Pocketbook of Differential Diagnosis

Steatorrhoea

Steatorrhoea refers to the passing of excessive amounts of fat in the faeces. Causes Lipase deficiency ● Impaired secretion – chronic pancreatitis ● Inactivation – excess gastric acid Bile deficiency ● Underproduction – liver disease ● Obstruction – obstructive jaundice…

Shock

Shock is an abnormality of the circulation that results in inadequate organ perfusion and tissue oxygenation. Causes (all causes of shock require emergency assessment) Hypovolaemic ● Haemorrhage ● Burns ● Gastrointestinal losses Cardiogenic ● Myocardial infarction ● Acute valvular damage…

Scrotal swellings

Scrotal swellings are a common presenting complaint in the outpatient clinic. It is also important to distinguish between those swellings that have underlying serious pathology (testicular tumour) and those that are simple and benign (epididymal cysts). Causes ● Sebaceous cyst…

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. 52 ) Neoplastic Benign ● Ivory osteoma Malignant Primary ●…

Rectal bleeding

Rectal bleeding is a common symptom. The majority of patients with rectal bleeding have a simple condition such as haemorrhoids, but the symptoms should always be taken seriously and investigated. Rectal bleeding with a change in bowel habit or weight…

Pruritus

Pruritus is itching of the skin. There are a vast number of dermatological causes of pruritus, which are usually visible on inspection. However, the following are causes of generalised pruritus in the absence of skin disease. Causes ● Obstructive jaundice…