Red flags

Updated on 02 Dec 2023
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The below are example red flags for sweats. Other red flags can exist, and clinical acumen is required. If red flags are present, consider urgent referral or admission.

For more information on red flags, see NICE CKS guidance.

Haematological malignancy	Splenomegaly Lymphadenopathy Spontaneous bruising Unexplained weight loss Pallor Persistent bone or back pain Recurrent infections Unexplained pruritis Unexplained shortness of breath
Thyrotoxicosis	Malaise fever or thyroid pain Agitation, anxiety, palpitations, insomnia, heat intolerance, sweating Unintentional weight loss, diarrhoea, thyroid enlargement
Phaeochromocytoma	Labile BP Postural hypotension Sweating attacks Palpitations
Carcinoid	Flushing and diarrhoea

References and Further Information:

NICE Guideline NG12. Suspected cancer: recognition and referral. Last updated Oct 2023.

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