Abdominal Wall Pain: Clinical Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, and Treatment - ...
Oct 1, 2018 - Abdominal wall pain is often mistaken for intra-abdominal visceral pain, resulting in expensive and unnecessary laboratory tests, imaging studies, consultations, and invasive procedures. Those evaluations generally are nondiagnostic, and lingering pain can become frustrating to the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1001/p429.html
Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatment Options - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2018 - Many Americans between 45 and 65 years of age experience hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidal size, thrombosis, and location (i.e., proximal or distal to the dentate line) determine the extent of pain or discomfort. The history and physical examination must assess for risk factors and clinical ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0201/p172.html
Pleuritic Chest Pain: Sorting Through the Differential Diagnosis - American Family ...
Sep 1, 2017 - Pleuritic chest pain is characterized by sudden and intense sharp, stabbing, or burning pain in the chest when inhaling and exhaling. Pulmonary embolism is the most common serious cause, found in 5% to 21% of patients who present to an emergency department with pleuritic chest pain. A ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0901/p306.html
Noninfectious Penile Lesions - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2018 - Noninfectious penile lesions are classified by clinical presentation as papulosquamous (e.g., psoriasis), inflammatory (e.g., lichen sclerosus, lichen nitidus, lichen planus), vascular (e.g., angiokeratomas), or neoplastic (e.g., carcinoma in situ, invasive squamous cell carcinoma). ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0115/p102.html
Acute and Chronic Paronychia - American Family Physician
Jul 1, 2017 - Paronychia is inflammation of the fingers or toes in one or more of the three nail folds. Acute paronychia is caused by polymicrobial infections after the protective nail barrier has been breached. Treatment consists of warm soaks with or without Burow solution or 1% acetic acid. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0701/p44.html
Unexplained Lymphadenopathy: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis - American Family ...
Dec 1, 2016 - Lymphadenopathy is benign and self-limited in most patients. Etiologies include malignancy, infection, and autoimmune disorders, as well as medications and iatrogenic causes. The history and physical examination alone usually identify the cause of lymphadenopathy. When the cause is ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1201/p896.html
Hemolytic Anemia: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis - American Family Physician
Sep 15, 2018 - Hemolytic anemia is defined by the premature destruction of red blood cells, and can be chronic or life-threatening. It should be part of the differential diagnosis for any normocytic or macrocytic anemia. Hemolysis may occur intravascularly, extravascularly in the reticuloendothelial ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0915/p354.html
Dizziness: Approach to Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2017 - Dizziness is a common yet imprecise symptom. It was traditionally divided into four categories based on the patient’s history: vertigo, presyncope, disequilibrium, and light-headedness. However, the distinction between these symptoms is of limited clinical usefulness. Patients have ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0201/p154.html
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding in Premenopausal Women - American Family Physician
Apr 1, 2019 - Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common symptom in women. The acronym PALM-COEIN facilitates classification, with PALM referring to structural etiologies (polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy and hyperplasia), and COEIN referring to nonstructural etiologies (coagulopathy, ovulatory ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0401/p435.html
Kidney Stones: Treatment and Prevention - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2019 - Kidney stones are a common disorder, with an annual incidence of eight cases per 1,000 adults. During an episode of renal colic, the first priority is to rule out conditions requiring immediate referral to an emergency department, then to alleviate pain, preferably with a nonsteroidal ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0415/p490.html
Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Recognition and Management - American Family Physician
Dec 15, 2020 - Degenerative cervical myelopathy encompasses a collection of pathologic conditions that result in progressive spinal cord dysfunction secondary to cord compression. Patients are typically male (3: 1 male-to-female ratio), and the average age of presentation is 64 years. The exact ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1215/p740.html
Gout: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2020 - Gout is caused by monosodium urate crystal deposition in joints and tissues. Risk factors include male sex; obesity; hypertension; alcohol intake; diuretic use; a diet rich in meat and seafood; chronic kidney disease; a diet heavy in fructose-rich food and beverages; being a member of ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1101/p533.html
Mechanical Low Back Pain - American Family Physician
Oct 1, 2018 - Low back pain is usually nonspecific or mechanical. Mechanical low back pain arises intrinsically from the spine, intervertebral disks, or surrounding soft tissues. Clinical clues, or red flags, may help identify cases of nonmechanical low back pain and prompt further evaluation or ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1001/p421.html
Evaluation of Neck Masses in Adults - American Family Physician
May 15, 2015 - Neck masses are often seen in clinical practice, and the family physician should be able to determine the etiology of a mass using organized, efficient diagnostic methods. The first goal is to determine if the mass is malignant or benign; malignancies are more common in adult smokers ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0515/p698.html
Diagnosis and Management of Sodium Disorders: Hyponatremia and Hypernatremia - American...
