Here are all 23 topics in full RGUHS-style 10-marker format with diagrams, flowcharts, and tables:
4th INTERNAL ASSESSMENT - RGUHS STYLE 10-MARKER NOTES
1. AETCOM TOPICS
[Attitude, Ethics, Communication, Module]
Definition
AETCOM is a competency framework introduced by NMC in the CBME curriculum to develop the non-technical, humanistic dimensions of a doctor.
The Four Pillars
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ A E T C O M │
├──────────┬──────────────┬──────────────────┬────────────────┤
│ ATTITUDE │ ETHICS │ COMMUNICATION │ MODULE │
├──────────┼──────────────┼──────────────────┼────────────────┤
│ Empathy │ Beneficence │ Verbal & Non- │ Integrated │
│ Respect │ Autonomy │ verbal skills │ curriculum │
│ Humility │ Non- │ Breaking bad │ across all │
│ Honesty │ maleficence │ news (SPIKES) │ 9 semesters │
│ Equity │ Justice │ Informed consent │ │
└──────────┴──────────────┴──────────────────┴────────────────┘
SPIKES Protocol (Breaking Bad News)
S → Setting : Private room, sit down, tissues ready
P → Perception : "What have you been told so far?"
I → Invitation : "How much detail would you like?"
K → Knowledge : Give information in small chunks, simple language
E → Emotions : Acknowledge - "I understand this is difficult"
S → Summary : Recap plan, offer follow-up, leave door open
Case Scenarios Tested
| Scenario | Ethical Issue | Resolution |
|---|
| Refusing blood transfusion (Jehovah's Witness) | Autonomy vs Beneficence | Respect competent adult's refusal |
| HIV+ patient's spouse not informed | Confidentiality vs Duty to warn | Disclose after counseling fails |
| Terminal diagnosis disclosure | Truth-telling vs Non-maleficence | Staged disclosure with support |
| Underage patient requesting contraception | Autonomy vs Parental rights | Mature minor doctrine |
Key Points for RGUHS
- AETCOM is NOT a separate subject - integrated longitudinally
- Builds "Doctor as a professional" and "Doctor as a communicator" competencies
- Reflective journals, role plays, case-based discussions are assessment tools
2. CIRRHOSIS AND PORTAL HYPERTENSION
Definition
Cirrhosis = irreversible replacement of normal liver parenchyma by fibrous tissue + regenerative nodules, disrupting hepatic architecture and function.
Etiology
CAUSES OF CIRRHOSIS
│
┌────────────────┼────────────────┐
│ │ │
ALCOHOLIC VIRAL HEPATITIS METABOLIC
(most common B & C NASH/NAFLD
in India) (most common Wilson's disease
globally) Hemochromatosis
Alpha-1 AT deficiency
│
OTHERS: Autoimmune hepatitis, PBC, PSC, Budd-Chiari
Pathophysiology of Portal Hypertension
Fibrosis + Regenerative nodules
│
↓
↑ Intrahepatic vascular resistance
│
↓
↑ Portal venous pressure (>12 mmHg)
│
┌───────┴────────┐
│ │
Portosystemic Splanchnic
collaterals vasodilation
develop (↑ NO, ↑ glucagon)
│ │
Varices, etc. Hyperdynamic
circulation →
Ascites
Portal Pressure Values
| Condition | Portal Pressure |
|---|
| Normal | 5-10 mmHg |
| Subclinical portal HTN | 6-10 mmHg |
| Clinically significant | >12 mmHg |
| Variceal bleeding threshold | >12 mmHg |
Complications - ABCDE
A → Ascites
B → Bleeding varices (esophageal/gastric)
C → Coagulopathy + Caput medusae
D → Hepatic enDopathy (Encephalopathy)
E → Endocrine changes + Edema
Also:
→ SBP (Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis)
→ Hepatorenal Syndrome (HRS)
→ Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
→ Hepatopulmonary Syndrome
Management Flowchart - Variceal Bleeding
ACUTE VARICEAL BLEED
│
↓
Resuscitate + Terlipressin IV + Antibiotic prophylaxis (Ceftriaxone)
│
↓
Endoscopy within 12 hrs
│
↓
Band ligation (EVL) ──→ Failure ──→ TIPSS
│
↓
Secondary prophylaxis:
Non-selective β-blocker (Propranolol/Carvedilol) + EVL
Child-Pugh Score
| Parameter | 1 Point | 2 Points | 3 Points |
|---|
| Bilirubin (mg/dL) | <2 | 2-3 | >3 |
| Albumin (g/dL) | >3.5 | 2.8-3.5 | <2.8 |
| PT prolongation (sec) | <4 | 4-6 | >6 |
| Ascites | None | Mild | Tense |
| Encephalopathy | None | Grade 1-2 | Grade 3-4 |
Class A (5-6): Good; Class B (7-9): Moderate; Class C (10-15): Poor prognosis
3. DEMENTIA
Definition
Dementia (DSM-5: Major Neurocognitive Disorder) = Acquired, progressive decline in ≥2 cognitive domains severe enough to impair daily independence, not due to delirium.
Cognitive Domains Affected
MEMORY
│
LANGUAGE ─────┼───── EXECUTIVE FUNCTION
│
VISUOSPATIAL ────── ATTENTION/PROCESSING
Types of Dementia - Comparison Table
| Feature | Alzheimer's | Vascular | Lewy Body | FTD |
|---|
| % | 60-70% | 15-20% | 5-10% | 5-10% |
| Onset | Insidious | Stepwise | Fluctuating | Early behavior change |
| Memory | First affected | Variable | Relatively spared early | Spared early |
| Hallmark | Amyloid plaques, NFT | Multi-infarcts | Visual hallucinations + parkinsonism | Personality change |
| Drug | Donepezil | Risk factor control | Rivastigmine (avoid antipsychotics!) | SSRIs for behavior |
Alzheimer's Pathology Diagram
Normal neuron → Amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaved
│
↓ (beta + gamma secretase)
Amyloid-β (Aβ42) accumulates
│
Senile plaques (EXTRACELLULAR)
│
+ Tau protein hyperphosphorylation
│
Neurofibrillary tangles (INTRACELLULAR)
│
Neuronal death → Atrophy
(hippocampus first → neocortex)
MMSE Scoring Guide
Orientation (time + place) : 10 points
Registration (3 words) : 3 points
Attention (serial 7s / WORLD) : 5 points
Recall (3 words) : 3 points
Language + Construction : 9 points
TOTAL: 30 points
Scoring: 24-30 = Normal | 18-23 = Mild | 10-17 = Moderate | <10 = Severe
Management
REVERSIBLE CAUSES FIRST (treat and cure):
Hypothyroidism, B12 deficiency, Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus,
Subdural hematoma, Neurosyphilis, Depression (pseudodementia)
PHARMACOLOGICAL (Alzheimer's):
Mild-Moderate → Cholinesterase inhibitors:
Donepezil (once daily, most used)
Rivastigmine (patch - preferred in Parkinson's dementia)
Galantamine
Moderate-Severe → Add Memantine (NMDA antagonist)
NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL:
Cognitive stimulation, structured routine, caregiver support,
safety assessment, advance care planning
4. ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation)
Definition
ECMO = a form of prolonged extracorporeal life support that temporarily replaces the function of the lungs (VV-ECMO) or heart + lungs (VA-ECMO) in critically ill patients.
