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…
Most pyrexias result from a clearly defined illness, e.g. acute pyelonephritis or acute appendicitis, or from self-limiting viral infections, e.g. common cold. Pyrexia of unknown origin is defined as a temperature >38.3°C on several occasions, accompanied by more than three…
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 ● Haemorrhoids ● Fistula-in-ano ● Skin tags ● Warts ( Fig. 50…
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…
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 ●…