Southern medical journal
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To determine a reliable first aid topical remedy for jellyfish stings, we investigated several commonly available preparations to determine their ability to prevent nematocyst rupture from sea nettle (Chrysaora quinquecirrha) and Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis) tentacles. The application of a baking soda slurry was a good inhibitor of nematocyst discharge for the nettle and vinegar was a good inhibitor for the man-of-war.
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Southern medical journal · Jul 1983
Experience with a multidisciplinary emergency medicine clerkship.
In 1979 a required emergency medicine clerkship was added to the senior curriculum at the Medical College of Virginia. Coordinated by the Department of Surgery but receiving active support from other disciplines, the emergency medicine clerkship combined clinical participation in emergency care with a balanced academic program of lectures, conferences, and advanced cardiac life-support training. The program evolved into a popular and productive experience and stimulated positive changes in the emergency unit at other levels.
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Anesthesiologists are now active in the diagnosis of unusual neurologic and neuromuscular disorders. Their skill derives both from a firm understanding of basic sciences and a facility with invasive procedures. Five representative cases are presented to illustrate the scope of diagnostic neuroanesthesiology and the endeavors of the neuroanesthesiologist outside the operating theater.
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Acyclovir, the new virucidal drug recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV), is the first available effective drug to treat such infections. Acyclovir boasts activity against four of the five major herpes-group viruses, including herpes simplex (types 1 and 2), varicella-zoster, and Epstein-Barr. ⋯ Problems of renal toxicity and viral resistance now dampen some of the initial expectations. Present-day research continues to reveal insights into the mechanism and action of acyclovir.
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Malignant hyperthermia, a rapidly progressive, frequently lethal syndrome was not described until quite recently. Although treatment with the drug dantrolene has changed its face, a clear understanding and deep respect for the syndrome are necessary to keep fatalities and tragic sequelae to a minimum. The etiology and pathophysiology, preanesthetic diagnosis, incidence, management of the acute crisis, and anesthesia for susceptible patients are discussed, and a successfully treated fulminant case is analyzed.