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Clotrimazole-Betamethasone Dipropionate Prescribing for Nonfungal Skin Conditions
Consistent with prior studies, clotrimazole-betamethasone prescriptions were more frequently associated with non-dermatologist visits, potentially reflecting the lack of awareness that it contains a high-potency corticosteroid and poses potential harms associated with indiscriminate use, including adverse effects and resistance selection pressure. For confirmed fungal skin infections, instead of prescribing clotrimazole-betamethasone, physicians may consider prescribing antifungal monotherapy, which can help decrease inflammation and associated pruritus. Full Access: JAMA
Researchers Are Working on A New mRNA Vaccine – This Time for Bird Flu
University of Pennsylvania researchers have started work on an experimental mRNA vaccine for avian flu that could be developed rapidly. In addition to the potential human threat, H5N1 represents a danger to both the livestock and poultry industries. The vaccine that researchers are working on could help manage the outbreak of the virus. Full Access: Penn Medicine
Therapies to Decrease Severe Respiratory Syncytial Virus Illness
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) commonly causes acute lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs), particularly in children younger than 2 years. RSV infections are usually mild in healthy children and adults, but may be severe in premature infants, children with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease, adults aged 65 years or older, and immunocompromised individuals. RSV prevention in infants and children occurs through passive immunity either by provision of monoclonal antibodies (mABs) or by maternal RSV vaccination during pregnancy. Full Access: JAMA
Red Flag Signs and Symptoms for Patients with Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer (EOCRC) – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
In this systematic review and meta-analysis including 81 studies and more than 24.9 million patients, nearly half of individuals with EOCRC presented with hematochezia and abdominal pain and one-quarter presented with altered bowel habits. Delays in diagnosis of 4 to 6 months from time of initial presentation were common. These findings underscore the need to identify signs and symptoms concerning for EOCRC and complete timely diagnostic workup for individuals without an alternative diagnosis or sign or symptom resolution. Full Access: JAMA