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Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Teaser: 

Alfonso Fasano, MD, PhD

Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic and the Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease, Toronto Western Hospital and Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a relatively frequent but underdiagnosed geriatric disorder with symptoms of impaired gait and balance, overactive bladder, and cognitive decline in the presence of neuroimaging evidence of ventriculomegaly. Cerebrospinal fluid shunting is an effective treatment, although patients' response is variable, sometimes of short duration, and not always predictable. This might be due to poor patient selection or delayed surgery. Nevertheless, recent trials have indicated that shunt surgery is cost-effective and should therefore be recommended. Family physicians and general neurologists play a crucial role in ensuring a proper diagnosis and timely intervention.
Key Words: normal pressure hydrocephalus, diagnosis, treatment.

Family physicians have a crucial role in ensuring a proper diagnosis and timely intervention. In this respect, a few rules should be remembered:
1. NPH is common among elderly populations in Western countries, but it is largely underdiagnosed and undertreated.8
2. NPH is one of the few reversible chronic neurological conditions in the elderly because neurosurgical shunting is an effective treatment, especially if performed early.36
3. Gait and balance impairment are early signs of NPH and not all 3 of the triad symptoms should be present in order raise a suspicion of NPH and refer the patient to a neurologist.36
4. Any patient with at least one symptom of the NPH triad should undergo a brain MRI or computed tomography CT (if MRI is contraindicated).36
5. Important MRI/CT findings are an Evans index >0.3 and DESH, which should be investigated because it might mimic brain atrophy.33
A suspicion of NPH should be raised for those patients with gradually progressive gait disorders characterized by instability (broad base) and shuffling steps; no other parkinsonian signs should be noticed, particularly in the upper body. Urinary dysfunction might be absent and cognitive problems are typically less severe than the motor problem (particularly at onset). In a patient with a clinical suspicion of NPH, brain MRI should be ordered and a referral to a neurologist should be made.
The neurologist will exclude other neurodegenerative conditions and other clinically relevant diseases affecting gait (e.g. neuropathy, spinal stenosis). Afterwards a tap test will be arranged, bearing in mind that the sensitivity of the test is far from ideal and that patients are prone to placebo response. When the suspicion of NPH remains high (also in case of negative tap test) a referral to neurosurgeon is made by the neurologist. In less clear-cut cases, another tap test or prolonged lumbar drainage can be done. Some other cases are only clinically followed-up, however taking into account that a delayed intervention might not provide the benefit of early surgery.
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Related Terms: Neurology-Movement Disorders, normal pressure hydrocephalus, diagnosis, treatment
Disclaimer: 
This article was published as part of Managing the Health of Your Aging Patient: Therapies that Could Help Improve Quality of Life eCME resource. The development of Managing the Health of Your Aging Patient: Therapies that Could Help Improve Quality of Life eCME resource was supported by an educational grant from Medtronic Canada.

Surgical Management of Erectile Dysfunction

Teaser: 

Justin J. Badal, MD,1 Genevieve Sweet, MD, 2Shelley Godley, MD,3Stanley A. Yap, MD,4Dana Nanigian, MD, 5

1Department of Urology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California.
2Department of Urology, Sutter Medical Group, Roseville, California.
3Department of Urology, Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System, Sacramento, California.
4Department of Urology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California and Department of Urology, Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System, Sacramento, California.
5Chief of Urology, Department of Urology, Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System, Sacramento, California.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common sexual disorders affecting men. Discussion regarding erectile function, diagnosis, and management of the disease typically begins at the primary care level. A broad understanding of the basic causative factors and initial treatment regimens gives primary care physicians the ability to treat ED. An enhanced understanding of surgical options allows for referrals to be made to urologists for advanced surgical treatment of ED in patients who have failed medical therapies. Initial diagnosis and continued workup can be performed prior to consultation with a surgical specialist. Detailed here are different causes of ED as well as their respective studies to enhance initial surgical evaluation.
Key Words:erectile dysfunction, diagnosis, management, treatment.

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim MAINPRO-M2 Credits for this unaccredited educational program.

www.cfpc.ca/Mainpro_M2

You can take quizzes without subscribing; however, your results will not be stored. Subscribers will have access to their quiz results for future reference.

