An opioid prescribing practice standard for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) was associated with accelerated declines in opioid doses and high-dose prescribing in British Columbia (BC) but also with more aggressive and inappropriate dose tapering, a new analysis showed. In addition, the standard resulted in restricted access to opioids for patients who may have benefited from … Read more
Key Takeaways In cases of acute arthritis, it is crucial to consider infectious causes, particularly viral infections. This recommendation was made by a team of rheumatologists led by Dr Matthias Wahle, head and senior physician in the Department of Internal Medicine at University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany, based on the case of a 59-year-old woman. … Read more
Key Takeaways Herpes zoster (HZ) can initially present with pain before the appearance of a rash, leading to diagnostic confusion. Anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) may be mimicked by other conditions, including HZ. Positive pinch test and Carnett’s sign may indicate abdominal wall neuralgia but do not exclude the possibility of HZ. The Patient … Read more