Mar 1, 2015 - Hyponatremia and hypernatremia are common findings in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Sodium disorders are associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Plasma osmolality plays a critical role in the pathophysiology and treatment of sodium disorders. Hyponatremia ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0301/p299.html
Disorders of Puberty: An Approach to Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2017 - Disorders of puberty can profoundly impact physical and psychosocial well-being. Precocious puberty is pubertal onset before eight years of age in girls and before nine years of age in boys. Patients with early isolated pubertal changes, prepubertal linear growth, and no worrisome ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1101/p590.html
Acute Migraine Headache: Treatment Strategies - American Family Physician
Feb 15, 2018 - Migraine is a primary headache disorder characterized by recurrent attacks. Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, triptans, antiemetics, ergot alkaloids, and combination analgesics have evidence supporting their effectiveness in the treatment of migraine. Acetaminophen ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0215/p243.html
Chronic Diarrhea in Adults: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis - American Family ...
Apr 15, 2020 - Chronic diarrhea is defined as a predominantly loose stool lasting longer than four weeks. A patient history and physical examination with a complete blood count, C-reactive protein, anti-tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A (IgA), total IgA, and a basic metabolic panel are useful ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0415/p472.html
Acne Vulgaris: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2019 - Acne vulgaris is the most prevalent chronic skin disease in the United States, affecting nearly 50 million people per year, mostly adolescents and young adults. Potential sequelae of acne, such as scarring, dyspigmentation, and low self-esteem, may result in significant morbidity. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1015/p475.html
Atopic Dermatitis: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
May 15, 2020 - Atopic dermatitis (atopic eczema) is a chronic relapsing and remitting inflammatory skin disease affecting one in 10 people in their lifetime. Atopic dermatitis is caused by a complex interaction of immune dysregulation, epidermal gene mutations, and environmental factors that disrupts ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0515/p590.html
Dysuria: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis in Adults - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2015 - The most common cause of acute dysuria is infection, especially cystitis. Other infectious causes include urethritis, sexually transmitted infections, and vaginitis. Noninfectious inflammatory causes include a foreign body in the urinary tract and dermatologic conditions. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1101/p778.html
Uterine Fibroids: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2017 - Uterine fibroids are common benign neoplasms, with a higher prevalence in older women and in those of African descent. Many are discovered incidentally on clinical examination or imaging in asymptomatic women. Fibroids can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pressure, bowel ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0115/p100.html
Pityriasis Rosea: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
Jan 1, 2018 - Pityriasis rosea is a common self-limiting rash that usually starts with a herald patch on the trunk and progresses along the Langer lines to a generalized rash over the trunk and limbs. The diagnosis is based on clinical and physical examination findings. The herald patch is an ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0101/p38.html
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Dec 15, 2016 - Carpal tunnel syndrome, the most common entrapment neuropathy of the upper extremity, is caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel. Classically, patients with the condition experience pain and paresthesias in the distribution of the median nerve, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1215/p993.html
A Stepwise Approach to the Interpretation of Pulmonary Function Tests - American Family...
