Harrison's PodClass: Internal Medicine Cases and Board Prep

This episode reviews the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain in a young woman, along with the classification and treatment of the underlying condition.Read more on this topic in Harrison.Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 22nd Edition

This discussion centers around a 64-year-old man experiencing fatigue, insomnia, and palpitations. The hosts delve into the diagnosis of new atrial fibrillation, backed by an ECG confirmation. They highlight the serious risks associated with AF, including increased mortality and stroke risk. Acute management strategies are explored, advocating for rate control with beta blockers, along with the importance of anticoagulation prior to cardioversion. Essential anticoagulation guidelines and long-term considerations are also introduced.

Dive into the intriguing case of a 63-year-old with elevated hemoglobin tied to fever and diarrhea. Discover how travel history and heavy tobacco use play into the diagnosis. Learn about the difference between primary and secondary polycythemia, including the pivotal role of EPO levels and the implications of JAK2 mutations. The importance of identifying hyperviscosity symptoms and when to administer phlebotomy is discussed, wrapping up with key takeaways on effective management strategies.

Explore the fascinating dynamics of thyroid function during pregnancy with a real-life case involving a 25-year-old patient. Discover how TRH, TSH, and T4/T3 interact, along with factors that can alter thyroid tests. Learn why universal screening isn't recommended and who should undergo targeted TSH testing. The discussion also highlights the increased need for thyroid replacement during pregnancy, paving the way for crucial clinical insights.

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case of a 39-year-old bitten while traveling in India, emphasizing the urgency of antivenom treatment and debunking outdated first-aid methods.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.