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Biomedical subjects

S J Tkachyk

Publications and source records attributed to S J Tkachyk.

6 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1999

New treatments for allergic rhinitis.

OBJECTIVE: To review new treatments for allergic rhinitis. QUALITY OF EVIDENCE: Most studies supporting the principles in this paper are double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Good evidence supports use of antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, and immunotherapy. Fewer trials have been done on the new antileukotrienes. MAIN MESSAGE: Allergic rhinitis causes significant morbidity, which can be successfully treated. Newer antihistamines, developed to replace terfenadine and astemizole which have potential side effects, include loratadine, cetirizine, and the newest, fexofenadine. Intranasal steroid sprays are also effective, particularly for people with nasal stuffiness. One study showed some growth retardation in children using beclomethasone over a prolonged period (1 year). The newer steroid sprays, such as fluticasone, budesonide, and mometasone furoate aqueous, however, have not been studied in the same way and are usually recommended for shorter periods. The newest group of medications showing real promise are the antileukotrienes, including zafirlukast and montelukast. Taken orally, these medications avoid the discomfort of nasal sprays and seem to have few side effects. Immunotherapy offers a new option: a short-course, preseasonal series of six to 11 injections that reduces the burden on patients for year-round therapy. Combinations of these therapies are also possible. CONCLUSIONS: With new medications and immunotherapy options, family physicians can offer effective treatment to patients with allergic rhinitis.

Administration, Topical↗
PubMed1977

Airborne mold survey--Edmonton.

An outdoor airborne mold survey was recently carried out in the Edmonton area revealing some previously unrecognized molds, especially Rhodotorula. Hormodendrum was by far the commonest mold identified and was present all year round. It was also revealing that outdoor molds were quite prevalent in the Edmonton area throughout all seasons of the year but certainly more prevalent in the spring and early summer months. It would seem wise to have outdoor mold surveys done periodically in one's own area of practice when one is using immunotherapy with them.

Air Microbiology↗