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Ethics & Law · single question

A dentist suspects a patient may have undiagnosed Addison's disease based on clinical signs. What is the most appropriate next step?

  1. Refer the patient to a physician for interconsultation and diagnostic workup
  2. Diagnose and begin corticosteroid replacement therapy directly in the dental office
  3. Proceed with elective dental treatment as scheduled, with no further action
  4. Tell the patient there is nothing of concern
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Correct answer: A. Refer the patient to a physician for interconsultation and diagnostic workup

Suspected significant endocrine disease, such as Addison's disease, should be referred to a physician for proper diagnostic confirmation and management — initiating corticosteroid/mineralocorticoid replacement therapy without confirmed diagnosis and medical oversight is outside the scope of dental practice.

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