Tackling zinc deficiency with a new approach to urine testing

Imperial College London researchers have developed a new urine test that looks to chemical fingerprints for more precise zinc testing. This new approach, outlined in a new paper published in Metallomics, could provide more specific tests to warn of zinc deficiency—particularly in developing countries. Caroline Brogan spoke to lead author Dr. Rebekah Moore, from Imperial’s Department of Earth Science and […]

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BRCA1/2 genetic testing recommendations still leave issues unresolved

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has released a new Recommendation Statement for BRCA1/2 evaluation, urging the medical community to widen the parameters used to assess BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation risks and increase the use of genetic counseling and testing for those with the highest risk. While the changes are beneficial, the recommendations still fail to address many persisting […]

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Researchers criticize study calling for expansion of genetic testing for breast cancer

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have criticised a recent study calling into question guidelines on genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer. In an article published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in December 2018 entitled “Underdiagnosis of Hereditary Breast Cancer: Are Genetic Testing Guidelines a Tool or an Obstacle?”, 27 US researchers argued for expanded genetic testing in all […]

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Global HER2 testing survey raises questions about priorities for breast cancer resources

A global survey of HER2 testing has raised questions about how resources should be spent on potentially lifesaving HER2 targeted therapies for breast cancer, especially in poorer countries. The results were presented at the ESMO Breast Cancer Congress 2019, Berlin, 2-4 May 2019. The ONCOLLEGE-001 internet-based survey of HER2 testing in 45 countries has highlighted major access and affordability issues […]

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AAP outlines appropriate pediatric nephrology testing

(HealthDay)—As part of the Choosing Wisely campaign, a list of specific nephrology tests and procedures that are commonly ordered but not always needed when treating children for kidney-related conditions has been released by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). After careful review and analysis, five evidence-based recommendations were developed for tests and procedures that physicians and patients should question. According […]

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Malpractice damage caps associated with change in CAD testing, Tx

(HealthDay)—Following adoption of damage caps, physicians alter their approach to coronary artery disease testing and follow-up after initial ischemic evaluations, according to a study published online June 6 in JAMA Cardiology. Steven A. Farmer, M.D., Ph.D., from George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and colleagues examined whether reducing malpractice risk is associated with clinical decisions involving coronary artery disease testing […]

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Genetic counseling and testing proposed for patients with the brain tumor medulloblastoma

Researchers have identified six genes that predispose carriers to develop the brain tumor medulloblastoma and have used the discovery to craft genetic counseling and screening guidelines. The study appears today in the journal The Lancet Oncology. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Hopp Children’s Cancer Center at the NCT Heidelberg (KiTZ), Germany, and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, led the […]

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