Key Points Print Section Listen Vaginal discharge is a common presenting complaint in reproductive-age women. Possible diagnoses include vaginitis, cervicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Clinical evaluation for the diagnosis…
Key Points Print Section Listen A high index of suspicion is needed for the initial diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), particularly in the context of atypical presenting symptoms. Consider…
Key Points Print Section Listen Differentiate a contaminated urinalysis from urinary tract infection (UTI). Obtain a catheterized urine specimen when the diagnosis is in question. Send a urine culture only…
Key Points Print Section Listen The classic presentation of mesenteric ischemia is acute abdominal pain that is “out of proportion” to exam. The majority of patients with mesenteric ischemia have…
Key Points Print Section Listen The classic triad of meningitis includes fever, neck stiffness, and altered mental status. However, all 3 of these are present less than half of patients…
Key Points Print Section Listen Intestinal obstruction presents with acute abdominal pain, abdominal distension, and vomiting. Abdominal radiographs can demonstrate obstruction, but computed tomography is more sensitive. Intestinal obstruction is…
Key Points Print Section Listen A blood or body fluid exposure refers to contact with potentially infected fluids through non-intact skin, mucous membranes, or skin penetrated by a sharp object….
Key Points Print Section Listen Diagnosis of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is frequently missed or delayed. The most common misdiagnosis is renal colic. AAA must be considered in any…
