A protein fragment called 12.5 kda cystatin may generate first simple test for multiple sclerosis

Johns Hopkins scientists report the discovery of a protein found only in cerebrospinal fluid that they say might be useful in identifying a subgroup of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) or identifying those at risk for the debilitating autoimmune disorder. more  

Hearts hurt when spouses spat

Hardening of the coronary arteries is more likely in wives when they and their husbands express hostility during marital disagreements, and more common in husbands when either they or their wives act in a controlling manner. more

Bone marrow cells can become functional gut lining cells

Researchers report the discovery that cells used in bone marrow transplantation can develop into new cells lining the gut, according to a study by Yale School of Medicine in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. more  

Breast screening information should be more balanced

The information sent to women about breast screening needs to be more balanced to ensure women are adequately informed about the benefits and harms, say researchers in this week's BMJ. more

Screening may over-diagnose 1 in 10 breast cancers 

Screening women for breast cancer could result in a 10% rate of over-diagnosis, finds a study published online by the BMJ today. more

FDA approves first head & neck cancer treatment in 45 years data shows treatment with Erbitux extends survival  

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced the approval of Erbitux (cetuximab) for use in combination with radiation therapy to treat patients with squamous cell cancer of the head and neck (SCCHN) that can not be removed by surgery (unresectable SCCHN). This is the first drug approved for head and neck cancer that has shown a survival benefit in this population. Erbitux was also approved today for use alone (monotherapy) to treat patients whose head and neck cancer has spread (metastasized) despite the use of standard chemotherapy. more

FDA initiative helps expedite development of seasonal and pandemic flu vaccines

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today issued recommendations to aid manufacturers in developing seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccines. FDA's goal is to expedite the development and availability of safe and effective vaccines needed to protect against influenza. more