MedGenMed : Medscape general medicine
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Germline mutations in the tumor suppressor genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 predispose women to breast and ovarian cancer. Female carriers of BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations have very high lifetime risks for breast and ovarian cancers. Genetic abnormalities occur in all cancers, so BRCA-related pathways are critical because they serve to safeguard genetic content. Although protecting genetic information is a general function, BRCA-related pathways seem largely specific to preventing breast and ovarian cancer. The objective of this study was to resolve this difference between the theoretical functions of BRCA genes and their specific clinical effects. ⋯ Although mutations target breast and ovary, a broader spectrum of cancers also occur with statistically significant elevated frequencies. Risks for "all cancers except breast or ovary" are elevated, with some population subgroups differing with regard to how frequently elevated risks were found at individual sites. Additional sites at risk included stomach, pancreas, prostate, and colon. The increased risk ranged from about 20% to 60%, with the greatest increases in risk in stomach and pancreas. The collected data show BRCA-pathway functions are probably required at multiple sites, not just in breast or ovary. Known interactions and relationships among BRCA-related pathways strongly support the idea that their inactivation provides growth or survival advantages for a variety of cancers. The data suggest applying an increased level of clinical alertness to those with defects in BRCA-related pathways. Identifying molecules that confer growth or survival advantages to BRCA-related cancers may provide broadly useful targets for chemotherapy or chemoprevention.
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Review Case Reports
Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal glossal necrotizing myositis--case report and review.
We report the first case of glossal necrotizing myositis by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus in an 8-year-old girl on chronic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulators, and steroids for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment included partial glossectomy and parenteral antibiotics. After a critical course, full recovery ensued. The subject of necrotizing myositis is reviewed.
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Chronic pain is a frequent medical condition that has a significant impact on patients, including their ability to function and enjoy life. In addition, chronic pain has a substantial economic impact on the workplace and costs of healthcare. ⋯ By understanding those times of day and activities that may precipitate severe episodes of pain, tailored opioid treatment plans can be developed that manage pain, improve patient functionality, and minimize side effects. Recently developed rapid-onset opioid formulations should be considered as part of the chronic pain management strategy in addition to more traditional long-acting, sustained-release formulations and short-acting, normal-release formulations.