Retinitis Pigmentosa
My 5-year-old niece was just diagnosed with the eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa. What is it?
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Month: April 2010
Excessive Hair Growth
Is hirsutism that was caused by the overuse (for about six years before and during puberty) of topical cortisones and topical steroids for eczema permanent?
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Positive Tuberculosis Test Result
I had a skin test for tuberculosis. The test came back positive. Does this mean I have tuberculosis or just that I’ve been exposed to it? What is my next step? Should I have the skin test repeated?
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Nuclear Medicine Stress Test
I’m scheduled for a nuclear medicine stress test with persantine. I’ve been told I will not be on a treadmill. Instead, I will be given an injection to cause my body to go into stress, as if I were on a treadmill. Why would the doctors go this route? How risky is it?
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In Mumps Outbreak, Most Were Vaccinated
The recommended two shots against mumps don’t always prevent the disease, a study suggests. In 2006, nearly 6,600 people became sick with mumps. Most cases were in eight Midwestern states. Most were college students. The study checked on their vaccination history. Of those who knew their history, 84% had had two shots. Experts said they didn’t expect immunity to fade so quickly, the Associated Press reported April 10. The study was done by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state health departments. It was published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
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One Type of Cancer Leading to Another
I was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. Does the occurrence of one type of cancer indicate a danger of developing other types?
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In Brief: Topiramate may be effective at treating alcohol dependence
A study found that a medication called topiramate helped heavy drinkers reduce their dependence on alcohol.
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Early Puberty in Girls
My 8 and a half year-old daughter is showing signs of puberty (breast growth and leg hair). Is this too early to start puberty? If so, is there anything I can do to delay it? I can’t imagine her going through menses at such young age and, more importantly, I am worried that she may not grow to her full size if she starts menses too soon.
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Asymmetric Pupils in Child
I noticed that my 3-month-old has one pupil larger than the other. Should I take her to see a doctor, or is this common?
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Bipolar Disorder and Cyclothymia
What is the difference between bipolar disorder and cyclothymia?
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