Articles tagged with Internal Medicine
A new series of articles explores the causes of medical errors, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on patient charts. Increasing the number of reviewers and requiring confidence in negligence can reduce rates of negligent events.
Researchers found that cocaine elevates body temperature by impairing the body's ability to increase skin-blood flow, sweat, and perceive excessive heat stress. Cocaine abuse in hot temperatures increases the risk of serious heat-related injuries, including heat stroke and death.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that 11% of doctors are willing to misrepresent patient information to obtain HMO approval for surgery or additional procedures. The 'hassle factor' plays a significant role in this behavior, with more physicians willing to deceive if the appeal process is longer or more burdensome.
The USPSTF recommends screening all adults for depression, as five percent to nine percent of adult patients in primary care settings suffer from the condition. Depression can be treated with counseling, medications, or both, reducing health care utilization and costs associated with lost workdays.
Two new studies published in Annals of Internal Medicine shed light on diabetes diagnosis and management. A mathematical model predicts type 2 diabetes with high accuracy, while a report card reveals significant gaps in diabetes care. Additionally, experts emphasize the importance of preventive methods to address partner violence.
A study of 118 people with early Lyme disease found most had a red rash with central redness, not the traditional bull's-eye description. The patients' liver function returned to normal after treatment with antibiotics. Meanwhile, a case report describes pioglitazone causing liver damage in a diabetic patient.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals a shift in heart disease burden from men to women and older adults. Heart attack rates decreased among younger men but increased among women over 80, while survival rates remained unchanged for those over 75.
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating vomiting after chemotherapy or surgery, as well as nausea associated with pregnancy. However, its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, back pain, and headache is still a topic of debate, with conflicting results from clinical trials.
A study of 115 residents found that 76% suffered from burnout, with half being depressed and nine percent misusing alcohol. Residents with heavy education-related debts were more likely to moonlight and experience depression.
A large study of men's health habits found that a prudent diet significantly reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study indicates that avoiding weight gain and eating a balanced diet may substantially reduce this risk, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing the disease.
Three influential organizations of internal medicine physicians unveil a new charter on medical professionalism, outlining three fundamental principles and ten definitive professional responsibilities. The charter aims to promote an action agenda for the profession, addressing challenges in healthcare delivery, technology, and globaliz...
The USPSTF recommends discussing aspirin therapy with adult patients at increased risk of coronary heart disease, such as those with unfavorable cholesterol levels, smoking, or hypertension. Aspirin may help prevent heart attacks in these individuals, but its benefits and harms should be carefully weighed.
A study in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that accurate profiling of physician care depends on study design, and that most quality initiatives fail to adjust for patient characteristics. Additionally, researchers estimate that colonoscopy is a cost-effective strategy for investigating rectal bleeding in young people
A recent study of over 2,000 patients found that good communication is crucial for building trust with physicians. Patients who experience poor communication or feel left out of medical decisions are more likely to consider changing their primary care provider.
A study found that comprehensive care and access to staff members are key factors in successful patient-physician relationships for lower-income women. These features can lead to higher trust, compassion, and communication ratings among patients.
Six popular herbal therapies - Ginkgo, St John's wort, Ginseng, Echinacea, Saw palmetto, and Kava - have varying levels of effectiveness and safety. Prednisone, a glucocorticoid, reduced swelling and progression of damage to joints in patients with early active rheumatoid arthritis.
The article highlights three articles addressing hypertension control: managing diabetes, blood pressure-lowering drugs, and the DASH diet. Additionally, a study reveals gaps in newspaper articles on mammography, which often oversimplify or misrepresent scientific evidence.
Two studies examine the link between sex hormones and coronary artery spasm, finding that estrogen levels during menstruation affect blood vessel function. Automated external defibrillators are also shown to be safe and easy to use by trained laypersons, paving the way for potential home sales.
UT Southwestern Medical Center has been awarded $3.6 million in funding to support 19 research projects across various disciplines. The largest grant will go towards developing a cancer-detecting blood test, which has already shown promising results in clinical trials.
A new study found that 41% of physicians would perform at least one action proscribed by the AMA's ethics guidelines, while 25% would perform five or more actions. The study suggests that some physicians are morally confused about their role in capital punishment.
Two reports on HBV infection shed light on the effectiveness of vaccination programs in reducing the disease rate and carrier state. A study found that 70% of carriers recovered within ten years after treatment, while a nationwide vaccination program for adults is crucial to prevent further transmission.
