An unusual case of an unusual bug

Date
2005-08
Authors
Buckley, Philippa
Reuter, Helmuth
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Health and Medical Publishing Group (HMPG)
Abstract
Many doctors dislike patients presenting with psychiatric symptoms. This may lead to less careful examination and less precise laboratory testing. When routine examinations and tests are declared normal, the patients are medically cleared, and many diseases are missed. The patient is rapidly referred to a psychiatrist who may inappropriately treat for a non-existent psychiatric disorder. To avoid diagnostic disasters, it is essential to remember that psychiatric and behavioural symptoms are nonspecific. Other causes must be excluded before any psychiatric treatment begins.
Description
The original publication is available at http://www.cmej.org.za/index.php/cmej
Keywords
Haemophilus influenzae meningitis -- Diagnosis -- South Africa -- Worcester -- Case study, Haemophilus influenzae meningitis -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Worcester -- Case studies, Diagnostic errors -- South Africa -- Worcester -- Case studies, Psychiatric symptoms -- Diagnosis, Psychotic manifestations of general diseases
Citation
Buckley, P. & Reuter, H. 2005. An unusual case of an unusual bug. Continuing Medical Education, 23(8):415.