Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the bile ducts, leading to progressive liver damage. The management of this condition has witnessed significant advancements over the years, particularly following the approval of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in 1997. This approval brought new hope to patients, as UDCA has been shown to
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Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), poses significant challenges for patients due to its unpredictable nature and severe symptoms. Traditional therapies are often insufficient, leading to the exploration of new biologic agents. Recently, a pivotal phase III trial has brought attention to mirikizumab (Omvoh), a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting interleukin-23 (IL-23). This article
Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition, affects millions of individuals globally and has been linked to various lifestyle factors, including diet. Recent research from France has provided compelling evidence suggesting that a diet rich in ultraprocessed foods correlates with increased disease activity in psoriasis patients. This article delves into the implications of this research, exploring
The landscape of healthcare coverage in the United States is poised for a significant transformation with the recent proposal by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. This initiative aims to improve transparency in prior authorization rules and coverage standards, which have often been criticized for impeding patient access
Meningiomas, primarily benign tumors that arise from the meninges, the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord, can often pose significant challenges in surgical treatment. Due to their vascular nature, these tumors are particularly amenable to preoperative embolization—a procedure designed to reduce blood flow to the tumor. As reported in a recent analysis presented
The healthcare sector is navigating a multitude of regulatory challenges, discussions about treatment accessibility, and the evolving landscape of medical research. Insights from various medical professionals highlight the pressing concerns and considerations within the medical community today. In recent FDA advisory committee meetings, the consequences of regulatory decisions can shape treatment protocols significantly. As articulated
As the political landscape continues to shift in the United States, President-elect Donald Trump’s recent appointments for key health positions have stirred substantive discussions about the future direction of public health policy. The nominations of Dr. Dave Weldon for the role of the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Dr.
The selection of Marty Makary, MD, MPH, by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) signifies a potential shift in the federal agency’s approach to public health and safety. As someone who carved a niche in healthcare discussions through both his writings and his advocacy, critiques, and controversial viewpoints, Makary comes
Chronic pain has emerged as a pervasive health crisis affecting many adults in the United States. A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighted that in 2023, approximately 24.3% of U.S. adults report suffering from chronic pain lasting three months or more. This statistic underscores a significant public health issue
Clozapine is a medication that has long been utilized for the treatment of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, especially in cases where patients have not responded to other treatments. While its effectiveness is well-documented, the administration of clozapine comes with a significant caveat: the risk of severe neutropenia, a condition that can lead to life-threatening infections