JAMA Clinical Reviews

Pavel Kolkhir, MD, an expert in chronic spontaneous urticaria, teams up with Karen E. Lasser, MD, MPH, a JAMA Senior Editor, to unpack this puzzling condition. They delve into its prevalence and varied symptoms, from itchy wheals to angioedema. The conversation touches on crucial distinctions between autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. They also reveal effective treatment strategies, emphasizing the importance of second-generation antihistamines and advanced options like Omalizumab. The impact on patients' quality of life, including psychological challenges, is also explored.

Scott A. Flanders, MD, an expert on community-acquired pneumonia, and Valerie M. Vaughn, MD, MSc, discuss key insights into its diagnosis and treatment with Mary McGrae McDermott, MD. They explore the evolving definitions and classifications of CAP. Signs, symptoms, and the impact of the lung microbiome are emphasized. The conversation also covers emerging challenges in diagnosing mycoplasma and Legionella infections, antibiotic stewardship, and the importance of personalized therapy, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Infestations by ectoparasites such as scabies, bedbugs, and body lice are common. Diagnosis requires history, including social drivers of health such as living environment, and physical examination. Author Aileen Y. Chang, MD, of UCSF, joins JAMA Senior Editor Karen Lasser, MD, to discuss Scabies, Bedbug, and Body Lice Infestations: A Narrative Review. Related Content: Scabies, Bedbug, and Body Lice Infestations

Paul C. Cremer, MD, MS, a JAMA Review author with expertise in acute pericarditis, joins David L. Simel, MD, MHS, JAMA's Associate Editor. They delve into the complexities of acute pericarditis, discussing its common presentation and diagnostic challenges, including the significance of pericardial friction rubs. The conversation highlights effective treatments, focusing on high-dose NSAIDs and colchicine, and emphasizes the importance of monitoring inflammation markers. Novel therapeutic options, including interleukin-1 blockers, are also introduced for recurrent cases.

Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, the Editor in Chief of JAMA, dives into groundbreaking trials from the ESC 2024 Congress. She discusses the impact of antihypertensive continuation before surgery and potassium's role post-cardiac surgery. A key highlight is a triple-drug combination pill aimed at tackling resistant hypertension in Africa, showing promise in improving patient outcomes. Lastly, Bibbins-Domingo emphasizes innovative methods to manage hypertension in Nigeria, pointing to a significant leap in treatment efficacy. This conversation is a treasure trove for cardiovascular health enthusiasts.

William Y. Kim, MD, a renowned expert from the University of North Carolina, joins JAMA Associate Editor David L. Simel, MD, MHS, to dive deep into renal cell carcinoma. They discuss groundbreaking links to Nobel-winning research on tumor suppressors and hypoxia-inducible factors. The conversation covers diagnostic challenges, genetic screening, and the importance of evaluating familial history. Treatment options are also highlighted, emphasizing advancements in surgical techniques and personalized therapies for advanced stages of the disease.

Esa M. Davis, MD, MPH, is a vital member of the US Preventive Services Task Force, coauthoring new recommendations on iron deficiency during pregnancy. In this insightful conversation, Davis discusses the critical role of iron in maternal and fetal health, particularly emphasizing its importance in oxygen transport. She highlights the gaps in research around screening and supplementation, advocating for rigorous studies to improve outcomes for both mothers and infants. Health equity and tailored approaches for high-risk groups are crucial themes in the discussion.

Christine Johnston, MD, an expert in herpes infections from the University of Washington, and Preeti Malani, MD, MSJ, JAMA Deputy Editor, delve into the complexities of genital herpes. They discuss the prevalence and transmission risks associated with HSV-1 and HSV-2. Key topics include the importance of accurate diagnosis, effective treatment options, and the significant stigma that impacts patients' lives. They emphasize the need for improved awareness and understanding to enhance patient care and outcomes.

James D. Douketis, MD, a specialist in anticoagulant management from McMaster University, teams up with Kristin L. Walter, MD, MS, a JAMA Deputy Editor with a focus on clinical research. Together, they dive into the nuances of managing direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) during surgical procedures. They explore bleeding risks, the pharmacokinetics of DOACs, and tailored strategies for individual patient safety. The duo also discusses the emerging role of Dolex in perioperative care and stresses the need for healthcare professionals to stay informed.

Aaron S. Kelly, PhD, an author and expert from the University of Minnesota Medical School, joins to tackle the pressing issue of adolescent obesity, affecting around 20% of U.S. teens. He discusses the complex interplay of screen time, food insecurity, and genetics in driving obesity. Kelly emphasizes the importance of BMI screening and recent treatment innovations, including anti-obesity medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists. He advocates for a compassionate approach in healthcare to effectively manage health risks and improve long-term outcomes for affected adolescents.