scholarly journals A 45-year-old Female with an Atypical Presentation of Pharyngitis

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
pp. 234-240
Author(s):  
Artur Schander ◽  
Andrew Glickman ◽  
Nancy Weber ◽  
Brian Rodgers ◽  
Michael Carney

Introduction: Emergency physicians are trained to treat a variety of ailments in the emergency department (ED), some of which are emergent, while others are not. A common complaint seen in the ED is a sore throat. While most sore throats are easily diagnosed and treated, less common causes are often not considered in the differential diagnoses. Therefore, the purpose of this case study was to present an atypical case of sore throat and discuss differential diagnoses. Case Presentation: The patient was a 45-year-old female who presented to the ED with a three-day history of sore throat that was exacerbated by eating and drinking. The patient was not on any prescription medications, but tried over-the-counter medications for the sore throat without any improvement in symptoms. Review of systems was positive for sore throat, fevers, and chills. Physical examination of her oropharynx revealed mildly dry mucous membranes with confluent plaques and white patchy ulcerative appearance involving the tongue, tonsils, hard palate, and soft palate. Rapid streptococcal antigen, mononucleosis spot test, and KOH test were performed and found to be negative. Discussion: After initial testing was negative, a follow-up complete blood count with differential and complete metabolic profile were ordered. The patient was found to have decreased lymphocytes and platelets. Based upon those results, a diagnosis was made in the ED, the patient was started on medication, and further laboratory workup was ordered to confirm the diagnosis. ED providers should consider non-infectious as well as infectious causes for a sore throat, as this might lead to a diagnosis of an underlying condition.

2018 ◽  
Vol 2018 ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vishnu Garla ◽  
Karthik Kovvuru ◽  
Shradha Ahuja ◽  
Venkatataman Palabindala ◽  
Bharat Malhotra ◽  
...  

Aim. To present a case of Graves’ disease complicated by methimazole induced agranulocytosis treated with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and review of the literature. Case Presentation. A 21-year-old patient with a history of Graves’ disease presented to the endocrine clinic. His history was significant for heat intolerance, weight loss, and tremors. Upon examination he had tachycardia, smooth goiter, thyroid bruit, and hyperactive reflexes. He was started on methimazole and metoprolol and thyroidectomy was to be done once his thyroid function tests normalized. On follow-up, the patient symptoms persisted. Complete blood count done showed a white blood cell count of 2100 (4000–11,000 cells/cu mm) with a neutrophil count of 400 cells/cu mm, consistent with neutropenia. He was admitted to the hospital and underwent 3 cycles of TPE and was also given filgrastim. He improved clinically and his thyroxine (T4) levels also came down. Thyroidectomy was done. He was discharged on levothyroxine for postsurgical hypothyroidism. Conclusion. Plasmapheresis may be useful in the treatment of hyperthyroidism. It works by removing protein bound hormones and also possibly inflammatory cytokines. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of various modalities of TPE in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.


2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Danielle Whiting ◽  
Ian Rudd ◽  
Amit Goel ◽  
Seshadri Sriprasad ◽  
Sanjeev Madaan

Abstract Background Angiomyolipomas are rare mesenchymal tumours arising from the perivascular epithelioid cells consisting of variable amounts of adipose, thick-walled blood vessels and smooth muscle cells. These benign tumours commonly occur in the kidney with only a few case reports of adrenal angiomyolipomas which have the potential to reach a large size and haemorrhage. Case presentation A 45-year-old lady presented with a 3-week history of right loin pain, nausea and vomiting. A CT scan revealed a right adrenal angiomyolipoma measuring 6.3 × 6.8 cm with associated haemorrhage. The lesion was successfully treated with right open adrenalectomy, and histology confirmed the diagnosis of adrenal angiomyolipoma. The patient remained well with no evidence of recurrence at the 36-month follow-up. Conclusion Adrenal angiomyolipomas are rare benign tumours that have the ability to reach a large size and potential to bleed. Here, we report the second case of spontaneous haemorrhage in an adrenal angiomyolipoma, which was successfully treated with open adrenalectomy.


SLEEP ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 44 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. A148-A149
Author(s):  
Jessica Dietch ◽  
Norah Simpson ◽  
Joshua Tutek ◽  
Isabelle Tully ◽  
Elizabeth Rangel ◽  
...  

