Week 3 - Red Flag Symptoms and Signs

Question 1

what are red flags?

Answer 1

signs/symptoms which indicate a serious underlying pathology such as tumour, infection or spondylolisthesis

Question 2

what are 4 spine red flags?

Answer 2

back pain in younger patient (<20)
new back pain in older patient (>60)
nature of pain - constant, severe, worse at night
systemic upset

Question 3

what can back pain in <20s indicate?

Answer 3

young children - infections (osteomyelitis, discitis)

adolescents - spondylolisthesis, benign and malignant primary bone tumours

Question 4

what can new back pain in <60s indicate?

Answer 4

arthritis change
crush fracture
higher neoplasia risk

Question 5

describe pain due to tumour or infection?

Answer 5

constant, unremitting, severe and worse at night

Question 6

what systemic symptoms can indicate an underlying tumour or infection?

Answer 6

fevers
night sweats
weight loss
fatigue
malaise