Popliteal swellings are common. The majority are easily diagnosed on clinical examination alone. Causes Superficial ● Sebaceous cyst ● Lipoma ● Varix of the short saphenous vein Deep ● Lymphadenopathy ● Semi-membranosus bursa ● Baker’s cyst ● Popliteal artery aneurysm…
The volume of urine produced per day varies in each individual and is affected by the amount of fluid intake, physiological requirements and insensible losses. Polyuria is arbitrarily defined as urine output of more than three litres in 24 hours.…
Penile lesions are common. They can interfere with quality of life and affect sexual intercourse. The majority of surgical conditions of the penis relate to problems with the foreskin and glans. Carcinoma of the penis and Peyronie’s disease are rare.…
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 ● Alcohol ● Infection ● Hyperthyroidism ● Electrolyte…
Oliguria is the passage of less than 400 mL of urine in 24 hours. Anuria is defined as the failure to pass urine (less than 100 mL in 24 hours). Oliguria is an important feature of acute renal failure. Causes…
This is a common problem and can be embarrassing for the patient, as discharge may leak through and stain clothing. Bloodstained nipple discharge may be due to an underlying carcinoma. We have classified below according to consistency. Causes Serous ●…
Neck pain is a common presenting complaint. The majority of cases are due to poor posture or cervical spondylosis. If there has been a history of trauma, extreme care must be taken in examination of the neck and any X-rays…
A lump in the neck is a common problem. It is necessary to be able to distinguish the different causes, which may vary from a simple benign swelling to part of a generalised malignant condition. Causes Superficial ● Sebaceous cyst…
Nasal discharges are common. The most frequent causes are the common cold and allergic rhinitis, however persistent bloodstained nasal discharge is a serious symptom requiring urgent investigation. Causes Congenital ● Choanal atresia ● Cystic fibrosis Acquired Infective ● Common cold…
Nail abnormalities are common and can give invaluable clues to underlying systemic illness. Clubbing is dealt with in a separate section (p. 56). Causes Congenital ● Epidermolysis bullosa ● Anonychia congenita Acquired Infections ● Fungal infection (onychomycosis) ● Paronychia Traumatic…