CCFP 105 Key Topic: Cough

Written & Researched By: Kajsa Heyes Peer Review By: Hermeen Dhillon

Objective One: In patients presenting with an acute cough: a) Include serious causes in the differential diagnosis. b) Diagnose a viral infection clinically, principally by taking an appropriate history. c) Do not treat viral infections with ant

Objective Two: In pediatric patients with a persistent (or recurrent) cough, generate a broad differential diagnosis

Objective Three: In patients with a persistent (e.g., for weeks) cough: a) Consider non-pulmonary causes, as well as other serious causes in the differential diagnosis. b) Investigate appropriately.

Objective Four: Do not ascribe a persistent cough to an adverse drug effect without first considering other causes.

Objective Five: In smokers with persistent cough, assess for chronic bronchitis and make a positive diagnosis when it is present.