Abstract Introduction The purpose of the current study was to examine the relationship between current beliefs about hypnotic medications and historical use of prescription hypnotic medications or non-prescription substances for sleep (i.e., over the counter [OTC] medications, alcohol, and cannabis). Methods Participants were 142 middle age and older adults with insomnia (M age = 62.9 [SD = 8.1]; 71.1% female) enrolled in the RCT of the Effectiveness of Stepped-Care Sleep Therapy In General Practice (RESTING) study. Participants reported on history of substances they have tried for insomnia and completed the Beliefs about Medications Questionnaire-Specific with two subscales assessing beliefs about 1) the necessity for hypnotics, and 2) concerns about potential adverse consequences of hypnotics. Participants were grouped based on whether they had used no substances for sleep (No Subs, 11.6%), only prescription medications (Rx Only, 9.5%), only non-prescription substances (NonRx Only, 26.6%), or both prescription and non-prescription substances (Both, 52.3%). Results Sixty-one percent of the sample had used prescription medication for sleep and 79% had used non-prescription substances (74% OTC medication, 23% alcohol, 34% cannabis). The greater number of historical substances endorsed, the stronger the beliefs about necessity of hypnotics, F(1,140)=23.3, p<.001, but not about concerns. Substance groups differed significantly on necessity beliefs, F(3,1)=10.68, p<.001; post-hocs revealed the Both group had stronger beliefs than the No and NonRx Only groups. Substance groups also differed significantly on the concerns subscale, F(3,1)=6.68, p<.001; post-hocs revealed the NonRx Only group had stronger harm beliefs than the other three groups. Conclusion The majority of the sample had used both prescription and non-prescription substances to treat insomnia. Historical use of substances for treating insomnia was associated with current beliefs about hypnotics. Individuals who had used both prescription and non-prescription substances for sleep in the past had stronger beliefs about needing hypnotics to sleep at present, which may reflect a pattern of multiple treatment failures. Individuals who had only tried non-prescription substances for sleep may have specifically sought alternative substances due to concerns about using hypnotics. Future research should seek to understand the impact of treatment history on engagement in and benefit from non-medication-based treatment for insomnia. Support (if any) 1R01AG057500; 2T32MH019938-26A1


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sara L Weidmayer ◽  
Hakan Demirci

Abstract Background The natural course of a vortex vein varix, though not well understood, has been known to remain stable. However, here we report a novel case of a vortex vein varix that resolved after an extended period of monitoring. Case presentation An asymptomatic 96-year-old Caucasian man was found to have a vortex vein varix. At his previous examination 13 months prior, his fundus was normal. At 13 months of observation, his vortex vein varix become clinically undetectable. Further follow-up confirmed continued absence of the varix. Conclusion This case demonstrates the development then clinical resolution of a vortex vein varix with no clear identifiable factors for its evolution. This case is novel and offers new insight into the natural history of some vortex vein varices, implicating venous congestion as an instigator and venous collateralization as its alleviator, suggesting that vortex vein varices are likely more common than previously reported since some may be temporary and under-identified.


Author(s):  
Zahra Tavoli ◽  
Ali Montazeri

Introduction: Uterus didelphys with obstructed hemivagina associated with ipsilateral renal agenesis (OHVIRA syndrome) is a rare female urogenital malformation and delay in its diagnosis could lead to several complications. Case presentation: A 21-year-old virgin woman was admitted to the emergency department (ED) with severe abdominal pain, without fever and vaginal discharge. She reported a history of cyclic abdominopelvic pain and dysmenorrhea for 5 years. The primary diagnosis (OHVIRA syndrome) was made using ultrasonography, spiral computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In addition, laparoscopy was performed to confirm diagnosis and drain hematosalpinx. Then, hysteroscopy was carried out for septum resection and catheter insertion. At one-month follow-up the ultrasonography showed normal left hemicavity of uterus associated with significant decrease in dysmenorrhea. Conclusion: Being aware of OHVIRA syndrome and clinical suspicion of this rare anomaly are essential for making a timely diagnosis, preventing complications, relieving symptoms, and preserving future fertility.


FACE ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 273250162110536
Author(s):  
Joshua Harrison ◽  
Samantha Marley ◽  
Shawhin Shahriari ◽  
Christian Bowers ◽  
Anil Shetty

