Management of patients with chronic cough using a clinical protocol: a prospective observational study.

ABSTRACT:

Unlabelled

Background and aims

Chronic cough is a common symptom the aetiology of which can be challenging to diagnose. Diagnostic protocols for chronic cough have required the use of specialist investigations which are not always easily available. We wanted to determine whether patients with chronic cough can be successfully managed using a clinical algorithm.

Methods

112 consecutive patients with chronic cough were prospectively recruited into this study. They were assessed by history, physical examination, chest radiograph, spirometry and reversibility to nebulised salbutamol. A clinical diagnosis was made and the patient had an 8-week trial of appropriate therapy. Further therapeutic trials were carried out depending on response to treatment and the possible diff

SUBMITTER: Ojoo JC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3565860 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature