his is for medical students only references must be provided to make sure the in
ID: 96029 • Letter: H
Question
his is for medical students only references must be provided to make sure the information you are providing is from a valid source.
Ted is a 38 yo male (established patient) who presents to your office due to a 9-month history of fatigue, weight loss of approximately 10lbs in the last 3-6 months, and night sweats. His only significant previous medical history was the repair of a ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus as an infant. He took no prescribed or over-the-counter medications, had never smoked cigarettes, ETOH use: 2-3 drinks per week, and pt mentions that he had a twin brother that died 3 years ago.
Abnormal findings on tests were hepatosplenomegaly, and supraclavicular, axillary and inguinal lymphadenopathy.
What other questions would you ask the patient?
What systems should be included in his tests and why? (I have already given you a few hints)
cardiovascular , pulmonary, GI, lymphatic/ immune?
After asking more questions Ted admits that he has abdominal pain, vomiting with large meals occasionally, and noticed he has trouble with swallowing during meals unless he has "lots of water". Based on the information you have be given, what are at least 3 differential diagnoses you may consider?
dysphagia, esophagitis, esophageal stricture, gastritis , ulcer,esophageal cancer, stomach cancer ?
What further investigation/work-up would a provider consider (labs, scans, referrals)?
What type of follow up would you schedule for this patient and why?
Explanation / Answer
1. Questions i would ask about is.. why the patient's twin brother died. Is there any history of cancer running in the family as cancer has a role with family genes.
2 as stated there is supraclavivular, axillary and inguinal lymphadenopathy.. i would suggest tests for lymphatics and for the knowledge of the cause of hepatosplemegaly, GI tract examination must be done. And finally as the patient has already a history of ventricular septal defect along woth ductus arteriosus, cardiovascular examination is a must too.
3 the three differential diagnosis to be suggested-
a. Esophagitis
b. Esophageal cancer
c. Stomach cancer
4. I fear the patient is suffering from cancer, i would suggest for a biopsy, complete blood count test, ct scanning..
5. After the full investigation, whatever the cause, i will explain the disease and problems arising due to that with the patient and guide him / her to make a strong choice for a better living.
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