docTLDR

Researchers are advancing the use of 'ghost organs'—decellularized donor organs repopulated with a patient's own cells—to address critical shortages in organ transplantation. Early clinical trials show promise in reducing rejection and wait times, potentially transforming transplant medicine for patients with life-threatening organ failure.

A University of South Australia study reveals that over-the-counter painkillers paracetamol and ibuprofen can significantly increase bacterial mutations, making E. coli highly resistant to antibiotics like ciprofloxacin. When used together, these drugs amplify resistance, not only to ciprofloxacin but also to multiple antibiotic classes. The findings highlight a previously overlooked risk: non-antibiotic medications may be quietly fueling the global antibiotic resistance crisis, especially in...

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has clarified that research papers or posters presented at any National or State Indian Medical Association (IMA) conference will now be accepted as valid publications for eligibility in university medical examinations. This move aims to broaden the scope for medical students and faculty, recognizing IMA conference presentations alongside indexed journal publications for academic advancement and exam eligibility.

Indian doctors report a sharp rise in children suffering life-threatening intestinal injuries after swallowing small toy magnets, mirroring a global trend. Multiple magnets can attract across gut walls, causing tissue death, perforations, and severe infections—often requiring complex surgery. Experts urge immediate medical attention if ingestion is suspected and call for stricter toy safety regulations and clearer warnings for parents.

A new study shows that maintaining serum potassium levels above 4.0 mmol/L in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) significantly reduces the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and ICD shocks. The findings suggest that routine potassium monitoring and supplementation could improve outcomes in this high-risk group, potentially influencing standard care protocols.

The sudden death of a 39-year-old cardiac surgeon in Chennai has spotlighted a surge in heart attacks among young Indian healthcare professionals. Experts cite long, erratic work hours, chronic stress, disrupted sleep, and neglected self-care as major contributors. The incident underscores an urgent need for doctors to prioritize their own heart health, as similar cases are increasingly reported among professionals in their 30s and 40s.

Dr Rajeev Kumar of Thiruvananthapuram General Hospital was arrested after a 26-year-old woman alleged medical negligence, claiming a 50-cm guide wire was left in her chest following thyroid surgery in March 2023. The patient suffered serious health complications, forcing her to quit her job. The incident prompted a state government probe and expert committee review, with authorities assuring support for removal or compensation. The doctor reportedly admitted the error but blamed the anaesthes...

Salk Institute researchers have identified a mitochondrial microprotein, SLC35A4-MP, that is essential for maintaining mitochondrial structure and regulating metabolic stress in mouse brown fat cells. Loss of this microprotein led to impaired metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation under stress, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for obesity, aging, and metabolic diseases. The findings, published in Science Advances, suggest microproteins play crucial roles in ...

Dr. Mahesh Devnani, Medical Superintendent of AIIMS Jodhpur, resigned after allegedly being summoned and reprimanded by a former Union Minister and MP for refusing free treatment to the MP’s wife, citing hospital rules. The incident led the AIIMS administration to issue a directive to all doctors to maintain proper etiquette towards MPs and their families. Dr. Devnani continues to serve at AIIMS but has formally submitted his resignation.

Emerging evidence highlights that acute infections, both viral (like influenza) and bacterial (such as pneumonia and bacteremia), can sharply increase the risk of myocardial infarction (MI), especially within the first week post-infection. Inflammatory responses and prothrombotic states triggered by infections destabilize atherosclerotic plaques and can precipitate both Type 1 and Type 2 MI. This underscores the importance of infection prevention and management in cardiovascular risk reduction.

After urgent talks, AHPI has revoked its suspension of cashless services for Bajaj Allianz policyholders, averting major disruption for patients in North India. Hospitals and insurers agreed to address rate revisions and claim settlement issues, ensuring continued seamless access to cashless care and reducing financial stress for both patients and providers.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has declared legible medical prescriptions a fundamental patient right under Article 21, mandating all doctors in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh to use capital letters or typed prescriptions until full digitalization. The court directed the Union of India to issue minimum standards and asked the NMC to include legibility in medical curricula, aiming to reduce medication errors and legal risks.

A large retrospective cohort study using the MIMIC-IV database found that long-acting glucocorticoid therapy significantly reduced ICU mortality in critically ill adults with sepsis and acute respiratory failure. Among 10,707 patients, those receiving long-acting glucocorticoids had better survival compared to unexposed and short-acting glucocorticoid groups, even after adjusting for disease severity and treatment factors. Subgroup analysis showed pronounced benefits in patients with cancer a...

Reliance Foundation announces a 2,000-bed medical city in Mumbai featuring AI-enabled diagnostics, advanced medical equipment, and a teaching hospital. This project will serve as a major training and care hub, integrating cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to elevate clinical standards and patient outcomes for Mumbai and beyond.

Teva Pharmaceuticals has launched the first generic GLP-1 agonist (liraglutide, Saxenda) for obesity, addressing rising demand and potentially lowering costs. Indian clinicians may soon access affordable GLP-1 therapy for adults and adolescents with obesity, expanding options for weight management.