Case Study 2:
Name Jimmy Schwimmer
Patient # 45645645 DOB: 11/03/2002
Physician Dr. Raychee Date: 04/21/20XX
INTER-OFFICE REFERRAL FORM
Melissa Neidermayer, M.D.
Doctors-R-Us – North Campus
1515 N. Medical Plaza #203
Anytown, Anywhere 12345
Dear Melissa,
I’m sending little Jimmy over for a stat spinal tap. He has had a fever for a couple of days, which increased to 102 degrees today. Since yesterday he’s been complaining of a headache and stiff neck. His mother said last week he had gone swimming in the pond by their barn and started feeling ill a few days later. Fax results ASAP.
Best,
Terrie Raychee, M.D.
Terrie Raychee, M.D.
1. What nervous system disease is Jimmy suffering from?
2. What could have caused Jimmy’s disease?
3. What structures and functions of the nervous system are affected by this disease?
4. What can be done to treat this disease?
Obviously, even the doctor doesn't know what disease Jimmy has. That's the reason for the spinal tap.
An assignment like this is fraudulent.
1. To determine the nervous system disease that Jimmy is suffering from, we need to analyze the information provided in the case study. According to the referral form, Jimmy has been experiencing a fever, headache, and a stiff neck, which are symptoms commonly associated with meningitis. However, for a definitive diagnosis, further tests may be required, such as the results of the spinal tap that are being requested. Therefore, based on the information given, Jimmy may be suffering from meningitis.
2. The case study suggests that Jimmy's disease may have been caused by swimming in a pond. This indicates a potential exposure to bacteria or other pathogens present in the water. Meningitis can be caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections. In the mentioned scenario, the source of infection could be waterborne bacteria or viruses present in the pond, leading to his subsequent illness.
3. Meningitis affects the structures and functions of the nervous system, primarily the meninges, which are the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. These membranes become inflamed during meningitis. The disease can also impact the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the fluid that surrounds and supports the nervous system. The infection can disrupt the normal flow and balance of CSF, leading to increased pressure on the brain and spinal cord.
4. The treatment for meningitis depends on its cause, whether it is bacterial, viral, or fungal. Bacterial meningitis often requires immediate hospitalization and treatment with intravenous antibiotics to target the specific bacteria causing the infection. Viral meningitis may not require specific treatment, as it tends to resolve on its own, but supportive care such as rest, fluids, and pain relievers may be provided. Fungal meningitis is less common and treated with antifungal medications. The specific treatment plan for Jimmy will be determined based on the results of the spinal tap and further medical evaluation.