Nails I

This blog originated with my fascination with obscure and brilliant physical exam findings and how they help diagnosis. I know this is not how real medicine works, that most of us no longer look for the right ventricular heave or test for egophony. Indeed, I'm by trade an anesthesiologist and a critical care intensivist; my tools are lab tests, scans, and ventilator readings rather than physical exam pearls. Nevertheless, I love that stuff. So this week we're going to spend some time looking at nails.

Challenge: What is this called?

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Apology

I take writing cases of the day very seriously. I'm really proud of this project, which has been going on for nearly ten years. I know that during fellowship and since, I have missed weeks unintentionally, and now I am going to do something I don't think I've ever done which is to skip two weeks in a row. I'm attending in the intensive care unit, and I don't think I can write any cases this week. There are a couple interesting patients so I have ideas for next week. I apologize but will get back on track soon.

Craig

Hot Air

Challenge: What is going on here?

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Pins and Needles

I think we'll do some miscellaneous topics this week.

Five different patients come to you, asking about acupuncture. One has cervical spondylosis and neck pain. The second has low back pain. The third has menstrual pain. The fourth has fibromyalgia. The last one has recurrent small bowel obstructions.

Challenge: Which patient is most likely to benefit from acupuncture (compared to no treatment)?

Image is in the public domain, from Wikipedia.

No Cases This Week

This week I'm taking some time for myself. I'll try to get back to case-writing next Monday. Thanks for following along!

Craig