The diagnosis and initial management of head injury
Article Abstract:
The survival and recovery of patients with a head injury depends mainly on the extent of brain damage. The brain is protected by several layers of tissue and bone, but major injuries to the brain are often irreversible. Three types of hematomas, or localized masses of blood, can occur inside the intracranial cavity. Patients with head injuries often are first seen in the emergency room. They are questioned about the accident that caused the injury, and classified in one of three risk groups. The majority undergo a computed tomographic (CT) scan of their head and routine laboratory tests. Those with more serious injuries may undergo more extensive laboratory studies, examination of their head, a neurological examination and radiological imaging studies. A flow sheet should be kept to document the patient's status. Some patients may need to have special types of treatment or to undergo surgery.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1992
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Molecular pathogenesis of cholestasis
Article Abstract:
Research in gene therapy could lead to a treatment for some familial forms of cholestasis. Cholestasis occurs when the body cannot produce bile. Bile is produced in the liver and bile ducts by cells called hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, respectively. The bile must then be transported out of the cells, where it collects in the gallbladder. A defect in the transport proteins can lead to cholestasis. Some cases of familial cholestasis have been linked to specific chromosome locations. Ursodiol may be effective in many patients and gene therapy is a promising treatment.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1998
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