EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE UNTIL 5 P.M., EST, FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 1997
February 1, 1997, Tip Sheet
Annals of Internal Medicine is published by the American College of Physicians, more than 90,000 physicians trained in internal medicine. The following highlights are not intended to substitute for articles as sources of information. For a copy of an article, call 1- 800-523-1546, ext. 2656 or 215-351-2656.
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Combined Daily Regimen Effective for Treating Mild-to-Moderate Asthma
Combined daily therapy of zafirlukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist, with as- needed inhaled beta agonists is more effective than beta agonists alone in the treatment of mild-to- moderate asthma, a study finds. (Article, p. 177.) In a randomized, double- blind, placebo-controlled trial of 146 patients, the combined daily regimen led to significantly more days without symptoms, without beta agonists, and without episodes of asthma. The clinical effectiveness of this therapy, a potential alternative to inhaled corticosteroids, provides further impetus to use regular preventive therapy in patients with mild-to-moderate asthma, say the authors.
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Most Long-Term Survivors of Bone Marrow Transplantation in Good Health and Functional
A retrospective multicenter study of long-term survivors of bone marrow transplantation found that more than five years after bone marrow transplantation, 90 percent of patients were in good health and 89 percent had returned to full-time work or school. (Article, p. 184.) The study also found that the risk for illness and death remains increased beyond five years after transplantation, with primary disease recurrence, secondary cancer, and chronic graft-versus-host disease complications being the principal problems for some patients.
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Recommendations for Managing Nonpalpable Nodules Discovered Through Thyroid Imaging
High-resolution ultrasonography is sensitive and capable of detecting small, nonpalpable thyroid nodules in many asymptomatic patients. A review of relevant articles published in medical journals over the past 15 years shows that most nonpalpable nodules incidentally detected by thyroid imaging are benign, and simple follow-up neck palpation is sufficient for most patients, say the authors. (Review, p. 226.)
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