September 3rd 2024
The updated COVID-19 vaccine targets the currently circulating Omicron variant JN.1 strain of SARS-CoV-2.
Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection
June 20th 2013A 31-year-old man was treated for otitis media after presenting to the ED with severe ear fullness, pain, and diminished hearing on one side. Despite antibiotic treatment, the symptoms worsened after 72 hours. his symptoms worsened. Tender, vesicular erythematous lesions developed in his mouth and exclusively on the left side of his face, including his forehead, maxilla, and mandible
Furuncle Caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Infection
June 7th 2013In the current milieu, the clinician should assume that MRSA is responsible for furuncles, until culture proves otherwise. Incision and drainage is the most important part of therapy, but oral antibiotics should be considered in large lesions, very young or very old patients, and when cellulitis surrounds the boil.
Oro-labial Herpes Simplex (“Cold Sores”)
May 15th 2013This clustered grouping of small, shallow erosions surmounting a slightly indurated plaque is characteristic for “cold sores.” Because no vesicles were present and the lesions appeared to be crusting over, the patient was advised to apply an OTC cream (docosanol 10%) per package insert instructions.
HIV-Infected Women Have Higher Risk of Incident Invasive Cervical Cancer
May 8th 2013Key points for primary care physicians from a new study: HIV-positive women are vulnerable to invasive cervical cancer. This finding underscores the need for screening per guidelines and to follow-up on abnormal Pap smears.