| Topic: | Digestive Diseases (DD) |
| Title: | Evaluation of the Acute Abdomen. |
| Author: | LoBuono, C. |
| Source: | Patient Care. 34(12): 26-30, 33-34, 36, 39. June 30, 2000. |
| Availability: | Available from Medical Economics. 5 Paragon Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645. (800) 432-4570. Fax (201) 573-4956. |
| Abstract: | Acute abdominal pain is one of the most common medical symptoms, especially in middle aged and older patients. This article reviews the evaluation of the acute abdomen, noting that quick assessment is essential when the patient has abdominal pain that may signal a potentially serious underlying condition. A delay in appropriate treatment can have hazardous consequences. Certain underlying conditions are more likely in different ethnic groups, or in various age groups; demographic information can help narrow the differential diagnosis. The authors caution that symptoms associated with an acute abdominal process need not be particularly painful to be associated with serious conditions. Acute appendicitis, obstruction of the small intestine, and acute inflammation of the gallbladder and pancreas are common causes of acute abdominal pain. The chronology of symptom onset is crucial information and localizing tenderness is an integral part of the physical evaluation. CT (computed tomography) has become a standard tool in the evaluation of acute abdominal pain but should not, and need not, be applied to the majority of patients with this symptom. Patients presenting with abdominal pain who have normal laboratory or radiographic findings can be observed in the emergency department for 4 to 6 hours. Those whose condition has not worsened at that time can be discharged. The authors review the criteria for hospitalization. 4 figures. 2 tables. 8 references. |
| Format: | Journal Article |
| Language: | English. |
| Major Keywords: | Digestive System Diseases. Abdominal Pain. Diagnosis. Patient Care Management. |
| Minor Keywords: | Acute Disease. Emergencies. Etiology. Symptoms. Diagnostic Tests. Appendicitis. Intestinal Obstruction. Pancreatitis. Gallbladder Diseases. CAT Scan. Patient Selection. Hospital Care. |
| Publication Number: | DDJA07949 |
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