Researchers discovered that inhibiting the activity of the fumarate hydratase enzyme in macrophages (a type of immune cell that plays a key role in inflammatory disorders) increased the cells’ production of interferon-beta. They also discovered that lupus patients’ macrophages have abnormally low levels of fumarate hydratase. These findings suggest that dysregulation of this enzyme may be a factor in the development of lupus, and that fumarate hydratase could be a potential therapeutic target.

The CDC now calls for screening of all adults aged 18 years or older at least once during their lifetimes. And vaccination should be offered to all who have not previously been vaccinated, regardless of serologic testing results. The CDC is now also recommending screening during every pregnancy, preferably in the first trimester, regardless of a patient’s vaccination status or history of testing.

Pandemic-era telemedicine exceptions that currently allow telehealth prescription of Schedule II narcotics and stimulants without an initial in-person evaluation are to be ended on May 11.

In a review of hospitalization records in Hong Kong, Feb-July 2022, adults hospitalized for COVID and given molnupiravir or nirmatrelvir–ritonavir showed lower all-cause mortality, regardless of vaccination status. However, there was no significant reduction in ICU admission or the need for mechanical ventilation.

The patient lives with his daughter. He is on no meds and UA is normal. Prostate is moderately enlarged. What would you prescribe?

A faulty control arm makes a new trial for tricuspid valve regurgitation intervention seem positive. But in reality, the results probably aren’t.