M. NAWAL LUTFIYYA, PH.D, ERIC HENLEY, M.D., M.P.H., LINDA F. CHANG, PHARM.D., M.P.H., B.C.P.S., and STEPHANIE WESSEL REYBURN, M.D., M.P.H.

When a patient presents with suspected community-acquired pneumonia, the physician should first assess the need for hospitalization, then choose an appropriate, cost-effective treatment using a mortality prediction tool combined with clinical judgment.

DANA G. CARROLL, PHARM.D., B.C.P.S.

The risks of hormone therapy prompt many women with hot flashes to look for alternatives. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and venlafaxine appear to be effective options; soy isoflavones, red clover, and black cohosh may be helpful, but the results of trials are inconsistent.

Patient information: "Nonhormonal Options for Hot Flashes," p. 467

Editorial: "Identifying Effective Alternative Therapies for Common Conditions," p. 396

WENDY S. BIGGS, M.D., and WILLIAM H. DERY, M.D.

In most children, constipation is functional and the result of stool retention. However, family physicians should remain alert for warning signs that may indicate the presence of an organic cause of constipation. Treatment of functional constipation involves disimpaction followed by maintenance medication, often helped by behavioral and dietary modifications.

Patient information: "Chronic Constipation in Your Child," p. 479

Patient information: "Help for Your Child's Constipation," p. 481

ROBERT FREELOVE, M.D., and ANNE D. WALLING, M.B., CH.B.

Computed tomography is the first-line imaging and staging tool for pancreatic cancers. For those cancers advanced at the time of diagnosis, palliation is the best treatment. Pain can be managed with opioid analgesics, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or celiac plexus neurolysis.

Nonhormonal Options for Hot Flashes

Chronic Constipation in Your Child

Help for Your Child's Constipation