Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare and life-threatening syndrome of immune system dysregulation characterized by the phagocytosis of various cells by histiocytes in the bone marrow. HLH can present in one of the two ways: primary HLH, which is caused by mutations in genes essential to T and NK-cell function, and secondary HLH, typically caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection or malignancy. Because of the rapid progression and high mortality of this disease, prompt diagnosis is essential to good outcomes.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFRespiratory symptoms are common reasons for patients to seek care and contribute significantly to use of health care resources. Identifying the underlying etiology of a respiratory symptom is key to management; yet, pinpointing the cause can be a challenge. Familiarity with the tools available to help discern between the various contributing etiologies is crucial in guiding management.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThis article examines the relationships between allergic rhinitis and hypertension, chronic sinusitis and hypertension, and asthma and hypertension. Previous studies have demonstrated that men reporting seasonal or chronic rhinitis had on average a 3.5 mm Hg higher systolic blood pressure than those without allergic rhinitis.
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