Abstract Mechanical circulatory assist devices are used to support the failing heart. They range in complexity from the intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) to highly sophisticated second- and third-generation ventricular assist…
Abstract Myasthenic syndromes encompass a group of neuromuscular disorders that are characterized by weakness and fatigability but also vary in clinical presentations and diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Myasthenic disorders may…
Abstract Respect for patient privacy is a pillar of the doctor-patient relationship, and laws codify the duties of doctors to maintain confidentiality with regard to patient interactions. On the other…
Abstract Hyperthyroidism is a common clinical problem associated with thyroid gland hyperactivity. Complications include thyrotoxicosis and thyroid storm. Radioiodine uptake can help distinguish the disorders associated with thyrotoxicosis. Multiple stresses…
Abstract Hypothyroidism is a common disease with nonspecific clinical symptoms depending on the severity and the age of onset. Myxedema is a rare and life-threatening subset of hypothyroidism that can…
Keywords HIV, AIDS, HIV and anesthesia, HIV and intensive care Case Synopsis A 34-year-old woman with known human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and a recent diagnosis of acquired immunodeficiency…
Abstract Preeclampsia affects 6% to 8 % of all pregnancies in the United States and is a significant cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Disease management includes judicious…
Case Synopsis A 95-kg, 70-year-old man is scheduled to have a left internal carotid endarterectomy. He takes amlodipine (5 mg/day) and irbesartan (150 mg/day), an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, for…
Abstract Many anesthesiologists, surgeons, and operating room nurses assume that do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders can and even should automatically be suspended in the circumstances of anesthesia and surgery. However, both ethical…
Abstract End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a major health problem in the United States, with about 650,000 patients affected in 2012. These patients have a higher perioperative mortality rate due…
