In the News
Reformulation of extended-release oxycodone may have triggered increase in hepatitis C rates
Hepatitis C virus infections increased three times faster in states with above-median rates of initial misuse of extended-release oxycodone (OxyContin) than in states with below-median rates, and the increase began immediately after a reformulation of the drug in 2010.
Surgery for adhesive small-bowel obstruction associated with lower recurrence risk
With each episode, the probability of another recurrence within five years increased until surgical intervention occurred, and after surgical intervention, risk for subsequent recurrence decreased by about 50%.
Alcohol-related liver disease more likely to be diagnosed at advanced stages, study finds
On the other hand, viral hepatitis-related disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are more likely to be treated early, due in part to the development of effective drugs for the former and increased awareness of the latter.
MKSAP quiz: Follow-up for persistent heartburn, chronic cough
This month's quiz asks readers to determine the most appropriate next diagnostic test for a 35-year-old man with persistent heartburn and chronic cough who takes pantoprazole twice daily for a one-year history of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Spotlight on direct-acting antivirals
Studies of contemporary populations with hepatitis C virus infection demonstrated that treatment with direct-acting antiviral therapies was linked to improvement in several long-term clinical outcomes.
New ACIP adult immunization schedule changes flu, hepatitis A and B vaccination advice
Among other updates from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, any licensed influenza vaccine that is appropriate for the age and health status of the patient may be used.
Going ‘Beyond the Guidelines' to treat gallstone pancreatitis
Physicians from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston discuss the care of a patient with recurrent acute pancreatitis who decides to delay cholecystectomy until after hospital discharge.