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Evolution of HIV Management: A 40-Year Retrospective World AIDS Day
Over four decades, the management of HIV has undergone a transformative journey. From the initial discovery in the early 1980s to the present day, advances in antiretroviral therapies, research, and global awareness have reshaped the landscape of HIV care. The evolution has not only extended the lifespan of those living with HIV but has also significantly reduced transmission rates. Continuous efforts in education, treatment accessibility, and stigma reduction mark the progress in the fight against HIV, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach in the ongoing battle against the virus.
About the Speaker
Dr. Ravindran Gherard
Professor and HOD of Family medicine, St. John’s Medical College, Bangalore
Upcoming Case Discussions
H. pylori Treatment with PYELRA®: Best Practices
PYLERA® is a medication used for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a common cause of stomach ulcers and gastritis. It contains a combination of three active ingredients: bismuth subcitrate potassium, metronidazole, and tetracycline. This combination works synergistically to eradicate H. pylori bacteria and reduce associated symptoms. Treatment with PYLERA® typically involves taking multiple capsules four times a day for a specified duration, as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to follow the treatment regimen as directed and to discuss potential side effects
Medical Nutrition Therapy in Diabetes
Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is a cornerstone in the management of diabetes, focusing on individualized dietary plans tailored to the patient's specific needs and goals. It emphasizes a balanced intake of macronutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, to achieve optimal blood glucose control while promoting overall health and well-being. MNT aims to stabilize blood sugar levels, prevent complications, and improve quality of life through careful monitoring of food intake, portion control, and timing of meals. Additionally, MNT educates patients on carbohydrate counting, glycemic index, and meal timing to help them make informed choices and better manage their condition. Collaborative efforts between patients, healthcare providers, and registered dietitians play a vital role in implementing and sustaining effective MNT strategies tailored to each individual's lifestyle and dietary preferences, thereby enhancing diabetes management and long-term health outcomes.
HIPEC for Ovarian Cancer
Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) has emerged as a promising treatment modality for advanced ovarian cancer, offering a multifaceted approach to combat this challenging disease. In HIPEC, heated chemotherapy is circulated throughout the abdominal cavity following cytoreductive surgery, targeting residual cancer cells and microscopic disease not removed by surgery alone. This localized delivery of chemotherapy at elevated temperatures enhances drug penetration, increases cytotoxicity, and disrupts tumor cell repair mechanisms. Consequently, HIPEC not only addresses macroscopic disease but also targets microscopic metastases, potentially reducing recurrence rates and improving overall survival outcomes. Despite its promising results, HIPEC requires specialized expertise and is typically reserved for select patients with advanced ovarian cancer who can tolerate aggressive surgical and chemotherapeutic approaches. Ongoing research aims to further refine patient selection criteria, optimize treatment protocols, and assess long-term outcomes to establish HIPEC's role in the comprehensive management of ovarian cancer.
Approach to Hypertensive Emergencies
Approaching hypertensive emergencies requires swift action to prevent life-threatening complications. The first step involves assessing the severity of hypertension, including signs of end-organ damage such as headache, blurred vision, chest pain, or altered mental status. In severe cases, immediate reduction of blood pressure is necessary to prevent complications such as stroke, heart attack, or organ failure. Intravenous medications such as nitroprusside, labetalol, or nicardipine are commonly used for rapid blood pressure control in a controlled setting. Continuous monitoring of blood pressure, cardiac function, and organ perfusion is essential during treatment. Additionally, identifying and addressing underlying causes such as renal artery stenosis or preeclampsia is crucial for long-term management. Collaborative care involving emergency medicine, cardiology, and nephrology specialists ensures comprehensive management and follow-up care for patients with hypertensive emergencies. Regular monitoring and adjustment of antihypertensive medications are necessary to prevent recurrence and optimize long-term blood pressure control.
OPD Level Pain Management Techniques in Ayurveda
In the outpatient department (OPD) setting of Ayurveda, pain management revolves around a comprehensive approach that integrates traditional wisdom with modern understanding. Ayurvedic practitioners employ a range of techniques tailored to each individual's unique constitution and condition. This may include the use of specific herbal formulations known for their analgesic properties, such as ginger, turmeric, ashwagandha, and boswellia. Dietary modifications are often recommended to reduce inflammation and support overall health, with an emphasis on anti-inflammatory foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and herbal teas. Lifestyle adjustments, including stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises, play a crucial role in managing chronic pain by promoting relaxation and enhancing the body's natural healing mechanisms. Additionally, therapeutic procedures such as Ayurvedic massage (Abhyanga), oil treatments (Snehan), and heat therapy (Swedana) are utilized to improve circulation, alleviate muscle tension, and promote detoxification. By addressing the underlying imbalances in the body's doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), Ayurvedic pain management aims not only to provide symptomatic relief but also to foster long-term wellness and vitality