Two reviews have concluded that ACE inhibitors and angiotensin-receptor blockers are similarly effective in hypertension and against proteinuria, respectively; for one of those conditions, however, a combination of the two drug classes appeared better than either alone. Heartwire
In the largest and reportedly most clinically detailed population-based study of carotid endarterectomy to date, researchers outline 11 risk factors for poor outcomes. The results are expected to influence guideline updates. Medscape Medical News
Post hoc analysis of the SPARCL trial looked at factors associated with the increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke seen in patients with prior stroke in that trial and found the risk was increased with atorvastatin treatment, having had a hemorrhagic stroke as the study entry event, increasing age, male sex, and stage 2 hypertension at the visit before the hemorrhage. Medscape Medical News
Dialysis patients who respond poorly to erythropoietin (EPO) have a mortality risk more than 50% greater than those who do not require EPO. Medscape Medical News
Frank Sacks, MD, provides an overview on CVD risk factors in patients with metabolic syndrome, with a focus on treatment options and management of mixed dyslipidemia for reducing CVD risk. Medscape Cardiology
Dr. Ian Sanne summarizes the important presentations from the 15th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) -- particularly CV/metabolic complications and osteoporosis. Medscape HIV/AIDS
