Chest
-
Pathogenic causes of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) can be difficult to identify at early clinical presentation. We evaluated the diagnostic utility of combined cardiac and thoracic critical care ultrasonography (CCUS). ⋯ Combined cardiac and thoracic CCUS assists in early bedside differential diagnosis of ARDS, CPE, and other causes of AHRF.
-
COPD ranks within the top three causes of mortality in the global burden of disease, yet it remains largely underdiagnosed. We assessed the underdiagnosis of COPD and its determinants in national and international surveys of general populations. ⋯ Even with substantial heterogeneity in COPD prevalence, COPD underdiagnosis is universally high. Because effective management strategies are available for COPD, spirometry can help in the diagnosis of COPD at a stage when treatment will lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.
-
A 44-year-old man presented with a 3-day history of persistent upper-back pain, chest discomfort, and dyspnea. He denied any precipitating events such as trauma or vigorous activity before the presentation of symptoms. ⋯ Chest CT scan performed during an asthma exacerbation 2 years earlier demonstrated two left-side lung blebs. He had no prior surgical procedures.