A 40-year-old man represents to ED with severe thoracic back pain. He has a history of intravenous drug use and no allergies. Examination shows reduced power in both legs. You are suspicious of epidural abscess.
| Observation |
Value |
| HR |
90/min |
| BP |
150/80 mmHg |
| RR |
22/min |
| SpO2 |
95% on room air |
| Temperature |
38 degrees C |
| GCS |
15/15 |
| WCC |
16 |
| CRP |
230 |
Other than epidural abscess, list four differential diagnoses for this presentation.
(Marked out of 4.0)
/ 4
Give the most appropriate empirical antibiotic choice, including drug name, dose and route.
(Marked out of 2.0)
/ 2
Two days earlier he was discharged overnight as muscular back pain with suspected drug-seeking behaviour despite fever, 9/10 pain and CRP 100. You discuss the case with that registrar. List key elements of your approach.
(Marked out of 6.0)
/ 6
Total Score: 0 / 12
Percentage: 0%
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