Condition Lookup
Category:
Infectious Diseases
Number of Conditions: 24
Pneumonia
Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Common Infections
Symptoms:
cough; fever; chills; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; sweating; nausea or vomiting
Root Cause:
Pneumonia is caused by infection (bacterial, viral, fungal) leading to inflammation in the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs, causing impaired oxygen exchange.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed through clinical evaluation, chest X-ray, blood tests, sputum culture, and sometimes a CT scan or pulse oximetry.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause (bacterial, viral, or fungal). Bacterial pneumonia typically requires antibiotics, while viral pneumonia is often managed with supportive care and antiviral medications in some cases.
Medications:
Common antibiotics like amoxicillin , azithromycin , or doxycycline for bacterial pneumonia; antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu ) for viral causes; antifungal medications like fluconazole may be used if fungal infection is identified. These are classified as antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals, respectively.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Pneumonia is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in older adults, with higher rates seen in those over 65. It is a common cause of hospitalization in geriatric patients.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, weakened immune system, smoking, chronic respiratory conditions, recent viral infections (e.g., influenza), and residing in long-term care facilities.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis is generally good, although recovery can be slower in older adults. It may be fatal in severe cases or those with underlying health conditions.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, sepsis, lung abscesses, pleuritis, and long-term lung damage in severe or untreated cases.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; cough; sneezing; mild fever; fatigue; headache
Root Cause:
Viral infections affecting the nasal passages, sinuses, pharynx, or larynx, commonly caused by rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, or adenoviruses.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history and symptoms; no specific tests unless bacterial complications are suspected.
Treatment:
Supportive care (rest, hydration, symptomatic relief).
Medications:
OTC decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ), pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen , acetaminophen ), throat lozenges.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; adults experience 2–4 episodes annually, while children have more frequent infections.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, colder seasons, weakened immune system.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; most cases resolve within 7–10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sinusitis, otitis media, secondary bacterial infections.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) (e.g., Chlamydia, Gonorrhea)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
painful urination; abnormal genital discharge; pelvic pain; bleeding between periods; testicular pain (in men)
Root Cause:
Infections caused by sexually transmitted bacteria (e.g., Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) on urine or swabs.
Treatment:
Antibiotics tailored to the specific pathogen.
Medications:
Azithromycin or doxycycline for chlamydia; ceftriaxone plus azithromycin or doxycycline for gonorrhea.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; chlamydia is the most reported bacterial STI worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sex, multiple partners, previous STIs.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; untreated cases may lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, epididymitis.
Mononucleosis (Glandular Fever)
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
fever; sore throat; swollen lymph nodes; fatigue; enlarged spleen; headache; muscle aches
Root Cause:
Infection by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), spread through saliva ("kissing disease").
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, blood tests (monospot test, EBV antibodies).
Treatment:
Supportive care (hydration, rest, symptom relief); avoid physical activity to prevent spleen rupture.
Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ) for fever and pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in adolescents and young adults; about 90% of adults are infected with EBV by adulthood.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, sharing drinks or utensils.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; symptoms resolve in 2–4 weeks, though fatigue may persist.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spleen rupture, secondary infections, prolonged fatigue.
Chickenpox
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Viral Exanthems
Symptoms:
itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters; fever; fatigue; loss of appetite; headache
Root Cause:
Infection with Varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical diagnosis based on rash appearance; PCR testing or serologic testing in atypical cases.
Treatment:
Symptomatic relief (e.g., antihistamines, acetaminophen); antiviral therapy (e.g., acyclovir) in high-risk cases.
Medications:
Acyclovir (antiviral medication) may be prescribed for severe cases or immunocompromised patients. Antihistamines or calamine lotion may be used to manage itching.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Before widespread vaccination, almost universal in children; now much less common in vaccinated populations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, exposure to infected individuals, immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically resolves without complications in healthy children; serious complications can occur in high-risk groups.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, encephalitis, or reactivation as shingles later in life.
Shingles
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
painful, blistering rash in a band-like pattern on one side of the body; burning or tingling sensation; fever; fatigue; itching or sensitivity in the affected area
Root Cause:
Reactivation of dormant varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in nerve tissues, often triggered by immunosuppression or aging.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on characteristic rash; PCR testing or direct fluorescent antibody test for confirmation.
Treatment:
Antiviral therapy, pain management, and supportive care.
Medications:
Antivirals (e.g., acyclovir , valacyclovir , famciclovir ), pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , NSAIDs), topical lidocaine for localized pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
About 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime, with increased risk in older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, weakened immune system, stress, prior chickenpox infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; symptoms typically resolve within 2–4 weeks, though pain may persist in some cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Postherpetic neuralgia (chronic pain in affected area), vision loss (if involving the eye), bacterial superinfection of the rash, rare neurological complications (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis).