Mar 1, 2014 - Office-based pulmonary function testing, also known as spirometry, is a powerful tool for primary care physicians to diagnose and manage respiratory problems. An obstructive defect is indicated by a low forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) ratio, which...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0301/p359.html
Persistent Night Sweats: Diagnostic Evaluation - American Family Physician
Oct 1, 2020 - Night sweats are a nonspecific symptom that patients commonly experience but rarely discuss with their physicians without prompting. Although many life-threatening causes such as malignancies or infections have been described, most patients who report persistent night sweats in the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1001/p427.html
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Diagnosis and Management - American Family ...
Apr 1, 2017 - The diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should be suspected in patients with risk factors (primarily a history of smoking) who report dyspnea at rest or with exertion, chronic cough with or without sputum production, or a history of wheezing. COPD may be suspected ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0401/p433.html
Diagnosis and Management of Tinea Infections - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2014 - Tinea infections are caused by dermatophytes and are classified by the involved site. The most common infections in prepubertal children are tinea corporis and tinea capitis, whereas adolescents and adults are more likely to develop tinea cruris, tinea pedis, and tinea unguium ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1115/p702.html
Knee Pain in Adults and Adolescents: The Initial Evaluation - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2018 - Knee pain affects approximately 25% of adults, and its prevalence has increased almost 65% over the past 20 years, accounting for nearly 4 million primary care visits annually. Initial evaluation should emphasize excluding urgent causes while considering the need for referral. Key ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1101/p576.html
Anaphylaxis: Recognition and Management - American Family Physician
Sep 15, 2020 - Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening systemic reaction, normally occurring within one to two hours of exposure to an allergen. The incidence of anaphylaxis in the United States is 2.1 per 1,000 person-years. Most anaphylactic reactions occur outside the hospital setting. Urticaria, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0915/p355.html
Bartholin Duct Cyst and Gland Abscess: Office Management - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2019 - The Bartholin glands, located in the base of the labia minora, have a role in vaginal lubrication. Because of the presence of other glands, removal of a Bartholin gland does not affect lubrication. Ductal blockage of these typically pea-sized structures can result in enlargement of the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0615/p760.html
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2019 - Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common causes of anterior knee pain encountered in the outpatient setting in adolescents and adults younger than 60 years. The incidence in the United States is between 3% and 6%. The cardinal feature of PFPS is pain in or around ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0115/p88.html
Muscle Weakness in Adults: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis - American Family ...
Jan 15, 2020 - Although the prevalence of muscle weakness in the general population is uncertain, it occurs in about 5% of U.S. adults 60 years and older. Determining the cause of muscle weakness can be challenging. True muscle weakness must first be differentiated from subjective fatigue or ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0115/p95.html
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Primary Care Approach to Diagnosis and Management - ...
Aug 15, 2016 - Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects many systems, including the skin, musculoskeletal, renal, neuropsychiatric, hematologic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and reproductive systems. Family physicians should be familiar with the manifestations of lupus to aid ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0815/p284.html
Gastroenteritis in Children - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2019 - Acute gastroenteritis is defined as a diarrheal disease of rapid onset, with or without nausea, vomiting, fever, or abdominal pain. In the United States, acute gastroenteritis accounts for 1.5 million office visits, 200,000 hospitalizations, and 300 deaths in children each year. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0201/p159.html
Epididymitis: An Overview - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2016 - Inflammation of the epididymis, or epididymitis, is commonly seen in the outpatient setting. Etiology and treatment are based on patient age and the likely causative organisms. Epididymitis presents as the gradual onset of posterior scrotal pain that may be accompanied by urinary ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1101/p723.html
Acute Bacterial Prostatitis: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2016 - Acute bacterial prostatitis is an acute infection of the prostate gland that causes pelvic pain and urinary tract symptoms, such as dysuria, urinary frequency, and urinary retention, and may lead to systemic symptoms, such as fevers, chills, nausea, emesis, and malaise. Although the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0115/p114.html
