Pyogenic Liver Abscess
Epidemiology and Etiology Epidemiology Etiology Types of liver abscesses: Risk factors: Pathophysiology The right lobe is the most common site of infection because of its larger size and blood supply. Multiple pathways exist to infect the liver with bacteria: Clinical Presentation Diagnosis Laboratory findings Imaging Management Medical management Initial broad-spectrum IV antibiotics Drainage strategies Complications […]
Primary Skin Lesions
Macule Patch Papule Plaque Nodule Vesicle Bulla Urticaria (Wheals or Hives) Pustule Telangiectasia Petechiae Purpura Approach to Diagnosing Skin Conditions Complete medical history Physical examination A general physical examination as well as a focused dermatological examination should be performed: Skin features and commonly associated skin conditions and/or lesions to consider: Diagnostic procedures References
Penile Cancer
Overview Epidemiology Overall, penile malignancies are rare. Highest incidence: age group 50–70 years In the United States: Estimated annual incidence of approximately 2000 new cases Average incidence: 1 in 100,000 men per year In highly industrial countries (United States, Europe, Canada), annual incidence rates are lower. Prevalence rates are 5–10 times higher in nonindustrialized countries. […]
Megaloblastic Anemia
Overview Definition Megaloblastic anemia is a subset of macrocytic anemias characterized by increased RBC size and an arrest in nuclear maturation arising from abnormal cell division in erythroid precursors. Epidemiology Folate deficiency has been less common in the United States owing to folic acid fortification of grain products and the use of prenatal vitamins. The […]
Botulism
Overview Definition Botulism is a rare, neuroparalytic syndrome caused by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), which releases a fatal neurotoxin (botulinum toxin), resulting in varying degrees of muscle paralysis and distinct clinical syndromes. Epidemiology Etiology Classification Infant botulism Foodborne botulism Wound botulism Iatrogenic botulism Adult intestinal toxemia Inhalation botulism Pathophysiology The means of exposure […]
Pulmonary Hypertension
Overview Definition Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is defined as elevated pulmonary arterial pressure. Epidemiology Secondary PH is much more common than the primary variant. The epidemiology of secondary PH is similar to the underlying condition. Primary PH/PAH: Anatomy review Blood flow through the cardiac and pulmonary circulation takes the following path: Classification and Etiology The WHO […]
Otitis Externa
Overview Definition Otitis externa is an infection of the external auditory canal. Epidemiology Etiology Risk factors Pathophysiology Defense mechanisms of the ear Pathogenesis of otitis externa Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis Symptoms Physical examination Diagnosis The diagnosis of otitis externa is based on the history and physical examination. Culture of the ear canal or discharge is […]
Coronary Heart Disease
Overview Definition Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the manifestation of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries such that there is an imbalance between oxygen supply and myocardial demands resulting in ischemia to a portion of the myocardium. Epidemiology Most common cause of death in the world Most common cardiovascular disease in the world Incidence rate: 0.6% […]
Respiratory Alkalosis
Overview Definition Respiratory alkalosis refers to the process that results in a decreased level of carbon dioxide (CO2) within the blood. Epidemiology Etiology Table: Etiologies of respiratory alkalosis Etiology Examples Physiologic (not pathologic) Pregnancy High altitude Hypoxia-induced Pulmonary embolism Pulmonary edema COPD or asthma exacerbations Medications Aspirin overdose Nicotine overdose Progesterone Intracranial processes Stroke Encephalitis […]
Respiratory Acidosis
Overview Definition Respiratory acidosis is the process that results in an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) due to abnormal gas exchange in the lungs. In primary respiratory acidosis, the arterial blood gas will show: Epidemiology Acid–Base Review Acid–base disorders are classified according to the primary disturbance (respiratory or metabolic) and the presence or absence of […]