ECMO Circuit
Patient Blood
│
↓
[DRAINAGE CANNULA] ──→ [CENTRIFUGAL PUMP] ──→ [MEMBRANE OXYGENATOR]
│
O2 added
CO2 removed
Blood warmed
│
[RETURN CANNULA]
│
Back to Patient
VV vs VA ECMO
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ VV-ECMO │ VA-ECMO │
├───────────────────────────────────┼─────────────────────────┤
│ Vein → Oxygenator → Vein │ Vein → Oxygenator → │
│ │ Artery │
│ Supports: LUNGS ONLY │ Supports: HEART + LUNGS │
│ │ │
│ Indications: │ Indications: │
│ • Severe ARDS (P/F <80) │ • Cardiogenic shock │
│ • COVID pneumonia │ • Cardiac arrest (E-CPR)│
│ • Status asthmaticus │ • Massive PE │
│ • Bridge to transplant │ • Post-cardiotomy shock │
│ │ • Bridge to LVAD/Tx │
│ Heart function MUST be intact │ Supports both │
└───────────────────────────────────┴─────────────────────────┘
Complications
| Complication | Mechanism | Prevention/Treatment |
|---|
| Bleeding | Anticoagulation (heparin), thrombocytopenia | Target ACT 180-220 sec |
| Thrombosis | Stasis in circuit | Heparin infusion |
| Limb ischemia | VA-ECMO arterial cannula | Distal perfusion cannula |
| Infection | Prolonged intravascular device | Strict asepsis, surveillance cultures |
| Hemolysis | Pump speed too high | Monitor LDH, plasma-free Hb |
| North-South syndrome | VA-ECMO: native heart pumps deoxygenated blood to upper body | Add second oxygenator or switch to VV |
ECMO Weaning
VV-ECMO WEANING:
Reduce FiO2 on membrane → Trial clamp → If SpO2 maintains → Decannulate
VA-ECMO WEANING:
Reduce flow gradually → Echo assessment of cardiac function
→ If EF recovering → Decannulate
5. ROLE OF PHYSICIAN IN COMMUNITY
Levels of Prevention
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ LEVELS OF PREVENTION │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ PRIMORDIAL : Prevent risk factors from arising │
│ e.g., healthy food policy, no-tobacco│
│ zone │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ PRIMARY : Prevent disease before it occurs │
│ e.g., vaccination, health education │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ SECONDARY : Early detection + treatment │
│ e.g., screening, cervical Pap smear │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ TERTIARY : Reduce disability, rehabilitation │
│ e.g., cardiac rehab, physiotherapy │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Physician's Community Roles (Wheel Model)
CLINICIAN
│
RESEARCHER ────── PHYSICIAN ──────── HEALTH EDUCATOR
│
DISEASE SURVEILLANCE
│
┌──────────────┼──────────────┐
ADVOCATE GATEKEEPER TEAM LEADER
(social determinants) (referral) (PHC team)
Indian Healthcare Team at PHC Level
| Cadre | Role |
|---|
| ASHA | Community mobilization, JSY, immunization |
| ANM | Maternal & child health, immunization |
| MPW | Sanitation, vector control, surveillance |
| MO (Medical Officer) | OPD, minor procedures, oversight |
| PHC Doctor | Diagnosis, treatment, referral, supervision |
Notifiable Diseases (Physician's Legal Duty)
Must report to CMO/District Health Officer:
• Cholera, Plague, Yellow Fever (International)
• Tuberculosis, Leprosy, Malaria, Dengue
• Polio, Measles, Diphtheria, Pertussis
• Rabies, Meningitis, Typhoid
• COVID-19 (added 2020)
Alma-Ata Declaration (1978) - PHC Principles
1. Equitable distribution
2. Community participation
3. Focus on prevention & promotion
4. Intersectoral coordination
5. Appropriate technology
→ Goal: "Health for All by 2000" (now SDG 2030)
6. ETHICS - PRINCIPLES (PRINCIPLISM)
The Four Principles (Beauchamp & Childress, 1979)
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ FOUR PRINCIPLES OF BIOETHICS │
├──────────────┬───────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ AUTONOMY │ Patient's RIGHT to make their own decisions │
│ │ Basis of INFORMED CONSENT │
│ │ Competent adult can refuse life-saving Rx │
├──────────────┼───────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ BENEFICENCE │ ACT in patient's BEST INTEREST │
│ │ "Do good" - positive obligation │
│ │ Basis for treatment recommendations │
├──────────────┼───────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ NON- │ "PRIMUM NON NOCERE"- First, do no harm │
│ MALEFICENCE │ Negative obligation - avoid harm │
│ │ Weigh risk vs benefit of every intervention │
├──────────────┼───────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ JUSTICE │ FAIR treatment of all patients │
│ │ Equitable resource distribution │
│ │ No discrimination (race, religion, gender) │
└──────────────┴───────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Informed Consent - Components
Valid Informed Consent requires ALL of the following:
DISCLOSURE ──→ Doctor explains diagnosis, treatment, alternatives, risks
│
COMPREHENSION ──→ Patient understands (in their language)
│
VOLUNTARINESS ──→ No coercion or undue influence
│
COMPETENCE ──→ Patient has decision-making capacity
│
DECISION ──→ Patient makes a choice (accept or refuse)
When Consent Cannot Be Obtained
| Situation | Action |
|---|
| Unconscious emergency | Implied consent - treat to save life |
| Minor (routine) | Parent/guardian consent |
| Minor (emergency) | Treat; notify parents |
| Psychiatric (involuntary) | MHA 2017 procedures |
| Refusal of life-saving treatment | Respect if competent adult; document |
Ethical Conflicts - Resolution Framework
Autonomy vs Beneficence:
→ Competent patient → AUTONOMY wins
→ Incompetent patient → BENEFICENCE wins (best interests)
Confidentiality vs Duty to Warn:
→ Tarasoff principle: duty to warn identifiable third party
→ HIV disclosure to sexual partners after counseling
Double Effect Principle:
→ Morphine in terminal cancer (relieves pain but may hasten death)
→ Intent = relieve suffering (acceptable)
7. OSTEOPOROSIS
Definition
Osteoporosis = metabolic bone disease with reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and deteriorated microarchitecture, leading to increased fracture risk with minimal trauma.
WHO Diagnostic Criteria (T-score on DEXA)
T-score
≥ -1.0 → NORMAL
-1.0 to -2.5 → OSTEOPENIA (low bone mass)
≤ -2.5 → OSTEOPOROSIS
≤ -2.5 + fracture → SEVERE OSTEOPOROSIS
Pathophysiology
BONE REMODELING CYCLE:
Osteoclasts (resorb bone) ←──── RANKL (stimulates)
↑ OPG (inhibits)
Imbalance: ↑ Resorption > ↑ Formation
│
↓
Progressive bone loss
│
┌────┴────────────────────┐
│ │
Trabecular bone (spine) Cortical bone (hip, radius)
Loses first Loses later
Risk Factors
NON-MODIFIABLE MODIFIABLE
──────────────── ────────────────
Female sex Smoking
Age (>65 F, >70 M) Alcohol
Post-menopause Low calcium/vit D diet
Family history Sedentary lifestyle
Prior fragility fracture Low body weight
Asian/Caucasian ethnicity Prolonged corticosteroid use
Excess thyroid/PTH
FRAX Tool
FRAX = 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fracture (%)
Inputs: Age, Sex, BMI, BMD, steroid use, smoker, alcohol, prior fracture, parental hip Fx, RA, secondary osteoporosis
→ Treatment threshold: FRAX hip fracture ≥3% OR major fracture ≥20%
Treatment Algorithm
OSTEOPOROSIS DIAGNOSED
│
↓
Calcium 1000-1200mg/day + Vitamin D 800-1000 IU/day (ALL patients)
+ Weight-bearing exercise + Fall prevention + Smoking/alcohol cessation
│
↓
Pharmacotherapy:
│
┌─────┴──────────────────────────────────┐
│ ANTIRESORPTIVE ANABOLIC │
│ │
│ Bisphosphonates Teriparatide │
│ (FIRST LINE) (severe OP, │
│ Alendronate 70mg/week high fracture │
│ Risedronate 35mg/week risk) │
│ Zoledronic acid IV yearly │
│ Romosozumab │
│ Denosumab (RANKL inhib) (new - anti- │
│ 60mg SC q6 months sclerostin) │
│ │
│ Raloxifene (SERM) - │
│ post-menopausal women │
└─────────────────────────────────────────┘
8. COPD
Definition (GOLD 2023)
COPD = common, preventable, and treatable disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms + airflow limitation due to airway/alveolar abnormalities from significant exposure to noxious particles/gases.
