JAMA Clinical Reviews

Join Juan Carlos Cardet, an Associate Professor specializing in Allergy and Immunology, as he unpacks the complexities of managing severe refractory asthma. He explains the significance of Type 2 asthma and identifies key tests essential for accurate diagnosis. Dr. Cardet highlights the role of inhaled corticosteroids and outlines when to consider biologic therapies. He also discusses the promising impact of these therapies on reducing exacerbations and hospitalizations, while addressing disparities in access to specialized care.

Epidemiologist Brian Lee from Drexel University discusses his groundbreaking study on acetaminophen use in pregnancy and its potential link to autism and neurodevelopmental issues. He delves into the study's findings that suggest initial associations may vanish when sibling analyses are considered, challenging the notion of causality. Lee also addresses the rigorous design of the study, the importance of dose-response analysis, and how clinicians can effectively counsel expectant mothers amidst conflicting advice. This engaging conversation demystifies critical concerns for parents.

Angela Fagerlin, a leading researcher at the University of Utah, shares her insights on communicating medical numbers effectively. She emphasizes the importance of using numeric probabilities instead of vague terms, which can mislead patients. Fagerlin advocates for consistent denominators to simplify comparisons and prefers absolute differences over relative risks for clarity. Visual displays, like pictographs, enhance understanding, while providing context for unfamiliar biomarker numbers improves patient decision-making. Ultimately, informed choices hinge on clear numeric communication.

In this discussion, Behnood Bikdeli, a cardiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, delves into the complexities of superficial vein thrombosis (SuVT). He outlines the pathophysiology, risk factors, and crucial symptoms associated with the condition. Bikdeli emphasizes the significance of Doppler ultrasound in diagnosis and the potential transition to deep vein thrombosis. Treatment strategies, including the use of warm compresses and the selective application of anticoagulation, are also thoroughly explored, highlighting tailored approaches for high-risk patients.

Dr. Maria Papaleontiou, an Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Michigan specializing in hypothyroidism research, joins to illuminate this complex condition. She discusses the prevalence and risk factors associated with hypothyroidism, emphasizing geographic and demographic influences. The conversation highlights critical symptoms like fatigue and cognitive challenges, plus the severe consequences of untreated cases, including heart failure. Dr. Papaleontiou also stresses personalized treatment approaches and the importance of monitoring treatment to avoid complications.

In this engaging discussion, Alexander Chern, a neurotology fellow at Johns Hopkins, dives into the exciting world of over-the-counter hearing aid-enabled earbuds. He explains how these innovative devices, like Apple's AirPods Pro 2, merge hearing health with consumer technology. Chern highlights the potential for increased accessibility, while addressing the challenges of stigma linked to hearing aids. Listeners will learn about home testing methods for hearing assessments, making hearing health more approachable and affordable for everyone.

John Kirkwood, Co-director of the Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program at the University of Pittsburgh, joins Kristin Walter to discuss cutaneous melanoma. They cover the alarming rise in incidence and highlight risk factors like UV exposure and atypical moles. Screening guidelines are clarified, stressing the need for annual exams. Kirkwood also delves into advancements in treatment, including immunotherapy, which has notably improved patient survival rates. Tune in for crucial insights into prevention and management strategies!

Join Jean H. Ashburn, an associate professor of surgery at Wake Forest University, as she dives into the often-taboo subject of hemorrhoidal disease. Discover the stark differences between normal hemorrhoids and pathological conditions, affecting around 10 million people in the U.S. Ashburn also tackles the various risk factors, particularly in pregnant women, and discusses common misconceptions that leave many in discomfort. Explore diagnostic processes and treatment options, emphasizing the importance of individualized care and understanding.

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.