Comprehensive Treatment Guidelines Research Articles

Clostridium difficile infection following colon subtotal resection in a patient with gallstones: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND Clostridium difficile (C. difficile ) infection (CDI) is a rare clinical disease caused by changes in the intestinal microenvironment, which has a variety of causes and a poor prognosis, and for which there is no standardized clinical treatment. CASE SUMMARY A patient experienced recurrent difficulty in bowel movements over the past decade. Recently, symptoms worsened within the last ten days, leading to a clinic visit due to constipation. The patient was subsequently referred to our department. Preoperatively, the patient was diagnosed with obstructed colon accompanied by gallstones. Empirical antibiotics were administered both before and after surgery to prevent infection. On the fourth day post-surgery, symptoms of CDI emerged. Stool cultures confirmed the presence of C. difficile DNA. Treatment involved a combination of vancomycin and linezolid, resulting in the patient's successful recovery upon discharge. However, the patient failed to adhere to the prescribed medication after discharge and was discovered deceased during a follow-up two months later. CONCLUSION CDI is the leading cause of nosocomial post-operative care, with limited clinical cases and poor patient prognosis, and comprehensive clinical treatment guidelines are still lacking. This infection can be triggered by a variety of factors, including intestinal hypoxia, inappropriate antibiotic use, and bile acid circulation disorders. In patients with chronic bowel disease and related etiologies, prompt preoperative attention to possible CDI and preoperative bowel preparation is critical. Adequate and prolonged medication should be maintained in the treatment of CDI to prevent recurrence of the disease.

Metrology analysis and thoughts of literatures on tinnitus associated with sudden deafness based on CiteSpace

Objective: To explore the incidence of sudden deafness accompanied with tinnitus, the selection of examination protocols and treatment, and to provide reference for the establishment of new guidelines for sudden deafness. Methods: CiteSpace software was used for analysis and data mining to analyze and summarize the computer-retrieved articles on diagnostic examination and treatment of sudden deafness accompanied with tinnitus collected from CNIC, Wanfang and Web of Science databases from 2011 to 2021. Results: A total of 207 randomized controlled studies were retrieved in this study, including 121 in Chinese and 86 in English. Finally, 74 Chinese literatures and 16 English literatures were included. Among the 74 valid Chinese literatures, 64 (86.5%) were accompanied with tinnitus, 58 (78.4%) with dizziness/vertigo, 25 (33.8%) with aural fullness, 10 (13.5%) with headache, 4 (5.4%) with insomnia, 4 (5.4%) with a mixture of dizziness and tinnitus, and 2 (2.7%) with vomiting. Among the 16 English literatures, 15 (93.8%) were accompanied with tinnitus, 12 (75.0%) with vertigo, 1 (6.3%) with aural fullness, and 1 (6.3%) with a mixture of various symptoms. Among the 64 Chinese articles mentioning tinnitus, only 9 mentioned tinnitus matching tests, and 1 mentioned that the treatment for tinnitus accompanying symptoms was sound therapy and psychological counseling. The incidence rates of tinnitus accompanying four different types of sudden deafness, from low to high, are as follows: low-to-mid frequency, 82.4%; mid-to-high frequency, 90.7%; complete deafness, 92.4%; and flat type, 92.8%. Conclusion: Tinnitus is the most common accompanying symptom of sudden deafness, and tinnitus matching test is an effective evaluation method. When establishing a scientific, comprehensive, and systematic diagnosis and treatment system or guidelines for sudden deafness, attention should be paid to the diagnosis and treatment of tinnitus symptoms and their adverse psychological reactions, in order to reduce the incidence of tinnitus patients in the later stage of recovery from sudden deafness.

