September 15, 2008

The mortality rate of persons with aortic stenosis dramatically increases when symptoms are present. Aortic valve replacement is usually recommended for severe disease, whereas watchful waiting is typically appropriate for asymptomatic patients.

Mastitis can occur in women who are breastfeeding. Prevention and treatment involve optimizing breastfeeding technique and oral antibiotic therapy.

Atypical moles are usually larger than 6 mm in diameter and have color variegation, indistinct borders, and a textured surface. The greatest risk of melanoma is in patients with more than 50 atypical moles plus at least two family members with melanoma. Total body photography…

To avoid drug-induced nephrotoxicity in their patients, physicians must be aware of the various mechanisms of renal injury, patient-and drug-related risk factors, and preemptive measures. General preventive measures include using alternative drugs and correcting risk factors…

We look forward to meeting AFP readers each year at the AAFP Annual Scientific Assembly. At the Publications booth we conduct a survey to obtain feedback and suggestions for improving the journal. The survey below is being distributed at the Assembly this week. If you stop by…

Physician Shortage in Community Health Centers Threatens Patients' Access to Care | Revisions to Physician Payments Sunshine Act Establish Uniform Rules for All States | Immunization Registries Track Patient Data, Provide Access to Vaccine Guidelines | State Legislation Aims to…

Dermatoscopes are instruments that employ light and magnification to evaluate skin lesions. The most common types are shaped much like otoscopes; one type of dermatoscope is depicted in the article by Dr. Cyr in this issue of American Family Physician.1 Most dermatoscopes are…

The personal side of medicine told from the patient's perspective. The patient's story is followed by commentary from a physician and a list of resources.

Procalcitonin is a precursor to calcitonin. The final step in the synthesis of calcitonin is inhibited by cytokines and endotoxin released during bacterial infections; therefore, procalcitonin levels are selectively elevated in patients with bacterial infections.

What are the effects of early, intensive, multidisciplinary intervention programs in children with autism? What are the effects of dietary interventions in children with autism? What are the effects of drug and nondrug treatments in children with autism?

Photo Quiz presents readers with a clinical challenge based on a photograph or other image.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines on psychiatric medication used by women during pregnancy and lactation. The use of psychotropic medications in these women is a concern because of the risks of adverse perinatal and postnatal…

It is the narrowing of the aortic valve. The aortic valve is a doorway-like opening in your heart that allows the blood to flow from your heart to other parts of your body. This narrowing (called stenosis) makes your heart work harder to pump blood. Aortic stenosis may get…

Mastitis (mas-TY-tuss) is a swelling of the breast that is usually caused by an infection. This often happens during breastfeeding. Women with mastitis may have pain with a tender, red, wedge-shaped area on the breast. They may also have fever and chills, or they may feel tired…

Atypical moles are skin growths that are not cancerous.