Tamingthesru
What's in a Tap: CSF Analysis
Lumbar punctures are common procedures to the Emergency Medical provider. Obtaining the fluid is just part of the battle however with this procedure. With the flood of results often comes a fair bit of confusion as to how to interpret them. After reading this post, you'll be able to:
- Use cell counts, protein, and glucose to distinguish between various etiologies of meningitis and determine when to order further testing
- Understand markers of bleeding in CSF and methods of distinguishing SAH from traumatic tap
Back to the Basics: Demystifying the UA
Amongst the various diagnostic studies that can be obtained in the ED, urinalysis is a virtually ubiquitous test. Urine itself reflects the functioning of the human body in both health and disease and the values it comprises can give us information regarding a myriad of conditions from infections, metabolic or endocrine derangements, and toxidromes to neoplastic processes and pregnancy. Despite this, many of the elements of even the standard urinalysis are often overlooked and underappreciated. In this talk we will explore some of these values and hopefully gain a renewed respect for the “golden cup of answers” and all that it may reveal.
Cardiac Biomarkers
Real time, high sensitivity serum biomarkers have played an enormous part in the timely identification and intervention on of cardiac pathology in the Emergency Department. These biomarkers have sufficient sensitivity to identify cardiomyocyte injury even in the absence of physical exam, radiographic, or electrocardiographic findings. Unfortunately, the utility of these studies may be limited or obfuscated in certain clinical contexts. This article will discuss the possible pitfalls and obstacles physicians may encounter in interpreting cardiac biomarkers