Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 10-10-2024:
Dr. Dawn announces Medicare's new list of over 200 drugs available for $2 per 30-day supply, covering a wide range of medications.
She discusses a new urine test called ExoDx for prostate cancer screening, which can help avoid unnecessary biopsies in the "gray zone" of elevated PSA levels.
The doctor addresses a listener's question about Klebsiella pneumoniae found in a nasal swab, explaining colonization versus infection and the risks of unnecessary antibiotic use.
Dr. Dawn explores the reliability of QuantiFERON TB tests, suggesting potential false positives and the importance of retesting with different antigen tubes.
She discusses orthostatic hypotension in older adults, offering practical tips like squeezing a firm ball before standing up and proper standing techniques to prevent falls.
The doctor explains the importance of vitamin A for vegans, highlighting potential BCMO1 genetic variations that may affect beta-carotene conversion and recommending blood tests.
Dr. Dawn addresses a question about elevated bilirubin levels post-gallbladder removal, discussing possible causes and diagnostic procedures like MRI and ERCP.