Orthopaedic Surgery

Answer 2 Plain radiographs of the lumbar spine. The typical course of benign back pain should not persist for 9 months and should be relieved with rest. This patientıs history is worrisome for either a spinal tumor or infection. With a past medical history significant for breast cancer and a few positive “red flag” signs (eg, fever, chills, night sweats, unintentional weight loss, anorexia, fatigue, rest or night pain), further evaluation is indicated. While advanced imaging will almost certainly be required, initial management should still begin with plain radiographs. Treatment with anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and epidural steroid injections should be considered only when a thorough work-up is completed and a pathologic etiology has been ruled out. Click here to return to the questions

Hospital Physician     JCOM     Seminars in Medical Practice Hospital Physician Board Review Manuals About TWC    Subscribe    Contact TWC    Home    Search   Site Map Copyright © 2009, Turner White Communications Updated 1/04/08 • kkj