The predictive value of skin testing in the diagnosis of local anesthetic allergy.

Local anesthetics are commonly used medications and can result in adverse reactions. The diagnostic workup of local anesthetic reactions remains controversial. This study was designed to determine the effectiveness of skin testing for local anesthetic allergy evaluation.

Collaboration between allergists and pharmacists increases β-lactam antibiotic prescriptions in patients with a history of penicillin allergy.

Background: Over 90% of patients with a history of penicillin allergy have negative penicillin skin tests. Pharmacists are trained to identify and resolve medication-related problems. We hypothesized that collaboration between allergists and pharmacists to identify and evaluate patients with a history of penicillin allergy would increase β-lactam antibiotic prescription.

XIAP deficiency: a unique primary immunodeficiency best classified as X-linked familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and not as X-linked lymphoproliferative disease.

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) deficiency, caused by BIRC4 mutations, is described to cause X-linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP) phenotypes. However, compared with XLP caused by SLAM-Associated Protein deficiency (SH2D1A mutation), XIAP deficiency was originally observed to be associated with a high incidence of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and a lack of lymphoma, suggesting that classification of XIAP deficiency as a cause of XLP may not be entirely accurate. To further characterize XIAP deficiency, we reviewed our experience with 10 patients from 8 unrelated families with BIRC4 mutations.

Clinical pharmacists and inpatient medical care: a systematic review.

Background: The role of clinical pharmacists in the care of hospitalized patients has evolved over time, with increased emphasis on collaborative care and patient interaction. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the published literature on the effects of interventions by clinical pharmacists on processes and outcomes of care in hospitalized adults.

Methods: Peer-reviewed, English-language articles were identified from January 1, 1985, through April 30, 2005.

Assessing the accuracy of computerized medication histories.

Objective: To determine the accuracy of computerized medication histories.

Study Design: Cross-sectional observational study.

Patients And Methods: The study sample included 493 Department of Veterans Affairs primary care patients aged 65 years or older who were receiving at least 5 prescriptions.