clinical q&a library
Explore a database of clinical questions answered by iatroX, referencing established clinical guidelines, SmPCs, and peer-reviewed literature.
Which biochemical markers are most useful for diagnosing neuroendocrine tumours in primary care?
Chromogranin A (CgA) is the most useful biochemical marker for diagnosing neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) in primary care, as it is a general ...
What are the key clinical features of carcinoid syndrome that I should look for in patients with suspected neuroendocrine tumours?
Key clinical features of carcinoid syndrome in patients with suspected neuroendocrine tumours include:Flushing of the skin, ofte...
What follow-up care is necessary for patients who have been treated for carbon monoxide poisoning to monitor for potential long-term effects?
Follow-up care for patients treated for carbon monoxide poisoning should focus on monitoring for potential delayed neurological and cognitive effects...
When should I consider referring a patient with carbon monoxide poisoning to a specialist or for hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Consider referring a patient with carbon monoxide poisoning to a specialist or for hyperbaric oxygen therapy if they exhibit severe symptoms such as ...
How can I effectively communicate the capacity assessment process to patients and their families?
Effectively communicating the capacity assessment process to patients and their families involves several key steps.Use accessib...
What steps should I take if a patient is deemed to lack capacity regarding their treatment decisions?
When a patient is deemed to lack capacity regarding their treatment decisions, practitioners must follow the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, whic...
In what situations should I consider involving a best interests assessor during a capacity assessment?
Consider involving a best interests assessor when there is a dispute or complexity in the decision-making process regarding a person who lacks capacity, espe...
How do I document the mental capacity assessment to ensure compliance with legal requirements?
The mental capacity assessment should be documented at an appropriate level to the complexity of the decision being made, either as a stand-alone document or...
What specific criteria should I use to assess a patient's mental capacity in a primary care setting?
To assess a patient's mental capacity in a primary care setting, use the following specific criteria based on the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and UK guidelines:...
What are the potential complications of invasive candidiasis that I should monitor for in my patients?
In patients with invasive candidiasis, it is critical to monitor for several serious complications that can significantly impact prognosis and management. Th...
What are the key diagnostic criteria for invasive candidiasis in immunocompromised patients?
Key diagnostic criteria for invasive candidiasis in immunocompromised patients include a combination of clinical suspicion, risk factors, mi...
How can I effectively communicate the importance of cancer screening to patients who are hesitant to participate?
Effectively communicating the importance of cancer screening to hesitant patients involves several key strategies.Establ...
What are the key investigations to consider when evaluating a patient with unexplained weight loss and fatigue for possible malignancy?
When evaluating a patient with unexplained weight loss and fatigue for possible malignancy, consider the following investigations:Offer an urgent...
What criteria should I use to refer a patient for suspected colorectal cancer based on their symptoms?
Criteria for referral for suspected colorectal cancer based on symptoms:Offer quantitative faecal immunochemical testing (FIT) t...
How should I approach the diagnosis of suspected lung cancer in a patient presenting with a persistent cough and weight loss?
Approach to diagnosis of suspected lung cancer in a patient with persistent cough and weight loss:For patients aged 40 and over ...
What are the recommended screening guidelines for breast cancer in women aged 50-70 in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, the recommended breast cancer screening for women aged 50 to 70 years is to offer mammography as part of the NHS Breast Screening Prog...
When should I consider referring a patient with Campylobacter gastroenteritis to secondary care?
Consider referring a patient with Campylobacter gastroenteritis to secondary care if any of the following apply:There are sympto...
What are the indications for antibiotic treatment in cases of Campylobacter infection?
Indications for antibiotic treatment in Campylobacter infection primarily include severe or prolonged illness, immunocompromised status, or ...
How should I manage a patient with Campylobacter gastroenteritis who presents with severe dehydration?
Management of a patient with Campylobacter gastroenteritis presenting with severe dehydration involves:Immediate assessm...