Research progress of ectopic thyroid cancer in thyroglossal duct cyst: A case report and literature review

Rationale: Thyroglossal duct carcinoma, a rare clinical condition characterized by ectopic thyroid adenocarcinoma within thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDCs), typically confirmed through intraoperative rapid pathology, this condition generally has a favorable prognosis. Nevertheless, comprehensive treatment guidelines across all disease stages are lacking, the purpose of this study is to report 1 case of the disease and propose the treatment plan for each stage of the disease. Patient concerns: A patient presented with thyroid swelling, classified as C-TIRADS 4A following a physical examination. Preoperative thyroid puncture identified papillary thyroid carcinoma, and genetic testing revealed a BRAF gene exon 15-point mutation. Ancillary tests showed a slightly decreased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level (0.172) with no other significant abnormalities. Diagnoses: Preoperative fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) confirmed right-side thyroid cancer. Intraoperative exploration uncovered a TGDC and intraoperative rapid pathology confirmed thyroglossal duct carcinoma. Interventions: A Sistrunk operation and ipsilateral thyroidectomy were performed. Outcomes: Postoperative recovery was satisfactory. Lessons: Thyroglossal duct carcinoma is a rare disease affecting the neck. Due to limited clinical cases and the favorable prognosis associated with this condition, there is currently no established set of diagnostic and treatment guidelines. According to tumor size, lymph node metastasis, thyroid status and other factors, the corresponding treatment methods were established for each stage of thyroglossal duct cancer, which laid the foundation for the subsequent treatment development of this disease.

The use of platelet rich plasma in the treatment of degenerative joint disease in cats: an exploratory case series.

To evaluate the effectiveness of intra-articular autologous Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) in managing Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) in cats. Prospective pilot clinical trial. Six domestic cats with clinically and radiographically diagnosed DJD received intra-articular injections of autologous PRP. Clinical assessments pre and post intra-articular injections were conducted using the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index (FMPI, owner assessed) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS, clinician assessed) at baseline, Day 14, Day 28, and Day 42-45. Significant improvements were noted in both FMPI and VAS scores at the end of the study period, indicating enhanced joint function and reduced pain. The study suggests the potential of PRP therapy as a safe and effective treatment for feline DJD, warranting further research with larger cohorts and longer follow-up to establish comprehensive treatment guidelines.

Pathophysiology and Treatment of Gout Arthritis; including Gout Arthritis of Hip Joint: A Literature Review.

Gout is triggered by the accumulation of uric acid in the body, leading to hyperuricemia. Genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors can influence this condition. Excessive uric acid buildup results in the formation of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals, which precipitate in specific areas of the body, including the joints, where they can cause symptoms of gout. While the acute and chronic symptoms of gout have been well-documented, diagnosis of gout affecting the hip joint poses significant challenges. The global incidence of gout, the most prevalent form of inflammatory arthritis, is on the rise. Evaluation of the clinical signs, laboratory results, and imaging results is generally required for diagnosis of gout in cases where MSU crystals have not been detected. Hyperuricemia is considered a primary cause of arthritis symptoms, and comprehensive guidelines for treatment are available. Therefore, the choice of medication is straightforward, and moderate effectiveness of treatment has been demonstrated. Gout is a chronic disease, requiring lifelong uric acid-lowering medications, thus application of a treatment strategy based on the target blood uric acid concentration is necessary. Consequently, cases of gout will likely be observed more frequently by hip surgeons in clinical scenarios in the future. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the pathophysiology of gout and subsequently examine recent advances in diagnostic methods and therapeutic agents based on an understanding of its underlying mechanisms. In addition, literature on gout-related issues affecting the hip joint, providing a useful reference for hip surgeons is examined.

