New-onset headache or visual disturbance in an older patient should always prompt consideration of giant cell arteritis. Early recognition, prompt treatment and close liaison with a rheumatologist are essential to prevent serious and potentially permanent complications.
Functional neurological disorder is a common yet often misunderstood condition in which patients experience genuine neurological symptoms without structural disease. Early recognition, clear explanation to patients and collaborative care are key to improving outcomes and reducing unnecessary investigations.
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune condition characterised by loss of skin pigmentation, often with significant psychosocial impact. Advances in understanding its immune pathways have led to new, targeted therapies such as ruxolitinib, offering improved disease control and quality of life for patients.
The approval of donanemab introduces Australia’s first disease-modifying treatment for early Alzheimer’s disease. GPs will be central to identifying eligible patients, supporting shared care and ensuring safe monitoring during therapy.
Buruli ulcer cases are rising across coastal and now suburban Victoria. Multiple lines of evidence implicate mosquitoes and possums in transmission, while early recognition, appropriate antibiotic therapy and mosquito control remain central to prevention and management.
Kriti Agnihotri, Vijay Reina Durai, Minas T. Coroneo
Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that requires long-term use of eye drops to prevent vision loss. However, this treatment can cause ocular surface disease in up to 60% of patients, affecting quality of life and treatment adherence.