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Watchful waiting (surveillance)

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content provided by Healthwise

Watchful waiting is a wait-and-see approach. The person may get better (or not get worse) without treatment; if the condition worsens, the person and his or her doctor will decide what to do next.

The length of the watchful waiting period is determined by:

  • The severity of the symptoms.
  • The progression of the problem if not treated.
  • The risks and benefits of waiting.
  • The person's age and medical history.
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Last Updated: May 25, 2007
Author:
Jeannette Curtis

Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:
Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine


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