Ampicillin is currently the drug of choice for treating L. monocytogenes infections. Many antibiotics have been shown to be effective and are used as second-line agents. However, further study is required for some of the most recently introduced antibiotics, such as the fluoroquinolones, to determine their place in the treatment of Listeria infections.

We conducted a MEDLINE search from January 1966-March 1999 to obtain information on clinical trials of treatment of pediatric hypertension. An article was selected for review if it described a randomized or nonrandomized study; randomized studies were given priority. Case reports were considered when studies were unavailable. Review articles were useful in identifying references. According to data we collected, hypertension is present in 1-3% of the pediatric population. Nonpharmacologic treatment may be effective initially in those with mild to moderate disease or as an adjunct to drug therapy. Drugs for treatment of chronic hypertension include calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics, and beta-blockers. Patient and drug characteristics determine therapy. Intravenous labetalol, nicardipine, and nitroprusside are effective for treating hypertensive emergencies.

Studies demonstrate a positive correlation between hyperhomocysteinemia and atherosclerosis. The treatment of choice for hyperhomocysteinemia is folic acid. Although the optimal dose is not known, 650 microg/d is the minimum effective dose. To date, no studies have assessed the effects on morbidity and mortality when treating high homocysteine concentrations in atherosclerotic patients.

ADRs resulted in treatment intervention or temporary patient discomfort in >50% of patients. The incidence of preventable ADRs is similar to that found in adult literature. No single drug caused >5% of reported ADRs. Opioids, anticonvulsants and antibiotics were the most common drug classes associated with ADRs. Thus, strategies targeting these drug classes and interventions during the medication ordering and administration processes may reduce the number of ADRs and possibly the associated costs. Even though preventable ADRs may not be entirely eliminated, the goal should be to increase ADR awareness and encourage early detection and intervention to minimise patient discomfort.

Ultrasound measurements in neonates with hypoplastic left heart syndrome suggest that superior mesenteric artery perfusion, as measured by resistive index, is impaired. Superior mesenteric artery diastolic flow reversal is common before and immediately after modified Norwood.