1,2 The most frequent causes to consider are tuberculosis, occult abscess (usually intra-abdominal), osteomyelitis, infective endocarditis, lymphoma or leukaemia, systemic-onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis and drug fever (drug…
1 and 2 apply just as much here as in any history taking.1 One should inquire about the history of the present illness, the past psychiatric and medical history, and…
1,2 Encouraging patients to discuss their major concerns without interruption enhances satisfaction and yet takes little time (on average 90 seconds).3,4 Giving premature advice or reassurance, or inappropriate use of…
1 is generally recommended. Examination When it is done properly, the examination takes some time to perform (about 3 minutes per breast).2 This must obviously be explained to the patient…
1,2 There are, however, a number of reasons for this formal approach. The first is that it ensures the examination is thorough and that important signs are not overlooked because…
1,2 The history is also, of course, the least expensive way of making a diagnosis. Changes in medical education mean that much student teaching is now conducted away from the…
