Evaluation of Weight Loss
Evaluation of Weight Loss Involuntary weight loss, which can be defined as an unexplained sustained weight loss of 5% or more over a 6- to 12-month period, is a sensitive,…
Evaluation of Chronic Fatigue
Evaluation of Chronic Fatigue Chronic fatigue is one of the most common complaints in primary care practice, with a reported frequency in excess of 20%. It can also be one…
Screening for HIV Infection
Screening for HIV Infection Stephen L. Boswell In the United States, it is estimated that more than 1.1 million people are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and that approximately…
Immunization
Immunization Regina C. Larocque Edward T. Ryan Immunization represents the most cost-effective means of preventing infectious disease. There are five major categories: (a) routine vaccinations of childhood and adolescence, (b)…
Choosing Among Treatment Options
Choosing Among Treatment Options Although discerning diagnosis and accurate prognosis are essential to effective patient care, the process of choosing among treatment options can have the greatest effect on the…
Estimating and Communicating Risk and Prognosis
Estimating and Communicating Risk and Prognosis Diagnosis is a process of classification. A constellation of symptoms, signs, and test results is given a label, and the patient who presents with…
Health Maintenance and the Role of Screening
Health Maintenance and the Role of Screening Public interest in health maintenance or, more positively, health enhancement varies over time and in different segments of the population. Some Americans have…
Selection and Interpretation of Diagnostic Tests
Selection and Interpretation of Diagnostic Tests Diagnostic tests are often essential to patient care. Although the history and physical examination remain the foundation of a clinical database and sometimes suffice,…
The Domain of Primary Care
The Domain of Primary Care This chapter explores the domain and scope of primary care, beginning with an examination of the evolving definitions of primary care medicine and ending with…
