Ticks are disgusting (no offense ticks). They engorge themselves on our blood, becoming bloated sloth-like sacs of our serum. While that is certainly not appealing, what makes them most offensive is their tendency to transmit awful diseases to us. These…
Summertime brings many delightful activities that had been left hibernating during the cold winter months. With each activity, however, comes a variety of injuries and illnesses. Certainly, we are aware of the potential injuries that come with activities like fireworks or…
Infectious diseases seem to be omnipresent in the Ped ED and, thus, have their own dedicated Category of the PedEMMorsels. Additionally, unusual dermatologic eruptions are also quite prevalently encountered when caring for children (see Approach to Rash). While individually each category…
The evaluation of pediatric patients with rashes is a common occurrence in the Ped ED… and a common area of frustration for many of us (ok, maybe it is just me). We have previously covered an approach to the evaluation…
We have previously addressed the notion that “Not All That Shakes is a Seizure.” Often, just by witnessing the “shaking” it is possible to lower the concern for seizures; however, refrain from being dismissive, as there are a number of…
Last week we discussed making the diagnosis of an urinary tract infection. Essentially, we reinforced the fact that we can only make a presumptive diagnosis of UTI in the ED. In some situations, you may prefer to await the urine…
Often, it seems as if the quest for “an answer” can cause us to see what is not there. This is particularly problematic with respect to the quest to decipher the cause of fever. Appropriately, we may consider the potential…