American family physician
Audio Summaries

Cardiomyopathy: A Guide for Primary Care

Mar 16, 2026

The authors aim to provide a comprehensive overview of cardiomyopathy, particularly focusing on nonischemic causes and their varying presentations. They discuss the classification of cardiomyopathies, evaluation methods, and management strategies tailored to specific types, emphasizing the importance of risk stratification and potential interventions such as heart transplantation for advanced cases.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Mar 16, 2026

The authors examine the effectiveness and recommendations for cervical cancer screening, particularly focusing on the initiation age and preferred screening methods. They highlight the importance of population-based screening for asymptomatic individuals and discuss the disparities in screening rates due to socioeconomic factors. The article outlines current guidelines from the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force regarding screening strategies, including primary HPV testing and cytology.

Infective Endocarditis: Diagnosis and Treatment

Mar 16, 2026

The authors aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and treatment of infective endocarditis, a condition characterized by infection of the heart's inner lining. They emphasize the importance of recognizing symptoms, such as fever and heart murmurs, and recommend the use of blood cultures and echocardiography for diagnosis, alongside the 2023 Duke Criteria. The paper outlines the initial treatment strategies, including empiric antimicrobial therapy and the need for multidisciplinary consultation, while also addressing preventive measures for at-risk patients.

Wheezing in Children

Mar 16, 2026

The authors investigate the complexities of diagnosing wheezing in children, noting that up to 50% experience recurrent episodes by age five, with various potential causes depending on age and clinical history. They emphasize the importance of evaluating family history and patterns of wheezing to differentiate between conditions such as bronchiolitis, asthma, and other etiologies. The article also highlights the role of imaging and tailored management based on the underlying cause of wheezing.

Evaluation of Neck Masses in Adults

Mar 16, 2026

The authors aim to establish an effective framework for evaluating neck masses in adults, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between benign and malignant conditions. They highlight that while most neck masses are benign, a significant proportion are related to malignancies, particularly HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. The paper outlines diagnostic approaches, including imaging techniques and fine-needle aspiration biopsy, to facilitate timely and accurate diagnosis.

Impetigo: Rapid Evidence Review

Mar 16, 2026

This rapid evidence review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of impetigo, a common superficial skin infection primarily affecting young children. The authors discuss its clinical presentation, risk factors, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options, emphasizing the importance of effective management to reduce transmission and recurrence. Key recommendations include the use of topical and oral antibiotics based on the severity of the infection and the necessity of good hygiene practices.

Newborn Respiratory Distress: Evaluation and Management

Jan 16, 2026

The authors aim to evaluate the causes and management strategies for newborn respiratory distress, a leading reason for neonatal intensive care admissions. They highlight the importance of recognizing symptoms, understanding common and less common etiologies, and adhering to neonatal resuscitation guidelines, while also emphasizing the role of diagnostic tools and the Early-Onset Sepsis Calculator in guiding treatment decisions.

Resistant Hypertension in Adults: Evaluation and Treatment

Jan 16, 2026

This article addresses the evaluation and management of resistant hypertension in adults, defined as blood pressure that remains above target despite optimal treatment with three antihypertensive medications, including a diuretic. The authors emphasize the importance of thorough assessment for comorbidities, medication adherence, and accurate blood pressure measurement before diagnosing resistant hypertension, and they propose a structured management approach that includes lifestyle modifications and a specific medication regimen. Additionally, they discuss the role of advanced treatment options for patients who do not respond adequately to standard therapies.

The Age-Friendly Geriatric Assessment

Jan 16, 2026

The authors aim to establish a comprehensive framework for geriatric assessment in older adults, focusing on the 4Ms: What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility. They emphasize the importance of understanding patients' priorities, reviewing medications for appropriateness, assessing cognitive function, and screening for fall risks to improve the overall health and well-being of the aging population. This approach encourages family physicians to engage in meaningful conversations with patients and implement targeted interventions based on individual needs.

HIV-Associated Complications: A Systems-Based Approach

Jan 16, 2026

The authors investigate the ongoing complications associated with HIV in the era of effective antiretroviral therapy, despite improved life expectancy for those living with the virus. They highlight the prevalence of various comorbidities, including cardiometabolic issues, neurocognitive impairments, and chronic kidney disease, while emphasizing the importance of primary care clinicians in managing these complications through routine screening and lifestyle interventions. The paper underscores the need for a comprehensive, systems-based approach to address the multifaceted health challenges faced by individuals with HIV.