Pathological Types
┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ CHRONIC BRONCHITIS │ EMPHYSEMA │
│ ("Blue Bloater") │ ("Pink Puffer") │
├──────────────────────────────┼─────────────────────────────┤
│ Cough + sputum ≥3 months │ Abnormal enlargement of │
│ in ≥2 consecutive years │ airspaces DISTAL to │
│ │ terminal bronchioles │
│ Airway inflammation │ Destruction of alveolar │
│ Mucus gland hypertrophy │ walls - LOSS of elastic │
│ (Reid index >0.4) │ recoil │
│ │ │
│ Hypoxic, hypercapnic │ Near-normal PaO2, thin, │
│ overweight, cyanotic │ breathless, pursed lips │
│ cor pulmonale │ barrel chest │
└──────────────────────────────┴─────────────────────────────┘
Emphysema types:
Centriacinar → Smoking (upper lobes)
Panacinar → Alpha-1 AT deficiency (lower lobes)
Paraseptal → Spontaneous pneumothorax in young
GOLD Spirometric Classification
| Stage | Severity | FEV1 (post-BD, FEV1/FVC <0.70) |
|---|
| GOLD 1 | Mild | ≥80% predicted |
| GOLD 2 | Moderate | 50-79% |
| GOLD 3 | Severe | 30-49% |
| GOLD 4 | Very severe | <30% |
GOLD ABE Groups (2023)
Symptom Assessment:
mMRC ≥2 or CAT ≥10 = More symptoms
Exacerbation History:
0-1 (no hospitalization) = Low risk
≥2 or ≥1 hospitalization = High risk
Symptoms
Low │ High
────────┼────────
High E │ E │ E │
Risk ├───────┼───────┤
Low A │ A │ B │
Risk └───────┴───────┘
Step-Up Treatment Algorithm
ALL COPD:
Smoking cessation (most important ever)
Influenza + Pneumococcal vaccines
Pulmonary rehabilitation
│
GROUP A → BRONCHODILATOR (SABA or SAMA)
│
GROUP B → LABA or LAMA (prefer LAMA)
│
GROUP E → LABA + LAMA
│ (if eos ≥300 or frequent exacerbations → add ICS)
↓
TRIPLE THERAPY: LABA + LAMA + ICS
│
Roflumilast (PDE4 inhibitor) if FEV1<50% + chronic bronchitis
Azithromycin prophylaxis (frequent exacerbators, ex-smokers)
LTOT: if PaO2 ≤55mmHg or SaO2 ≤88% → O2 ≥15 hrs/day
Acute Exacerbation Management
AECOPD:
1. Controlled O2 → target SpO2 88-92% (avoid CO2 retention)
2. SABA ± SAMA nebs (salbutamol + ipratropium)
3. Prednisolone 40mg/day × 5 days
4. Antibiotics if ≥2 of: ↑ dyspnea, ↑ sputum, ↑ purulence
(Amoxicillin-clavulanate or Doxycycline or Azithromycin)
5. NIV if pH <7.35 + PaCO2 >45 (GOLD STANDARD for type 2 RF)
6. Intubation if NIV fails
9. MEDICO-LEGAL ISSUES WITH RESEARCH
Foundational Documents
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ NUREMBERG CODE (1947) │
│ → First code after Nazi experiments │
│ → Voluntary consent is ABSOLUTELY essential │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ DECLARATION OF HELSINKI (WMA, 1964, last revised 2013) │
│ → Ethical principles for medical research on humans │
│ → IRB/IEC approval mandatory │
│ → Research interest NEVER > welfare of subject │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ BELMONT REPORT (USA, 1979) │
│ → 3 principles: Respect, Beneficence, Justice │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ ICMR NATIONAL ETHICAL GUIDELINES (India, 2017) │
│ → New Drugs & Clinical Trials Rules (2019) │
│ → Audio-visual consent for illiterate subjects │
│ → CTRI registration mandatory │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Clinical Trial Phases
PHASE 0 → Microdosing, PK study (<10 subjects)
│
PHASE I → Safety, dose-finding (20-100 healthy volunteers)
│
PHASE II → Efficacy + safety (100-300 patients)
│
PHASE III → Large RCT vs placebo/standard (1000-3000)
│ → Required for DRUG APPROVAL
PHASE IV → Post-marketing surveillance (safety, rare ADRs)
Medico-Legal Issues Checklist
| Issue | Legal/Ethical Implication |
|---|
| No IEC/IRB approval | Research invalid; not publishable |
| Consent not obtained | Battery; criminal liability |
| Data fabrication/falsification | Research misconduct; retraction |
| Undisclosed conflict of interest | Publication ethics violation |
| Harm to participant | Compensation mandatory (India, 2013 amendment) |
| Breach of confidentiality | DPDP Act violation |
| SAE not reported within 24h | License suspension |
Informed Consent in Research - Special Populations
VULNERABLE GROUPS needing EXTRA PROTECTION:
• Children → Parent/guardian consent + child assent
• Prisoners → No coercion, independent oversight
• Pregnant women → Special risk-benefit analysis
• Mentally ill → Legally authorized representative
• Students/employees → Ensure voluntary, not pressured
10. DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE (OSTEOARTHRITIS)
Definition
OA = most common joint disease; characterized by progressive articular cartilage loss, subchondral bone remodeling, osteophyte formation, and mild synovial inflammation - a WEAR AND REPAIR disease.
Pathophysiology
Mechanical stress / aging / obesity
│
↓
Chondrocyte activation
│
↓
↑ MMPs (matrix metalloproteinases) + ADAMTS enzymes
│
↓
Proteoglycan depletion → Collagen type II breakdown
│
↓
CARTILAGE FIBRILLATION → EROSION → EBURNATION (ivory bone)
│
┌──────┴───────────────┐
│ │
Subchondral sclerosis Osteophyte
+ Subchondral cysts formation
(Geode formation) at joint margins
Clinical Features
Pain: worse with USE, relieved by REST (unlike RA)
Morning stiffness: < 30 minutes (unlike RA >1 hour)
Crepitus on movement
Bony enlargement of joints
Joint deformity (varus/valgus at knee)
HAND OA signs:
Heberden's nodes = DIP joint osteophytes
Bouchard's nodes = PIP joint osteophytes
Squaring of thumb base (1st CMC OA)
X-Ray Features (LOSS Mnemonic)
L → Loss of joint space (asymmetric - weight-bearing side)
O → Osteophytes (bony spurs at joint margins)
S → Subchondral Sclerosis (increased density)
S → Subchondral cysts (geodes - fluid-filled)
(NO periarticular osteopenia, NO erosions - unlike RA)
OA vs RA - Comparison
| Feature | OA | RA |
|---|
| Age | >50 years | Any (peak 30-60 F) |
| Joints | Weight-bearing, DIP | MCP, PIP, wrist (symmetric) |
| Morning stiffness | <30 min | >1 hour |
| Systemic features | Absent | Present |
| RF/ACPA | Negative | Positive |
| X-ray | LOSS pattern | Erosions, periarticular osteopenia |
| Pathology | Cartilage loss, osteophytes | Pannus formation |
Management
Non-pharmacological (FIRST LINE):
Weight loss (every 1kg lost = 4kg less knee force)
Exercise (quadriceps strengthening, water aerobics)
Walking aids, knee braces, shoe inserts
Pharmacological:
Topical NSAIDs / Diclofenac gel → First line mild-moderate
Oral NSAIDs / COX-2 inhibitors (Celecoxib) → Moderate
Intraarticular corticosteroid → Acute flares
Intraarticular hyaluronic acid → Some benefit (controversial)
Duloxetine → Chronic knee OA with central sensitization
Surgical:
Arthroscopy → Minimal benefit (not recommended routinely)
Osteotomy → Young patients with malalignment
Total Knee/Hip Replacement → Severe, refractory disease
11. FRACTURES IN ELDERLY + VISION LOSS IN ELDERLY
A. FRACTURES IN ELDERLY
Why Elderly Fracture Easily
AGE-RELATED CHANGES:
↓ Bone density (osteoporosis)
↓ Muscle mass (sarcopenia)
↓ Balance and coordination
↓ Vision
