Harrison's PodClass: Internal Medicine Cases and Board Prep

Explore the fascinating world of venomous snakes and the clinical challenges of snake bites. Discover the symptoms of neurotoxic venom and the crucial steps involved in pre-hospital care. The hosts discuss a real case of a 39-year-old bitten while traveling in India, emphasizing the urgency of antivenom treatment and debunking outdated first-aid methods. Engage with a quiz on snake identification and learn about the global impact of snake bites as a neglected tropical disease. This episode blends medical insight with practical knowledge!

A fascinating case of a 73-year-old woman grappling with fever and altered mental status unveils the complexities of sepsis. The discussion pivots around foodborne illness, particularly disseminated listeria, and how it can escalate dangerously, especially in the elderly. Insightful treatment strategies and the vital role of patient history in identifying listeria transmission are explored. The high stakes of appropriate antibiotic interventions underscore the urgency of responsive healthcare.

Listeners dive into the intriguing case of a pregnant woman with abnormal urinalysis, highlighting the complexities of urinary tract infections. The discussion covers the prevalence and gender differences in UTIs, focusing on the unique challenges faced by pregnant patients. Importance is placed on managing asymptomatic bacteriuria to prevent serious complications. The necessity of prompt treatment and urine dipstick tests is emphasized, making the podcast a must-listen for anyone interested in women's health issues.

A pregnant woman expresses concern about lead exposure, prompting a deep dive into the health risks of heavy metal toxicity. The discussion highlights the importance of accurately measuring lead levels, emphasizing whole blood assessments. The hosts explore the dire consequences of maternal lead exposure, including its effect on fetal development and potential long-term health issues for children. This conversation sheds light on the critical need for public awareness, particularly for vulnerable groups facing such environmental hazards.

Dive into the challenges of high-altitude health with a case study of a 30-year-old woman heading to Machu Picchu. Learn about acute mountain sickness, its symptoms, and how to differentiate it from other altitude issues. Discover key risk factors like ascent rate and age. Explore acclimatization strategies to mitigate health risks, including hydration techniques and preventive medications. Unravel myths about remedies such as ginkgo biloba in the fight against mountain sickness while emphasizing the value of a gradual ascent.

A 58-year-old man's elevated PSA levels spark a deep dive into prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The podcast reveals the rising rates of prostate cancer alongside its surprisingly low mortality. It emphasizes the importance of shared decision-making in healthcare. Genetic risks are discussed, shedding light on screening complexities. The significance of advanced imaging in understanding PSA results is also highlighted, making for a compelling conversation on balancing detection and treatment.

Dive into a captivating clinical case about a 44-year-old woman grappling with cirrhosis and shortness of breath. The discussion unravels the complexities of pleural effusions, highlighting how to differentiate between exudates and transudates using Light's criteria. Listeners gain insights into vital signs, imaging, and diagnostic reasoning that enhance their understanding of internal medicine. Treatment strategies for hepatic hydrothorax and the implications of liver failure are key highlights that offer valuable learning for medical enthusiasts.

Delve into a fascinating case of a 24-year-old man with Noonan syndrome facing new-onset dyspnea. Discover the nuances of congenital heart disease and the various murmurs associated with valvular disorders. Learn to differentiate conditions like mitral regurgitation and aortic stenosis through physical exam findings. Plus, explore the common cardiac issues linked to Noonan syndrome, especially pulmonic stenosis, highlighting symptoms, treatment options, and possible surgical interventions. It's a captivating blend of patient stories and medical insights!

An intense case study of an 18-year-old with chest trauma from a lacrosse game sets the stage. The discussion delves into the complexities of blunt cardiac injuries and the vital differences between myocardial contusion and other issues. The hosts highlight the importance of ECGs and cardiac biomarkers for accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, they emphasize the need for prompt medical responses, including defibrillator access at sports events, to ensure athlete safety.

Dive into the case of a 58-year-old woman getting ready for robotic cholecystectomy. Explore the critical preoperative assessments focused on her cardiovascular and pulmonary health. Learn about the importance of electrocardiograms and risk calculators for evaluating surgical readiness. Discover how individualized evaluations and functional capacity measurements play pivotal roles in planning her procedure. This discussion highlights the intricate process of ensuring safety in elective surgeries.