More Questionable Tests and Procedures Enumerated

By Joe Elia

The American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation has gathered new recommendations from 17 specialty societies on tests, procedures, and treatments "that physicians and patients should question."

As part of the Choosing Wisely initiative, each society offers five questionables. Among them:

• Asymptomatic adults shouldn't be screened for carotid artery stenosis.

• Cough and cold medicines shouldn't be recommended for respiratory illness in kids under 4.

• CT isn't necessary to evaluate routine abdominal pain in children.

• Don't screen for ovarian cancer in asymptomatic women at average risk.

• Don't use brain imaging to evaluate simple syncope in the presence of a normal neurological exam.

• Don't use antipsychotics as first-choice treatment for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.

The recommendations are all accompanied by supporting evidence.