Polypharmacy (sedatives, antihypertensives → falls)
Cognitive impairment
Common Fragility Fractures
HIP FRACTURE (most serious)
├── Intracapsular (femoral neck)
│ → Disrupts blood supply to femoral head
│ → Risk of avascular necrosis (AVN)
│ → Tx: Hemiarthroplasty or THR
│
└── Extracapsular (intertrochanteric/subtrochanteric)
→ Blood supply intact
→ Tx: Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) or IM nail
VERTEBRAL FRACTURE
→ Thoracic spine most common
→ Acute back pain + height loss
→ Tx: Pain management, brace; severe: vertebroplasty
COLLES FRACTURE (distal radius)
→ FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand)
→ "Dinner fork" deformity
→ Tx: Cast immobilization; displaced: ORIF
Hip Fracture Mortality
30-day mortality : ~10%
1-year mortality : 20-30%
Risk factors for death: Age >80, dementia, cardiac disease,
delay to surgery >48 hours
→ ORTHOGERIATRIC CO-MANAGEMENT improves outcomes
B. VISION LOSS IN ELDERLY
Causes Summary
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ CATARACT (most common overall) │
│ → Clouding of lens; painless, progressive │
│ → Risk: Age, diabetes, steroids, UV exposure │
│ → Treatment: Phacoemulsification + IOL implant │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) │
│ → CENTRAL vision loss; scotoma; straight lines bent │
│ → DRY (atrophic, drusen) vs WET (neovascular - urgent!) │
│ → Wet AMD: Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections │
│ (Ranibizumab, Bevacizumab, Aflibercept) │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ GLAUCOMA (silent thief of sight) │
│ → PERIPHERAL vision loss first (tunnel vision) │
│ → ↑ IOP → optic disc cupping → ganglion cell death │
│ → Primary open-angle (most common; chronic, painless) │
│ → Primary angle-closure (acute: red eye + headache + vomit)│
│ → Rx: Timolol drops, latanoprost, trabeculectomy │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ DIABETIC RETINOPATHY │
│ → Non-proliferative (dot-blot hemorrhages, hard exudates) │
│ → Proliferative (neovascularization → vitreous hemorrhage)│
│ → Rx: Glycemic control, laser photocoagulation, anti-VEGF │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ RETINAL ARTERY/VEIN OCCLUSION │
│ → CRAO: Sudden painless, cherry-red spot, box-car vessels │
│ → CRVO: "Blood and thunder" fundus │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
12. HYPERTENSION: EMERGENCY, URGENCY, PRIMARY, SECONDARY
HTN Emergency vs Urgency
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ BP USUALLY > 180/120 mmHg │
├────────────────────────┬────────────────────────────────────┤
│ HTN URGENCY │ HTN EMERGENCY │
├────────────────────────┼────────────────────────────────────┤
│ NO end-organ damage │ ACUTE end-organ damage (TOD) │
│ │ │
│ │ HYPERTENSIVE ENCEPHALOPATHY │
│ │ HAEMORRHAGIC / ISCHAEMIC STROKE │
│ │ ACUTE AORTIC DISSECTION │
│ │ ACUTE MI / UNSTABLE ANGINA │
│ │ ACUTE LVF / PULMONARY OEDEMA │
│ │ ECLAMPSIA / SEVERE PRE-ECLAMPSIA │
│ │ ACUTE RENAL FAILURE │
│ │ MICROANGIOPATHIC HAEMOLYTIC ANAEMIA│
├────────────────────────┼────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Oral agents │ IV agents in ICU │
│ Reduce BP over 24-48h │ Reduce MAP 10-20% in 1st hour │
│ No ICU needed │ Then 25% in 2-6 hrs → target 160/100 in 24h│
└────────────────────────┴────────────────────────────────────┘
IV Drugs for HTN Emergency
| Drug | Route | Special Use |
|---|
| Labetalol | IV bolus/infusion | Most versatile; avoid in asthma |
| Sodium Nitroprusside | IV infusion | Most potent; risk of cyanide toxicity |
| Nicardipine | IV infusion | Stroke, perioperative |
| Hydralazine | IV | Eclampsia/pregnancy |
| Esmolol | IV | Aortic dissection (with nitroprusside) |
| Fenoldopam | IV infusion | AKI - renoprotective |
| Nitroglycerin | IV infusion | ACS, pulmonary edema |
SPECIAL RULE - Aortic Dissection: Reduce systolic to <120 mmHg in 20 minutes using labetalol IV or esmolol + nitroprusside.
Primary vs Secondary Hypertension
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ PRIMARY (ESSENTIAL) │ SECONDARY │
│ 90-95% of all HTN │ 5-10% of HTN │
├──────────────────────────────┼───────────────────────────┤
│ No identifiable cause │ Identifiable cause │
│ Multifactorial: │ │
│ Genetics + sodium + │ RENAL (most common): │
│ RAAS activation + │ Renovascular HTN │
│ SNS overactivity │ (RAS - fibromuscular │
│ + obesity │ dysplasia in young F, │
│ │ atherosclerosis in old) │
│ Gradual onset │ CKD / PCKD │
│ Middle-aged adults │ │
│ │ ENDOCRINE: │
│ │ Primary aldosteronism │
│ │ (Conn's - hypokalemia!) │
│ │ Phaeochromocytoma │
│ │ (paroxysmal symptoms) │
│ │ Cushing's syndrome │
│ │ Hypothyroidism │
│ │ │
│ │ OTHERS: │
│ │ Coarctation of aorta │
│ │ OSA │
│ │ OCP, NSAIDs, steroids │
└──────────────────────────────┴───────────────────────────┘
WHEN TO SUSPECT SECONDARY HTN
Red Flags:
• Age <30 with no family history
• Resistant HTN (≥3 drugs including a diuretic)
• Sudden onset / severe / accelerated HTN
• Hypokalemia without diuretics → Conn's (24hr urinary aldosterone)
• Paroxysmal symptoms (sweating, headache, palpitations) → Pheo
• Abdominal bruit → Renovascular
• Truncal obesity, striae, moon face → Cushing's
• Absent femoral pulses → Coarctation
13. ABG AND ACID-BASE DISORDERS
Normal ABG Values
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ pH : 7.35 - 7.45 │
│ PaCO2 : 35 - 45 mmHg (respiratory) │
│ HCO3- : 22 - 26 mEq/L (metabolic) │
│ PaO2 : 80 - 100 mmHg │
│ SaO2 : 95 - 100% │
│ Base excess: -2 to +2 mEq/L │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
5-Step Systematic ABG Interpretation
STEP 1: Is pH ACIDEMIA (<7.35) or ALKALEMIA (>7.45)?
STEP 2: Identify PRIMARY disorder:
CO2 ↑ → Respiratory Acidosis
CO2 ↓ → Respiratory Alkalosis
HCO3 ↓ → Metabolic Acidosis
HCO3 ↑ → Metabolic Alkalosis
STEP 3: Is there COMPENSATION?
Met Acidosis → CO2 = 1.5(HCO3) + 8 ± 2 (Winter's formula)
Met Alkalosis → CO2 ↑ 0.7 per 1 mEq ↑ HCO3 (up to 55)
Resp Acidosis (acute) → HCO3 ↑ 1 per 10 CO2 ↑
Resp Acidosis (chronic)→ HCO3 ↑ 3.5 per 10 CO2 ↑
STEP 4: If Metabolic Acidosis → Calculate ANION GAP
AG = Na - (Cl + HCO3) [Normal = 8-12 mEq/L]
STEP 5: If high AG → Check Delta-Delta for MIXED disorder
Delta ratio = (AG - 12) / (24 - HCO3)
<0.4 → Hyperchloremic NAGMA coexisting
0.4-0.8 → Mixed HAGMA + NAGMA
1-2 → Pure HAGMA
>2 → HAGMA + Metabolic alkalosis
High AG Metabolic Acidosis - MUDPILES
M → Methanol
U → Uremia (CKD)
D → Diabetic Ketoacidosis
P → Propylene glycol / Paraldehyde
I → Isoniazid / Iron / Inborn errors
L → Lactic acidosis (most common in ICU)
E → Ethylene glycol
S → Salicylates
Normal AG (Hyperchloremic) Metabolic Acidosis - HARDUPS
H → Hyperalimentation (TPN)
A → Addison's disease
R → Renal tubular acidosis (RTA)
D → Diarrhea (loss of HCO3 - most common cause)
U → Ureteral diversion (ileal conduit)
P → Pancreatic fistula
S → Saline infusion excess
Respiratory Failure Types