Strep Throat
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Common Pediatric Infections
Symptoms:
sore throat; painful swallowing; fever; swollen tonsils; white patches or streaks on the tonsils; swollen lymph nodes; headache; nausea or vomiting (in children)
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Rapid antigen detection test (RADT); throat culture for confirmation.
Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy to reduce symptoms and prevent complications, along with supportive care for symptom relief.
Medications:
Penicillin or amoxicillin (beta-lactam antibiotics) are the first-line treatments. In penicillin-allergic individuals, macrolides (e.g., azithromycin ) or cephalosporins may be prescribed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in school-aged children; peaks during late fall and early spring.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, crowded environments (e.g., schools), young age (5–15 years).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; symptoms typically resolve within 3–5 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rheumatic fever, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, peritonsillar abscess, or scarlet fever.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Viral Infections
Symptoms:
fever; painful sores in the mouth; rash with blisters on the hands, feet, and buttocks; loss of appetite; irritability in infants; sore throat
Root Cause:
Viral infection commonly caused by coxsackievirus A16 or enterovirus 71.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical diagnosis based on characteristic rash and oral ulcers; PCR testing in atypical cases.
Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration and pain relief.
Medications:
No specific antiviral treatment; symptomatic management with acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain. Topical anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine ) can be used for mouth sores.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children under 5 years; outbreaks occur worldwide, especially in daycare settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young age, close contact with infected individuals, poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; most children recover fully within 7–10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare complications include viral meningitis, encephalitis, or dehydration due to difficulty swallowing.
Measles
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
high fever; cough; runny nose; red, watery eyes; white spots inside the mouth (koplik spots); red blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads downward
Root Cause:
Caused by the measles virus (a single-stranded RNA virus in the paramyxovirus family); spreads through respiratory droplets and is highly contagious.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of symptoms (fever, rash, Koplik spots) and confirmed through laboratory tests like measles-specific IgM antibodies or reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Treatment:
Supportive care to manage symptoms, including hydration, fever control, and vitamin A supplementation to reduce the severity of complications.
Medications:
No antiviral medications for measles. Supportive treatment includes antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen ) for fever, and vitamin A supplementation to prevent severe complications in children.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage. In 2022, over 9 million cases and 128,000 deaths were reported worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, international travel to regions with outbreaks, immunosuppression, and malnutrition (especially vitamin A deficiency).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent with proper supportive care, but complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, or death can occur, especially in children under 5 or individuals with weakened immunity.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
pneumonia; encephalitis; otitis media; diarrhea; subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE)
Rubella (German Measles)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
low-grade fever; rash that starts on the face and spreads downward; swollen lymph nodes (especially behind the ears); joint pain; mild cold-like symptoms
Root Cause:
Caused by the rubella virus (a single-stranded RNA virus in the Togaviridae family); spreads via respiratory droplets and can lead to severe complications during pregnancy (congenital rubella syndrome).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation and confirmed through serology (rubella-specific IgM and IgG antibodies) or RT-PCR testing.
Treatment:
No specific antiviral treatment; care focuses on symptom management.
Medications:
Symptomatic treatment includes antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen ) and analgesics for fever and joint pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in countries with widespread vaccination but remains a concern in regions with low vaccination coverage.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, pregnancy (risk to the fetus), and exposure to infected individuals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for most individuals, but congenital rubella syndrome can result in severe birth defects or fetal death if the mother is infected during pregnancy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
congenital rubella syndrome (birth defects); arthritis; encephalitis; thrombocytopenia
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
severe coughing fits; whooping sound during inhalation; vomiting after coughing; exhaustion after coughing fits; runny nose; low-grade fever
Root Cause:
Caused by Bordetella pertussis (a gram-negative bacterium); highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms and confirmed with nasopharyngeal swab (culture or PCR) or serology.
Treatment:
Early antibiotic treatment (macrolides) to reduce severity and prevent transmission; supportive care includes hydration and oxygen if needed.
Medications:
Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin , clarithromycin , erythromycin ) are prescribed to treat the infection and limit spread.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Remains common worldwide, with periodic outbreaks even in vaccinated populations due to waning immunity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, waning immunity over time, close contact with infected individuals, and young age (infants are most at risk).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment, but severe complications can occur in infants.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
pneumonia; seizures; brain damage (encephalopathy); death in infants; rib fractures from severe coughing
Polio (Poliomyelitis)
Specialty: Pediatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases
Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; headache; stiff neck; limb pain; paralysis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Caused by the poliovirus (a single-stranded RNA virus in the Picornaviridae family); spreads through fecal-oral transmission or respiratory droplets.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Confirmed by detecting the virus in stool or throat samples using PCR, or serology for poliovirus-specific antibodies.