Two-days Old Newborn with Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex: Severe Subtype

This case report details a rare instance of severe epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) in a two-day-old neonate with distinctive clinical features. The patient exhibited extensive blistering on the hands, tongue, face, and ears, prompting admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Ge-netic testing confirmed a heterozygous dominant negative mutation on the KRT14 gene, confirming the diagnosis of severe EBS. Laboratory findings revealed leukocytosis and electrolyte abnormalities, while biopsy examination showcased subepidermal blisters. The neonate received supportive management, including nasogastric tube feeding and wound care, resulting in improvement and subsequent discharge with a follow-up plan. Discussion delves into EB classification, emphasizing the unique features of severe EBS. A succinct comparison table outlines clinical distinctions among localized, intermediate, severe, and mottled pigmentation EBS. This case highlights the complexities in diagnosing and managing severe EBS in neonates and advocates for further research to establish comprehensive treatment guidelines, especially in newborns, and explore emerging therapies for epidermolysis bullosa.

International Guidelines and Significant Advances in Diagnosis

Objective: To develop and translate rigorous, comprehensive evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis, assessment, and treatment, to improve the lives of those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) worldwide. Here we will focus on diagnosis. Participants: Extensive health professional and consumer or patient engagement informed the guideline priority areas. International society-nominated panels included consumers, and experts in paediatrics, endocrinology, gynaecology, primary care, reproductive endocrinology, psychology, dietetics, exercise physiology, sleep, bariatric/metabolic surgery, public health, other co-opted experts, project management, evidence synthesis and translation. Evidence: Best practice, evidence-based guideline development involved extensive evidence synthesis and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework covered evidence quality, feasibility, acceptability, cost, implementation and ultimately recommendation strength. Process: Governance included an international advisory board, project board and five guideline development groups with 52 members, consumer, and translation committees. The Centre for Research Excellence in Women’s Health in Reproductive Life, funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and led by Monash University, partnered with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the Endocrine Society, the European Society of Endocrinology and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. Thirty-six organisations collaborated with international meetings over nine months. Fifty-five prioritised clinical questions involved 52 systematic and three narrative reviews, generating evidence-based and consensus recommendations with accompanying practice points. Committee members nominated by collaborating organisations provided international peer review, and evidence expert-reviewed methods and outputs were submitted to NHMRC for independent review. Recommendations: PCOS should be diagnosed using the revised consensus Rotterdam criteria, which are now updated to evidence-based criteria in the International Guideline. In adults this requires the presence of two of i) clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism ii) ovulatory dysfunction and iii) polycystic ovaries on ultrasound or elevated anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, after other causes of these features are excluded. Where irregular menstrual cycles and hyperandrogenism are present, ultrasound or AMH are not required for diagnosis. In adolescents, both hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction are required, with ultrasound and AMH not recommended, due to poor specificity. Conclusion: Overall, evidence in PCOS is low to moderate quality. Based on high prevalence and significant health impact, greater priority, funding, and research is recommended. Guideline translation will be extensive including multilingual education outputs and evidence-based resources for consumers (the ASKPCOS app), healthcare professionals and policy makers.

Acute interstitial nephritis caused by ANCA-associated vasculitis: a case based review.

