Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the large- and medium-sized arteries, primarily those in the head. It most commonly occurs in adults over 50, particularly women. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune response that leads to inflammation and narrowing of the arteries, reducing blood flow. Symptoms include severe headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain when chewing and, in severe cases, sudden vision loss. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, imaging and a temporal artery biopsy. Early detection is crucial to avoid permanent damage and blindness. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson looks at how to diagnose this condition promptly and accurately, why urgent referral is crucial and the treatment options now available in primary care.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/rheumatology/ep-155-temporal-arteritis.Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
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18:24
Ep 154 – Febrile seizures
Febrile seizures are common in the first 5 years of life, and many factors that increase the risk of such seizures occurring have been identified. Initial evaluation should determine whether features of a complex seizure are present, as well as identifying the source of fever. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson provides an overview of febrile seizures in childhood and also looks at risk factors, referral criteria, treatment options and prognosis.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/paediatrics/ep-154-febrile-seizuresDid you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
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16:06
Ep 153 – Asthma treatment, monitoring and self-management: what's changed in the 2024 BTS, NICE and SIGN guideline?
In this episode, Dr Hannah Rosa continues looking at the new asthma guideline from the British Thoracic Society (BTS), NICE and SIGN, which was published in 2024. This guideline, based on the latest research, contains some big changes, which will hopefully help you to improve the lives of your patients living with asthma. In the first episode in the series (episode 146), Dr Rosa covered suspected asthma, asthma diagnosis and treatment in people aged 12 and over. In this second episode, she focuses on pharmacological treatment in children aged 11 and under, as well as monitoring asthma control and self-management.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/respiratory-and-chest-medicine/ep-153-asthma-treatment-monitoring-and-self-management-whats-changed-in-the-2024-bts-nice-and-sign-guideline.Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
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21:06
Ep 152 – Rethinking HIV: from testing to transformation
What if one of the most misunderstood diagnoses of the past is now one of the most manageable chronic conditions? How can GPs play a pivotal role in tackling stigma, increasing testing and improving outcomes for people living with HIV?Dr James Waldron is joined by Dr Grace Bottoni (HIV and Hepatitis C GP Champion, Lewisham) for the first episode in an insightful series that dives into the evolving landscape of HIV care. Together, they will explore a range of topics with experts in the field. In this episode, they talk with Dr Mel Rosenvinge (Consultant HIV Specialist, Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust) about what HIV is, how far treatments have come and the critical role of early diagnosis. From reducing stigma to understanding the life-changing impact of "U=U" (undetectable equals untransmittable). This episode sets the foundation for the series, with future parts diving into what GPs can do to improve health outcomes and address broader medical issues for people living with HIV.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/infectious-disease/ep-152-rethinking-hiv-from-testing-to-transformation.Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
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25:36
Ep 151 – Dupuytren’s disease
Dupuytren’s disease is a chronic, progressive condition that primarily affects the palmar and digital fascia of the hand. Over time, fibrous cords form under the skin, thickening and contracting, which can cause the fingers (most often the ring and little fingers) to curl inward. This results in Dupuytren’s contracture, limiting hand function and impacting daily activities. It often starts with the formation of painless nodules in the palm. As the disease progresses, these nodules develop into cords that restrict finger movement. While the condition is not life-threatening, it can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and is a common presentation in general practice. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson looks at the diagnosis of Dupuytren’s, its risk factors, usual management and some of the newer treatment techniques now available.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/dermatology/ep-151-dupuytrens-disease.Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
A bite-sized, regular chat for all healthcare professionals working in primary care. Episodes cover clinical tips and hot topics. New episodes published every Thursday or Friday.
Ireland