clinical q&a library
Explore a database of clinical questions answered by iatroX, referencing established clinical guidelines, SmPCs, and peer-reviewed literature.
What follow-up protocols should be implemented for patients treated for non-melanoma skin cancer to monitor for recurrence?
For patients treated for non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, routine follow-up protocols are not explic...
How should I manage a child with suspected pertussis who has not been vaccinated?
In managing a child with suspected pertussis who has not been vaccinated, immediate clinical assessment is essential, with a low threshold f...
How should I manage a patient with rectal bleeding and a history of inflammatory bowel disease?
In managing a patient presenting with rectal bleeding who has a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the initial approach should focus on assessing t...
What is the appropriate duration for a trial of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in managing GERD symptoms before considering further investigation?
The appropriate duration for a trial of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) symptoms before considering ...
What imaging modalities are recommended for the diagnosis of pneumothorax in primary care?
In primary care, the recommended imaging modality for diagnosing pneumothorax is a chest X-ray, typically an upright posteroanterior or anteroposteri...
How can I effectively monitor disease progression and treatment response in patients with psoriatic arthritis?
Effective monitoring of disease progression and treatment response in patients with psoriatic arthritis involves a comprehensive, individualized appr...
How can I differentiate between viral and bacterial pneumonia in a primary care setting?
In primary care, differentiating viral from bacterial pneumonia relies primarily on clinical assessment supported by selective investigations....
How should I approach the management of a patient presenting with symptoms suggestive of chlamydia or gonorrhoea?
Initial assessment and referral: For any patient aged 13 years or older presenting with symptoms suggestive of chlamydia or gonorrhoea, stro...
How can I differentiate between a sickle cell crisis and other acute abdominal conditions in a patient with known sickle cell disease?
To differentiate between a sickle cell crisis and other acute abdominal conditions in a patient with known sickle cell disease, conduct a thorough clinical a...
How should I document my concerns regarding a child's safety and wellbeing in the medical record?
Document your concerns regarding a child's safety and wellbeing in the medical record by:Recording exactly what you have observe...
What role do topical anesthetics play in the management of premature ejaculation, and how should they be prescribed?
Topical anesthetics play a key role in the management of premature ejaculation by reducing penile sensitivity, thereby delaying ejaculation and impro...
What criteria should I use to determine whether a patient with placental abruption requires immediate referral to a specialist?
Criteria for immediate referral of a patient with placental abruption to a specialist include:Signs of haemodynamic instability ...
What criteria should I use to determine whether to refer a patient who has self-harmed to mental health services?
Refer a patient who has self-harmed to mental health services if there is thought to be an immediate risk of self-harm or suicide, and in such cases, refer t...
When should I consider referring a patient with a personality disorder to specialist mental health services?
Consider referring a patient with a personality disorder to specialist mental health services when:They present in primary care ...
Which laboratory tests are most useful for confirming a diagnosis of Sjögren's Syndrome?
The most useful laboratory tests for confirming a diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome include detection of specific autoantibodies such as anti-Ro/SSA an...
What are the recommended topical and systemic treatments for scabies, and how do they differ in efficacy?
Recommended topical treatments for scabies in the UK include permethrin 5% cream, which is the first-line treatment licensed for use from 2 ...
When should I consider referring a patient with PBC to a specialist for further evaluation or management?
Consider referring a patient with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) to a specialist hepatologist or gastroenterologist for further evaluation or mana...
What follow-up is recommended for patients with simple ovarian cysts that are asymptomatic?
For patients with asymptomatic simple ovarian cysts, current UK guidelines recommend a conservative approach with no routine follow-up if the cyst is simple,...
How should I manage a patient with scarlet fever who presents with severe symptoms or complications?
Management of a patient with scarlet fever presenting with severe symptoms or complications:Arrange urgent hospital admission if...