Cardiology
Q&A
Azithromycin ineffective for secondary coronary heart disease prevention
BACKGROUND: Several studies have found an association between infection with C pneumoniae and atherogenesis. Unfortunately, results from smaller...
Q&A
Elevated D-dimer level predicts recurrent VTE
BACKGROUND: Management of patients with VTE after completion of anticoagulation remains controversial.
Clinical Inquiries
Do statins cause myopathy?
EVIDENCE-BASED ANSWER: If statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) cause myopathy, the risk is very low (strength of recommendation [SOR]: A). There...
Q&A
Patients with acute MI should be transferred for angioplasty
BACKGROUND: Several studies have demonstrated the superiority of emergent angioplasty over thrombolysis for acute MI, but these studies took place...
Q&A
Discontinuing aspirin or warfarin optional before cataract surgery
BACKGROUND: There is controversy over whether the risks of adverse events due to stopping anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy prior to...
Commentary
Enhanced vs unenhanced cardiac stress imaging
Q&A
Carvedilol superior to metoprolol for preventing death from CHF
BACKGROUND: Strong evidence supports the addition of a beta-blocker for reducing mortality and hospitalization rates in patients with heart...
Q&A
Antioxidant vitamins do not prevent cardiovascular disease
BACKGROUND: Oxidized low-density lipoprotein is thought to play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis.
Q&A
Hawthorn extract improves chronic heart failure
BACKGROUND: In most herbal reference texts, hawthorn extract (Crataegus monogyna or Crataegus laevigata) is recommended as an oral treatment...
Q&A
Thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke: risks vs benefits
BACKGROUND: The research on the use of rtPA for victims of acute ischemic stroke has shown a mixed effect. Initially optimistic results...
Clinical Inquiries
Do antiarrhythmics prevent sudden death in patients with heart failure?
EVIDENCE-BASED ANSWER: Beta-blockers (class II antiarrhythmics) reduce sudden death and total mortality in patients with heart failure (strength...