(February 26, 2008 - Insidermedicine) From Chicago - A review of published stem cell research underscores its promise for the treatment of inflammatory and heart disease. Adult stem cells are derived from tissues throughout the body and function as a reservoir to replace damaged or aging cells. The researchers noted that while no randomized clinical trials have been performed on patients with inflammatory or heart disease, the use of stem cells may have a potent disease remitting effect.

From Pittsburgh - Switching to another antidepressant medicine and adding cognitive psychotherapy is beneficial for teenagers who suffer from depression who do not initially respond to an SSRI type of antidepressant. In a study of over 300 teenagers with depression that did not initially respond SSRIs, those who received cognitive behavioral therapy in addition to switching medication types, had a higher rate of clinical response than those who received only a change in medicine.

And finally, back to Chicago - Treating anemia with a class of drugs known as erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) may raise the risk of developing venous thrombosis. Researchers analyzed 38 trials involving over 8,000 patients and found a 57% increase risk of VTE in those taking ESAs, compared with taking a placebo.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.