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2020 - Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is noncardiogenic pulmonary edema that manifests as rapidly progressive dyspnea, tachypnea, and hypoxemia. Diagnostic criteria include onset within one week of a known insult or new or worsening respiratory symptoms, profound hypoxemia, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0615/p730.html
Plantar Fasciitis - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2019 - Plantar fasciitis is a common problem that one in 10 people will experience in their lifetime. Plantar fasciopathy is an appropriate descriptor because the condition is not inflammatory. Risk factors include limited ankle dorsiflexion, increased body mass index, and standing for ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0615/p744.html
Diagnosis and Management of Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults - American Family Physician
Mar 15, 2016 - Nephrotic syndrome (NS) consists of peripheral edema, heavy proteinuria, and hypoalbuminemia, often with hyperlipidemia. Patients typically present with edema and fatigue, without evidence of heart failure or severe liver disease. The diagnosis of NS is based on typical clinical ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0315/p479.html
Frequent Headaches: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician
Apr 1, 2020 - Most frequent headaches are typically migraine or tension-type headaches and are often exacerbated by medication overuse. Repeated headaches can induce central sensitization and transformation to chronic headaches that are intractable, are difficult to treat, and cause significant ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0401/p419.html
Diagnosis and Management of Sarcoidosis - American Family Physician
May 15, 2016 - Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease of unknown etiology characterized by the presence of noncaseating granulomas in any organ, most commonly the lungs and intrathoracic lymph nodes. A diagnosis of sarcoidosis should be suspected in any young or middle-aged adult presenting with ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0515/p840.html
Croup: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
May 1, 2018 - Croup is a common respiratory illness affecting 3% of children six months to three years of age. It accounts for 7% of hospitalizations annually for fever and/or acute respiratory illness in children younger than five years. Croup is a manifestation of upper airway obstruction resulting...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0501/p575.html
Inguinal Hernias: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2020 - Groin hernias are caused by a defect of the abdominal wall in the groin area and comprise inguinal and femoral hernias. Inguinal hernias are more common in men. Although groin hernias are easily diagnosed on physical examination in men, ultrasonography is often needed in women. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/1015/p487.html
Evaluation of the Painful Eye - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2016 - Eye problems constitute 2% to 3% of all primary care and emergency department visits. Common eye conditions that can cause eye pain are conjunctivitis, corneal abrasion, and hordeolum, and some of the most serious eye conditions include acute angle-closure glaucoma, orbital cellulitis, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0615/p991.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Peptic Ulcer Disease and H. pylori Infection - American ...
Feb 15, 2015 - The most common causes of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) are Helicobacter pylori infection and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The test-and-treat strategy for detecting H. pylori is appropriate in situations where the risk of gastric cancer is low based on age younger ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0215/p236.html
Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2019 - Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic folliculitis affecting intertriginous areas. Onset generally occurs in young adulthood to middle adulthood (18 to 39 years of age). Females and blacks are more than twice as likely to be affected. Additional risk factors include family history, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1101/p562.html
Diagnosis and Management of Acute Diverticulitis - American Family Physician
May 1, 2013 - Uncomplicated diverticulitis is localized diverticular inflammation, whereas complicated diverticulitis is diverticular inflammation associated with an abscess, phlegmon, fistula, obstruction, bleeding, or perforation. Patients with acute diverticulitis may present with left lower ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0501/p612.html
Intestinal Obstruction: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician
Sep 15, 2018 - Acute intestinal obstruction occurs when the forward flow of intestinal contents is interrupted or impaired by a mechanical cause. It is most commonly induced by intra-abdominal adhesions, malignancy, and herniation. The clinical presentation generally includes nausea, emesis, colicky ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0915/p362.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2015 - Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition in infants, adolescents, and adults. The characteristic symptoms—scaling, erythema, and itching—occur most often on the scalp, face, chest, back, axilla, and groin. Seborrheic dermatitis is a clinical diagnosis based on the location and ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0201/p185.html
Evaluation of the Patient with Hip Pain - American Family Physician