Treatment:
No cure; treatment focuses on supportive care, including physical therapy and assistive devices for paralysis.
Medications:
No antiviral drugs for polio; pain relief can include analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Eradicated in many countries due to vaccination but still present in some regions (e.g., Afghanistan and Pakistan).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, poor sanitation, and travel to areas with active transmission.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for non-paralytic cases, but paralysis can result in lifelong disability or death if respiratory muscles are affected.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
paralysis; post-polio syndrome (late complications); respiratory failure; death
Sepsis and Septic Shock
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; rapid heart rate; rapid breathing or difficulty breathing; confusion or altered mental state; low blood pressure; chills; reduced urine output; discolored or mottled skin
Root Cause:
A systemic inflammatory response caused by an infection that triggers widespread immune activation, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and, in severe cases, septic shock characterized by dangerously low blood pressure.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, blood cultures, imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scans), complete blood count (CBC), lactate levels, C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin levels. Diagnosed based on the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, vasopressors for shock, and supportive care in an intensive care unit (ICU). Source control (e.g., surgical removal of infected tissues or drainage of abscess) may be necessary.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (beta-lactam), meropenem (carbapenem), or vancomycin (glycopeptide) are used to target the underlying infection. Vasopressors like norepinephrine (sympathomimetic) are used to maintain blood pressure. Corticosteroids like hydrocortisone may be used in refractory septic shock.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sepsis affects an estimated 48.9 million people annually worldwide, leading to 11 million deaths. It is more common in hospitalized patients, especially in intensive care units.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease), immunosuppression, recent surgery, invasive devices (e.g., catheters, ventilators), and severe infections (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract infections).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies; early recognition and treatment improve survival rates. Mortality rates for sepsis range from 10% to 40%, while septic shock has a higher mortality rate of 30% to 50%. Survivors may experience long-term complications or reduced quality of life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), kidney failure, and long-term cognitive and physical impairments in survivors.
Necrotizing Fasciitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
severe pain at the site of infection; rapidly spreading redness and swelling; skin discoloration; blistering; fever; chills; fatigue; low blood pressure; sepsis
Root Cause:
Rapidly progressing bacterial infection caused by bacteria such as Group A Streptococcus, Clostridium, or Vibrio vulnificus, which destroys soft tissues and fascia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging studies (MRI or CT), blood tests indicating infection, and surgical exploration for definitive diagnosis.
Treatment:
Immediate surgical debridement to remove dead tissue, aggressive antibiotic therapy, and supportive care in an intensive care unit (ICU).
Medications:
Broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (a beta-lactam), clindamycin (a lincosamide), and vancomycin (a glycopeptide) to cover multiple pathogens.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; approximately 0.4 cases per 100,000 people annually in developed countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
diabetes; immunosuppression; recent surgery; trauma; intravenous drug use; peripheral vascular disease
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mortality rate is 20-40%, depending on the speed of diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, organ failure, amputation, and death.
Abscesses
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
localized swelling; redness; pain or tenderness; warmth; pus drainage; fever (in severe cases); fluctuant mass under the skin
Root Cause:
Localized bacterial infection leading to the formation of a pus-filled cavity, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant strains).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, ultrasound imaging for deep abscesses, and sometimes culture of pus to identify bacteria and guide antibiotic therapy.
Treatment:
Incision and drainage (I&D) of the abscess is the primary treatment, with antibiotics prescribed in cases of severe infection or systemic involvement.
Medications:
Oral antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide), doxycycline (a tetracycline ), or clindamycin (a lincosamide), particularly for MRSA coverage.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; skin abscesses account for a significant proportion of emergency department visits related to skin infections.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
poor hygiene; skin trauma; immunosuppression; diabetes; chronic skin conditions such as eczema or acne
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper treatment, though recurrence can occur, especially without addressing underlying risk factors.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cellulitis, bacteremia, sepsis, and scarring.
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Other Infectious Emergencies
Symptoms:
sudden high fever; low blood pressure; vomiting; diarrhea; rash resembling sunburn; confusion; seizures; muscle aches; redness of eyes, throat, and mouth; organ failure
Root Cause:
Caused by toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, often associated with tampon use, wound infections, or surgical procedures.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms, blood cultures, and other laboratory tests to identify the bacterial toxin.
Treatment:
Immediate hospitalization, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, antibiotics to target bacteria, and management of organ dysfunction.
Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics such as clindamycin and vancomycin (antibacterials). IV immunoglobulins may also be used to neutralize toxins.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an incidence of approximately 1–2 cases per 100,000 population annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged tampon use, post-surgical infections, open wounds, childbirth, or nasal packing.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; however, untreated cases can be fatal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Shock, organ failure, amputations due to necrosis, and death.
Bacterial Endocarditis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Cardiovascular Infections
Symptoms:
fever; heart murmur; fatigue; night sweats; unexplained weight loss; skin lesions on hands or feet (janeway lesions); painful nodules (osler's nodes); shortness of breath; swelling in legs or abdomen
Root Cause:
Infection of the heart's inner lining or valves caused by bacteria, commonly Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species, entering the bloodstream.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, echocardiogram, and clinical evaluation of symptoms.
Treatment:
Long-term intravenous antibiotics and sometimes surgical valve repair or replacement.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as vancomycin or ceftriaxone (antibacterials), depending on the causative organism and susceptibility.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 3–10 cases per 100,000 population annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prosthetic heart valves, previous endocarditis, congenital heart defects, intravenous drug use, and invasive dental or medical procedures.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; good with early treatment but high risk of complications if delayed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, stroke, septic emboli, and valve damage.
Acute Osteomyelitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Bone and Joint Infections
Symptoms:
bone pain; fever; swelling; redness over affected area; reduced range of motion; general malaise
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of the bone, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, spreading through the bloodstream or direct inoculation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, or CT), and sometimes bone biopsy.
Treatment:
Intravenous antibiotics, immobilization of the affected limb, and sometimes surgical debridement.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as cefazolin , clindamycin , or vancomycin (antibacterials) tailored to the causative organism.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies; more common in children and individuals with trauma or immunocompromising conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent bone trauma, surgery, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and intravenous drug use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment but risk of chronic osteomyelitis if delayed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic infection, bone necrosis, sepsis, and reduced mobility.
Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Systemic Conditions
Symptoms:
persistent fever lasting more than three weeks; weakness; night sweats; weight loss; anorexia
Root Cause:
FUO can result from various causes, including infections, malignancies, autoimmune diseases, and other systemic disorders.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive history, physical examination, laboratory tests (CBC, blood cultures, ESR/CRP), imaging (CT, MRI, PET), and biopsy if indicated.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the identified cause; empirical therapy may be used in select cases while diagnostic efforts are ongoing.
Medications:
Antibiotics (broad-spectrum, such as vancomycin or ceftriaxone ), corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants depending on the cause. These belong to anti-infectives, anti-inflammatory agents, or immunomodulators.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
FUO accounts for about 2-3% of hospital admissions in tertiary care settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, immunosuppression, travel history, or recent surgeries.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies widely and depends on the underlying cause. Many cases resolve with appropriate treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent fever can lead to dehydration, organ dysfunction, or worsening of the underlying condition.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Common Infections
Symptoms:
frequent urination; burning sensation during urination; cloudy or foul-smelling urine; pelvic pain; low fever; incontinence; confusion or agitation in elderly
Root Cause:
UTIs are caused by the invasion of bacteria (typically E. coli) into the urinary tract, leading to inflammation and infection. In older adults, UTIs can present with more subtle or atypical symptoms, such as confusion.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is through urinalysis, urine culture, and sometimes imaging tests to check for complications like kidney stones or anatomical abnormalities.
Treatment:
UTIs are primarily treated with antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin, or nitrofurantoin.
Medications:
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed, such as nitrofurantoin (a nitrofuran), ciprofloxacin (a fluoroquinolone), or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (a combination antibiotic). These are classified as antibiotics.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
UTIs are very common in the elderly, with up to 25% of older women and 15% of older men experiencing them.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, catheter use, urinary retention, diabetes, weakened immune system, and anatomical abnormalities.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate antibiotic treatment, the prognosis is generally favorable, although recurrent UTIs are common in older adults.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pyelonephritis (kidney infection), sepsis, and chronic kidney disease in severe or untreated cases.
Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (e.g., Cellulitis)
Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Common Infections
Symptoms:
redness; swelling; pain; warmth; fever; blisters; lymph node enlargement
Root Cause:
These infections are caused by bacteria (typically Streptococcus or Staphylococcus) entering broken skin or mucous membranes, causing localized inflammation and infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is usually clinical based on the appearance of the affected area, though blood cultures or a biopsy may be used in severe or non-responsive cases.
Treatment:
Treatment involves oral or intravenous antibiotics, such as cefalexin, clindamycin, or dicloxacillin, depending on the severity and suspected bacteria.