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) typically manifests as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis with crescent formation. In this report, we present a local case of myeloperoxidase (MPO)-AAV-associated acute interstitial nephritis (AIN), showing slight pauci-immune glomerulonephritis and positive MPO-ANCA. This case is characterized by foot process effacement of podocytes in the glomerulus, a favorable prognosis, and an absence of crescentic formation. To further understand this condition, we conducted a comprehensive literature search on Google Scholar and PubMed, employing both free text words and MeSH terms related to "AAV and AIN." This search yielded 24 cases, which we analyzed for their clinical features, laboratory findings, renal pathological characteristics, and therapeutic outcomes. AAV-associated interstitial nephritis predominantly affects elderly patients and is often associated with anemia, proteinuria, hematuria, and nonspecific manifestations, including fever, anorexia, fatigue, edema, and weight loss. Most of the cases in our review were MPO-ANCA-positive and exhibited isolated interstitial inflammation. These patients typically presented with relatively lower levels of serum creatinine, 24-h urine protein levels, and MPO-ANCA titers. All patients in our study received immunosuppressive therapy, including glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, and rituximab, with the majority achieving clinical remission. Isolated AIN in the context of AAV is a rare occurrence, but it displays distinct clinical, laboratory, and pathological features. Patients with this presentation show a positive response to immunosuppressive treatment. Nevertheless, the establishment of definitive therapy guidelines for AAV-associated AIN remains uncertain and necessitates further investigation to develop comprehensive treatment guidelines. AIN, particularly when lacking typical glomerulus lesions, may represent a novel subgroup within MPO-AAV warranting additional research and clinical attention. Key Points • This study contributes valuable scientific insights by highlighting that MPO-AAV-associated interstitial nephritis, even without crescentic formation, can exhibit podocyte foot process effacement and respond well to treatment. • The presence of AIN, independent of crescentic glomerulonephritis, suggests the potential emergence of a new subclass within MPA-AAV. • Notably, some cases of MPO-AAV-associated AIN may present with normal levels of Scr (Table 5, cases 5, 6, and 17). • This observation highlights the importance of considering renal biopsy, diagnosis, and therapy in a timely manner to prevent the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Refractory angina pectoris: a 20-year (2003-2022) bibliometric analysis.

The increasing number of patients with refractory angina pectoris, combined with the aging population and improved survival rates among coronary heart disease patients, presents a significant challenge in contemporary cardiovascular medicine. The treatment of refractory angina has been an ongoing area of exploration, yet a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature on this topic is currently lacking. Therefore, this study aims to provide the first bibliometric analysis of publications related to refractory angina. A systematic search was conducted in the Web of Science database to identify articles related to refractory angina published between 2003 and 2022. The inclusion criteria were limited to articles and reviews written in English. CiteSpace software was utilized to conduct a collaborative network analysis of countries/regions, institutions and authors, co-occurrence analysis of keywords, and co-citation analysis of authors and references. A total of 1,386 publications were identified, with an annual publication volume exhibiting fluctuation over time. American and European countries and institutions demonstrated a leading position in terms of research output. Henry TD emerged as the most prolific researcher in the field, while Mannheimer C received the highest number of citations. The primary research hotspot within this field focused on the treatment of refractory angina, with recent emphasis on emerging treatments such as stem cell therapy and the coronary sinus reducer. A significant number of clinical trials have been conducted, with a continuous focus on patient benefits, quality of life, and survival prognosis. Significant progress has been made in the field of refractory angina pectoris in recent years. Novel treatment methods, including spinal cord stimulation, enhanced external counterpulsation, stem cell therapy, and the coronary sinus reducer, hold promising therapeutic prospects. However, further high-quality evidence-based research is essential to support these emerging interventions. Additionally, the development of comprehensive evidence-based guidelines for refractory angina treatment is crucial. Such guidelines would provide clinicians with a framework to navigate the complexities of treatment choices and optimize patient care in this challenging condition.