TYPE 1 (Hypoxemic): PaO2 <60, PaCO2 normal or ↓
→ Causes: Pneumonia, PE, ARDS, pulmonary edema
→ Treat: O2, treat cause
TYPE 2 (Hypercapnic): PaO2 ↓ AND PaCO2 >45
→ Causes: COPD, asthma, neuromuscular disease
→ Treat: NIV (BiPAP), controlled O2, treat cause
14. ACUTE RHEUMATIC FEVER + INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS
A. ACUTE RHEUMATIC FEVER (ARF)
Pathogenesis
Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep. pyogenes)
│
Immune response
│
Molecular mimicry:
Anti-streptococcal antibodies cross-react with:
│
┌─────────┼─────────────────┐
│ │ │
Heart Joints Brain
valves synovium (caudate nucleus)
│ │ │
Carditis Arthritis Chorea
Jones Criteria (2015 AHA Revision)
MAJOR CRITERIA ("CASES"):
C → Carditis (clinical or subclinical echo)
A → Arthritis:
Low-risk populations: Migratory polyarthritis
High-risk populations: Monoarthritis
S → Sydenham's Chorea (involuntary purposeless movements)
E → Erythema Marginatum (skin rash, evanescent)
S → Subcutaneous Nodules (over bony prominences)
MINOR CRITERIA:
Fever >38.5°C
Elevated ESR >60mm/hr and/or CRP >3mg/dL
Prolonged PR interval on ECG
Arthralgia (only if arthritis NOT major)
EVIDENCE OF GAS INFECTION:
• Positive throat culture / rapid Ag test
• Elevated / rising ASO titre (>200 IU/mL adults)
• Anti-DNase B elevated
DIAGNOSIS: 2 Major OR 1 Major + 2 Minor + GAS evidence
Management
1. Eradicate GAS: Penicillin V PO 10 days OR
Benzathine Penicillin G IM single dose
2. Arthritis: Aspirin 50-70mg/kg/day × 2-4 weeks
3. Carditis (without CCF): Aspirin or Prednisolone
4. Severe carditis with CCF: Prednisolone 2mg/kg/day × 2-3 weeks
5. Chorea: Carbamazepine / Valproate; haloperidol if severe
SECONDARY PROPHYLAXIS (Benzathine PCN G 1.2 MU IM q3-4 weeks):
No carditis: 5 years or age 21 (whichever longer)
Carditis - no residual valve disease: 10 years or age 21
Carditis + residual valve disease: 10 years or age 40
Severe valve disease: LIFELONG
B. INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS
Modified Duke Criteria
PATHOLOGICAL CRITERIA (definite IE):
• Microorganism cultured from vegetation
• Pathological lesion confirmed at surgery/autopsy
CLINICAL CRITERIA (Definite IE = 2 Major OR 1 Major+3 Minor OR 5 Minor):
MAJOR CRITERIA:
Blood cultures: Typical organisms ×2 (Viridans strep,
S.bovis, HACEK, S.aureus, Enterococcus)
OR persistently positive cultures
Echo: Vegetation, abscess, new valve dehiscence,
new valvular regurgitation
MINOR CRITERIA:
Predisposing condition (valve disease, IVDU, prosthetic)
Fever >38°C
Vascular phenomena (Janeway, septic emboli, ICH)
Immunological phenomena (Osler nodes, Roth spots, RF+)
Positive blood culture not meeting major
Classic Signs
Osler's Nodes → Painful, tender nodules - FINGER PADS/TOES
(immune complex deposition)
Janeway Lesions → Painless, flat hemorrhages - PALMS/SOLES
(septic microemboli)
Roth Spots → Retinal hemorrhage with pale center
Splinter Hemorrhages → Subungual, linear
Clubbing → Chronic IE
Treatment Principles
EMPIRICAL: Vancomycin + Gentamicin (native valve)
Vancomycin + Rifampicin + Gentamicin (prosthetic)
SPECIFIC (after cultures):
Viridans strep: Penicillin G ± Gentamicin × 4 weeks
S. aureus (MSSA): Flucloxacillin × 6 weeks
S. aureus (MRSA): Vancomycin × 6 weeks
SURGICAL INDICATIONS (SAVE mnemonic):
S → Severe heart failure from valve dysfunction
A → Abscess / fistula / prosthetic valve involvement
V → Vegetation >10mm with embolic risk
E → Failure to Eradicate (persistent bacteremia >1 week)
15. ACUTE RENAL FAILURE (AKI) + CKD
A. AKI
KDIGO Definition & Staging
DEFINITION (any one):
• ↑ S.Creatinine ≥0.3 mg/dL within 48 hours
• ↑ S.Creatinine ≥1.5× baseline within 7 days
• Urine output <0.5 mL/kg/hr for >6 hours
STAGING:
Stage 1: Cr ×1.5-1.9 baseline OR ↑0.3 mg/dL; UO <0.5mL/kg/h >6h
Stage 2: Cr ×2.0-2.9 baseline; UO <0.5mL/kg/h >12h
Stage 3: Cr ×3 or >4mg/dL; UO <0.3mL/kg/h >24h; anuria >12h
Classification
PRE-RENAL (55-60%) INTRINSIC (35-40%)
Hypovolemia ATN (most common):
Heart failure Ischemia
Sepsis (relative) Nephrotoxins (contrast, amino-
Hepatorenal syndrome glycosides, NSAIDs, cisplatin)
Artery stenosis AIN (interstitial nephritis)
Glomerulonephritis
Vasculitis, TTP/HUS
POST-RENAL (5-10%)
BPH, urethral stricture
Bladder tumor
Bilateral ureteric obstruction (stones, malignancy)
Cervical/prostate cancer
Pre-renal vs ATN - Differentiation
| Index | Pre-renal | ATN (Intrinsic) |
|---|
| FENa | <1% | >2% |
| Urine Na | <20 mEq/L | >40 mEq/L |
| BUN:Cr ratio | >20:1 | ~10:1 |
| Urine osmolality | >500 mOsm/kg | ~300 mOsm/kg |
| Urinary casts | Hyaline casts | Muddy brown granular casts |
| Response to fluids | Yes | No |
AEIOU - Indications for Emergency Dialysis
A → Acidosis (pH <7.1, refractory to treatment)
E → Electrolytes (Hyperkalemia >6.5 with ECG changes)
I → Intoxication (salicylates, methanol, ethylene glycol, lithium)
O → Overload (pulmonary edema refractory to diuretics)
U → Uremia (encephalopathy, pericarditis, bleeding)
B. CKD
KDIGO CKD Classification
GFR CATEGORIES: ALBUMINURIA CATEGORIES:
G1: ≥90 (normal) A1: <30 mg/g (normal)
G2: 60-89 (mildly ↓) A2: 30-300 (moderately ↑)
G3a: 45-59 A3: >300 (severely ↑)
G3b: 30-44
G4: 15-29 (severely ↓)
G5: <15 (kidney failure)
CKD Complications & Management
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ COMPLICATION CAUSE TREATMENT │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Anemia ↓ EPO ESA + IV iron │
│ Hypertension Na/H2O retention ACEi/ARB + diuretic│
│ Metabolic acidosis ↓ H+ excretion Sodium bicarbonate │
│ Hyperkalemia ↓ K+ excretion Low K diet, patiromer│
│ Hyperphosphatemia ↓ PO4 excretion Sevelamer, restrict │
│ Secondary hyperPTH ↑ PTH due to ↓ Ca Calcitriol, cinacalcet│
│ Renal osteodystrophy ↓ Vit D activation Active Vit D │
│ Uremia Toxin accumulation Dialysis │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
16. COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA MANAGEMENT
Levels of Communication in Healthcare
INTRAPERSONAL → Self-reflection; doctor's own biases and emotions
INTERPERSONAL → Doctor-patient; doctor-family; team communication
ORGANIZATIONAL → Referral letters; discharge summaries; MDT meetings
PUBLIC/MEDIA → Press conferences; social media; health campaigns
Calgary-Cambridge Model of Consultation
INITIATING THE SESSION
→ Greet, introduce, establish rapport
→ Identify reason for visit (open-ended)
│
GATHERING INFORMATION
→ ICE: Ideas, Concerns, Expectations
→ Verbal and non-verbal cues
│
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
│
EXPLANATION AND PLANNING
→ Chunking and checking
→ Shared decision-making
│
CLOSING THE SESSION
→ Safety netting, follow-up plan
Breaking Bad News - SPIKES
S → Setting up: Private, sit down, turn off phone, support person
P → Perception: "What do you understand about your illness?"
I → Invitation: "Would you like me to explain the full picture?"
