A controversy: linking atypical femoral fractures to bisphosphonate therapy.

Several cases have been reported of unusual spontaneous fractures with minimal trauma in the subtrochanteric and diaphyseal areas of the femur linked to long-term bisphosphonate use. After encountering three such patients, we conducted a review of published cases. The average age of these individuals were 68 years and approximately 25% had received concomitant glucocorticoids.

Causes of death in elderly nursing home residents.

Objectives: According to previous studies, 20% to 24% of deaths in the United States occur in nursing homes. This number is increasing. Overall vital statistics document that the leading causes of death in the United States remain cardiovascular/cerebrovascular and cancer, with Alzheimer's disease seventh as of 2004.

Methimazole-induced cholestatic jaundice in an elderly hyperthyroid patient.

Background: Hyperthyroidism is a common disease in the elderly. Antithyroid medications such as methimazole are one of the few treatment options.

Case Summary: A 76-year-old white woman presented to the clinic with a 1-week history of fatigue, sleepiness, 7-pound weight loss, and tachycardia.