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Warning: Internet Can Be a Danger to Your Health

Warning: Internet Can Be a Danger to Your Health

Teaser: 

Dr.Michael Gordon Michael Gordon, MD, MSc, FRCPC, Medical Program Director, Palliative Care, Baycrest Geriatric Health Care System, Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

Abstract
The process of prescribing medications, explaining the risks and benefits has classically been the role and responsibility of physicians with support from other health care providers such as pharmacists. In the modern age with the phenomenal expansion of the digital world, the world of the internet has become a major player. It is common for physicians to have to contend with and integrate into their practice the common phenomenon of family members looking at the internet and other sources for information about medications proposed for their loved ones.
Key Words: internet, medications, information, responsibility.

A Pruritic Rash

A Pruritic Rash

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

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Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Mammary Paget disease (PD) is a less common form of breast cancer which involves the nipple-areola complex and occurs almost exclusively in females. Erythema, skin thickening, pruritus, burning sensation, inversion of the nipple, ulceration, serosanguineous nipple discharge are common clinical symptoms. Approximately 1-4% of female breast carcinoma are associated with PD of the nipple-areola complex. A biopsy including the dermal and subcutaneous tissue should be performed on all suspicious lesions of the nipple-areola complex for accurate diagnosis. The first line treatment of mammary PD is mastectomy (radical or modified) and lymph node clearance for patients with a palpable mass and underlying invasive breast carcinoma. The prognosis of mammary PD is determined by the disease stage and is similar to that of other types of breast cancer.
Key Words: Mammary Paget disease, breast cancer, nipple-areola complex, metastasis.

Pharmacological Options in the Management of Low Back Pain

Pharmacological Options in the Management of Low Back Pain

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

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Teaser: 

Dr. Ted Findlay, DO, CCFP, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta.

Abstract
Low back pain is one of the most common conditions for which patients seek medical attention. It can be managed with lifestyle modification, or less commonly medical and surgical intervention. Appropriate selection among various pharmacological options mandates an understanding of the underlying symptomatology and the over-riding treatment plan and objectives. The range of potential medications is substantial: over-the-counter analgesics include acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and weak opioid combinations including codeine or tramadol. More potent versions of many of the same components are available on prescription, commonly employing stronger opioids either singly or in a combination analgesic. When the pain involves either chronic or neuropathic features, other classes of medications, including anti-epileptic drugs and anti-depressants, may be appropriate.
Key Words: low back pain, acute, chronic, neuropathic pain, nociceptive pain, medications.

FIVE REASONs to SWITCH TO EMR That Will Impact Your Patient Care

FIVE REASONs to SWITCH TO EMR That Will Impact Your Patient Care

Teaser: 

Ian PUN, MD, Family Physician, Scarborough, Ontario.

Abstract
Although many doctors have embraced and modernized their practices with a the advent of an EMR (Electronic Medical Record) system, there still a remaining majority who are hesitant to convert to a computerized recording keeping system fearing change and hassle. I have listed a few brief points urging doctors to change to a more efficient system that saves time and space which will ultimately improve patient care. In future articles, I will go into more detail of specific usages of EMR, specifically the open-source OSCAR McMaster EMR. I will also point of the issues of maintaining an EMR.
Key Words: OSCAR McMaster EMR, computerized medical records, electronic prescription, health information technology.

Why Are Physicians Still Prescribing Sulfonylureas as First Choice for Older Diabetic Adults?

Why Are Physicians Still Prescribing Sulfonylureas as First Choice for Older Diabetic Adults?

Teaser: 

Dr.Michael Gordon Michael Gordon, MD, MSc, FRCPC, Medical Program Director, Palliative Care, Baycrest Geriatric Health Care System, Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

Abstract
Diabetes Mellitus is very prevalent in the older population. It is one of the important causes of vascular problems which may play a role in the development of dementia, especially of the mixed variety. There has been much progress in the potential medications that can help promote successful glucose control and address the other metabolic correlates of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Sulfonylureas should be used rarely and very carefully in older especially frail individuals because of their inherent risks. Getting physicians to change their prescribing practices in this frail elderly diabetic population is an important challenge to educators and drug program administrators.
Key Words: diabetes mellitus, sulfonylureas, diabetic management, treatment.

A Recurrent Painful Rash

A Recurrent Painful Rash

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

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Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Herpes simplex viruses (HSVs) are DNA viruses that present as vesicles in clusters on an erythematous base. Infection occurs when close contact between an individual without antibodies against the virus and a person shedding the virus takes place. Most HSV infections are self-limited. Lesions tend to reappear at or near the same location of the initial site of infection. Systemic symptoms such as fever, malaise and acute toxicity may appear, especially in primary infection. A viral culture from the skin vesicles can identify up to 80 to 90% of untreated infection early in the course. Antiviral treatments aim at shortening the disease course and preventing viral dissemination and transmission. Treatments are most effective when they are administered at the first sign of symptom onset.

