MedWatch Digest: Using a fever to heal —and more
For Tuesday, May 14, WGN’s Dina Bair has the latest on new medical information including:
More Coverage: WGN’s Medical Watch
“Fever Effect” could be therapy for autism
Autism symptoms often improve when a child has a fever.
The phenomenon sparked a research team to collaborate on harnessing the power of fever for potential autism therapy.
MIT and Harvard Medical School neuroscientists are looking into the fever effect to mimic the beneficial impact.
Adding therapies to mitigate the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder can help both children and adults thrive.
Researchers believe cells and molecules act as immunological drivers in the presence of fever to produce beneficial effects in those with autism. Those cells will be the first therapeutic target.
Low testosterone increases death risks
Low testosterone in men can be a red flag for overall diminished health.
According to the Annals of Internal Medicine, men with diminished baseline endogenous serum testosterone concentrations have an increased risk for death from all causes.
The lowest testosterone levels are associated with an increased threat of heart disease and cardiovascular death.
Researchers reached their findings by reviewing 11 different studies of more than 24,000 men.
They say it is clear diminishing sex hormones in aging men raise the threat level for heart disease and mortality.
3D-printed pills may help medication tolerance and effectiveness
Printing pills may boost the efficacy and tolerance of medication.
University of Nottingham scientists found 3D-printed medication paves the way for personalized medication.
The pills can be printed with multiple drugs in a single tablet that can deliver medication in timed doses.
The personalized medication in tailored drug release profiles ensures more precise and effective treatment for patients.
Researchers used an inkjet printer with molecules sensitive to ultraviolet light.
When printed, the molecules from a water-soluble pill make possible the next generation of personalized care.
Sign up for our Medical Watch newsletter. This daily update includes important information from WGN’s Dina Bair and the Med Watch team, including, the latest updates from health organizations, in-depth reporting on advancements in medical technology and treatments, as well as personal features related to people in the medical field. Sign up here.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
