Current neurology and neuroscience reports
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HIV affects many organs of the body, including the nervous system. As a result, a series of neurologic complications have created challenges for scientists and clinicians alike. Among these, HIV-associated neuropathy and myopathy may occur at all stages of the disease process. ⋯ Serum creatine kinase levels are often moderately elevated. Electromyography and muscle biopsy are helpful tests for diagnosis. Treatment of HIV myopathy includes corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and intravenous immunoglobulin.
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Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep · Jan 2004
ReviewOrganization of regional and local stroke resources: methods to expedite acute management of stroke.
Proving the efficacy of thrombolysis in improving outcome from stroke has put time to assessment of patients at the forefront for healthcare providers when organizing stroke care. The chain of recovery begins with the patient. Efforts are being made to improve the general public's understanding of stroke. ⋯ Emergency medical services dispatchers and technicians play a key role in recognizing that a patient is having a stroke and prioritizing the transport of the patient to an appropriate facility. Emergency departments need to have clear protocols in place to ensure that physicians can make prompt treatment decisions after having fully assessed and investigated the patient. Only with all these pieces in place is the initial phase of the chain of recovery complete, with the end result that more patients have the chance to have an improved outcome from stroke.