Tamingthesru
Lymphedema and Its Mimics
Lymphedema is a progressive pathologic condition of the lymphatic system where interstitial accumulation of protein-rich fluid leads to subsequent inflammation, adipose tissue hypertrophy, and fibrosis [1]. The direct effect of this development and its long-term complications can lead to disfigurement, decreased mobility, and significant morbidity. While the management of lymphedema typically requires long-term therapeutic interventions outside of the role of the Emergency Department, a thorough understanding of this condition and its mimics will help Emergency Physicians appropriately evaluate and manage the broad presentation of “swelling”.
Diagnostics: Dysnatremias
Abnormal sodium values are a common finding on basic metabolic testing, however the more deranged the value, the more critical it is to think causation, as interventions to treat the abnormality can become as dangerous as the abnormality itself. Join Dr. Chhabria as she dives into the causations and treatments of dysnatremias
Atypical Headaches
Headaches account for approximately 4 million, nearly 3% of all ED visits annually. [1] We classify headaches as either primary (benign) or secondary, with secondary headaches occurring due to underlying pathology. In the ED, the goal is to alleviate symptoms safely and effectively while excluding dangerous causes of headaches. While nearly 98% of headaches in the ED are primary or benign [2], ruling out secondary causes of headaches is imperative as failing to diagnose correctly may result in significant morbidity or mortality.