Pre-test CME Quiz Post-test CME Quiz
A thorough discussion regarding the irreversibility of penile implants is strongly recommended with the patient before proceeding.
Inflatable penile prosthetics avoid the effect of the constant erection created by malleable implants.
Partner satisfaction is highest with the inflatable penile prosthesis.
The inflatable penile prosthesis is the most preferred among men.
Adverse events/complications associated with SNM use include: pain at the implantation site, lead migration, wound-related complications, bowel dysfunction, infection, and generator problems.
Postoperative outcomes can be improved with detailed counseling in regards to modifiable risk factors, such as achieving appropriate glycemic control.
Candidates for revascularization therapy should be carefully selected, with those who are younger and have sustained pelvic trauma having the best outcomes.
To have access to full article that these tools were developed for, please subscribe. The cost to subscribe is $80 USD per year and you will gain full access to all the premium content on www.healthplexus.net, an educational portal, that hosts 1000s of clinical reviews, case studies, educational visual aids and more as well as within the mobile app.
Related Terms: Men’s Health, Women’s Health, erectile dysfunction, diagnosis, management, treatment

Interventional Radiology Procedures for Chronic Low Back Pain

Teaser: 

Dr. Ted Findlay, D.O., CCFP,1 Amar Suchak, MD, FRCP(C), 2

1is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Calgary. He is also in a Private Family Medicine practice. In addition he is on Medical Staff at Alberta Health Services, Calgary Zone in Calgary, Alberta.
2Clinical Assistant Professor Department of Radiology, Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: There is an increasing availability and clinical use of interventional radiological techniques for patients with low back pain. This can be a valuable additional tool in the management of low back pain that has not responded to conservative treatment. However, the clinical indications and appropriate uses as well as cautions that apply to this treatment modality are in many cases less well understood by the primary care practitioner. The objective of this article is to review clinical scenarios in which these procedures are commonly considered, as well as their limitations. The field of interventional radiology is one that is rapidly evolving and an area of active clinical research. It is important for the primary care practitioner to have a basic understanding of the current state of the art in order to have an informed discussion with their patients who may be seeking advice on this treatment option.
Key Words: Low back pain; treatment; interventional radiology definitions; interventional radiology indications; interventional radiology complications.

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim MAINPRO-M2 Credits for this unaccredited educational program.

www.cfpc.ca/Mainpro_M2

You can take quizzes without subscribing; however, your results will not be stored. Subscribers will have access to their quiz results for future reference.

Pre-test CME Quiz Post-test CME Quiz
1. In patients carefully selected by clinical and radiological examination, there can be satisfying clinical gains from the use of currently available interventional radiologic procedures.
2. One must not assume that abnormal findings on radiologic imaging immediately explains the anatomical cause of a patient's low back pain; a corresponding accurate history and physical examination is ideal prior to commencing injections.
3. When successful, the gains from radiological interventions should be considered one portion of a broader clinical treatment plan, rather than the entire plan of management.
4. Unsuccessful interventional procedures should not be repeated.
1. Do not apply repeated interventional procedures with an expectation that one of them will find the target source of the patient's low back pain.
2. Although they may be uncommon, interventional radiology risks can occur and the referring physician should be cognizant of these dangers that accumulate with repeated interventions.
To have access to full article that these tools were developed for, please subscribe. The cost to subscribe is $80 USD per year and you will gain full access to all the premium content on www.healthplexus.net, an educational portal, that hosts 1000s of clinical reviews, case studies, educational visual aids and more as well as within the mobile app.
Related Terms: Back Health, low back pain, treatment, interventional radiology definitions, interventional radiology indications, interventional radiology complications

Median Raphe Cysts

Teaser: 

Mary Tong, BHSc, MD Candidate,1 Joseph M. Lam, MD, FRCSC,2

1McMaster University, Hamilton, ON.
2Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Dermatology University of British Columbia, BC.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Median raphe cysts are rare congenital lesions caused by a defect in embryological development of the male genitalia. They can present as solitary or multiple papules along the median raphe from urethral meatus to the anus. Although they are asymptomatic during childhood, they can cause problems later on as they increase in size. Surgical excision of the lesion is not necessary unless the patient becomes symptomatic.
Key Words: median raphe cysts, congenital lesions, treatment, management.
Median raphe cysts are benign cysts that can be present at birth, or acquired due to trauma or infection in the genitalia area.
Histologically, the cysts can have pseudo stratified columnar, squamous cell, or glandular epithelium, or a mixture of these cells.
Although these cysts are asymptomatic during childhood, they should be monitored overtime because they may cause problems as they increase in size with time.
Because these are benign malformations, median raphe cysts do not require excision unless they cause problems such as pain, problems with urination or sexual activity, or for cosmetic reasons.
Median raphe cysts are benign lesions that may be caused be a defect in the embryological development of the male genitalia.
The differential diagnoses of median raphe cyst include glomus tumor, dermoid cyst, pilonidal cyst, epidermal inclusion cyst, urethral diverticulum, and steatocystoma.
Treatment for asymptomatic median raphe cyst is not necessary but surgical excision can be considered if the cyst is causing problems or for cosmetic reasons.
To have access to full article that these tools were developed for, please subscribe. The cost to subscribe is $80 USD per year and you will gain full access to all the premium content on www.healthplexus.net, an educational portal, that hosts 1000s of clinical reviews, case studies, educational visual aids and more as well as within the mobile app.
Related Terms: Dermatology, median raphe cysts, congenital lesions, treatment, management

