Sunday, November 28, 2010

Retinal-Vein Occlusion — NEJM

Retinal-Vein Occlusion — NEJM An excellent review of a common cause of visual loss. Subscription needed to view full text (at least until April 2011)

GP Commissioners need to be aware that this problem affects nearly 2% over 40's (10 year incidence is 1.6%).

Biologicals can be used to maintain vision if central vein occlusion with macula oedema (as many as 20% cases), and the treatment needs to be given as often as monthly in some cases.

Responding to an FDA Warning — Geographic Variation in the Use of Rosiglitazone — NEJM

Responding to an FDA Warning — Geographic Variation in the Use of Rosiglitazone — NEJM A good article showing how crazy USA healthcare drug regulation can be. A drug which is banned in Europe now, yet can still be prescribed in USA. There is a clear increased risk of cardiovascular disease in diabetes mellitus patients taking this drug.

If you know a relative or friend who is still taking rosiglitazone, please, please get them to see their doctor to change to an alternative (e.g. pioglitazone) or a different agent altogether.

Doing this may save a life or two, and reduce healthcare costs overall!

obnoxious librarian from hades

obnoxious librarian from hades Dilbert like humour from, of all places, a library!