Acute and chronic conditions of the ear, nose, throat and related head and neck structures.

摘要

Acute and chronic conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck structures are common reasons for outpatient medical visits. These conditions, and the symptoms they cause, can be trivial and mundane or may be debilitating with profound impacts on quality of life. They may be self-limiting and only require supportive care. On the other hand, as pointed out in the articles in this issue of the Medical Clinics of North America, seemingly benign symptoms may be the first clues to a serious and life-threatening condition. General internists stand at the frontline of the effort to make an early diagnosis that has an impact on treatment outcome. The diagnosis and management of these head and neck conditions can be a challenge for general internists (or otolaryngology specialists for that matter), and significant judgment is required to discern the significance of a patient's complaints, begin treatment despite diagnostic uncertainty, and use diagnostic testing in a cost-effective manner.