Parental Misidentification and Potential Mismanagement of Dermatophytosis: Insights from a Nationwide Survey of Mothers, United States, 2025
This study surveyed U.S. mothers of children under 18 to evaluate how well they recognize and manage dermatophytosis (ringworm), a common fungal skin infection. Nearly half correctly identified ringworm, but many misidentified other rashes as ringworm, and a significant minority reported they would use over-the-counter corticosteroid creams inappropriately. Misattribution and potential misuse of corticosteroids were more common among certain racial/ethnic groups and those with lower educational attainment. Clinical implications: misdiagnosis and inappropriate corticosteroid use can worsen fungal infections and contribute to treatment resistance, underscoring the importance of early accurate diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy. Full Access: PubMed
COVID-19 vaccination status during pregnancy and preeclampsia risk: the pandemic-era cohort of the INTERCOVID consortium
Pregnant individuals who received COVID-19 vaccination, especially with booster doses, had a significantly lower risk of developing preeclampsia compared with those unvaccinated. Vaccination was associated with reduced odds of maternal and perinatal morbidity, mortality, and preterm birth, with the strongest protective effect seen in those with pre-existing conditions. The analysis suggests that immunization may mitigate inflammation-related pathways implicated in preeclampsia. Clinical implications: These findings support encouraging COVID-19 vaccination and booster uptake during pregnancy as a strategy not only to prevent severe SARS-CoV-2 infection but also to reduce the likelihood of preeclampsia and related adverse outcomes in obstetric care. Full Access: The Lancet
Pivmecillinam Now Available for Adult Female Patients With Uncomplicated UTI
Pivmecillinam has been approved by the FDA for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections in adult female patients caused by susceptible E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. In clinical trials, it showed superior cure rates versus placebo and ibuprofen and similar efficacy to an existing oral antibiotic, with common side effects including nausea and diarrhea. Clinical implications: Pivmecillinam broadens empiric treatment choices for uncomplicated UTIs in women and may help manage rising resistance to traditional agents, but clinicians should consider local susceptibility patterns, resistance risks, and contraindications (like beta-lactam allergy) when selecting therapy. Full Access: EMPR
Physicians Are Not Providers: The Ethical Significance of Names in Health Care: A Policy Paper from the American College of Physicians
A policy paper from the American College of Physicians, argues that the term “provider” diminishes the professional identity, training, and ethical obligations unique to physicians. The paper contends that language shapes public trust, accountability, and the moral framework of medicine, and that imprecise terminology may blur distinctions in education, scope of practice, and responsibility. The ACP calls for more accurate role-specific titles in policy, legislation, and clinical settings. Clinical implications: Clear professional identification supports informed consent, transparency, and patient trust. Precise terminology may also reduce confusion about scope of practice and reinforce standards of accountability in patient care. Full Access: Annals of Internal Medicine