Insidermedicine in 60 – April 9, 2008
From Maryland – In a recent study, 499 Native Americans with type 2 diabetes were randomized to drug treatment aimed at achieving standard LDL targets of 100 mg/dL and systolic blood pressure of 130 mm Hg or to a more aggressive LDL target of 70 mg/dL and a SBP of 115 mm Hg. The more aggressive targets were associated with a reversal of atherosclerosis in the carotid artery and reduction in heart size.
From Atlanta – With the widespread use of a second dose of mumps vaccine among school children, the incidence of mumps has fallen dramatically. However, in 2006 over 6000 cases were reported in the US. With most likely having received 2 doses of the mumps vaccine, the outbreak may have been related to waning immunity or less effectiveness against the G genotype of the virus.
And finally, back to Maryland – According to the FDA, the number of estimated fatalities linked to tainted heparin may now be as high as 103 in the last 15 months. The deaths may be linked to allergic reactions and low blood pressure in response to contaminated heparin – a product used to lower the risk of blood clots. The contaminated batch is believed to have come from China and may have contained chondroitin sulfate – a compound seen in pig cartilage.
For Insidermedicine in 60, I’m Dr. Susan Sharma.
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