The Role of Nutraceuticals in Atopic Dermatitis

The Role of Nutraceuticals in Atopic Dermatitis

Teaser: 

Jacky Lo, MD,1 Joseph M. Lam, MD, FRCSC,2

1 is a resident in the Family Medicine Residency at the University of British Columbia. He was previously a registered dietitian at the College of Dietitians in BC.
2is a pediatric dermatologist and a clinical assistant professor in the Departments of Pediatrics and Dermatology at the University of British Columbia.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing and remitting dermatosis with no definitive cure. Because treatment often remains challenging, the use of nutraceuticals has been gaining popularity as an alternative therapy.
Key Words: Nutraceuticals, atopic dermatitis, prevention, treatment.
The use of prebiotics in formula fed infants may reduce the incidence of AD up until two years of life.
The use of prenatal and/or postnatal probiotics, especially with Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium, has been shown to reduce the incidence of AD. However, the evidence for its long-term effects appears to be inconsistent.
There is conflicting evidence regarding the use of vitamin D alone and zinc in the treatment of AD.
Routine supplementation of vitamin E alone and selenium does not appear to be beneficial in the treatment of AD.
While the use of fish oil has not been shown to have any statistically significant benefit in the treatment of AD, its use has been associated with improved quality of life, reduction in area affected in a pooled analysis of two studies and pruritus in one study.
Education plays an important in the management of AD and emphasis should be made to explore patients' reasons for turning to alternative therapies.
To have access to full article that these tools were developed for, please subscribe. The cost to subscribe is $80 USD per year and you will gain full access to all the premium content on www.healthplexus.net, an educational portal, that hosts 1000s of clinical reviews, case studies, educational visual aids and more as well as within the mobile app.
Related Terms: Dermatology, atopic dermatitis, prevention, treatment, nutraceuticals

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia—Medical and Surgical Treatment Options

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia—Medical and Surgical Treatment Options

Teaser: 

Dean S. Elterman, MD, MSc, FRCSC,1 Udi Blankstein, MD,2

1Attending Urologic Surgeon, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Assistant Professor, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.
2Department of Urology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects the aging male. Treatment options vary widely. Some men will elect to conservatively monitor their symptoms and make alterations to their lifestyle choices. Pharmacotherapy options exist as well, and include alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors. Lastly, surgical options are also a viable treatment option, with many types at the disposal of the caregiver. Technological advancements have changed, and will continue to change the field in the near future. This review outlines the important aspects of this common affliction.
Key Words:Benign prostatic hyperplasia, management, treatment, referral.

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim MAINPRO-M2 Credits for this unaccredited educational program.

www.cfpc.ca/Mainpro_M2

You can take quizzes without subscribing; however, your results will not be stored. Subscribers will have access to their quiz results for future reference.

Pre-test CME Quiz Post-test CME Quiz
There is a spectrum of bother ranging from mild nuisance to significant decrease in quality of life – this is largely associated with how the patient perceives the problem.
Physical exam and medical history are imperative in the initial assessment of BPH.
Conservative measures and lifestyle changes should be the first line treatment choice.
Surgical intervention should be attempted after failure of medical therapy to alleviate symptoms and prevent kidney injury or infection.
Ensure that there are no other causes that may cause LUTS such as various medications, and other comorbidities.
When considering more invasive intervention, ensure that the surgical team knows the patient's anticoagulation status.
To have access to full article that these tools were developed for, please subscribe. The cost to subscribe is $80 USD per year and you will gain full access to all the premium content on www.healthplexus.net, an educational portal, that hosts 1000s of clinical reviews, case studies, educational visual aids and more as well as within the mobile app.
Related Terms: Gender & Health, Men’s Health, benign prostatic hyperplasia, management, treatment, referral

Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Review of Diagnosis and Management

Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Review of Diagnosis and Management

Teaser: 

Neil Pugashetti,1 Shabbir M.H. Alibhai,3 Stanley A. Yap,1,2

1Department of Urology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA.
2Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, VA Northern California Health Care System, Sacramento, CA, USA.
3Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) represents the large majority of newly diagnosed bladder tumors and represents a significant burden to both patients and the healthcare system. Although the initial standard treatment for all non-muscle-invasive tumors is surgical resection, there exist a wide variety of both surgical and medical treatment modalities based upon the tumor's specific stage and grade. Ensuring a proper diagnosis is key, and management should be tailored to the individual in order to reduce cancer recurrence and prevent progression of disease.
Key Words: Bladder cancer, non-muscle-invasive, diagnosis, treatment.