The ACP-ASIM survey found that 60% of respondents under 40 use handheld computers to access drug information and clinical references. The organization is expanding its educational resources through a Personal Digital Assistant Portal on its website.
Researchers will study 12 astronaut crew members before, during and after space missions to assess cardiac mass, compliance and relaxation. Findings may help prevent cardiac atrophy and arrhythmias in individuals confined to long-term bed rest or with conditions associated with cardiac stiffness.
A study of internists found that physicians often do not follow best practices due to concerns about patient individuality. The study suggests that noncompliance with guidelines can be a valid reflection of questions about their usefulness and applicability.
A study of 2,437 HIV-infected adults found that patients with case managers had fewer unmet needs and higher use of HIV medications. Screening for hereditary colorectal cancer has been shown to work and may be cost-effective, particularly for relatives of affected individuals.
Local experts urge a $300 million increase in Ryan White/CARE Act funding to ensure stable medical care and treatment for newly diagnosed patients. HIV infection can be managed as a chronic disease with access to services and new anti-AIDS drugs.
Researchers found that women taking hormone replacement therapy were 40% more likely to require gallbladder surgery than those on placebo. Additionally, high-dose cyclophosphamide was successful in treating some aplastic anemia patients, offering potential implications for the treatment of severe autoimmune diseases.
The American College of Physicians announces new standards for manuscript submission, emphasizing author disclosure of sponsor involvement. These revised guidelines, developed by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors, aim to prevent pharmaceutical companies from controlling study data and results.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that African-American patients receive fewer heart procedures than white patients, despite having a higher risk of heart disease. Researchers suggest various factors, including patient education and physician attitudes, may contribute to these disparities.
The American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine has released a comprehensive guide for primary care doctors on obesity diagnosis and management. Obesity rates increased by 30% between 1980 and 1994, carrying significant direct health care costs for the United States. The guide addresses key aspects of medical a...
A study found raw (uncooked), contaminated alfalfa and clover sprouts cause illnesses in California, leading to six outbreaks of salmonellosis and E. coli 0157. Researchers also discovered that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help lower blood pressure in women as they age.
The journal launches a series on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), classifying over 200 therapies into eight categories. ACP-ASIM opposes the legalization of physician-assisted suicide, citing concerns about inadequate care at end-of-life.
The American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine opposes physician-assisted suicide, considering it a threat to the patient-physician relationship. Instead, they suggest improving access to hospice care, palliative care, and pain management.
The Annals series examines complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), classifying hundreds of therapies into a new taxonomy. CAM modalities like herbs, acupuncture, and homeopathy are studied, as well as the social context and effectiveness of these practices.
A recent study by Dr. Tamera Coyne-Beasley found that 59% of surveyed law enforcement officers stored firearms unlocked, while 68% kept their guns loaded. The researchers called for mandatory safety training and stricter firearm storage laws to address the issue.
Postmenopausal women taking hormone replacement therapy for less than one year had a 25% increase in risk for recurrent heart disease, while those taking hormones for two years or longer had decreased risk. UTI patients successfully diagnosed and managed their own care with short-term antibiotics.
A new study found that women younger than 60 had a higher mortality rate after heart attacks than men of the same age, with an almost threefold higher risk for death. Researchers also discovered that inhaled insulin shows promise for treating type 2 diabetes, improving blood sugar control without serious side effects.
A study by researchers compared colonoscopy to fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) and sigmoidoscopy in screening for colorectal cancer. The findings show that colonoscopy is the most cost-effective option, reducing death rates at relatively low costs by removing precancerous polyps and detecting cancer at early stages.
A recent study suggests that hospitals and healthcare organizations can make quick and efficient changes to lower back pain treatment by adopting new guidelines and strategies. The ideal approach involves extensive use of patient education and self-care, with a focus on exercise therapy over diagnostic imaging tests.
The new book, edited by Howard Libman and Harvey J. Makadon, offers high-quality primary medical care to HIV-infected patients. With contributions from 23 AIDS experts, the book covers pathogenesis, antiretroviral therapy, and infection control.
