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C difficile Infections Increasing, Becoming More Difficult to Treat

Research indicates that rates of Clostridium difficile infection among those typically not considered at high risk of infection are increasing, and these infections are becoming more frequent, severe, and difficult to treat.

Experts Provide Guidance on Reporting During Lung Cancer Screenings

To confirm that LCS programs abide by the American College of Radiology and Society of Thoracic Radiology specifications, screening should follow a standardized and structured protocol.

Increased risk of cardiovascular disease among middle-aged women due to glycemic load

We conducted a study among 15 714 Dutch middle-aged women consuming modest-glycemic-load diets. Results showed that high dietary glycemic load and glycemic index increased the risk of cardiovascular disease. This association was particularly evident among overweight women. Recommendations to follow a high-carbohydrate diet may therefore not be optimal in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Predicting survival in elderly patients with heart failure

Over a period of 14 years, we followed 282 patients aged 70 years or older who were hospitalized with heart failure. Median survival was 2.5 years, but 25% of patients died within 1 year, and 25% survived for at least 5 years following hospital discharge. A simple 7-item risk score based on data readily available at the time of hospitalization effectively stratified patients into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk categories for subsequent mortality.

Laboratory monitoring for spironolactone in congestive heart failure

We evaluated how well patients taking spironolactone were monitored for hyperkalemia, as well as the association between spironolactone and hyperkalemia. Only two thirds of patients received testing for serum potassium and creatinine levels, and higher baseline serum creatinine levels predicted a high risk of hyperkalemia. These results indicate that appropriate patient selection and close monitoring are essential, especially for patients with renal impairment.

The 2006 Cadillac DTS: A New Cadillac Classic

Are the Markets Taking a Little Snooze?

Strengthening the Primary Care Pipeline

What steps can the medical profession and policymakers take to stave off the looming shortage of primary care doctors?

Reading Room: We're Not In Kansas Anymore

Noninvasive assessment of coronary artery bypass grafts with 64-slice computed tomographic angiography

We evaluated the accuracy of the 64-slice computed tomography (CT) angiography scanner in subjects who were scheduled to undergo invasive angiography for possible stenosis in coronary artery bypass grafts. Results showed that the improved resolution of CT scanners with 64-slice technology allowed for a precise delineation of bypass graft occlusion or stenosis. It permitted an accurate noninvasive assessment of bypass grafts, even in subgroups of subjects with suboptimal scan conditions, such as those with arrhythmias or higher heart rates.

Prediction of coronary artery disease in patients with diabetes and albuminuria

We developed a set of equations to predict the risk or probability of developing coronary artery disease (CAD) in 10 years among American Indians. The equations are based on the significant risk factors identified in the Strong Heart Study, a longitudinal study of cardiovascular disease in American Indians. The equations can be used in patient education and to evaluate the efficacy of CAD prevention and intervention programs.

Mind-Body Fitness: Three Options for Patients with Cancer

Mind-body fitness focuses on the connections between thinking, feeling, and doing. These exercises change energy patterns within the body, facilitating relaxation, reducing fatigue, and improving concentration. Because they also can be modified to suit a person�¢ï¿½ï¿½s needs on any given day, they may be appealing to patients with cancer.

CMS Decides Not to Reduce Reimbursement for Complex Patients in 2019 PFS

CMS said it responded to complaints about its 2019 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS)—which it finalized today—and will not collapse 5 billing codes down to 2, which had drawn an outcry from some medical associations that their care for complex patients would be shortchanged.