Update on surgical site infections: The new CDC guidelines.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) occur near or at the incision site and/or deeper underlying tissue spaces and organs within 30 days of a surgical procedure (or up to 90 days for implanted prosthetics). SSIs are the most common healthcare-associated infections experienced by patients who undergo surgery, increase overall cost and length of hospital stay, and are largely preventable. This article reviews the recently updated CDC guidelines for preventing SSIs.

Chagas disease: An underrecognized diagnosis.

Chagas disease is a parasite infection primarily transmitted to humans via the bite of triatomine insect vectors. Up to 8 million people are estimated to be infected with Chagas disease in the Americas. Patients who do not receive treatment can develop severe cardiac debility, gastrointestinal organ dysfunction, and may die.

Zika virus: A rapidly emerging infectious disease.

Zika virus is a flavivirus transmitted to humans via the bite of infected mosquitoes. A recent outbreak in Brazil has spread to several surrounding countries, and the virus also has been reported in the United States. The virus is associated with microcephaly among newborns whose mothers were infected.

The Ebola virus epidemic: Preparation, not panic.

The largest-ever outbreak and first epidemic of Ebola virus disease is affecting several West African countries. Early symptoms of Ebola can mimic those of other tropical diseases. In a world of rapid global travel, physician assistants need to be capable of identifying patients at greatest risk for developing Ebola.

Challenges in managing hepatitis C virus infection in cancer patients.

Cancer patients have unique problems associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and treatment not seen in the general population. HCV infection poses additional challenges and considerations for the management of cancer, and vice versa. HCV infection also can lead to the development of cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Diagnosis and management of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis.

Viral and Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis have overlapping signs and symptoms, but distinguishing between the two is critical to proper treatment. Antibacterial therapy is appropriate for GAS pharyngitis and may help prevent complications.

Multidisciplinary cancer care: development of an infectious diseases physician assistant workforce at a comprehensive cancer center.

The authors outline the process through which the infectious diseases department at The M. D. Anderson Cancer Center successfully integrated physician assistants into patient care services, as judged by an overall increase in departmental productivity, broadened patient care coverage, and physician satisfaction with midlevel services.