http://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/0715/p102.html?aafpvlogin=7281773&aafpvpw=&URL_success=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aafp.org%2Fafp%2F2013%2F0715%2Fp102.html
Above is an American Family Physician article from this summer outlining lower extremity edema. The article nicely delineates the algorithms for unilateral/bilateral edema, and also has some excellent photos as reminders.
A few summary tips if you cannot access the link:
1. Obviously, don't forget the #1 priority with unilateral lower extremity edema is to rule out DVT. Document a full history complete with a thorough risk factor assessment. Please comment below if you have had success with the new "direct referral DVT doppler" program outlined at the May 2013 provider meeting.
2. Use the skin (hemosiderin deposits) to help you document venous insufficiency.
3 Table 3 of the (often forgotten) medicines that can cause bilateral edema is a helpful reminder. Note that beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and clonidine are prime culprits!
Reading this article can swell your medical diagnostic ability, so please peruse it.
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