The use of direct alcohol biomarkers (ethylglucuronide and phosphatidylethanol) has recently been implemented in a clinical setting. Due to their low alcohol detection threshold, high sensitivity, and specificity, these tools are very useful in the pre- and post-liver transplantation setting, where the history and physical signs are not always reliable. However, the interpretation of the results can sometimes be misleading and must be integrated into a global clinical evaluation and, more importantly, in the clinical context of each patient.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSeveral studies have been published in 2023, in the field of general internal medicine, addressing various aspects of health and covering topics ranging from hormonal treatment of menopause to the management of chronic and acute diseases. A selection of articles was chosen for this update in outpatient general internal medicine, showing recent studies on outpatient care of patients (treatment, follow-up). The summary of articles is supplemented this year by a table of medical recommendations published in 2023, modestly proposed, and covering various areas.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAddiction medicine is influenced by societal changes and the environment has an impact on addictive behaviors and how they are experienced. The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on addictive behaviors, some of which could be favorable, and others highlight vulnerabilities to be considered by clinicians. Recent legislative changes open possibilities to limit the negative impact of electronic lotteries.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFTranssphenoidal surgery is the treatment of choice for acromegaly due to pituitary adenoma but it is not always possible to reduce or control tumor growth, inhibit GH hypersecretion and normalize IGF-I. The first-line drug treatment in 2013 remains the somatostatin analogues. In 2012 and 2013 have been published several publications presenting the prognosis of well-differentiated thyroid cancers of intermediate risk.
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