Basicmedical Key

Intestinal Obstruction Mechanical obstruction of the bowel may be simple (one-point obstruction) or closed loop (obstruction at two points enclosing a segment of bowel). If the bowel is viable, the…

Jaundice Jaundice is yellow discoloration of the tissues, noticed especially in the skin and sclera (Figs 28, 37), due to accumulation of bilirubin. For jaundice to be clinically apparent, the…

Hepatomegaly Hepatomegaly is enlargement of the liver. The most common causes in the UK are cirrhosis, cardiac failure and secondary malignancy. Causes Hepatitis/Infection Acute • Alcohol • Viruses • Bacteria • Protozoans • Parasites Chronic…

Weight Loss Unintentional weight loss is often a manifestation of significant underlying disease and should never be ignored. Causes Systemic Disease • Malignancy • Cardiac failure • Chronic respiratory disease • Renal failure • Liver…

Visual Problems As the sense of sight is critical, patients who present with visual disturbance are often very distressed. Below is a list of common conditions that may give rise…

Palpitations Palpitation is an awareness of the heartbeat; although benign in the vast majority, palpitations are occasionally a manifestation of a life-threatening disorder. Causes Sinus Tachycardia • Anxiety/emotional stress • Caffeine • Nicotine…

Mouth Ulcers Ulceration in the mouth is common. It is important to be able to distinguish between simple benign ulcers, e.g. traumatic or aphthous, and those that are malignant. Tongue…

Vaginal Discharge Vaginal discharge can occur at any age but is usually a symptom of reproductive years. Causes • Candidiasis • Bacterial vaginosis • Trichomonas vaginosis (Fig. 63) • Cervicitis, e.g. gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, herpes…

Oedema Oedema is the accumulation of excessive fluid in the subcutaneous tissue. When oedema results from lymphatic stasis, the term lymphoedema is used. Oedema may be pitting or non-pitting. Subcutaneous…

Leg Ulcers An ulcer is a discontinuity of an epithelial surface. Leg ulcers are common and the site of an ulcer on the leg may provide a clue to its…