Medications:
Common antibiotics include clindamycin (a lincosamide), cefalexin (a cephalosporin), and dicloxacillin (a penicillin). These are classified as antibiotics.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cellulitis and other skin and soft tissue infections are common, particularly in elderly individuals with comorbidities or skin integrity issues.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic conditions like diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, obesity, immunocompromised states, and poor circulation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases improve with antibiotics, although severe infections can require surgical intervention. Recurrent infections may occur, especially if underlying conditions are not addressed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, sepsis, necrotizing fasciitis, and lymphangitis.
Herpes zoster (shingles)
Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Chronic and Recurrent Infections
Symptoms:
painful, blistering rash typically on one side of the body; burning or tingling sensation; fever; headache; sensitivity to light; itching or numbness in the affected area
Root Cause:
Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (which causes chickenpox) in the nerve roots after a period of dormancy.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically based on clinical presentation (painful rash, usually localized in a dermatome). Laboratory testing (e.g., PCR or direct fluorescent antibody tests) can confirm the presence of the varicella-zoster virus.
Treatment:
Antiviral medications (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir), pain management, and corticosteroids (for severe pain or inflammation). Vaccination with the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) can prevent future occurrences.
Medications:
Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir , valacyclovir , or famciclovir , which are antiviral agents used to inhibit the replication of the varicella-zoster virus. For pain management, analgesics such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used, while more severe cases may require opioids or gabapentin for nerve pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Shingles affects about 1 in 3 people in their lifetime. The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging (older adults are at higher risk), weakened immune system (due to conditions like HIV, cancer treatments, or immunosuppressive medications), having had chickenpox (varicella) earlier in life.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The rash usually resolves within 2-4 weeks. However, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a complication involving long-term nerve pain, can persist for months or even years, especially in older adults.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), vision loss (if the eye is affected), bacterial skin infections, neurological complications such as encephalitis, and facial paralysis (Ramsay Hunt syndrome).
Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection
Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Chronic and Recurrent Infections
Symptoms:
severe diarrhea (watery stools); abdominal cramps; fever; loss of appetite; nausea; dehydration; in some cases, colonic perforation or toxic megacolon
Root Cause:
Overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria in the colon after disruption of normal gut flora, typically caused by antibiotic use. The bacteria produce toxins that cause inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed by stool tests to detect Clostridium difficile toxins (PCR or enzyme immunoassay) or culture. Colonoscopy or imaging may be used in severe cases to assess colonic damage.
Treatment:
First-line treatment involves oral antibiotics such as vancomycin or fidaxomicin. For recurrent cases, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an option. Discontinuation of the inciting antibiotics and infection control measures are important.
Medications:
The main medications for treating C. difficile infection include oral vancomycin (a glycopeptide antibiotic), fidaxomicin (a macrolide antibiotic), and metronidazole (used for mild cases). In recurrent infections, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is also used as a treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The incidence of C. difficile infection is higher in healthcare settings, particularly among older adults and those with weakened immune systems. It is one of the leading causes of healthcare-associated infections in the U.S.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, prolonged use of antibiotics (especially broad-spectrum antibiotics), weakened immune system (due to cancer treatments, organ transplants, or chronic diseases), previous C. difficile infection.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
While most cases resolve with antibiotics, recurrent infections are common, particularly in older adults. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a better prognosis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe dehydration, colonic perforation, toxic megacolon, and sepsis in extreme cases. Recurrence is common, and patients may experience multiple episodes over time.
Tick-Borne Diseases
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Vector-Borne Diseases
Symptoms:
fever; rash; joint pain; muscle aches; neurological symptoms like headaches or paralysis; fatigue
Root Cause:
Diseases transmitted by tick bites, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Babesiosis, caused by bacteria, viruses, or protozoa.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on history of tick exposure, clinical signs, serological tests (e.g., ELISA, Western blot), or PCR testing.
Treatment:
Antibiotics such as doxycycline, amoxicillin, or ceftriaxone for bacterial infections. Supportive care for viral causes.
Medications:
Antibiotics (doxycycline for most tick-borne bacterial diseases; ceftriaxone for severe cases like neuroborreliosis). Antimalarials (atovaquone for Babesiosis). These are antimicrobial agents.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence varies by region; Lyme disease affects approximately 300,000 people annually in the U.S.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to wooded or grassy areas, improper clothing, lack of tick repellents, and outdoor activities.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment results in excellent outcomes, but delayed diagnosis can lead to chronic symptoms or severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic fatigue, arthritis, neurological disorders, or cardiovascular issues in untreated cases.