O-229 Long term features of PCOS and Medical treatment

Abstract Objective: To develop and translate comprehensive evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis, assessment and treatment, to improve the lives of those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) worldwide. Participants: Health professional and consumer/ patients informed priorities. International society-nominated panels included consumers, and experts in reproductive endocrinology, obstetrics, gynaecology, paediatrics, endocrinology, primary care, psychology, dietetics, exercise physiology, sleep, bariatric/ metabolic surgery, public health, other co-opted experts, evidence synthesis and translation. Evidence: Best practice guideline development involved extensive evidence synthesis and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework covered evidence quality, feasibility, acceptability, cost, implementation and recommendation strength. Process: Governance included international advisory and project, guideline development, consumer and translation committees. The Centre for Research Excellence in Women’s Health in Reproductive Life, funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and led by Monash University, partnered with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Endocrine Society, European Endocrine Society and European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. Another 30 collaborating organisations engaged. Overall 52 systematic and three narrative reviews, informed international guideline groups, generating evidence-based and consensus recommendations and practice points for 55 clinical questions. Collaborating/ partnering organisations and NHMRC methodological experts led peer review. Recommendations: After diagnosing PCOS, assessment and management should include reproductive, metabolic, cardiovascular, dermatologic, sleep and psychological features. A reproductive health plan is recommended including diagnosis and support in adolescence, lifelong healthy lifestyle / prevention of weight gain, fertility optimisation, preconception risk mitigation and recognition of PCOS as a high-risk pregnancy condition requiring identification, screening, monitoring and management. Metabolic risk factors, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and sleep disorders are increased in PCOS, with screening and management recommended. Increased premenopausal endometrial cancer risk should be recognised. Depressive and anxiety symptoms are significantly increased, with universal screening recommended. Greater awareness of psychological features including eating disorders, body image and quality of life impacts is recommended. Life-style intervention is the first line treatment for PCOS, but in many cases medication is also needed. Combined oral contraceptive pills are first line pharmacological treatment for menstrual irregularity and hyperandrogenism, with no specific recommended preparation, and a preference for lower dose and less side-effects. Metformin is recommended primarily for metabolic features noting greater efficacy than inositol, which offers more limited clinical benefits. Metformin is not routinely recommended for use in pregnancy. Laser therapy is effective and recommended for hair reduction in identified subgroups, whilst anti-androgens have more limited recommendations. Anti-obesity agents and bariatric/ metabolic surgery may be considered based on general population guidelines, balancing benefits and side effects. Overall, evidence was low to moderate quality. Based on high prevalence and significant health impact, greater priority, education, funding and research is strongly recommended.

Towards infertility care on equal terms: a prime time for male infertility

Male infertility is a disease that deserves greater clinical attention and research. A universally accepted definition that emphasizes the modulatory impact of age, lifestyle and environmental factors and includes comprehensive diagnostic and treatment guidelines is needed to ensure accurate evaluation and effective care. Accordingly, male infertility should be defined as a disease of the male reproductive system, caused primarily by congenital and genetic conditions, anatomical, endocrine, functional or immunological abnormalities of the reproductive system, genital tract infections, cancer and its related treatments, and sexual disorders incompatible with intercourse. Inadequate lifestyle, exposure to toxicants and advanced paternal age are critical factors acting alone or exacerbating the impact of known causative factors. The focus on male infertility must be balanced with that on female infertility to ensure the best possible outcome for the couple. Fertility clinics are encouraged to prioritize collaboration with reproductive urologists and andrologists to provide the best possible care for male infertility patients.

EPA guidance on treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia

AbstractAlthough cognitive impairment is a core symptom of schizophrenia related to poore outcome in different functional domains, it still remains a major therapeutic challenge. To date, no comprehensive treatment guidelines for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia are implemented.The aim of the European Psychiatric Association (EPA) guidance paper was to provide a comprehensive meta-review of the current available evidence-based treatments for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia, structured into three sections: pharmacological treatment, psychosocial interventions, and somatic treatments.Based on the reviewed evidence, the EPA guidance recommends an appropriate pharmacological management as a fundamental starting point in the treatment of cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia. Among psychosocial interventions, cognitive remediation and physical exercise are recommended for the treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. As for cognitive remediation, some variables have been confirmed as core elements for treatment effectiveness.The dissemination of the EPA guidance paper may promote the development of shared guidelines concerning the treatment of cognitive functions in schizophrenia, with the purpose to improve the quality of care and to achieve clinical recovery in this population.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pathophysiology and Comprehensive Guidelines for Clinical Evaluation and Treatment.

In carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the median nerve is compressed at the level of the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This entrapment manifests as unpleasant symptoms, such as burning, tingling, or numbness in the palm that extends to the fingers. As the disease progresses, afflicted individuals also report decreased grip strength accompanied by hand weakness and restricted movement. The first half of this review elaborates on CTS pathology by providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the etiology, relevant anatomy, and disease mechanism.CTS is considered the most common entrapment neuropathy, affecting around 3-6% of the adult population. Further, CTS prevalence has seen a dramatic increase in the last few decades paralleling the growth of everyday technology usage. Despite how common it is to have CTS, it can be quite challenging for physicians to make a definite diagnosis due to differentials that present with overlapping symptoms. Even more difficult can be deciding on a course of treatment that is the most effective and considerate of patient needs. Thus arises the need for clear clinical direction, and hence we end with a discussion around such guidelines that serve as a starting point toward effective diagnoses and patient treatment.

European Psychiatric Association guidance on treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.

Although cognitive impairment is a core symptom of schizophrenia related to poorer outcomes in different functional domains, it still remains a major therapeutic challenge. To date, no comprehensive treatment guidelines for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia are implemented. The aim of the present guidance paper is to provide a comprehensive meta-review of the current available evidence-based treatments for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. The guidance is structured into three sections: pharmacological treatment, psychosocial interventions, and somatic treatments. Based on the reviewed evidence, this European Psychiatric Association guidance recommends an appropriate pharmacological management as a fundamental starting point in the treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. In particular, second-generation antipsychotics are recommended for their favorable cognitive profile compared to first-generation antipsychotics, although no clear superiority of a single second-generation antipsychotic has currently been found. Anticholinergic and benzodiazepine burdens should be kept to a minimum, considering the negative impact on cognitive functioning. Among psychosocial interventions, cognitive remediation and physical exercise are recommended for the treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Noninvasive brain stimulation techniques could be taken into account as add-on therapy. Overall, there is definitive progress in the field, but further research is needed to develop specific treatments for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. The dissemination of this guidance paper may promote the development of shared guidelines concerning the treatment of cognitive functions in schizophrenia, with the purpose to improve the quality of care and to achieve recovery in this population.

Detection of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases among Acinetobacter Baumannii Isolated from Hospitals of Qazvin, Iran.

Acinetobacter baumannii is a major contributor to nosocomial infections. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing A. baumannii is spreading worldwide. We aimed to determine the frequency of ESBL-encoding genes in clinical isolates of A. baumannii and to access their clonal relationship by repetitive extragenic palindromic-PCR (rep-PCR). In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 203 isolates of A. baumannii were collected from Qazvin hospitals. The Identification of isolates was performed by standard laboratory methods. To verify ESBL production, all isolates were screened by disk agar diffusion and confirmed by the combined disk method. Subsequently, ESBL-encoding genes were detected by PCR and sequencing. Possible clonal association of ESBL-producing isolates was evaluated using rep-PCR. Two hundred (98.5%) isolates showed reduced susceptibility to one of the antibiotics used in the ESBL screening test, of which 127 isolates (62.6%) produced ESBL. PCR results showed blaOXA-1 (20.5%) was the most prevalent gene followed by blaTEM-1 (20%), blaGES-1 (15.7%), blaCTX-M-15 (7.9%), and blaPER-1 (1.6%). Rep-PCR results revealed that ESBL-producing isolates belonged to clones A (85%), B (13.4%), and C (1.6%). Our study showed the significant presence of blaOXA-1, blaTEM-1, blaGES-1, blaCTX-M-15, and blaPER-1 genes in ESBL-producing A. baumannii isolates in the studied hospitals. This is the first report on the emergence of blaOXA-1 gene in these isolates in Iran. The use of comprehensive antimicrobial treatment guidelines based on laboratory data and appropriate infection control interventions are essential.

Coccydynia: Diagnostic and Management Guidance

Coccydynia refers to pain in the region of the tailbone. Most cases are related to mild injury, trauma, and childbirth. The primary care provider will come across this complaint in a small portion of patients presenting with “low back pain.” There are no comprehensive guidelines for treatment of coccydynia. A thorough evaluation in the office with physical examination and imaging are essential. Specialty referrals should be considered for complex or concerning cases or with intractable pain. Injections, surgery, and neurostimulation are rare but acceptable options for certain patients

Mycoplasma genitalium and Trichomonas vaginalis: addressing disparities and promoting public health control of two emerging sexually transmitted infections.

Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) and Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis), sexually transmitted infections that remain non-reportable in the United States, may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and adverse pregnancy outcomes if left untreated. Prevalence estimates have highlighted socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities in rates of infection. This review summarizes the recent literature on M. genitalium and T. vaginalis with a focus on the epidemiology, screening, and treatment of M. genitalium and T. vaginalis. The burden of T. vaginalis testing remains on women. Antimicrobial resistance is of great concern for M. genitalium. Comprehensive screening and treatment guidelines present an opportunity to address these public health concerns. M. genitalium and T. vaginalis infections disproportionately affect sexual and racial/ethnic minorities and those facing socioeconomic disparities. The availability of nucleic acid amplification test testing has facilitated accurate diagnosis of both disorders. Safe and efficacious treatments are available for treatment of both disorders. Integrating macrolide resistance testing into treatment algorithms for M. genitalium and dual antibiotic therapy may prove a useful strategy for future US-based guidance. Public health reporting and increased public awareness campaigns are key next steps to addressing the observed reproductive health disparities.

Guidelines for the treatment of latent tuberculosis infection: Recommendations from the National Tuberculosis Controllers Association and CDC, 2020

Comprehensive guidelines for treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among persons living in the United States were last published in 2000 (American Thoracic Society. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 161:S221-S247, 2000). Since then, several new regimens have been evaluated in clinical trials. To update previous guidelines, the National Tuberculosis Controllers Association (NTCA) and CDC convened a committee to conduct a systematic literature review and make new recommendations for the most effective and least toxic regimens for treatment of LTBI among persons who live in the United States. The systematic literature review included clinical trials of regimens to treat LTBI. Quality of evidence (high, moderate, low, or very low) from clinical trial comparisons was appraised using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. In addition, a network meta-analysis evaluated regimens that had not been compared directly in clinical trials. The effectiveness outcome was tuberculosis disease; the toxicity outcome was hepatotoxicity. Strong GRADE recommendations required at least moderate evidence of effectiveness and that the desirable consequences outweighed the undesirable consequences in the majority of patients. Conditional GRADE recommendations were made when determination of whether desirable consequences outweighed undesirable consequences was uncertain (eg with low-quality evidence). These updated 2020 LTBI treatment guidelines include the NTCA- and CDC-recommended treatment regimens that comprise three preferred rifamycin-based regimens and two alternative monotherapy regimens with daily isoniazid. All recommended treatment regimens are intended for persons infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis that is presumed to be susceptible to isoniazid or rifampin. These updated guidelines do not apply when evidence is available that the infecting M tuberculosis strain is resistant to both isoniazid and rifampin; recommendations for treating contacts exposed to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis were published in 2019 (Nahid P, Mase SR Migliori GB, et al Treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis. An official ATS/CDC/ERS/IDSA clinical practice guideline. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2019;200:e93-e142). The three rifamycin-based preferred regimens are 3months of once-weekly isoniazid plus rifapentine, 4months of daily rifampin, or 3months of daily isoniazid plus rifampin. Prescribing providers or pharmacists who are unfamiliar with rifampin and rifapentine might confuse the two drugs. They are not interchangeable, and caution should be taken to ensure that patients receive the correct medication for the intended regimen. Preference for these rifamycin-based regimens was made on the basis of effectiveness, safety, and high treatment completion rates. The two alternative treatment regimens are daily isoniazid for 6 or 9months; isoniazid monotherapy is efficacious but has higher toxicity risk and lower treatment completion rates than shorter rifamycin-based regimens. In summary, short-course (3- to 4-month) rifamycin-based treatment regimens are preferred over longer-course (6-9month) isoniazid monotherapy for treatment of LTBI. These updated guidelines can be used by clinicians, public health officials, policymakers, health care organizations, and other state and local stakeholders who might need to adapt them to fit individual clinical circumstances.