K → Knowledge: "I'm afraid the news is not good... the biopsy shows cancer"
E → Emotions/Empathy: Pause, acknowledge, "I can see this is very hard"
S → Strategy/Summary: Treatment plan, next steps, offer hope realistically
Media Management
TRADITIONAL MEDIA (TV, newspaper):
→ Designate ONE spokesperson
→ Stick to facts, avoid speculation
→ Never discuss individual patient details (HIPAA/MCI rules)
→ Have institutional communications team involved
SOCIAL MEDIA (Instagram, X/Twitter, YouTube):
→ NEVER post identifiable patient information
→ Maintain professional dignity at all times
→ Medical misinformation: rebut with evidence-based sources
→ Telemedicine consults: document, consent, limitations stated
HEALTH COMMUNICATION CAMPAIGNS:
→ SBCC (Social Behaviour Change Communication)
→ IEC (Information, Education, Communication) materials
→ Tailored to literacy level and local language
Documentation (Medico-legal importance)
"If it's not documented, it didn't happen"
Essential documents:
• Medical records (maintain 3 years minimum - MCI)
• Informed consent forms
• Discharge summaries
• Death certificates (accurate cause of death mandatory)
• Referral letters (ISBAR format):
I - Identify
S - Situation
B - Background
A - Assessment
R - Recommendation
17. ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY
Classification
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY │
├──────────────┬───────────────────┬──────────────────────────┤
│ PRIMARY │ SECONDARY │ TERTIARY │
│ (Addison's) │ (Pituitary) │ (Hypothalamic) │
├──────────────┼───────────────────┼──────────────────────────┤
│ Adrenal │ ↓ ACTH from │ ↓ CRH → │
│ gland │ pituitary │ ↓ ACTH → │
│ destroyed │ damage │ ↓ Cortisol │
│ │ │ │
│ Autoimmune │ Pituitary tumor │ MOST COMMON CAUSE: │
│ (most common)│ Sheehan's │ Chronic exogenous │
│ TB (India) │ syndrome │ corticosteroid therapy │
│ Bilateral │ Hypophysitis │ │
│ hemorrhage │ │ │
│ Fungal │ │ │
│ Metastasis │ │ │
└──────────────┴───────────────────┴──────────────────────────┘
HPA Axis Diagram
HYPOTHALAMUS
→ CRH (Corticotropin Releasing Hormone)
↓
ANTERIOR PITUITARY
→ ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone)
↓
ADRENAL CORTEX
→ Cortisol (Zona fasciculata)
→ Aldosterone (Zona glomerulosa) ← Only primary AI affected
→ Androgens (Zona reticularis)
↓
NEGATIVE FEEDBACK → suppresses CRH + ACTH
Primary vs Secondary - Key Differences
| Feature | Primary | Secondary/Tertiary |
|---|
| Cortisol | Low | Low |
| ACTH | HIGH (↑) | Low/normal |
| Aldosterone | Low | Normal |
| Na | Low | Low |
| K | HIGH | Normal |
| Skin | Hyperpigmentation (tan, mucosa) | Pale/normal |
| BP | Low | Low |
Diagnosis Algorithm
Morning cortisol (8am)
│
<3 μg/dL → Adrenal insufficiency CONFIRMED
│
>18 μg/dL → Adrenal insufficiency EXCLUDED
│
3-18 μg/dL → BORDERLINE → DO SHORT SYNACTHEN TEST (SST)
│
Give Synacthen (ACTH analog) 250mcg IV
│
Cortisol at 30 min
│
>18 μg/dL → NORMAL (rules out primary/most secondary)
<18 μg/dL → ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY CONFIRMED
│
Check ACTH: High → Primary; Low → Secondary
Treatment
MAINTENANCE:
Hydrocortisone 15-25mg/day in divided doses
Morning: 10-15mg (larger dose - mimics cortisol peak)
Afternoon: 5-10mg
Fludrocortisone 100 mcg/day (PRIMARY ONLY - for aldosterone)
DHEA in women for libido/wellbeing (optional)
SICK DAY RULES:
Mild illness / fever: DOUBLE the dose
Vomiting / unable to take orally: IM hydrocortisone 100mg
Surgery: Triple dose perioperatively
PATIENT EDUCATION:
→ Steroid emergency card / medic-alert bracelet
→ Never stop steroids abruptly
→ Teach self-injection of hydrocortisone 100mg IM
18. ANTITHYROID DRUGS
Thyroid Hormone Synthesis
Dietary Iodide → Iodide trapped in thyroid (NIS)
│
↓
IODIDE OXIDIZED to IODINE ← TPO (Thyroid Peroxidase)
│
↓
ORGANIFICATION: Iodine + Tyrosine → MIT, DIT ← TPO blocks here
│
↓
COUPLING: MIT + DIT → T3; DIT + DIT → T4 ← TPO blocks here
│
↓
T3/T4 released into bloodstream
│
T4 → T3 (peripheral conversion via deiodinase) ← PTU blocks here
Carbimazole vs PTU
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ CARBIMAZOLE / METHIMAZOLE │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Mechanism: Inhibits TPO │
│ Dose: 10-40mg OD (once daily - better compliance) │
│ More potent than PTU │
│ PREFERRED: 2nd trimester pregnancy, most adults │
│ Side effects: │
│ AGRANULOCYTOSIS (0.3-0.5%) - most serious │
│ Aplasia cutis (fetal scalp defect) if used in 1st tri │
│ Cholestatic jaundice, arthralgia, rash │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ PROPYLTHIOURACIL (PTU) │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Mechanism: Inhibits TPO + blocks T4→T3 conversion │
│ Dose: 50-200mg TDS (3 times daily) │
│ Less potent │
│ PREFERRED: 1st trimester pregnancy, thyroid storm │
│ Side effects: │
│ AGRANULOCYTOSIS (0.3-0.5%) │
│ HEPATOTOXICITY (severe, fulminant - rare but serious) │
│ ANCA-positive vasculitis │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Adjunct Therapy for Hyperthyroidism
| Drug | Mechanism | Use |
|---|
| Propranolol | β-blocker + inhibits T4→T3 | Rapid symptom relief (tachycardia, tremor) |
| Lugol's Iodine | Wolf-Chaikoff effect | Pre-op preparation; thyroid storm |
| Cholestyramine | ↓ enterohepatic circulation | Reduce T4 levels quickly |
| Dexamethasone | ↓ T4→T3 + ↓ secretion | Thyroid storm |
Agranulocytosis - Emergency Protocol
Patient on ATD develops:
FEVER + SORE THROAT + MOUTH ULCERS
│
↓
STOP ATD IMMEDIATELY
│
↓
Urgent CBC with differential
│
WBC <1000/mm³ or Neutrophils <500
│
↓
Admit + Isolation + Broad-spectrum antibiotics
G-CSF (Filgrastim) to stimulate recovery
│
↓
Do NOT rechallenge with same ATD class
Consider radioiodine or surgery instead
Thyroid Storm (Thyrotoxic Crisis)
Precipitants: Surgery, infection, trauma, iodine load
Burch-Wartofsky Score >45 = Thyroid storm
Treatment:
PTU 200mg q4h (blocks synthesis + conversion)
+ Lugol's iodine 5 drops q8h (1 hour AFTER PTU)
+ Propranolol 60-80mg q4h
+ Hydrocortisone 100mg q8h (↓ T4→T3; ↑ survival)
+ Cooling, IV fluids, treat precipitant
19. DKA AND HYPOGLYCEMIA
A. DKA
Pathophysiology
INSULIN DEFICIENCY + ↑ GLUCAGON/CORTISOL/CATECHOLAMINES
│
┌──────┴──────────────────────┐
│ │
HYPERGLYCEMIA LIPOLYSIS
(↑ gluconeogenesis, (FFA → Ketogenesis in liver)
↑ glycogenolysis, │
↓ glucose uptake) Acetoacetate
│ Beta-hydroxybutyrate
Osmotic diuresis Acetone (fruity breath)
│ │
Water/electrolyte loss KETOACIDOSIS
(Na, K, Mg, PO4) (High AG Metabolic Acidosis)
│
DEHYDRATION
DKA Diagnostic Criteria
┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ DKA TRIAD │
├───────────────┬────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ HYPERGLYCEMIA│ BG >250 mg/dL (euglycemic DKA exists)│
│ ACIDOSIS │ pH <7.3 AND/OR HCO3 <15 mEq/L │
│ KETONEMIA │ Ketones >3 mmol/L; 2+ urine ketones │
└───────────────┴────────────────────────────────────────┘
Severity:
Mild: pH 7.25-7.30; HCO3 15-18; Ketones >3; Alert
Moderate: pH 7.00-7.24; HCO3 10-14; Drowsy
Severe: pH <7.00; HCO3 <10; Stupor/Coma
DKA Management - 4 Pillars
PILLAR 1: FLUIDS
1L 0.9% NaCl over 1st hour
Then 500mL/hr × 2 hours
Then 250mL/hr → guided by clinical state
Switch to 5% dextrose when BG <250 mg/dL
PILLAR 2: INSULIN
⚠️ ONLY START INSULIN IF K+ >3.3 mEq/L ⚠️
Fixed rate IV insulin: 0.1 unit/kg/hr
(Variable rate acceptable)
Target: BG falls 50-70 mg/dL/hour
Continue until: pH >7.3, HCO3 >15, ketones <0.6 mmol/L
PILLAR 3: POTASSIUM
K+ >5.0: No K+, insulin can start
K+ 3.3-5.0: 20-40 mEq K+/hr in fluids
K+ <3.3: HOLD insulin, replete K+ aggressively first
PILLAR 4: BICARBONATE
Only if pH <6.9 (controversial)
100mEq NaHCO3 over 2 hours
Monitoring Protocol
Hourly: Blood glucose, vital signs
2-Hourly: Venous blood gas (pH, bicarbonate, ketones)
4-Hourly: Urea, electrolytes, creatinine
Continuous: Cardiac monitor (K+ changes)
Resolution criteria (all 3 must be met):
pH >7.3
HCO3 >15 mEq/L
Ketones <0.6 mmol/L (or 2-step reduction in urine ketones)
Then: Overlap SC insulin (give 30-60 min before stopping IV)
B. HYPOGLYCEMIA
Whipple's Triad
1. SYMPTOMS of hypoglycemia
+
2. LOW blood glucose (<70 mg/dL = alert value)
+
3. RELIEF of symptoms after glucose administration
Symptom Progression
BG 60-70 mg/dL → ADRENERGIC (autonomic warning symptoms):
Sweating, tremor, palpitations, anxiety, pallor, hunger
BG 50-60 mg/dL → NEUROGLYCOPENIC symptoms begin:
Confusion, slurred speech, blurred vision, headache
BG <40 mg/dL → SEVERE neuroglycopenia:
Seizures, unconsciousness, coma, death
⚠️ HYPOGLYCEMIA UNAWARENESS:
Long-standing DM → loss of adrenergic warning symptoms
→ Present directly with neuroglycopenic symptoms
→ Very dangerous; requires CGM + relaxed BG targets
Management
CONSCIOUS patient (can swallow):
15-20g fast-acting carbohydrates:
4-5 glucose tablets
150-200mL fruit juice
5-6 teaspoons of sugar
Wait 15 minutes → recheck BG
If still <70: Repeat (Rule of 15)
UNCONSCIOUS patient (cannot swallow):
IV: 50mL of 50% dextrose (25g glucose) IV push
IM: Glucagon 1mg IM or SC
Recheck BG in 15 minutes
Then: Give long-acting carbohydrate (bread, rice)
And: Identify and treat CAUSE
20. ADRENAL CRISIS
Definition
Adrenal crisis = acute life-threatening emergency caused by sudden severe cortisol deficiency, presenting as refractory hypotensive shock.