A study found that prescribing sterile needles is ethical and clinically appropriate for injection drug users. Smoking daily can lead to impaired fasting glucose and type 2 diabetes. Long-term use of drugs promoting gastroesophageal reflux also increases the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
A prospective study of adults with type 2 diabetes found non-traditional risk factors for heart disease, including albumin and fibrinogen levels. Women internists in Pennsylvania earned 14% less per hour than male counterparts. Low body weight was linked to increased fracture risk in women.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that a combination of exercise and weight loss significantly reduces high blood pressure in overweight individuals. The researchers, led by James A. Blumenthal, Ph.D., randomly assigned 133 sedentary men and women to either aerobic exercise alone or a behavioral weight management...
A new study using a decision analysis model found that sildenafil was as cost-effective as kidney dialysis, cholesterol lowering medication or coronary artery bypass surgery. An editorial questions whether health insurance should cover treatment for erectile dysfunction when many Americans are not covered.
A self-help program using patented software increases smokers' success rates when combined with nicotine replacement therapy, shows a 56% increase in quitting at 12 weeks compared to standard materials. The Committed Quitters program provides tailored behavioral materials to support individuals in their quit attempt.
A new study found that asthma patients who experience more depressive symptoms have a lower quality of life. The study also showed that household income is negatively correlated with the level of depressive symptoms among patients.
A prospective cohort study found that regular exercise can benefit men with type 2 diabetes, while low physical fitness is associated with mortality. Meanwhile, a dangerous combination of blood thinners and intravenous steroids requires daily monitoring to prevent life-threatening bleeding.
A consensus panel convened by the University of Pennsylvania's Center for Bioethics discusses guidelines, treatments, and legal responses to assisted suicide. The panel aims to establish safeguards that make physician-assisted suicide voluntary, regulated, and an option of last resort.
A survey of family physicians found that those with a prior history of depression or somatic complaints were less likely to consider the possibility of serious illnesses and order testing. Cognitive shortcuts can be helpful but also lead to false generalizations, highlighting the need for awareness among physicians.
The ACP-ASIM End-of-Life Care Consensus Panel provides guidance on identifying and managing depression in dying patients, which can improve their quality of life. The panel's recommendations are based on state-of-the-art psychosocial interventions and/or drug treatments.
This issue of Annals of Internal Medicine offers guidance on identifying and treating depression in terminally ill patients. A new program combining physical therapy and exercise is shown to effectively manage osteoarthritis symptoms, potentially delaying surgery for affected adults. Meanwhile, a pet parrot infection has been transmitt...
The Annals of Internal Medicine's Millennium Issue explores various facets of time, including its impact on physician time management and patient care. The issue delves into alternative views of time, highlighting the need for a more holistic approach to medicine.
A new molecular biology test detected a substance in lymph nodes that may indicate future recurrence of colorectal cancer. The American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine also cautions physicians about selling products from their offices, emphasizing the need for high ethical standards.
The American College of Physicians recommends that physicians only sell products from their offices if they are clinically relevant to the patient's condition. The guidelines emphasize transparency and disclose financial interests in products, ensuring patients have access to alternative options and reasonable charges.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that illness severity, rather than age, is a key predictor of death among seriously ill patients. The research analyzed data from over 9,000 hospitalized patients and found that those with the sickest conditions were at highest risk of dying within six months.
A study of 30 people with iron deficiency anemia found that curing Helicobacter pylori reversed the anemia. Meanwhile, researchers discovered that 51% of eligible elderly patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction did not receive early beta-blocker therapy, leading to higher in-hospital mortality rates.
Researchers found that misdiagnosed electrocardiographic artifact, caused by body movement or poor contact, led to unnecessary procedures like pacemaker implants and heart catheterization. The study highlights the need for improved training in recognizing artifact and increased awareness among physicians.
A new questionnaire effectively screens primary care patients for sleep apnea, identifying nearly half of high-risk patients. A man with severe adult-onset rheumatoid arthritis also experienced remission after a stem-cell transplant from his healthy twin, believed to be the first case of its kind.
A study of 46 Internet sites selling prescription drugs found that only five revealed their locations, while nine sites sold medications without a physician's prescription. The researchers also found that online doctor consultations cost more than in-person visits, and some popular drugs were sold at higher prices online.
A study of 232 rheumatology patients found nearly half used alternative treatments and discussed them with physicians, highlighting the need for physician inquiry. Additionally, a single dose of azithromycin prevents syphilis in exposed individuals, while flu vaccinations benefit HIV-infected patients.