Jan 1, 2014 - Hip pain is a common and disabling condition that affects patients of all ages. The differential diagnosis of hip pain is broad, presenting a diagnostic challenge. Patients often express that their hip pain is localized to one of three anatomic regions: the anterior hip and groin, the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0101/p27.html
Management of External Genital Warts - American Family Physician
Sep 1, 2014 - Genital warts affect 1% of the sexually active U.S. population and are commonly seen in primary care. Human papillomavirus types 6 and 11 are responsible for most genital warts. Warts vary from small, flat-topped papules to large, cauliflower-like lesions on the anogenital mucosa and ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0901/p312.html
Impetigo: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
Aug 15, 2014 - Impetigo is the most common bacterial skin infection in children two to five years of age. There are two principal types: nonbullous (70% of cases) and bullous (30% of cases). Nonbullous impetigo, or impetigo contagiosa, is caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, and ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0815/p229.html
Evaluation of Elbow Pain in Adults - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2014 - The elbow is a complex joint designed to withstand a wide range of dynamic exertional forces. The location and quality of elbow pain can generally localize the injury to one of the four anatomic regions: anterior, medial, lateral, or posterior. The history should include questions about...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0415/p649.html
Chronic Dyspnea: Diagnosis and Evaluation - American Family Physician
May 1, 2020 - Dyspnea is a symptom arising from a complex interplay of diseases and physiologic states and is commonly encountered in primary care. It is considered chronic if present for more than one month. As a symptom, dyspnea is a predictor for all-cause mortality. The likeliest causes of ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0501/p542.html
Acute Hand Infections - American Family Physician
Feb 15, 2019 - Acute hand infections are often caused by puncture wounds and are generally classified into superficial or deep infections. Superficial infections occur in the skin and subcutaneous tissues, whereas deep infections can involve the tendon sheaths, adjacent anatomic compartments, deep ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0215/p228.html
Genital Ulcers: Differential Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Mar 15, 2020 - Genital ulcers may be located on the vagina, penis, and anorectal or perineal areas and may be infectious or noninfectious. Herpes simplex virus is the most common cause of genital ulcers in the United States. A diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus infection is made through ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0315/p355.html
Nonoperative Management of Cervical Radiculopathy - American Family Physician
May 1, 2016 - Cervical radiculopathy describes pain in one or both of the upper extremities, often in the setting of neck pain, secondary to compression or irritation of nerve roots in the cervical spine. It can be accompanied by motor, sensory, or reflex deficits and is most prevalent in persons 50 ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0501/p746.html
Ectopic Pregnancy: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
May 15, 2020 - Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized ovum implants outside of the uterine cavity. In the United States, the estimated prevalence of ectopic pregnancy is 1% to 2%, and ruptured ectopic pregnancy accounts for 2.7% of pregnancy-related deaths. Risk factors include a history of pelvic...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0515/p599.html
Treatment of the Common Cold - American Family Physician
Sep 1, 2019 - Acute upper respiratory tract infections are extremely common in adults and children, but only a few safe and effective treatments are available. Patients typically present with nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sore throat, cough, general malaise, and/or low-grade fever. Informing patients...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0901/p281.html
Benign Anorectal Conditions: Evaluation and Management - American Family Physician
Jan 1, 2020 - Common anorectal conditions include hemorrhoids, perianal pruritus, anal fissures, functional rectal pain, perianal abscess, condyloma, rectal prolapse, and fecal incontinence. Although these are benign conditions, symptoms can be similar to those of cancer, so malignancy should be ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0101/p24.html
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention - American Family ...
Sep 15, 2019 - Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the upper genital tract occurring predominantly in sexually active young women. Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are common causes; however, other cervical, enteric, bacterial vaginosis–associated, and respiratory ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0915/p357.html
Erythema Multiforme: Recognition and Management - American Family Physician
Jul 15, 2019 - Erythema multiforme is an immune-mediated reaction that involves the skin and sometimes the mucosa. Classically described as target-like, the erythema multiforme lesions can be isolated, recurrent, or persistent. Most commonly, the lesions of erythema multiforme present symmetrically on...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0715/p82.html
Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Evaluation and Management - American Family ...