Causes
PRECIPITANTS OF ADRENAL CRISIS:
│
┌──────────┼──────────────────┐
│ │ │
Known AI Acute bilateral Pituitary
patient adrenal apoplexy
with destruction: (sudden ↓
• Missed • Waterhouse- ACTH)
dose Friderichsen
• Infection syndrome
• Surgery (meningococcemia)
• Trauma • Bilateral
• adrenal
hemorrhage
(anticoagulants)
│
Steroid withdrawal
(most common in practice)
Clinical Features
SHOCK (vasodilatory, refractory to vasopressors without steroids)
ABDOMINAL PAIN (severe; can mimic acute abdomen)
FEVER
CONFUSION / ALTERED CONSCIOUSNESS
HYPOGLYCEMIA
HYPONATREMIA (if primary)
HYPERKALEMIA (if primary)
HYPERPIGMENTATION (if chronic primary AI - may be pre-existing)
Emergency Management Flowchart
SUSPECT ADRENAL CRISIS
(hypotension + known AI OR bilateral adrenal hemorrhage
OR steroid withdrawal + stress)
│
↓
DO NOT DELAY TREATMENT WAITING FOR CORTISOL RESULTS
│
↓
STEP 1: Take blood (cortisol, ACTH, glucose, electrolytes, cultures)
│
↓
STEP 2: IV HYDROCORTISONE 100mg STAT
(Then 50-100mg Q6h OR 200mg/24h continuous infusion)
│
↓
STEP 3: IV FLUIDS
0.9% NaCl 1L FAST + Dextrose saline (correct hypoglycemia)
│
↓
STEP 4: TREAT PRECIPITANT
Antibiotics if sepsis
Correct electrolytes
│
↓
STEP 5: Once stable → Taper back to oral maintenance
Add Fludrocortisone 100mcg/day when fully oral (primary AI)
NOTE: High-dose hydrocortisone has sufficient mineralocorticoid
activity - fludrocortisone NOT needed acutely
21. DRUG-INDUCED LIVER INJURY (DILI)
Definition
DILI = hepatocellular damage caused by drugs, herbal/traditional medicines, or dietary supplements - leading cause of acute liver failure in the West.
Patterns of Injury (R-Ratio)
R = (ALT/ULN) ÷ (ALP/ULN)
R ≥ 5 → HEPATOCELLULAR
(ALT predominantly elevated)
e.g., Paracetamol, INH, Statins, Halothane
R ≤ 2 → CHOLESTATIC
(ALP predominantly elevated)
e.g., Amoxicillin-clavulanate, Chlorpromazine,
Anabolic steroids, Erythromycin
R 2-5 → MIXED
(Both elevated)
e.g., Phenytoin, Carbamazepine
Types of DILI
INTRINSIC (Predictable, dose-dependent, short latency):
Affects everyone if dose is high enough
Examples:
PARACETAMOL (most important):
Normal dose: CYP2E1 → NAPQI → Detoxified by glutathione
Overdose: Glutathione depleted → NAPQI accumulates
→ Centrilobular (Zone 3) necrosis
→ Treatment: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) ASAP
(replenishes glutathione)
→ Use Rumack-Matthew nomogram to guide treatment
IDIOSYNCRATIC (Unpredictable, immune/metabolic, variable latency):
Affects susceptible individuals only
Examples:
INH: 10-20% mild transaminase rise; fulminant in 1%
Amoxicillin-clavulanate: most common cause of cholestatic DILI
Halothane: immune-mediated hepatitis (repeat exposure = worse)
Diclofenac: idiosyncratic hepatocellular
Valproate: mitochondrial toxicity; children at risk
High-Yield DILI Drug List
| Drug | Pattern | Mechanism | Key Point |
|---|
| Paracetamol | Hepatocellular (Zone 3 necrosis) | NAPQI/glutathione depletion | Treat with NAC |
| INH | Hepatocellular | Metabolite toxic + immune | Discontinue if ALT >3× + symptoms |
| Methotrexate | Fibrosis/cirrhosis | Cumulative dose | Liver Bx after 1.5g cumulative |
| Amiodarone | Phospholipidosis/steatohepatitis | Mitochondrial | Mimics alcoholic hepatitis |
| Amoxicillin-clavulanate | Cholestatic/Mixed | Immune | Most common drug causing cholestasis |
| Statins | Hepatocellular (usually mild) | Direct toxicity | Rarely serious; monitor LFTs |
| Valproate | Hepatocellular (children) | Mitochondrial | Avoid <2 years |
RUCAM / CIOMS Causality Assessment
RUCAM Scale considers:
Time to onset, course of reaction after withdrawal,
risk factors (age, alcohol), concomitant drugs,
exclusion of other causes, known hepatotoxicity of drug
Score: >8 = Highly probable
6-8 = Probable
3-5 = Possible
1-2 = Unlikely
≤0 = Excluded
22. OBESITY
Definition & Classification
BMI (Body Mass Index) = Weight (kg) / Height (m)²
WHO Classification: Asian Cutoffs (India):
Underweight < 18.5 Underweight < 18.5
Normal 18.5-24.9 Normal 18.5-22.9
Overweight 25-29.9 Overweight 23-24.9
Obese I 30-34.9 Obese I 25-29.9
Obese II 35-39.9 Obese II ≥30
Obese III ≥40 (Morbid)
CENTRAL OBESITY (Waist circumference):
Men: >102 cm (WHO) / >90 cm (Asian)
Women: >88 cm (WHO) / >80 cm (Asian)
Pathophysiology
CALORIC INTAKE > CALORIC EXPENDITURE
│
Adipose tissue accumulation (especially VISCERAL fat)
│
┌──────┴──────────────────────────────┐
│ │
↑ Leptin (resistance develops) ↑ TNF-α, IL-6
↓ Adiponectin ↑ Free fatty acids
│ │
↓ ↓
Hyperphagia INSULIN RESISTANCE
continues (Metabolic Syndrome)
Complications Diagram
OBESITY
│
┌──────────────────┼──────────────────┐
│ │ │
CARDIOVASCULAR METABOLIC MECHANICAL
Hypertension Type 2 DM OSA
CAD/MI Dyslipidemia OA (knee, hip)
Stroke NAFLD/NASH GERD
Heart failure Metabolic syndrome Hiatus hernia
AF PCOS Pseudotumor cerebri
DVT/PE Hyperuricemia Back pain
│
PSYCHOSOCIAL: Depression, anxiety, social stigma, discrimination
CANCER: Breast, endometrial, colon, kidney, oesophageal, pancreatic
Management Algorithm
ASSESS BMI + WAIST + COMORBIDITIES
│
↓
STEP 1 - LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION (ALL patients):
Diet: Caloric deficit 500-750 kcal/day
Mediterranean / Low GI / low carb diet
Exercise: ≥150 min/week moderate aerobic
+ resistance training 2×/week
Behaviour therapy: Food diary, CBT, group support
│
<5% weight loss at 6 months?
