Cardiology
Original Research
What is an ROC curve?
Q&A
Diuretics are first choice for hypertension
BACKGROUND: Hypertension is common in family practice, but controversy remains about which medication should be used first.
Q&A
Ezetimibe plus atorvastatin lowers cholesterol
BACKGROUND: Ezetimibe is a new medication that prevents intestinal absorption of cholesterol.
Q&A
MR angiography effective for diagnosing carotid artery stenosis
BACKGROUND: Major randomized trials have demonstrated the benefit of carotid endarterectomy for patients with severe symptomatic carotid artery...
Q&A
Warfarin started at 10 mg achieves therapeutic INR faster than 5 mg
BACKGROUND: Though not frequently undertaken by family physicians, the treatment of acute venous thromboembolism is now common in the outpatient...
Clinical Inquiries
How should patients with mitral regurgitation be followed?
EVIDENCE-BASED ANSWER: Patients with mild to moderate mitral regurgitation should be assessed periodically for a worsening condition; those with...
Commentary
Immediate- vs extended-release metoprolol in heart failure
Q&A
Low-dose warfarin prevents recurrent thromboembolism
BACKGROUND: Prolonging the duration of full-intensity oral anticoagulation can decrease the recurrence of venous thromboembolism, but it often...
Q&A
Do irbesartan and amlodipine reduce cardiovascular events in diabetic patients?
BACKGROUND: Good control of blood pressure reduces microvascular and macrovascular complications in patients with diabetes more than control of...
Q&A
Selective aldosterone blockade reduces mortality after MI
BACKGROUND: Family physicians commonly manage patients with congestive heart failure following acute MI.
Q&A
Low-carbohydrate diet effective for adults
BACKGROUND: The incidence of obesity and obesity-related illnesses continues to rise in the United States, along with the costs of caring for...