Guidelines for the Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis Infection: Recommendations from the National Tuberculosis Controllers Association and CDC, 2020.

SummaryComprehensive guidelines for treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among persons living in the United States were last published in 2000 (American Thoracic Society. CDC targeted tuberculin testing and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2000;161:S221–47). Since then, several new regimens have been evaluated in clinical trials. To update previous guidelines, the National Tuberculosis Controllers Association (NTCA) and CDC convened a committee to conduct a systematic literature review and make new recommendations for the most effective and least toxic regimens for treatment of LTBI among persons who live in the United States.The systematic literature review included clinical trials of regimens to treat LTBI. Quality of evidence (high, moderate, low, or very low) from clinical trial comparisons was appraised using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. In addition, a network meta-analysis evaluated regimens that had not been compared directly in clinical trials. The effectiveness outcome was tuberculosis disease; the toxicity outcome was hepatotoxicity. Strong GRADE recommendations required at least moderate evidence of effectiveness and that the desirable consequences outweighed the undesirable consequences in the majority of patients. Conditional GRADE recommendations were made when determination of whether desirable consequences outweighed undesirable consequences was uncertain (e.g., with low-quality evidence).These updated 2020 LTBI treatment guidelines include the NTCA- and CDC-recommended treatment regimens that comprise three preferred rifamycin-based regimens and two alternative monotherapy regimens with daily isoniazid. All recommended treatment regimens are intended for persons infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis that is presumed to be susceptible to isoniazid or rifampin. These updated guidelines do not apply when evidence is available that the infecting M. tuberculosis strain is resistant to both isoniazid and rifampin; recommendations for treating contacts exposed to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis were published in 2019 (Nahid P, Mase SR Migliori GB, et al. Treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis. An official ATS/CDC/ERS/IDSA clinical practice guideline. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2019;200:e93–e142). The three rifamycin-based preferred regimens are 3 months of once-weekly isoniazid plus rifapentine, 4 months of daily rifampin, or 3 months of daily isoniazid plus rifampin. Prescribing providers or pharmacists who are unfamiliar with rifampin and rifapentine might confuse the two drugs. They are not interchangeable, and caution should be taken to ensure that patients receive the correct medication for the intended regimen. Preference for these rifamycin-based regimens was made on the basis of effectiveness, safety, and high treatment completion rates. The two alternative treatment regimens are daily isoniazid for 6 or 9 months; isoniazid monotherapy is efficacious but has higher toxicity risk and lower treatment completion rates than shorter rifamycin-based regimens.In summary, short-course (3- to 4-month) rifamycin-based treatment regimens are preferred over longer-course (6–9 month) isoniazid monotherapy for treatment of LTBI. These updated guidelines can be used by clinicians, public health officials, policymakers, health care organizations, and other state and local stakeholders who might need to adapt them to fit individual clinical circumstances.

Current and Novel Psychopharmacological Drugs for Anxiety Disorders.

Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder/agoraphobia (PDA), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and others, are the most prevalent mental disorders. In this paper, recommendations are given for the psychopharmacological treatment of these disorders which are based on comprehensive treatment guidelines, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews of available randomized controlled studies. Anxiety disorders can effectively be treated with psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, or a combination of both. First-line drugs are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Benzodiazepines are not recommended for routine use due to their possible addiction potential. Other treatment options include the calcium modulator pregabalin, tricyclic antidepressants, buspirone, moclobemide, and others. Drug treatment can be combined with psychological treatments. Novel treatment strategies include medications that act on GABA, glutamate, and other neurotransmitter systems. After remission, medications should be continued for 6 to 12months.