Feb 15, 2020 - Evaluation and management of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding focus on etiologies originating distally to the ligament of Treitz. Diverticular disease is the most common source, accounting for 40% of cases. Hemorrhoids, angiodysplasia, infectious colitis, and inflammatory bowel ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0215/p206.html
Adhesive Capsulitis: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2019 - Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, is a common shoulder condition characterized by pain and decreased range of motion, especially in external rotation. Adhesive capsulitis is predominantly an idiopathic condition and has an increased prevalence in patients with diabetes...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0301/p297.html
Back Pain in Children and Adolescents - American Family Physician
Jul 1, 2020 - Back pain is a relatively common presenting symptom in children and adolescents. Typical causes include muscle strain or spasm, spinal deformities (e.g., Scheuermann kyphosis, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis), spondylolysis, bulging or herniated intervertebral disks, apophysitis of the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0701/p19.html
Heel Pain: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Jan 15, 2018 - The differential diagnosis of heel pain is extensive, but a mechanical etiology is the most common. The specific anatomic location of the pain can help guide diagnosis. The most common diagnosis is plantar fasciitis, which leads to medial plantar heel pain, especially with the first ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0115/p86.html
Recurrent Abdominal Pain in Children - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2018 - Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) in children is defined as at least three episodes of pain that occur over at least three months and affect the child’s ability to perform normal activities. RAP is most often considered functional (nonorganic) abdominal pain, but an organic cause is found ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0615/p785.html
Intertrigo and Secondary Skin Infections - American Family Physician
Apr 1, 2014 - Intertrigo is a superficial inflammatory dermatitis occurring on two closely opposed skin surfaces as a result of moisture, friction, and lack of ventilation. Bodily secretions, including perspiration, urine, and feces, often exacerbate skin inflammation. Physical examination of skin ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0401/p569.html
Evaluation and Treatment of Constipation in Children and Adolescents - American Family ...
Jul 15, 2014 - Childhood constipation is common and almost always functional without an organic etiology. Stool retention can lead to fecal incontinence in some patients. Often, a medical history and physical examination are sufficient to diagnose functional constipation. Further evaluation for ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0715/p82.html
Lice and Scabies: Treatment Update - American Family Physician
May 15, 2019 - Pediculosis and scabies are caused by ectoparasites. Pruritus is the most common presenting symptom. Head and pubic lice infestations are diagnosed with visualization of live lice. Nits (lice eggs or egg casings) alone are not sufficient to diagnose a current infestation. A no-nit ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0515/p635.html
Evaluation of Short and Tall Stature in Children - American Family Physician
Jul 1, 2015 - Short stature is defined as a height more than two standard deviations below the mean for age (less than the 3rd percentile). Tall stature is defined as a height more than two standard deviations above the mean for age (greater than the 97th percentile). The initial evaluation of short ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0701/p43.html
Chronic Pancreatitis: Diagnosis and Treatment - American Family Physician
Mar 15, 2018 - Chronic pancreatitis is an irreversible and progressive disorder of the pancreas characterized by inflammation, fibrosis, and scarring. Exocrine and endocrine functions are lost, often leading to chronic pain. The etiology is multifactorial, although alcoholism is the most significant ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0315/p385.html
Diabetic Kidney Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2019 - Globally, approximately 20% of the 400 million individuals with diabetes mellitus have diabetic kidney disease (DKD). DKD is associated with higher cardiovascular and all-cause morbidity and mortality, so timely diagnosis and treatment are critical. Screening for early DKD is best done ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0615/p751.html
Acute Pancreatitis - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2014 - Acute pancreatitis is most commonly caused by gallstones or chronic alcohol use, and accounts for more than 200,000 hospital admissions annually. Using the Atlanta criteria, acute pancreatitis is diagnosed when a patient presents with two of three findings, including abdominal pain ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1101/p632.html
Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Evaluation and Treatment - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2013 - Diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by a serum glucose level greater than 250 mg per dL, a pH less than 7.3, a serum bicarbonate level less than 18 mEq per L, an elevated serum ketone level, and dehydration. Insulin deficiency is the main precipitating factor. Diabetic ketoacidosis ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0301/p337.html
Common Questions About Oppositional Defiant Disorder - American Family Physician
Apr 1, 2016 - Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a disruptive behavior disorder characterized by a pattern of angry or irritable mood, argumentative or defiant behavior, or vindictiveness lasting for at least six months. Children and adolescents with ODD may have trouble controlling their temper ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0401/p586.html
Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever) in Primary Care - American Family Physician
Feb 15, 2020 - Primary pulmonary coccidioidomycosis (valley fever) is caused by inhaling airborne spores of the fungus Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii. Residing in or traveling to areas endemic for Coccidioides is required for the diagnosis; no person-to-person or zoonotic contagion ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2020/0215/p221.html
