Gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risk of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs] confer a gastrointestinal [GI] side effect profile and concerns regarding adverse cardiovascular effects have emerged associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. NSAIDs are highly effective in treating pain and inflammation, but it is well recognized that these agents are associated with substantial gastrointestinal toxicity. Cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitors may also reduce the risk for gastrointestinal events, although they may increase cardiovascular adverse events. The selection of an appropriate analgesic or antiinflammatory agent with or without gastroprotective therapy should be individualized

Predictors of sustained virologic response [SVR] of chronic hepatitis C

Several small studies have reported lower response rate to interferon alfa and ribavirin among subgroups of patients with chronic hepatitis C infection compared with those who have sustained virologic response [SVR]. The increased prevalence of infection with hepatitis C virus [HCV] genotype 1, and 4 which have lower response rate compared with genotypes, 2 and 3, was suggested as the cause. This is a review of some factors, which has been suggested to cause low response among subgroups of patients with chronic hepatitis C

Hepatitis B infection in renal disease

Chronic hepatitis B virus [HBV] infection in renal patients could result from nosocomial transmission and outbreaks in dialysis units. Vaccination, universal precautions, regular virologic screening and segregation policy are important and effective control of HBV infection in hemodialysis unit. Chronic HBV infection poses problem to dialysis patients, their diagnosis, treatment of hepatic complications and pre-transplant management. This review summarizes the chronic HBV epidemiology, extrahepatic manifestations, management and prevention