Basicmedical Key

Pruritus Ani Pruritus ani is itching around the anal canal. It is a common symptom and in approximately half of the cases, no cause can be found. Causes Anal Discharge…

Popliteal Swellings Popliteal swellings are not uncommon. The majority are easily diagnosed on clinical examination alone. Causes Superficial • Sebaceous cyst • Lipoma • Varix of the short saphenous vein Deep • Lipoma • Lymphadenopathy…

Scalp Lesions Lesions on the scalp are common; the most common are sebaceous cysts, which are often multiple. Causes Traumatic • Haematoma • Cephalhaematoma Cystic • Sebaceous cysts (epidermal cysts) (Fig. 55) Figure…

Throat Conditions A sore throat is an extremely common symptom, especially in children and young adults. Prolonged sore throat in an elderly patient is a cause for concern, as it…

Hand Deformities Impairment of hand function can lead to severe disability. Causes Congenital Failure of Formation • Absent digit • Radial club hand Failure of Separation • Syndactyly (fusion of digits) • Camptodactyly Duplication…

Haemoptysis Haemoptysis is the expectoration of blood or bloodstained sputum. With massive haemoptysis, the main priorities are to secure the airway and initiate emergency resuscitative measures before establishing a diagnosis….

Scrotal Swellings Scrotal swellings are a common presenting complaint in the outpatient clinic. They are also therefore common in clinical examinations. It is important to be able to make a…

Toe Lesions Lesions of the toes are extremely common. They are caused by a variety of conditions ranging from simple ingrowing toenails to severe pain caused by ischaemia. Deformities of…

Tongue Disorders Tongue disorders are extremely common, ranging from minor furring of the tongue to extensive inflammation and malignancy. Tongue disorders are often a manifestation of systemic disease. Causes Furring…

Weight Gain Weight gain is extremely common and the most frequent cause is simple obesity. Excessive weight gain itself has deleterious effects on general health. With the exception of simple…