The Role of the Physical Examination in the Evaluation of Headache.

Med Clin North Am. 2013 Mar;97(2):197-216

Authors: Donohoe CD

Abstract
The most critical element in headache evaluation is the history. The targeted history differentiates primary from secondary headaches and provides a realistic list of conditions associated with secondary headache. Several of these conditions present with specific physical findings, such as papilledema, Horner's syndrome, or a cranial nerve palsy. The targeted physical examination of the patient with headache takes less than 3 minutes. The ability to recognize a few straightforward clinical findings directs the evaluation in the proper direction.

PMID: 23419621 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Diabetes management in the kidney patient.

Med Clin North Am. 2013 Jan;97(1):135-56

Authors: Garg R, Williams ME

Abstract

Hyperglycemia management in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients presents difficult challenges, partly due to the complexity involved in treating these patients, and partly due to lack of data supporting benefits of tight glycemic control. While hyperglycemia is central to the pathogenesis and management of diabetes, hypoglycemia and glucose variability also contribute to outcomes. Multiple agents with different mechanisms of action are now available; some can lower glucose levels without the risk of hypoglycemia. This article reviews metabolic changes present in kidney impairment/failure, current views about glycemic goals, and treatment options for the diabetic patient with CKD.

PMID: 23290735 [PubMed - in process]

Intra-abdominal and Pelvic Emergencies.

Med Clin North Am. 2012 Nov;96(6):1171-91

Authors: Singh S, Khardori NM

Abstract

The diversity in intra-abdominal/pelvic infections is more than any other organ system. Several clinical scenarios can end up in intra-abdominal infections. The common causes include penetrating abdominal trauma, abdominal surgery, diverticulitis, appendicitis, pancreatitis, biliary disease, perforated viscus, and primary peritonitis. Intra-abdominal infections can masquerade as fever of obscure origin or as dysfunction of neighboring organs, such as lower lobe pneumonia related to a subphrenic abscess or an abscess causing small bowel obstruction. An urgent surgical intervention is the mainstay of the management of serious intra-abdominal infections.

PMID: 23102483 [PubMed - in process]