In the News
Lower systolic blood pressure target appears to improve outcomes in elderly patients without diabetes or stroke
Treating to lower systolic blood pressure targets in ambulatory adults ages 75 years and older led to better outcomes, specifically lower rates of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events.
Guideline updated to include new drugs for stage C heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Among other recommendations, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, or an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor, along with a beta-blocker and an aldosterone antagonist, is the new recommended therapy to reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic symptomatic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
MKSAP Quiz: low back pain of 3 months' duration
A 52-year-old man is evaluated for low back pain of 3 months' duration that is nonradiating, progressive, and worse with ambulation. He reports no preceding injury. Medical history is notable for smoldering multiple myeloma diagnosed 1 year ago; he has been stable since that time. His only medication is as-needed acetaminophen. Following a physical exam and lab results, what is the most appropriate management?
Tick-borne rickettsial disease recommendations updated by the CDC
Rickettsial diseases in the United States have increased during the past decade, according to a report, which notes that they continue to cause severe illness and death in otherwise healthy adults and children, despite the availability of effective antibacterial therapy.
Updated warning issued on risks of fluoroquinolones
Fluoroquinolone use for sinusitis, bronchitis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections should be reserved for patients who do not have alternative treatment options, according to an FDA safety communication.
ACP recognizes quality improvement champions at Internal Medicine Meeting 2016
Member leaders and staff at ACP's Center for Quality selected awardees whose work has helped physicians implement practice transformation so as to achieve the quadruple aim, including better care, better patient outcomes, better value, and the promotion of physician well-being.
And the winner is …
ACP Internist Weekly has tallied the voting from its latest cartoon contest, where readers are invited to match wits against their peers to provide the most original and amusing caption.