Near-fatal asthma continues to be a significant problem despite the decline in overall asthma mortality. This article looks at the recent advances in our understanding of near-fatal asthma. Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized serologically by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. The pathophysiologic mechanisms of and appropriate serologic testing for APS are reviewed. Nature Clinical Practice Rheumatology
An early life history of bronchitis, pneumonia, or asthma is associated with higher respiratory disease mortality in adulthood, according to a longitudinal study in the UK. Reuters Health Information
Blake Lesselroth, MD, MBI, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Medical Informatics, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, Oregon, proposes a radical reform for electronic medical records. The Medscape Journal of Medicine
George T. Griffing, MD, Professor of Medicine, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri; Editor-in-Chief, Internal Medicine, eMedicine, discusses whether we should believe in fibromyalgia. The Medscape Journal of Medicine
Are long-acting beta2-agonist medications dangerous for patients with asthma? The current review examines the evidence in regard to this issue and offers recommendations for the safe use of long-acting beta2-agonists in practice. Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
A study of 479 medical graduates at Tulane University found differences in personality characteristics among specialty choices. The results are useful for recruiting, counseling, and self-reflection. The Medscape Journal of Medicine
Are long-acting beta2-agonist medications dangerous for patients with asthma? The current review examines the evidence in regard to this issue and offers recommendations for the safe use of long-acting beta2-agonists in practice. Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
Elizabeth M. Whelan, ScD, MS, MPH, President, Founder, American Council on Science and Health, New York, compares notes on the top 10 health-scare myths of 2007. The Medscape Journal of Medicine