clinical q&a library
Explore a database of clinical questions answered by iatroX, referencing established clinical guidelines, SmPCs, and peer-reviewed literature.
When should I refer a patient with suspected CVST to secondary care, and what information should I provide to facilitate their assessment?
When to refer: Refer a patient with suspected cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) urgently to secondary care for specialist assessment a...
What initial management steps should I take for a patient diagnosed with CVST, including anticoagulation considerations?
Initial management of a patient diagnosed with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) involves prompt initiation of full-dose anticoagulation therapy, even ...
Which imaging modalities are recommended for the diagnosis of CVST, and how should I interpret the results?
Recommended imaging modalities for diagnosing cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with magnetic...
What are the key clinical features that should raise suspicion for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in a primary care setting?
Key clinical features that should raise suspicion for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in a primary care setting include:...
What cellular mechanisms are involved in the pathophysiology of common chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension?
Common chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension share key cellular mechanisms involving endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflamm...
What criteria should I use to determine the urgency of referral for a patient with suspected cauda equina syndrome?
Criteria to determine urgency of referral for suspected cauda equina syndrome (CES):Refer immediately adults wh...
What immediate management steps should be taken for a patient suspected of having cauda equina syndrome before referral to secondary care?
Immediate management steps for a patient suspected of having cauda equina syndrome before referral to secondary care include:Rec...
What lifestyle modifications should I advise to patients with carotid artery stenosis to reduce their stroke risk?
Lifestyle modifications for patients with carotid artery stenosis to reduce stroke risk should focus on comprehensive cardiovascular risk factor mana...
What are the current guidelines for the management of symptomatic carotid artery stenosis in primary care?
In primary care, the management of symptomatic carotid artery stenosis begins with rapid recognition of symptoms suggestive of transient ischaemic attack (TI...
How should I assess the risk of stroke in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis?
To assess the risk of stroke in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis, current NICE guidelines do not recommend routine carotid imaging or inter...
What are the recommended diagnostic criteria for carotid artery stenosis in patients presenting with transient ischemic attacks?
The recommended diagnostic criteria for carotid artery stenosis in patients presenting with transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) involve a combination o...
How can I effectively manage patients with heart failure who may require surgical intervention?
Effective management of patients with heart failure who may require surgical intervention involves a multidisciplinary approach integrating medical optimisat...
What preoperative assessments are recommended for patients undergoing elective cardiothoracic surgery?
For patients undergoing elective cardiothoracic surgery, a comprehensive preoperative assessment is recommended to optimise surgical outcomes and minimise pe...
How should I assess a patient with suspected lung cancer before considering referral for thoracic surgery?
Before considering referral for thoracic surgery in a patient with suspected lung cancer, a thorough assessment is essential to determine suitability for sur...
What are the key indications for referring a patient to cardiothoracic surgery for suspected coronary artery disease?
Key indications for referring a patient to cardiothoracic surgery for suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) include:Presence o...
What lifestyle modifications should I advise for patients diagnosed with cardiorenal syndrome to improve their outcomes?
Lifestyle modifications for patients with cardiorenal syndrome should focus on optimizing cardiovascular and renal health through the following:...
When should I consider referring a patient with cardiorenal syndrome to a specialist for further evaluation and management?
Consider referring a patient with cardiorenal syndrome to a specialist for further evaluation and management if any of the following are present:...
What investigations are recommended to assess the severity of cardiorenal syndrome in a primary care setting?
To assess the severity of cardiorenal syndrome in a primary care setting, the following investigations are recommended:Measure serum crea...
How should I approach the management of a patient with heart failure who also presents with acute kidney injury?
When managing a patient with heart failure who also presents with acute kidney injury (AKI), close monitoring and careful adjustment of treatment are...