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim MAINPRO-M2 Credits for this unaccredited educational program.

www.cfpc.ca/Mainpro_M2

You can take quizzes without subscribing; however, your results will not be stored. Subscribers will have access to their quiz results for future reference.

Pre-test CME Quiz Post-test CME Quiz
Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer consists of papillary tumors (Ta), tumors invading the submucosal lamina propria (T1), and flat lesions known as carcinoma in situ (CIS).
Proper management is key given the significant risk of tumor recurrence or progression to muscle-invasive disease.
Many treatment modalities exist including transurethral resection, intravesical chemotherapy, intravesical immunotherapy, and radical cystectomy; treatment choice depends on a variety of factors including tumor stage and grade.
The gold standard for the complete work-up of hematuria is office cystoscopy and imaging of the upper urinary tract.
Initial standard treatment of non-muscle-invasive bladder tumors is TURBT; at the time of resection, sampling of muscle surrounding the lesion is important to accurately assess depth of invasion.
To have access to full article that these tools were developed for, please subscribe. The cost to subscribe is $80 USD per year and you will gain full access to all the premium content on www.healthplexus.net, an educational portal, that hosts 1000s of clinical reviews, case studies, educational visual aids and more as well as within the mobile app.
Related Terms: Cancer, bladder cancer, diagnosis, treatment, non-muscle-invasive

Pediatric diaper rashes: Getting to the 'bottom' of things

Pediatric diaper rashes: Getting to the 'bottom' of things

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Pre-test CME Quiz Post-test CME Quiz
Teaser: 

Jacky Lo1, Joseph M. Lam, MD, FRCSC2
1Medical student, Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.
2Clinical Assistant Professor, Departments of Pediatrics and Dermatology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.

Abstract
Diaper dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions seen in the pediatric population and can cause significant distress for infants and their families. While many diaper rashes can resolve with simple treatments, having a thorough understanding of different diaper lesions can help rule out more serious conditions, guide treatment and alleviate some of the caregivers' anxiety. The following review article will provide an overview of select common and uncommon diaper eruptions.
Key Words: diaper dermatitis, pediatric, diaper rash, treatment.

Related Terms: Dermatology, pediatric, treatment, diaper dermatitis, diaper rash

Why Are Physicians Still Prescribing Sulfonylureas as First Choice for Older Diabetic Adults?

Why Are Physicians Still Prescribing Sulfonylureas as First Choice for Older Diabetic Adults?

Teaser: 

Dr.Michael Gordon Michael Gordon, MD, MSc, FRCPC, Medical Program Director, Palliative Care, Baycrest Geriatric Health Care System, Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

Abstract
Diabetes Mellitus is very prevalent in the older population. It is one of the important causes of vascular problems which may play a role in the development of dementia, especially of the mixed variety. There has been much progress in the potential medications that can help promote successful glucose control and address the other metabolic correlates of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Sulfonylureas should be used rarely and very carefully in older especially frail individuals because of their inherent risks. Getting physicians to change their prescribing practices in this frail elderly diabetic population is an important challenge to educators and drug program administrators.
Key Words: diabetes mellitus, sulfonylureas, diabetic management, treatment.

Related Terms: Dementia, diabetes mellitus, treatment, sulfonylureas, diabetic management

A Practical Review of the Diagnosis and Management of Small Renal Masses

A Practical Review of the Diagnosis and Management of Small Renal Masses

Teaser: 

Stanley A. Yap,1 Shabbir M.H. Alibhai,2,3Antonio Finelli,1
1Division of Urologic Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. 2Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. 3Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.


Abstract
The incidence of small renal masses (SRMs) has risen steadily over time, and SRMs now represent the majority of newly diagnosed renal lesions. Approximately 80% of newly diagnosed SRMs will be malignant. However, identifying a benign versus malignant lesion non-invasively can be difficult since no distinct imaging characteristics or growth patterns exist between the two. We have witnessed concurrent improvements in treatment strategies for small, localized tumors and have gained a better understanding of their natural history. Along with these changes there has been a shift in the manner in which we diagnose and treat SRMs. Although surgery remains the standard of care, we can now offer a variety of therapies individualized to the patient.
Keywords: kidney cancer, small renal mass, diagnosis, treatment.

Related Terms: Cancer, diagnosis, kidney cancer, treatment, small renal mass