Asthma Establishing the diagnosis and pattern of asthma The two main components of asthma pathology include: Airway inflammation. Reactive airways (bronchoconstriction). The important clinical features are: Wheeze. Shortness of breath….
Neonatal orthopaedic conditions Developmental dysplasia of the hip This condition was previously known as congenital dislocation of the hip; however, not all cases are present at birth and the hips…
Routine care The vast majority of deliveries are uncomplicated and do not require medical intervention. The baby will start breathing spontaneously and will be kept adequately warm by being swaddled…
Venepuncture Sites Cubital fossa. Dorsum of the hand. Others, as dictated by availability or necessity. Suggested analgesia Topical local anaesthetic, e.g. amethocaine or EMLA (lignocaine [lidocaine], prilocaine), can be used…
Prepubescent problems Vaginal discharge Most newborn girls have some mucoid white vaginal discharge. This is normal and disappears by about 3 months of age. Vulvovaginitis This is the most common…
When to investigate a murmur Background At least 50% of school-age children have a systolic cardiac murmur with no structural or physiological cardiac problem. Chest radiograph (CXR) and electrocardiogram (ECG)…
Important principles Eye examination: – Always test and record vision as the first part of any eye examination. – In infants, observe following and other visual behaviour and listen to…
Antenatal abnormalities See Fig. 35.1. Urinary tract infections Clinical features Infants and younger children Fever can be the sole symptom. Non-specific symptoms such as lethargy, irritability, vomiting and poor feeding…
Hypovolaemic shock Dehydration without shock can generally be managed with oral rehydration fluid and solids. Children with shock (hypotension and acidosis) caused by hypovolaemia should be given parenteral fluid immediately:…
