MSD publishes ‘manual’ of patient symptoms

Merck, Sharp and Dohme (MSD) has announced the publication of the Merck Manual of Patient Symptoms.

The company said this reference enables the evaluation and treatment of common patient symptoms and empowers a new generation of healthcare professionals.

Included in the publication are 88 common symptoms from abdominal pain to wheezing organised alphabetically, with a list of possible causes for each one and the inclusion of red flags for potentially serious health conditions.

MSD said the paperback guide is compact enough to be carried in a laboratory coat pocket and can help healthcare professionals better understand and evaluate a number of different systems.

It added this guide is aimed at medical students, physician assistants, residents and nurse practitioners, while it can also act as a useful refresher for clinicians.

The manual was launched last month at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Robert S Porter, editor of the manual, said: “The book will make it easier to sort through patients’ varied sensations and physical findings, and create an effective diagnostic plan.”

Last month, MSD said it had taken a number of vital steps as part of its ongoing plan to boost transparency at the firm, including the publication of grant details and financial relationships with physicians.