solutions with different methods of infusion (bolus and continuous) have been used in the past, and so far there are not enough data to recommend one concentration over another. Many issues remain to be clarified, including the exact mechanism of action of HS, the best mode of administration and HS concentration to be given, and the relative efficacy of HS vis-à-vis available treatments, particularly mannitol.
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Comparative Study
In heart failure, all beta-blockers are not necessarily equal.
The Carvedilol or Metoprolol European Trial (COMET; Lancet 2003; 362:7-13) found that in patients with heart failure, survival appears to be better with carvedilol than with immediate-release metoprolol tartrate. Whether the target doses used were equivalent (carvedilol 25 mg twice daily vs metoprolol tartrate 50 mg twice daily) has been debated, but the COMET trial shows that drugs in the same class do not necessarily have the same effects. Given the overwhelming evidence of the benefit of carvedilol, metoprolol succinate, and bisoprolol in patients with heart failure, we should all strive to increase the use of these drugs in appropriate doses.
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Any patient age 50 or older with distorted vision or vision loss may have age-related macular degeneration and should be immediately referred to an ophthalmologist. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to preserve the current level of vision. We outline risk factors, clinical signs, what happens to the retina, and what treatments are currently available, as well as recommendations about vitamin and mineral supplementation.
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When interpreting pulmonary function tests, one should first try to determine the pattern of abnormality: is it obstructive, restrictive, or normal? Pulmonary function tests cannot by themselves distinguish among the potential causes of abnormalities, and must be interpreted in light of the patient's history, physical examination, and ancillary studies. Once a pattern is recognized, the diagnosis will often follow.
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Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is probably here to stay, and every health care institution should take precautions against an outbreak. The signs and symptoms of SARS are nonspecific, and there is no early diagnostic test, no specific treatment, and no vaccine. In some parts of the world, including Canada, more than 80% of probable cases were nosocomial.