Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic vasculitis of medium and large arteries that mainly affects the external carotid artery. It is a diagnosis of the elderly that typically presents as low-grade fever, temporal tenderness, claudication of the jaw, and in some patients vision loss. In cases where GCA presents with atypical manifestations, the diagnosis may be more difficult, causing a delay in both diagnosis and treatment and ultimately leading to irreversible complications.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFEosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a clinicopathological diagnosis seen in children as well as adults. Growing evidence suggests that EoE is strongly associated with atopic disorders. Presenting symptoms differ in children and adults and it is not known whether atopic features vary by age.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFEosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory process characterized by symptoms of esophageal dysfunction and, histologically, by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus. In adults, it commonly presents with dysphagia, food impaction, and chest or abdominal pain. Chronic inflammation can lead to diffuse narrowing of the esophageal lumen which may cause food impaction.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOptimal protection against preventable diseases for adolescents can be provided through routine vaccination. Vaccinations recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention can reduce morbidity and mortality associated with influenza, meningococcal, human papillomavirus, tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis infections. Most reported adverse reactions to these vaccinations are mild, and the benefits of immunization often outweigh the potential risks.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Epidemiologic studies support the hypothesis that reduced microbial exposure in westernized societies promotes atopy. Dichlorophenols are widely used as pesticides and for chlorination of water. They have a strong bactericidal effect that could affect microflora in the environment.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF