Differentials

Question 1

What are the differentials for SOB?

Answer 1

• Asthma
• COPD
• Interstitial lung disease
• ACS
• Congestive HF

Question 2

What are the differentials for COPD?

Answer 2

• Asthma
• Bronchiectasis
• HF
• Lung cancer
• Interstitial lung disease (asbestosis, pneumoconiosis, fibrosing alveolitis or sarcoidosis)
• Anaemia
• TB
• Cystic fibrosis
• Upper airway obstruction

Question 3

What are the hallmark characteristics of asthma?

Answer 3

• Family Hx
• Atopic triad or nocturnal or variable symptoms
• Non-smoker
• Experiences symptoms <35yrs

Question 4

What are the hallmark characteristics of bronchiectasis?

Answer 4

• Copious sputum
• Frequent chest infections
• Hx pneumonia
• Coarse lung crepitations

Question 5

What are the hallmark characteristics of HF?

Answer 5

• Orthopnoea
• Hx IHD
• Fine lung crepitations

Question 6

What are the hallmark characteristics of lung cancer?

Answer 6

• Persistent cough
• Haemoptysis
• Weight loss
• Persistent hoarse voice

Question 7

What are the hallmark characteristics of interstitial lung disease?

Answer 7

• Dry cough

- Fine lung crepitations

Question 8

What are the hallmark characteristics of anaemia?

Answer 8

• Fatigue
• Breathlessness
• Palpitations

Question 9

What are the hallmark characteristics of TB?

Answer 9

• Persistent productive cough which may be associated with:
  Breathlessness
  Haemoptysis