Gout: diagnosis and management—summary of NICE guidance
WEBAug 30, 2022 · Measure the serum urate level in people with symptoms and signs of gout to confirm the clinical diagnosis (serum urate level ≥360 μmol/L (6 mg/dL)). If serum urate level is <360 μmol/L during a flare and gout is strongly suspected, repeat the serum urate level measurement at least two weeks after the flare has settled.
Interpreting iron studies | The BMJ
WEBJun 15, 2017 · What is included in iron studies? Ferritin—is the intracellular storage form of iron.A very small amount is found in serum. In inflammation, liver disease, and malignancy, ferritin levels can rise because ferritin is an acute phase protein.4 In these patients, ferritin can appear either falsely high or normal, when in reality stores are low. Serum iron—refers to ferric ions (Fe 3+) bound ...
Pregabalin and gabapentin for pain | The BMJ
WEBApr 28, 2020 · Pregabalin and gabapentin, collectively gabapentinoids, are primarily anticonvulsant drugs. Over the past decade, they have been increasingly prescribed for pain. 1 They are recommended for neuropathic pain in adults 2 3 (table 1), but are commonly used off-label for other pain disorders such as low back pain, sciatica, and migraine. 9 10 ...
Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation - The BMJ
WEBDec 30, 2021 · Atrial fibrillation is the most commonly encountered cardiac arrhythmia in clinical practice (box 1). 7 Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is intermittent episodes of atrial fibrillation that terminate within seven days either spontaneously or with intervention. 8 This excludes atrial fibrillation that is triggered by transient causes such as ...
Recognising and explaining functional neurological disorder
WEBOct 21, 2020 · Functional disorders are conditions whose origin arises primarily from a disorder of nervous system functioning rather than clearly identifiable pathophysiological disease—such as irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and functional neurological disorder (FND)—they are the second commonest reason for new neurology consultations. 1 FND is common in emergency settings, 2 stroke, 3 and ...
Interpreting raised serum ferritin levels | The BMJ
WEBAug 3, 2015 · Ferritin is an intracellular iron storage protein and a marker of iron stores. Normal serum ferritin levels vary between laboratories but generally concentrations >300 µg/L in men and postmenopausal women and >200 µg/L in premenopausal women are regarded as elevated. 1 Low ferritin values provide …
Postural hypotension - The BMJ
WEBApr 23, 2021 · Postural hypotension is a drop in blood pressure (≥20 mm Hg systolic and/or ≥10 mm Hg diastolic) that occurs within 3 minutes of standing. Test for it in people who have symptoms of lightheadedness or dizziness on changing from lying or sitting to standing posture or those with an unexplained fall. …
Writing a case report in 10 steps - The BMJ
WEBMay 27, 2015 · Writing up. Write up the case emphasising the interesting points of the presentation, investigations leading to diagnosis, and management of the disease/pathology. Get input on the case from all members of the team, highlighting their involvement. Also include the prognosis of the patient, if known, as the reader will want to know the outcome.
Impact of vaping on respiratory health | The BMJ
WEBJul 18, 2022 · Widespread uptake of vaping has signaled a sea change in the future of nicotine consumption. Vaping has grown in popularity over the past decade, in part propelled by innovations in vape pen design and nicotine flavoring. Teens and young adults have seen the biggest uptake in use of vape pens, which have superseded conventional cigarettes as the preferred modality of nicotine consumption ...
Essential tremor: diagnosis and management - The BMJ
WEBAug 5, 2019 · Essential tremor is one of the most common movement disorders in adults and can affect both children and adults. An updated consensus statement in 2018 redefined essential tremor as an isolated action tremor present in bilateral upper extremities for at least three years. Tremor may also be present in other locations, commonly the neck or the vocal cords. Patients with additional neurologic ...