Internal medicine journal
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Internal medicine journal · Jan 2019
Multicenter StudySubstantial variation exists in spirometry interpretation practices for airflow obstruction in accredited lung function laboratories across Australia and New Zealand.
Spirometry forms the foundation investigation for the diagnosis and monitoring of common pulmonary conditions. However, potential variation in spirometry interpretation for airflow obstruction may impact subsequent clinical management. ⋯ Significant heterogeneity in spirometry interpretation for airflow obstruction exists across Australian and New Zealand accredited lung function laboratories. Lack of standardisation may translate into clinically appreciable differences for the diagnosis and management of common respiratory conditions. Ongoing discussion regarding formal standardisation is required.
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Internal medicine journal · Jan 2019
Lessons learnt from local real-life experience with idarucizumab for the reversal of dabigatran.
Idarucizumab is a specific antidote for the direct thrombin inhibitor oral anticoagulant dabigatran etexilate. It has been used with increasing frequency in Australia since it was granted Therapeutic Goods Administration approval in October 2016. ⋯ Idarucizumab helped achieve haemostasis in 15 bleeding patients and allowed 6 patients to undergo urgent surgery. Half the patients had prolonged TT/APTT at 24 h post-idarucizumab, which was more likely to occur in patients with impaired renal function.