5/16/13 Flashcards
What is the scary danger of correcting hyponatremia too quickly in a pt that is chronically hyponatremic (e.g. an alcoholic)?
central pontine myelinolysis = locked-in syndrome
What is the mechanism of central pontine myelinolysis?
osmotic gradient sucks water out of myelin
Sudden, severe back and le4g pain after lifting a heavy object. “Bolt of lightning” down leg at time of injury. Dx?
Herniated lumbar disc
What is the treatment for an uncomplicated herniated lumbar disc?
analgesics and wait for spontaneous resolution
What complication of a herniated disc has occurred if there is loss of sensation over perineum and loss of sphincter control?
cauda equina syndrome
What is the tx of herniated lumbar disc complicated by cauda equina syndrome?
surgical decompressionq
_______ is a disease of the palmar fascia that results in the shortening and thickening of fibrous bands in the hands and fingers. Palpable nodules are also classically present.
Dupuytren’s contracture
What is DeQuervain’s tenosynovitis?
an overuse tenosynovitis of the thumb abductors more commonly seen in women
How is stenosing tenosynovitis distinguishned from dupuytren’s contracture?
the former has intense pain and a history of overuse
What kind of esophageal cancer is more common in drinkers/smokers?
SCC
What kind of esophageal cancer is more common in pts w/ a long hx of GERD?
adenocarcinoma
Elderly pt presents w/ vague epigastric distress and early satiety. Also wt loss and anorexia.
Gastric cancer
Unilateral scrotal pain that is relieved by lifting the testes.
Epididymitis
What is the most common pathogen responsible for epididymitis?
Chlamydia trachomatis
What should be done to every pt presenting w/ unilateral scrotal pain to rule out testicular torsion?
Doppler US
