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Published on: September 19, 2019
The Approach to the Child with Joint Complaints
1Pediatric Immunology, Section of Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Seton Hall-Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Avenue, Room WFAN 360, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA.
Insights
This guide offers a structured approach to evaluating pediatric joint complaints, distinguishing between painful and non-painful symptoms. It provides recommendations for physical examination and judicious use of diagnostic tests in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- Joint complaints are common in children.
- A systematic approach is needed for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline an organized method for evaluating pediatric joint issues.
- To guide history taking, physical examination, and investigations.
Main Methods:
- Classification of joint complaints (pain, swelling, fever, duration).
- Recommendations for physical examination techniques.
- Guidance on selecting appropriate laboratory and imaging studies.
Main Results:
- A clear diagnostic pathway for pediatric joint problems.
- Distinction between urgent and non-urgent presentations.
- Evidence-based suggestions for diagnostic test utilization.
Conclusions:
- An orderly approach improves the evaluation of children with joint complaints.
- Judicious use of investigations optimizes diagnostic accuracy and resource allocation.
Abstract:
This article focuses on creating an orderly approach to history taking, examination, and ordering appropriate investigations when caring for a child with joint complaints. It classifies complaints as those with and without pain, swelling, or fever and of short or long duration. It recommends an approach to the physical examination and both suggests and discourages various laboratory and imaging studies.
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