We report a rare case of an extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) in the frontal sinus with an indolent clinical presentation. Although a history of trauma was absent, the initial diagnosis was a mucocele, based on the radiological findings. Upon surgical excision, the patient was found to have an EMP. EMP, a form of solitary plasmacytoma, has a significantly high rate of conversion to multiple myeloma. This mandates long-term follow-up, even after successful radiotherapy and/or resection. While radiation therapy is generally considered a first line treatment for EMP, surgical intervention may provide optimal treatment in complicated cases. This case presentation highlights the prognosis of patients diagnosed with EMP.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tao Sun ◽  
Wentao Wang ◽  
Longshuang He ◽  
Yu Su ◽  
Ning Li ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN), hemifacial spasm (HFS) and glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GN) are common diseases of nervous system, with similar pathogenesis and treatment strategies. Coexistent of such disease, especially coexistent of TN-HFS-GN simultaneously, is very rare. To date, only nine cases have been reported.Case Presentation: A 70-year-old male with a history of hypertension and diabetes complained of severe involuntary contraction for about 10 years, knife-like and lighting-like pain, which was restricted to the distribution of the second and third branches of trigeminal nerve and pharynx and root of tongue, for about 2 years. Coexistent of TN HFS and GN was diagnosed and MVD was carried out. After MVD, the patient completely free from symptoms and no recurrence and hypoesthesia were recorded in 18 months follow up.Conclusion: Here we report the tenth and oldest male patient with coexistent of TN-HFS-GN. Despite limited reports, MVD is the preferred choice for such diseases which can free patients from spasm and neuralgia.


2019 ◽  
Vol 64 (3) ◽  
pp. 116-118
Author(s):  
Özant Helvacı ◽  
Seyma Yıldız ◽  
Berfu Korucu ◽  
Ulver Derici ◽  
Turgay Arinsoy

Background Coeliac crisis is a life-threatening presentation of coeliac disease. Severe diarrhoea, weight loss, electrolyte imbalances and malnutrition are prominent features. Although mainly a disease of childhood, it can on the rare occasion be diagnosed in adults. Case presentation A 25-year-old female with severe generalised oedema, lower extremity weakness, hypokalemia and profound hypoalbuminemia was referred with an initial diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome. Three months previously she had given birth to a healthy child following an uneventful pregnancy. She did not have proteinuria. She had a history of diarrhoea with gluten-containing food since childhood but lacked a formal diagnosis of coeliac disease. A duodenal biopsy confirmed the suspected diagnosis. Coeliac crisis was diagnosed with life-threatening multisystem involvement. Introduction of a gluten-free diet abolished all disease symptoms and ameliorated laboratory parameters at six months’ follow-up. Conclusion Coeliac crisis is a rare, yet dangerous presentation of coeliac disease in adults. As this case suggests, it can present with generalised oedema and hypoalbuminemia mimicking nephrotic syndrome. Rapid diagnosis is the key to successful treatment.


2020 ◽  
Vol 48 (11) ◽  
pp. 030006052097144
Author(s):  
Yanan Xie ◽  
Jingzhe Han ◽  
Jinming Liu ◽  
Jie Hao ◽  
Xiuguang Zu ◽  
...  

Background Bidirectional ventricular tachycardia (BVT) is a rare, but serious, arrhythmia. Hypokalemia is commonly found in clinical practice, but hypokalemia-induced BVT has rarely been reported. Case presentation A 74-year-old male patient with the symptoms of chest distress and palpitations was admitted owing to frequent discharge of his implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) for 4 days. Before admission, the patient experienced diarrhea after intake of crabs, and felt frequent discharge of his ICD with a total of approximately 17 discharges in 4 days. He had no history of digitalis use. The serum potassium level after admission was 3.1 mmol/L and an electrocardiogram was consistent with BVT. The diagnosis was ventricular tachycardia, electrical storm, and hypokalemia. His ventricular tachycardia was completely relieved after correction of hypokalemia. Conclusions After correction of hypokalemia in this patient, the episode of BVT was terminated and no recurrence of BVT was observed during long-term follow-up. Our findings suggest the diagnosis of hypokalemia-induced BVT.


2017 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 61-66 ◽  
Author(s):  
María Carmen Guixeres Esteve ◽  
Augusto Octavio Pardo Saiz ◽  
Lucía Martínez-Costa ◽  
Samuel González-Ocampo Dorta ◽  
Pedro Sanz Solana

The early development of lens opacities and lens subluxation are the most common causes of vision loss in patients with anterior megalophthalmos (AM). Cataract surgery in such patients is challenging, however, because of anatomical abnormalities. Intraocular lens dislocation is the most common postoperative complication. Patients with AM also seem to be affected by a type of vitreoretinopathy that predisposes them to retinal detachment. We here present the case of a 36-year-old man with bilateral AM misdiagnosed as simple megalocornea. He had a history of amaurosis in the right eye due to retinal detachment. He presented with vision loss in the left eye due to lens subluxation. Following the removal of the subluxated lens, it was deemed necessary to perform a vitrectomy in order to prevent retinal detachment. Seven months after surgery, an Artisan® Aphakia iris-claw lens was implanted in the anterior chamber. Fifteen months of follow-up data are provided.


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