│
↓
STEP 2 - PHARMACOTHERAPY (BMI ≥30 OR ≥27 + comorbidity):
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) - GLP-1 agonist │
│ Best efficacy: 15-20% weight loss │
│ │
│ Tirzepatide (GLP-1/GIP dual agonist) - even better │
│ │
│ Orlistat - Lipase inhibitor, 30% fat malabsorption │
│ Phentermine/topiramate │
│ Naltrexone/bupropion │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
│
<5-10% weight loss?
│
↓
STEP 3 - BARIATRIC SURGERY (BMI ≥40 OR ≥35 + comorbidity):
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) - gold standard
Sleeve Gastrectomy - most popular
Adjustable Gastric Band - least invasive
Biliopancreatic Diversion
23. SNAKE POISONING (ENVENOMATION)
The "Big Four" Venomous Snakes of India
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ SNAKE VENOM TYPE KEY FEATURES │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Russell's Viper Hemotoxic Most common cause of death │
│ (Daboia russelli) Cytotoxic Coagulopathy + AKI + local │
│ Neurotoxic necrosis (highly dangerous) │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Common Krait Neurotoxic Nocturnal bites during │
│ (Bungarus caeruleus)(pre-synaptic)sleep; painless bite; │
│ ascending paralysis; │
│ neostigmine LESS effective │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Indian Cobra Neurotoxic Ptosis early sign; │
│ (Naja naja) (post-synaptic)bulbar palsy; respiratory │
│ Cytotoxic paralysis; local necrosis; │
│ neostigmine EFFECTIVE │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Saw-Scaled Viper Hemotoxic Most number of bites; │
│ (Echis carinatus) coagulopathy; less severe │
│ than Russell's │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Venom Effects and Clinical Syndromes
NEUROTOXIC SYNDROME:
Pre-synaptic (krait): irreversible block of ACh release
→ Weakness, ptosis → bulbar palsy → respiratory failure
→ Neostigmine NOT effective (block is pre-synaptic)
Post-synaptic (cobra): reversible competitive block of nAChR
→ Similar features
→ Neostigmine + Atropine MAY reverse
HEMOTOXIC/VASCULOTOXIC SYNDROME (viper):
Phospholipases, procoagulants → consume clotting factors
→ DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation)
→ Spontaneous bleeding from gums, old wounds, IV sites
→ Hematuria, hemoptysis, hematemesis
→ Renal failure (bilateral cortical necrosis)
CYTOTOXIC (local effects):
Pain, swelling, blistering → necrosis → gangrene
Compartment syndrome
Lymphadenopathy
20-Minute Whole Blood Clotting Test (20WBCT)
HOW TO PERFORM:
Take 2mL blood in PLAIN GLASS tube (NOT plastic/siliconized)
Leave undisturbed at room temperature for 20 minutes
Tilt tube:
Blood clots → Normal coagulation
Blood remains LIQUID → COAGULOPATHY → hemotoxic envenomation
Sensitivity: ~95% for systemic hemotoxic envenomation
Perform: At admission and every 1-2 hours after ASV
Management Flowchart
SNAKE BITE PATIENT
│
↓
FIRST AID (at scene):
Immobilize limb, keep BELOW heart level
Remove tight clothing/jewelry
Reassure, transport rapidly to hospital
DO NOT: Cut, suck, tourniquet, ice, traditional remedies
│
↓
HOSPITAL ASSESSMENT:
Vital signs, neurological exam, examine bite site
Identify type of envenomation
Baseline: 20WBCT, CBC, PT/APTT, LFTs, RFTs, urine (hematuria)
│
↓
INDICATIONS FOR ANTIVENOM (ASV):
SYSTEMIC: Any coagulopathy (20WBCT positive)
Neurotoxicity (ptosis, paralysis)
Hemodynamic instability
AKI, dark urine (myoglobinuria/hemoglobinuria)
LOCAL: Rapidly progressive swelling beyond knee/elbow
│
↓
POLYVALENT ASV (covers all 4 species):
Skin test NOT recommended (unreliable, may cause anaphylaxis)
IV route preferred (IM only if no IV access)
Initial dose: 8-10 vials IV in 100mL NS over 1 hour
Have ADRENALINE (epinephrine) 0.5mg IM drawn up ready
│
No improvement at:
1 hour (coagulopathy) → Repeat 8-10 vials
2 hours (neurotoxicity) → Repeat 4-6 vials
│
↓
SUPPORTIVE CARE:
Neurotoxic → Neostigmine 0.05mg/kg IV + Atropine 0.6mg IV
(test dose; repeat if effective; cobra > krait)
Mechanical ventilation if respiratory failure
Hemotoxic → FFP, platelet transfusion; treat DIC
Monitor urine output; dialysis for AKI
Cytotoxic → Wound care, antibiotics, tetanus
Fasciotomy ONLY if confirmed compartment syndrome
(NOT prophylactically)
Complications to Monitor
EARLY (0-24h): Anaphylaxis to ASV, respiratory failure,
hemorrhagic shock, hypotension
INTERMEDIATE: AKI (peak 3-5 days), DIC, wound necrosis
LATE: Bilateral renal cortical necrosis (dialysis-dependent),
pituitary infarction (Sheehan's-like from Russell's viper)
Gangrene, chronic wound complications
QUICK REVISION TABLE - ALL 23 TOPICS
| # | Topic | One-Line Key Point |
|---|
| 1 | AETCOM | 4 pillars: Attitude, Ethics, Communication, Module - NMC CBME |
| 2 | Cirrhosis | Fibrosis + nodules; portal HTN >12mmHg; ABCDE complications |
| 3 | Dementia | Major NCD; Alzheimer's = plaques + tangles; donepezil first line |
| 4 | ECMO | VV = lungs only; VA = heart + lungs; anticoagulate with heparin |
| 5 | Role of Physician | 4 levels prevention; notifiable diseases; Alma-Ata PHC |
| 6 | Ethics | 4 principles: Autonomy, Beneficence, Non-maleficence, Justice |
| 7 | Osteoporosis | T-score ≤ -2.5; DEXA scan; bisphosphonates first line |
| 8 | COPD | FEV1/FVC <0.70 post-BD; GOLD 1-4; LAMA first for Group B |
| 9 | Medico-Legal Research | Helsinki + ICMR 2017; IRB + consent mandatory; CTRI registry |
| 10 | DJD/OA | Usage pain; LOSS X-ray pattern; weight loss + NSAIDs + TKR |
| 11 | Fractures/Vision | Hip fracture 20-30% mortality at 1yr; AMD = anti-VEGF |
| 12 | HTN | Emergency = TOD present; IV labetalol; check secondary causes |
| 13 | ABG | pH, CO2, HCO3; AG = Na-(Cl+HCO3); MUDPILES for high AG |
| 14 | ARF + IE | Jones criteria (CASES); Duke criteria (2 major or 1+3 minor) |
| 15 | AKI + CKD | AEIOU dialysis; FENa <1% pre-renal; ACEi renoprotective |
| 16 | Communication | SPIKES; Calgary-Cambridge; ISBAR referral; no social media PI |
| 17 | Adrenal Insufficiency | Primary = high ACTH + low Na + high K + pigmentation; synacthen test |
| 18 | Antithyroid Drugs | Carbimazole vs PTU; agranulocytosis = stop drug; PTU in 1st trimester |
| 19 | DKA + Hypoglycemia | Triad: BG+acidosis+ketones; insulin only if K>3.3; rule of 15 |
| 20 | Adrenal Crisis | IV hydrocortisone 100mg STAT; fluids; treat precipitant; don't delay |
| 21 | DILI | R-ratio pattern; paracetamol = NAC; RUCAM causality scale |
| 22 | Obesity | BMI ≥30; GLP-1 agonists best drug; RYGB gold standard surgery |
| 23 | Snake Bite | 20WBCT; polyvalent ASV 8-10 vials; neostigmine for cobra neurotoxicity |
RGUHS 10-Marker Format Reminder: Each answer should have - Definition (1 mark), Classification/Types (2 marks), Pathophysiology/Diagram (2 marks), Clinical features (2 marks), Investigations (1 mark), Management/Flowchart (2 marks). Always end with a labeled diagram or table.