Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is caused by compression of the lumbosacral nerve roots that extend below the spinal cord. The most common cause is disc prolapse at the L4/5 or L5/S1 level and stenosis of the spinal canal. Less commonly, compression may be due to pathology in a higher disc or to a tumour, infection or trauma. Typical symptoms and signs of CES include leg and/or back pain, together with one or more of: bladder or bowel dysfunction; altered perianal, perineal or genital sensation; motor weakness affecting both legs; sexual dysfunction. It is a medical emergency and a missed diagnosis can have devastating consequences. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson covers the anatomy and causes of CES, its presentation, diagnosis and treatment pathway.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/neurology/ep-164-cauda-equina-syndrome.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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Ep 163 – Chronic kidney disease among adults in primary care: testing, diagnosis and referral
In the first of a two-episode series on chronic kidney disease (CKD), Dr Hannah Rosa is joined by Dr Will Hinchliffe, a Consultant in Renal and General Medicine working in the North East and North Cumbria. They discuss which people are at risk of CKD, how to test for it and diagnose it and, lastly, which patients require a referral to secondary care. This episode is mostly based on the NICE guideline on assessment and management of CKD and aims to help you to improve the lives of your patients by diagnosing CKD earlier and referring those who may benefit from specialist input sooner.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/renal-medicine/ep-163-chronic-kidney-disease-among-adults-in-primary-care-testing-diagnosis-and-referral.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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Ep 162 – Ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disorder that predominantly targets the axial skeleton, especially the spine and sacroiliac joints. This condition evolves insidiously, often beginning in young adulthood, and gradually imposes limitations on spinal mobility, eventually leading to fusion in advanced cases. Beyond its skeletal manifestations, AS can also extend its reach to various extra-articular organs, emphasising the systemic nature of the disease. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson looks at its clinical presentation, how to diagnose it, the treatment options available and its prognosis.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/rheumatology/ep-162-ankylosing-spondylitis.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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Ep 161– Post-herpetic neuralgia
Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most common complication following an episode of shingles and can affect up to one in five people. Pain is typically described as burning or like an electric shock and is often associated with allodynia and hyperalgesia. It can have significant effects on both physical and psychological well-being, with sleep disturbance and depression being frequently described. PHN is notoriously difficult to treat, with a significant number of patients achieving only a modest reduction in their symptoms despite combinations of analgesic agents. In this episode, Dr Kate Chesterman explores the treatment options available in primary care.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/neurology/ep-161-post-herpetic-neuralgiaDid you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
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Ep 160 – Rethinking HIV: dealing with a positive test result
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 a series of podcasts about HIV. Together, they explore a range of topics with experts in the field. In this second episode, they talk with Dr Mel Rosenvinge (Consultant HIV Specialist, Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust) about what happens after a positive test result and how to help support people living with HIV. Listen to find out about the next steps in primary care.Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at:https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/infectious-disease/ep-160-rethinking-hiv-dealing-with-a-positive-test-result.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