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Biomedical subjects

W R Finch

Publications and source records attributed to W R Finch.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

Evaluating arthritic complaints.

Adults with arthritic conditions are seen frequently in primary care clinics. However, more than 100 different entities can produce joint and muscle symptoms, which makes it challenging to correctly diagnose musculoskeletal complaints. There are several logical steps to follow in assessing joint disorders. The first is to differentiate between what is and what is not arthritis. Additional steps necessary for an appropriate diagnosis include analysis of a thorough history, physical examination, and laboratory and X-ray results. It is of critical importance to identify the most common forms of arthritis, as well as the specific conditions that require immediate referral. The onset, incidence, findings and pathophysiology of the following entities in the adult population are discussed: septic arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, the crystal-induced diseases, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and arthritis, the seronegative spondyloarthropathies and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Adult

Review of the dosing regimens for flurbiprofen. A potent analgesic/anti-inflammatory agent.

Flurbiprofen (Ansaid, Upjohn) is an effective analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. At dosages of 50 mg administered every four to six hours as needed, flurbiprofen's analgesic efficacy has been confirmed in patients with postoperative pain as well as in those with postpartum pain and dysmenorrhea. Data also suggest that flurbiprofen administered 30 minutes before surgery reduced the severity of postoperative pain. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and numerous other inflammatory disorders, 100 to 200 mg of flurbiprofen in two to four divided doses has led to significant clinical improvement. Studies indicate that 100 mg of flurbiprofen at bedtime effectively decreased night pain and the duration of morning stiffness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Acute adverse reactions to ibuprofen in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Three young women with systemic lupus erythematosus who were given ibuprofen for arthritis voluntarily discontinued taking the drug. On reinstitution of therapy, profound hypotension, fever, and headaches developed within hours, without other identifiable cause. A possible relationship to salicylate intolerance was considered. Because of these apparent side effects, we stress caution in the use of ibuprofen in systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly if there is any history of salicylate intolerance.

Acute Disease

Fibromyalgia syndrome.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic rheumatologic disorder. The primary symptoms include musculoskeletal pain and aching, disturbed sleep, fatigue, morning stiffness, and local tenderness. It is frequently misdiagnosed, despite being a fairly common, chronic disorder in most primary care clinics. Failure to make this diagnosis often leads to unnecessary medical and surgical treatment. The treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome is multifaceted. Goals include reassurance, education about pain management and modification, and symptom reduction. Exercise may be beneficial. Amitriptyline is effective in reducing certain symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as pain and lack of restful sleep. Narcotics, steroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided.

Diagnosis, Differential