Evaluation and Management of Orthostatic Hypotension - American Family Physician
Sep 1, 2011 - Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a decrease in systolic blood pressure of 20 mm Hg or a decrease in diastolic blood pressure of 10 mm Hg within three minutes of standing when compared with blood pressure from the sitting or supine position. It results from an inadequate physiologic...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0901/p527.html
Diagnosis and Management of Kawasaki Disease - American Family Physician
Mar 15, 2015 - Kawasaki disease is an acute, systemic vasculitis that predominantly affects patients younger than five years. It represents the most prominent cause of acquired coronary artery disease in childhood. In the United States, 19 per 100,000 children younger than five years are hospitalized ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0315/p365.html
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2017 - Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) result from intrauterine exposure to alcohol and are the most common nonheritable causes of intellectual disability. The percentage of women who drink or binge drink during pregnancy has increased since 2012. FAS ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/1015/p515.html
Evaluation and Diagnosis of Wrist Pain: A Case-Based Approach - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2013 - Patients with wrist pain commonly present with an acute injury or spontaneous onset of pain without a definite traumatic event. A fall onto an outstretched hand can lead to a scaphoid fracture, which is the most commonly fractured carpal bone. Conventional radiography alone can miss up ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0415/p568.html
Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Rapid Evidence Review - American Family Physician
Oct 1, 2019 - Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is caused by human enteroviruses and coxsackieviruses. Outbreaks can occur in the spring to fall and are common in North America, and most cases occur in patients younger than 10 years. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is transmitted by fecal-oral, oral-oral, and ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1001/p408.html
Hirsutism in Women - American Family Physician
Aug 1, 2019 - Hirsutism is the excessive growth of terminal hair in a typical male pattern in a female. It is often a sign of excessive androgen levels. Although many conditions can lead to hirsutism, polycystic ovary syndrome and idiopathic hyperandrogenism account for more than 85% of cases. Less ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0801/p168.html
Aseptic and Bacterial Meningitis: Evaluation, Treatment, and Prevention - American ...
Sep 1, 2017 - The etiologies of meningitis range in severity from benign and self-limited to life-threatening with potentially severe morbidity. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment. Mortality remains high despite the introduction of vaccinations ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0901/p314.html
Acute Abdominal Pain in Children - American Family Physician
May 15, 2016 - Acute abdominal pain accounts for approximately 9% of childhood primary care office visits. Symptoms and signs that increase the likelihood of a surgical cause for pain include fever, bilious vomiting, bloody diarrhea, absent bowel sounds, voluntary guarding, rigidity, and rebound ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0515/p830.html
Conduct Disorder: Recognition and Management - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2018 - Conduct disorder is a psychiatric syndrome that most commonly occurs in childhood and adolescence. It is characterized by symptoms of aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules. Risk factors include male sex, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/1115/p584.html
Renal Cell Carcinoma: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Feb 1, 2019 - Kidney cancer is one of the 10 most common cancers in the United States with 90% being attributed to renal cell carcinoma. Men, especially black men, are more likely to be affected than women. Renal masses, either cystic or solid, are best detected with contrast-enhanced, triple-phase ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0201/p179.html
Evaluation and Management of Neck Masses in Children - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2014 - Neck masses in children usually fall into one of three categories: developmental, inflammatory/reactive, or neoplastic. Common congenital developmental masses in the neck include thyroglossal duct cysts, branchial cleft cysts, dermoid cysts, vascular malformations, and hemangiomas. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0301/p353.html
Stuttering: Understanding and Treating a Common Disability - American Family Physician
Nov 1, 2019 - Childhood-onset fluency disorder, the most common form of stuttering, is a neurologic disability resulting from an underlying brain abnormality that causes disfluent speech. Stuttering can lead to significant secondary effects, including negative self-perception and negative perception ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1101/p556.html
Specific Learning Disabilities: The Family Physician's Role - American Family Physician
Nov 15, 2019 - Academic underachievement, such as failing a class and the threat of being held back because of academic issues, is common. Family physicians can provide support and guidance for families as they approach their child’s unique academic challenges. Specific learning disabilities are a ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/1115/p628.html
Diagnosis and Initial Management of Dysmenorrhea - American Family Physician
Mar 1, 2014 - Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common causes of pelvic pain. It negatively affects patients’ quality of life and sometimes results in activity restriction. A history and physical examination, including a pelvic examination in patients who have had vaginal intercourse, may reveal the ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/0301/p341.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants and Children - American ...
