JAMA Clinical Reviews

Thomas L. Holland, an infectious disease specialist and professor at Duke University, discusses the innovative treatment of complicated Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia using Dalbavancin. He shares insights from the groundbreaking DOTS trial, which compares this long-acting antibiotic to traditional IV therapies, highlighting its potential to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The conversation also addresses challenges in treatment, particularly for vulnerable populations, and the urgency of developing safer options for this serious infection.

In this discussion, Minh N. Pham, an Assistant Professor of Urology at the University of North Carolina and author of a JAMA Review, dives deep into prostatitis, affecting about 9.3% of men. He explores both acute and chronic forms, emphasizing symptoms, risk factors, and important diagnostic methods. Pham highlights the complexities of managing chronic prostatitis, especially chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and addresses the controversies around antibiotic overuse in non-bacterial cases. Listeners gain insight into effective treatment strategies and the importance of accurate diagnosis.

In this discussion, Stephen B. Kritchevsky, a leading expert in geroscience from Wake Forest University, delves into the biology of aging. He explores the promising strategies for lifespan extension, including caloric restriction and the mTOR pathway. The conversation also highlights the crucial distinction between chronologic and biologic age, along with innovative anti-aging treatments like metformin. Kritchevsky emphasizes the importance of translating animal research to human health, revealing exciting prospects for improving our healthspan.

In this engaging discussion, obesity expert Robert Kushner, a Professor at Northwestern University, delves into the challenges of managing adverse effects of obesity medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide. He explores gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea, offering practical strategies for dietary management. Kushner also emphasizes the importance of addressing hydration and dosage adjustments, while highlighting how resistance training and high-protein diets can protect muscle health during treatment. A must-listen for anyone navigating the world of obesity therapies!

David M. Kent, a Professor of Medicine and Neurology at Tufts University, dives into the intriguing world of patent foramen ovale (PFO) and its link to cryptogenic strokes. He discusses how to determine if a PFO is the culprit behind a stroke and the potential benefits of closure to prevent recurrences. The conversation also highlights the anatomical challenges of detecting PFOs and the advanced imaging techniques essential for accurate diagnosis. Kent emphasizes the collaborative role of neurologists and cardiologists in managing stroke risk factors related to PFO.

Dr. Anthony Charles is a Professor of Surgery and Chief of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery at the University of Vermont. He discusses the alarming rise of diverticulitis cases, especially in younger populations. Key insights include the impact of dietary choices on the condition and the essential diagnostic tools like CT scans. The conversation highlights the tailored approach to treatment, potential complications, and the timing for follow-up colonoscopies. Charles emphasizes the need for urgent responses to complications to ensure better patient outcomes.

William Cliby and John Weroha, both experts from the Mayo Clinic, dive into the complexities of ovarian cancer. They discuss the importance of recognizing nonspecific symptoms that often delay diagnosis and the critical role of clinical judgment in early detection. Preventive strategies like surgeries for those with a family history are emphasized, alongside challenges in current screening methods. They also highlight advancements in treatment options, such as PARP inhibitors, which enhance survival rates for patients facing this disease.

In this discussion, Kimmie Ng, Associate Chief of Gastrointestinal Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, reveals alarming trends in early-onset gastrointestinal cancers, particularly in patients under 50. She highlights the importance of recognizing modifiable risk factors like obesity and the psychological challenges young patients endure. The conversation also touches on updated screening guidelines for colorectal cancer and the role of Helicobacter pylori in esophagogastric cancers, emphasizing the urgent need for better diagnostic strategies.

John T. Wei, a Professor of Urology at the University of Michigan, joins Mary M. McDermott to dive into the challenges of lower urinary tract symptoms in men over 50. They highlight that about 40% of older men face issues like urinary urgency and frequency, significantly impacting their lives. The discussion covers diagnostic strategies, the effectiveness of pharmacologic treatments, and the importance of patient feedback. Wei also shares insights on behavioral interventions and minimally invasive surgical options for those with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Carolyn Gould, MD, a specialist from the CDC's Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, dives into the complexities of West Nile virus, the leading mosquito-borne disease in the U.S. since 1999. She discusses the virus's geography, impact, and diagnostic methods, particularly for vulnerable populations. The podcast highlights long-term effects on survivors and the absence of specific treatments, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures against this pervasive threat.