Question 1

An adult patient who has been taking high-dose corticosteroids reports a dull, aching pain in the groin and presents with a limp. What condition does the provider suspect, based on this history?&#10;A) Avascular necrosis of the femoral head&#10;B) Infectious arthritis of the hip&#10;C) Osteoarthritis of the hip&#10;D) Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE)

Accepted Answer

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is a known risk associated with high-dose corticosteroid use, and the symptoms of dull, aching pain in the groin and a limp are classic signs of this condition. Infectious arthritis would be associated with more acute symptoms like fever and joint swelling, while osteoarthritis and SCFE typically present with pain in the hip and thigh, but not necessarily a limp.

Question 2

A patient with chronic hip pain cannot take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and tells the provider that acetaminophen is minimally helpful. What might the provider recommend initially to improve pain relief?

A) A fentanyl patch
B) Capsaicin
C) Glucosamine
D) Lidocaine patches

B

Accepted Answer

Capsaicin is a topical analgesic that can be used to relieve chronic hip pain. It works by blocking the transmission of pain signals from the nerves to the brain.

Deck 161: Hip Pain