Oct 15, 2015 - Gastroesophageal reflux is defined as the passage of stomach contents into the esophagus with or without accompanied regurgitation (spitting up) and vomiting. It is a normal physiologic process that occurs throughout the day in infants and less often in children and adolescents. ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/1015/p705.html
Recognition and Differential Diagnosis of Psychosis in Primary Care - American Family ...
Jun 15, 2015 - Psychosis is a symptom complex that may include hallucinations, delusions, disorders of thought, and disorganized speech or behavior. Acute psychosis is primary if it is symptomatic of a psychiatric disorder, or secondary if caused by a specific medical condition. Patients with primary ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2015/0615/p856.html
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in Women: Diagnosis and Management - American Family...
Sep 15, 2010 - Recurrent urinary tract infections, presenting as dysuria or irritative voiding symptoms, are most commonly caused by reinfection with the original bacterial isolate in young, otherwise healthy women with no anatomic or functional abnormalities of the urinary tract. Frequency of sexual ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2010/0915/p638.html
Heat-Related Illnesses - American Family Physician
Apr 15, 2019 - Heat-related illnesses comprise a spectrum of syndromes resulting from disruption of thermoregulation in people exposed to high environmental heat. Symptoms range from heat edema and exercise-associated muscle cramps to exercise-associated collapse, heat exhaustion, and life-threatening...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2019/0415/p482.html
Nocturnal Leg Cramps - American Family Physician
Aug 15, 2012 - Up to 60 percent of adults report that they have had nocturnal leg cramps. The recurrent, painful tightening usually occurs in the calf muscles and can cause severe insomnia. The exact mechanism is unknown, but the cramps are probably caused by muscle fatigue and nerve dysfunction ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0815/p350.html
Inguinal Hernias: Diagnosis and Management - American Family Physician
Jun 15, 2013 - Inguinal hernias are one of the most common reasons a primary care patient may need referral for surgical intervention. The history and physical examination are usually sufficient to make the diagnosis. Symptomatic patients often have groin pain, which can sometimes be severe. Inguinal ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0615/p844.html
Diagnosis of Heel Pain - American Family Physician
Oct 15, 2011 - Heel pain is a common presenting symptom in ambulatory clinics. There are many causes, but a mechanical etiology is most common. Location of pain can be a guide to the proper diagnosis. The most common diagnosis is plantar fasciitis, a condition that leads to medial plantar heel pain, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/1015/p909.html
Diagnosis and Treatment of Lichen Planus - American Family Physician
Jul 1, 2011 - Lichen planus is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease that affects the skin, oral mucosa, genital mucosa, scalp, and nails. Lichen planus lesions are described using the six P’s (planar [flat-topped], purple, polygonal, pruritic, papules, plaques). Onset is usually acute, ...
American Family Physician : Article
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0701/p53.html
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