QJM : monthly journal of the Association of Physicians
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Review
Inhaled corticosteroids and risk of pneumonia: evidence for and against the proposed association.
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are commonly used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Recent large prospective trials have reported an increased incidence of pneumonia in patients treated with ICS. Despite this, the link between ICS and pneumonia remains controversial. In this review, pro and con arguments for the association between ICS and increased pneumonia risk are discussed, drawing on evidence from experimental and clinical research.
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Advances in oncological care have led to improved short- and long-term prognosis of cancer patients but admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) remains controversial. ⋯ Short-term outcome of critically ill cancer patients in ICU is better than previously reported. The decision to admit cancer patients to ICU should depend on the severity of the acute illness rather than factors related to the malignancy. In appropriate patients, invasive organ support and re-admission should not be withheld.