Day Case Tonsillectomy—The Campbellton Experience

Day Case Tonsillectomy—The Campbellton Experience

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

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Teaser: 

Dr. Pradeep Shenoy, MD, DLO, FRCS, FACS, is the ENT service chief, Campbellton Regional Hospital, Campbellton, New Brunswick, Canada.
Dr. Michael Aldea, MD, Anesthesiologists, Campbellton Regional Hospital, Campbellton, New Brunswick, Canada.
Dr. Jami Sridhar, MD, Anesthesiologists, Campbellton Regional Hospital, Campbellton, New Brunswick, Canada.

Abstract

Tonsillectomy is a routine surgery performed in Campbellton Regional Hospital. Before January 2012 all the tonsillectomies were one day procedure. Due to reduction in the hospital beds, there was a significant pressure on the ENT service to perform more of tonsillectomies as day case procedures.

A Prospective and retrospective study was done for the day case tonsillectomies from January 2012 till June 2013 and results are reported.

Key words: DCT (day-case-tonsillectomy), post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage (PTH), post-tonsillectomy pain (PTP),Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV), ASA (American Society of Anaesthesiologist) grading of patients, PACU (Post-anesthesia care Unit).

Indications for Rehabilitation in Acute Low Back Pain: Making a Correct Referral

Indications for Rehabilitation in Acute Low Back Pain: Making a Correct Referral

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

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Teaser: 

Dr. Julia Alleyne, BHSc(PT), MD, CCFP, Dip. Sport Med MScCH, is a Family Physician practising Sport and Exercise Medicine at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network. In addition, she trained as a physiotherapist and maintained an active license for 30 years. She is appointed at the University of Toronto, Department of Family and Community Medicine as an Associate Clinical Professor.

Greg McIntosh, MSc, completed his Masters in Epidemiology from the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine. He is currently the Director of Clinical Research for CBI Health Group and research consultant to the Canadian Spine Society.

Abstract
This article helps clinicians decide on appropriate referral to rehabilitation professionals while answering some of the common questions that clinicians are often asked by low back patients. The evidence for appropriate rehabilitation techniques will be interwoven into this article to promote a critical appraisal approach to evaluating rehabilitation outcomes. At the conclusion of this paper, clinicians should be able to identify best practices for rehabilitation referral.
Key Words: Low back pain, indications, rehabilitation, inter-professional referral.

Care Demands by Families and Family Healthcare Proxies: A Dilemma for Palliative Care and Hospice Care Staff

Care Demands by Families and Family Healthcare Proxies: A Dilemma for Palliative Care and Hospice Care Staff

Teaser: 

Dr.Michael Gordon Michael Gordon, MD, MSc, FRCPC, Medical Program Director, Palliative Care, Baycrest Geriatric Health Care System, Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

Abstract
The end of one's life is always a challenge for all involved; the patient reaching what may be recognized as the last stages of life, family members who in general only want the best for their loved one, and health care professionals who are professionally, legally, and ethically dedicated to provide the best care possible. For health care providers who combine the philosophy of palliative and hospice care with the care of elders, even greater challenges commonly occur because of the complex nature of family dynamics, relationships, and belief systems, that often influence family expectations and thus patient care. The challenge to healthcare providers is to navigate the many potential minefields when such challenges exist. When successful, the satisfaction that result from achieving a clinically compassionate, caring, and comfortable death for the patient and give solace to the family are well worth the effort.
Key Words:Hospice care, palliative care, end-of-life care, family conflicts, ethical and legal duties of staff, palliative sedation, client-centered care, patient-centered care.

A Strange Looking Rash That Does Not Respond to Topical Corticosteroids

A Strange Looking Rash That Does Not Respond to Topical Corticosteroids

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

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Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Tinea incognito is a superficial dermatophyte infection in which the clinical appearance of the symptoms has been altered by inappropriate treatments, such as topical corticosteroids.
Dermatophyte infection may result from contact with infected humans, animals, or inanimate objects. An erythematous, pruritic, annular and scaly plaque is characteristic of a symptomatic infection. A potassium hydroxide (KOH) examination of skin scrapings is usually diagnostic. If topical corticosteroids have been applied recently, the amount of surface scales may be reduced and may lead to false negative results. Topical therapy is the first line treatment for localized infections. Systemic antifungals should be used in extensive condition, immunosuppression, resistance to topical antifungal therapy.