Harefuah
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Post-operative delirium is common, and has an incidence of 37-74% as reported in different publications. The growing rates of the elderly among surgical patients makes that condition more relevant than ever, since these populations are highly susceptible to develop this condition. Contrary to the common assumption, delirium is not a unique complication of the elderly alone. ⋯ Adequate and on time diagnosis of this condition is crucial in the surgical patient, as it may be the only sign that predicts other severe surgical complications. This review exposes aspects of post-operative delirium in the elderly patient. Diagnostic modalities, as well as current management recommendations are discussed.
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The HIV/AIDS pandemic is not over yet. Every day about 7,400 new patients are infected with HIV. ⋯ Important issues are: early diagnosis and the initiation of treatment (HAART--Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy) at an earlier disease stage (for all patients with CD4 < or = 350 cells/microl; when indicated to patients with CD4 > 350 cells/microl) defining specific regimen for each individual patient, are crucial. In order to prevent HIV infection and to eliminate the pandemic, an effective vaccine is mandatory.