Stroke Subtypes; Statin Flop for Cancer; A Better Aneurysm Coil
By medpagetoday.com
Head-to-head evaluation of three stroke classification systems showed that all did fairly well, with the major stroke subtypes distinct irrespective of the system used, researchers reported in a study appearing in JAMA Neurology.
The Causative Classification of Stroke (CCS), Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST), and ASCO (A for atherosclerosis, S for small-vessel disease, C for cardiac source, and O for other cause) classification systems had area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for 90-day recurrence of 0.71, 0.61, and 0.66, respectively.
While all had similar discrimination for 90-day mortality, CCS "generates discrete etiologic categories with more diverse clinical, imaging, and prognostic characteristics than either TOAST or ASCO," the researchers noted.
Nevertheless, this validation study says the scales perform "fairly well" overall, so it's reasonable to stick with any of the three, commented Philip Gorelick, MD, MPH, of Michigan State University in Grand Rapids.
Statins Flop As Cancer Tx
Statins' pleiotropic benefits don't extend to cancer, according to the phase III LUNGSTAR trial showing that adding pravastatin to standard chemotherapy didn't improve survival or secondary outcomes in small cell lung cancer.
Despite promising preclinical and observational findings, this is the fifth placebo-controlled trial of statin use in patients with cancer to show no benefit.
"Given the findings from our trial and the other published, double-blind, randomized controlled trials, independent monitoring committees of studies that are still recruiting or in follow-up should examine interim analyses of clinical endpoints and stop early if there is sufficient evidence for futility, thus saving resources," the authors concluded in their paper online in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
See MedPage Today's coverage here.
A Better Aneurysm Coil
Novel next-generation endovascular coils for treating medium-sized intracranial aneurysms reduced adverse outcomes among patients, according to the randomized GREAT trial reported at the International Stroke Conference.
MicroVention's HydroSoft or HydroFrame coils, filled with a hydrogel that expands upon contact with liquid to increase packing density, reduced the composite rate of major aneurysm recurrence at 18 months, retreatment for major recurrences within 18 months, morbidity that prevented angiographic follow-up, or death by an absolute 8.4% compared with standard platinum coils.
"In the U.S., most patients get the classic coil or the clip," commented Mark Alberts, MD, of Hartford Healthcare in Connecticut. "But this could potentially be an advance."
See the full MedPage Today story here.
Arthritic Heart Woes
Heart attack and rheumatoid arthritis are well known partners in crime, but other types of arthritis are culprits as well, a 25-study meta-analysis reported in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.
MI risk was elevated most with rheumatoid arthritis but also significant for gout (HR 1.47), psoriatic arthritis (HR 1.41), and osteoarthritis (HR 1.31), with a trend seen for ankylosing spondylitis (HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.93-1.65) as well.
"The study findings support more integrated cardiovascular prevention strategies for arthritis populations that target both reducing inflammation and enhancing management of traditional cardiovascular risk factors," the researchers concluded, suggesting that gout and osteoarthritis patients should be monitored and risk factors targeted as is already recommended in the other types of arthritis.
Source: http://www.medpagetoday.com/cardiology/prevention/63560
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Zofran (ondansetron): Uses, How It Works, And What To Expect
Zofran is a medication used in the treatment of conditions falling under nausea and vomiting relief. Its active pharmaceutical ingredient is ondansetron, which has been studied in clinical settings and has an established record of use in appropriate patient populations. Understanding what this medication does, how it is taken, and what results are realistic helps patients make informed decisions alongside their healthcare providers. Nausea can significantly impair quality of life, especially when chronic. It interferes with adequate nutrition and hydration, leads to weight loss, and affects work and daily functioning. In cases of severe or persistent vomiting, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are a risk and may require inpatient treatment. Managing underlying causes is essential for lasting relief, while antiemetics provide symptomatic control while underlying conditions are addressed or resolve on their own. The therapeutic action of ondansetron is tailored to the biological mechanisms underlying the conditions it is used to treat. By targeting specific receptors, enzymes, or pathways, it produces changes that reduce symptoms and in some cases modify the course of disease. Detailed clinical information about Zofran can be found at https://mednewwsstoday.com/nausea/zofran-ondansetron/, which outlines indications, dosing guidelines, and important safety information. Most patients tolerate Zofran well, though like any medication it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects are typically mild and may resolve once the body adjusts to the medication. Serious adverse effects are less common but should be reported to a healthcare provider promptly. Patients with specific health conditions or those taking multiple medications should review potential interactions before starting Zofran. Resources covering the full range of therapies available for nausea and vomiting relief are available at nausea and vomiting relief. Comparing medications in terms of their effectiveness, safety, and practical considerations helps patients and caregivers engage in productive conversations with their healthcare team.
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