Insulin resistance, defined as a reduced biological action of insulin, has emerged as a major factor in the development and progression of a number of common non-communicable diseases in man. The role of insulin resistance in the aetiology of type 2 diabetes is particularly well-established. However, insulin resistance has also come to be regarded as a key component of a broader syndrome of common metabolic defects that conspire to increase the risk of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease. The ramifications of insulin resistance now embrace many different medical specialties. The objective of this book is to summarize the current state of knowledge about insulin resistance. Section 1 (Pathophysiology of Insulin Resistance) considers the development of current concepts of insulin resistance. This is followed by a critical review of techniques for the assessment of insulin action in humans. The section concludes with an outline of current hypotheses concerning the molecular defects responsible for insulin resistance. Section 2 (Insulin Resistance in Clinical Medicine) broadens the discussion to include physiological and pathological conditions with which insulin resistance is associated; the effects of drug treatment on insulin sensitivity are also considered. Section 3 (Management of Insulin Resistance and Associated Conditions) focuses on the avoidance and treatment of insulin resistance in its clinical manifestations. A discussion of the potential benefits of non-pharmacological measures prefaces a review of the range of drugs used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and related disorders. References are confined to key articles at the end of each section. Improved nutrition allied to increased levels of physical exercise are of crucial importance in the battle to stem the increasing incidence and prevalence of insulin resistance; however, translation of such advice into action has proved difficult in practice. Thus, other approaches have been explored. Recent years have witnessed considerable progress in the pharmacological management of insulin resistance. In particular, the thiazolidinediones (and other insulin-sensitizing drugs) appear to provide a more specific assault on insulin-resistance. Clinical experience with these agents remains relatively limited and serious hepatotoxicity has clouded the first agent in this class – troglitazone. With its introduction into the USA in 1995 and driven by the publication of the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study, metformin has enjoyed a renaissance. This well-established agent is finding application for new clinical indications. In parallel, the development of anti-obesity drugs continues apace. The molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying some forms of insulin resistance are being revealed. Original intellectual concepts such as the fetal origins hypothesis are challenging traditional views about the aetiology of insulin resistance and its clinical sequelae. These exciting scientific advances notwithstanding, the evolving global epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes represents an enormous public health challenge. Now more than ever, research must focus on identifying solutions that are applicable on the level of entire populations. By definition, these must also be practical and cost-effective.
The Manchester Triage System (MTS) is the most widely used triage system in the UK, Europe and Australia, with tens of millions of patients being processed through hospital emergency departments. Emergency Triage is the core text for the MTS which utilises a risk averse system of prioritisation for patients in all unscheduled care settings, and as such it is an essential text for all emergency department staff using the MTS, in particular triage nurses themselves. The second edition has been revised throughout and takes in the changes in practice introduced into MTS since the book was first published. These include: Redesigned and expanded flow charts Additional charts for allergy and palpitations New practices – such as the possibility of revascularisation for patients with stroke New discriminators, for example acute neurological deficit and significant respiratory history Redefinition of existing discriminators Also new to this edition is the incorporation of sections on the use of the risk averse system in telephone triage, in settings where ‘streaming’ takes place and as an early warning score for patients in all unscheduled care settings. The tone of this edition reflects the more up to date, modified approach to triage while retaining the principles of clinical prioritisation, which in the authors’ words “remains a central plank of clinical risk management in emergency care”. Emergency Triage is an essential handbook for all clinicians involved in unscheduled care settings such as emergency care, walk in centres, minor injury units, primary care out of hours services.
The first all-inclusive text on the pitfalls, complications and controversies surrounding the use of lasers in dermatology and aesthetic medicine Each chapter starts off by highlighting the key points and essential concepts, followed by a review of the associated pearls and problems Provides the reader with tips on how to improve the safe and effective use of lasers Images focus on the pearls and problems Laser Dermatology: Pearls and Problems is different from other laser dermatology books. Each of the five chapters begins by highlighting key points and essential concepts, then focuses on the pearls and problems for each area – based on the author’s vast experience in the field of laser dermatology. Dr. Goldberg addresses: Vascular Lasers Laser Hair Removal Pigmented Lesions, Tattoos, and Disorders of Hypopigmentation Ablative Lasers and Devices Non-Ablative Photorejuvenation and Skin Remodeling Dr. Goldberg goes beyond the standard “before and after” approach to use actual images to demonstrate the pearls and pitfalls discussed in the text.
