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Pseudogout: Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease

Overview Pseudogout, more accurately known as calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD), is a crystal arthropathy characterized by the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in articular cartilage and soft tissues, leading to joint inflammation. It most commonly affects elderly individuals, especially over the age of 60, with a slight female predominance. Clinically, it often mimics…

Delirium

Overview Delirium is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by a disturbance in consciousness and cognition. It typically presents as an acute confusional state , with inattention as its core symptom. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of delirium is often delayed or missed, especially the hypoactive form that is common in older persons. Delirium : Cognitive impairment typically caused…

Acute Pancreatitis

Overview Acute pancreatitis is a relatively common condition presenting with severe, acute, constant epigastric pain. Incidence of ~5 per 100,000/year. Acute pancreatitis has a significant mortality. Early complications include acute renal failure, DIC, hypocalcemia and ARDS. Acute Pancreatitis: An inflammatory process in which pancreatic enzymes are activated and cause autodigestion of the gland. Chronic Pancreatitis:…

Urinary Incontinence

Overview Urinary incontinence is an important condition because it causes significant distress. Approximately 15% of the general female adult population have a significant problem with urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence: Defined as the condition in which there is invontary loss of urine, which can be objectively demonstrated and which is a social or hygienic problem. Stress…

Toxic Multinodular Goitre

Overview Toxic Multinodular Goitre (TMNG) is the second most common cause of hyperthyroidism caused by a long-standing goitre and/or iodine deficiency which results in an increased risk of mutation and consequent TSH-independent autonomic function of thyroid nodules to produce excess thyroid hormones. Common clinical manifestations include hyperthyroidism and a painless thyroid goitre with palpable nodules.…

Community Acquired Pneumonia

Overview Community acquired pneumonia occur in individuals who are not in hospital (or have been in hospital in the past 48 hours) and who are not significantly immunocompromised. The World Health Organization estimates that lower respiratory tract infection is the most common infectious cause of death in the world. Choice of antibiotics are usually empirical…

Febrile Seizure

Overview Seizures are a common occurrence in children. 8% will have at least one seizure by 15 years of age. A seizure is the result of an abnormal paroxysmal discharge by cerebral neurons. Many underlying conditions and neurological challenges may provoke seizures, and in over 50% of children seizures are isolated events associated with either a fever…

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