Otolaryngology
Overview
Otolaryngology involves the diagnosis and management of disorders of the ears, nose, and
throat. The general internist should be able to evaluate and manage such common disorders, such
as pharyngitis, otitis, and sinusitis, and recognize more complicated conditions that require
subspecialty consultation. He or she should play a key role in screening for and prevention of
aerodigestive tract malignancies, which occur particularly often in patients who smoke. The
general internist should also be competent in evaluating such specific symptoms as hoarseness,
hearing loss, and facial pain.
Common Clinical Presentations
Ears
·
Discharge·
Hearing loss·
Pain·
Tinnitus·
VertigoNose
·
Airway obstruction·
Congestion or discharge, sneezing·
Epistaxis·
Facial or sinus pain·
Nocturnal airway obstruction, sleep apnea·
SnoringThroat
·
Cervical adenopathy·
Hoarseness·
Oral lesions·
Sore throatProcedure Skills
Ears
·
Insertion of wick in auditory canal·
Removal of cerumenNose
·
Anterior nasal packing·
Speculum rhinoscopy·
Transillumination of maxillary sinusesThroat
·
Indirect laryngoscopy (optional)Primary Interpretation of Tests
Nose
·
Waters’ view radiograph of sinusesOrdering and Understanding Tests
Ears
·
AudiometryNose
·
Aeroallergen skin sensitivity testing·
Limited computed tomography of the sinuses·
Radiography of the sinusesThroat
·
Culture·
Polysomnography·
Rapid streptococcal antigen test