The second edition of Skin Cancer: Recognition and Management is a definitive clinical reference which comprehensively examines the wide range of premalignant and malignant cutaneous disorders, including melanoma, Kaposi's sarcoma and other sarcomas, cutaneous lymphoma, cutaneous metastatic disease and cutaneous markers of internal malignancy, with emphasis on the most recent advances in diagnosis and management. Fully revised and expanded, this new edition now includes full colour photographs and illustrations throughout to aid recognition and diagnosis, and covers the latest developments and treatment modalities. New chapters include: Merkel Cell Carcinoma Dermoscopy Skin Cancer: Recognition and Management is a definitive clinical reference for dermatologists, oncologists, residents and any medical practitioner with an interest in skin cancer.
Restorative Dentistry: An Integrated Approach presents the core of knowledge that forms the basis of clinical practice in restorative dentistry. The book contains a practical common-sense approach to clinical problems structured within the limitations imposed by the patient and the ability and facilities of the dentist. Subjects included in the book are Periodontology, Endodontics, Dental Biomaterials, Oral Biology and Pathology, and Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics. However Restorative Dentistry offers a somewhat unique approach in that it integrates the basic sciences that are fundamental to clinical practice rather than having separate sections or expecting readers to consult other texts for basic information. The integration means that there are not separate sections on the specialist subjects but aspects of these topics are distributed throughout. This second edition is full colour throughout. It has been fully revised with two brand new chapters on Implantology bringing the book up to date with emerging technologies and developments in clinical procedures and materials.
Salivary Diagnostics surveys one of the most exciting areas of research in oral biology. Regarded as the mirror of the body, saliva has immense potential to yield real clinical improvements in our ability to diagnose, and hence treat, oral and systemic conditions. The composition of saliva and other oral fluids reflects the tissue fluid levels of therapeutic, hormonal, and immunological molecules, as well as the presence of markers for systemic and oral disease.
When you're considering device therapy for a patient with heart failure, be sure to consult this concise reference for the latest information on who benefits most from which device. In clear, straightforward prose, Dr. Feldman addresses: Resynchronization Therapy ICD Ultrafiltration Impulse Therapy Chronic Implantable Monitoring Bioimpedance EECP and more With chapters devoted to monitoring the patient on device therapy and the future of device therapy in heart failure, this book makes an important contribution to patient care.
Now there is an up-to-date guide for optimizing pharmacologic therapy in treating patients with heart failure. Reflecting current practice at leading medical centers, Heart Failure: Pharmacologic Management provides both the biologic and pathologic underpinnings of each pharmacologic agent in current use. It also supplies detailed discussions of the clinical investigations that support current understanding of the risks and benefits associated with the use of these drugs. Thorough references make the book useful to the novice as well as the experienced clinician. Initial chapters focus on agents that are considered standard care: diuretics ACE inhibitors angiotensin receptor antagonists aldosterone antagonists beta-blockers The discussion moves to agents currently under investigation: Vasopressin antagonists erythropoietin Next, the authors consider some controversial drugs: inotropic agents antiarrhythmic drugs anticoagulants An insightful examination of pharmacogenetics considers: how studies of the genetic profile of patients helps determine which patient populations are most likely to respond to a given class of drugs the potential use of pharmacogenetics to tailor a pharmacologic regimen for maximum benefit and minimum risk Multidrug pharmacy for heart failure therapy An extremely helpful concluding chapter provides a roadmap of drugs with which to approach the patient with heart failure, along with an overview of the skills you need to use it most effectively. This straightforward, step-by-step algorithm will save you countless hours of research and help you make your prescribing decisions with confidence.
Electrocardiography is a simple investigation to perform, but accurate interpretation can be challenging. This book takes a logical and systematic approach to ECG interpretation, beginning with the basics of normal variations and dealing in turn with atrial abnormalities, ventricular enlargement, ventricular conduction defects and ischemic heart disease. Extensively illustrated with ECG tracings that complement the text, this book provides clear and concise explanations of traditional concepts of electrocardiography and combines them with updates on the most recent developments in the field. In 22 clinical cases, Professor Bayés de Luna illustrates the principles of the book by integrating electrocardiographic features with clinical findings for a thorough and methodical approach to cardiac disease. Regular self-assessments allow readers to evaluate their understanding of the ECG and reinforce key concepts. This book is an ideal introduction to normal and abnormal ECG patterns. It is particularly valuable for medical students, residents / junior doctors and nurses who wish to broaden their skills in electrocardiography.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is now in use worldwide, while hypnosis as a technique continues to attract serious interest from the professional community. Integrating the two, the field of cognitive hypnotherapy uses the natural trance states of clients to unlock unconscious thoughts and memory patterns that can generate and sustain problems. Cognitive hypnotherapists work within the client’s model of the world, so that changes are more likely to be subconsciously accepted and become permanent. This practical guide shows how cognitive hypnotherapy can be used to treat a range of emotional disorders including depression, sleep disorders, anxiety, eating disorders and PTSD.