Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Tonsillitis

Symptoms:
sore throat; difficulty swallowing; fever; swollen and red tonsils; white patches on tonsils; bad breath

Root Cause:
Infection and inflammation of the tonsils, typically caused by viruses (e.g., adenovirus) or bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pyogenes).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Throat examination, rapid strep test, throat culture.

Treatment:
Viral cases

Medications:
Antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin for bacterial cases; OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common in children; less frequent in adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Frequent exposure to infections, close contact with infected individuals, weakened immune system.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; most cases resolve in 7–10 days.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Peritonsillar abscess, airway obstruction (in severe cases), rheumatic fever (if untreated strep infection).

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Esophageal Disorders

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders

Symptoms:
heartburn; regurgitation of food or sour liquid; difficulty swallowing; chest pain; chronic cough; hoarseness; sensation of a lump in the throat

Root Cause:
The backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus due to a weak or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation, endoscopy, pH monitoring, esophageal manometry, or barium swallow studies.

Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications (e.g., weight loss, dietary changes), medications, and surgery in severe cases (e.g., fundoplication).

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole or esomeprazole to reduce stomach acid; H2-receptor antagonists like ranitidine or famotidine for acid suppression; antacids for quick relief; prokinetic agents such as metoclopramide to improve esophageal motility.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 20% of adults in the Western world.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, smoking, alcohol consumption, and dietary factors such as high-fat or spicy foods.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; chronic GERD may lead to complications if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, strictures, and an increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Sore Throat and Pharyngitis

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Category: Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Conditions

Symptoms:
throat pain; difficulty swallowing; red and swollen throat; fever; swollen lymph nodes; hoarseness

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the pharynx due to viral infections (e.g., adenovirus, rhinovirus) or bacterial infections (e.g., Streptococcus pyogenes).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, rapid strep test, throat culture.

Treatment:
Supportive care for viral cases; antibiotics for bacterial infections.

Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ), antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, amoxicillin ) for bacterial pharyngitis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely common; most cases are viral and self-limiting.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, weakened immune system, smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; viral cases resolve in days, bacterial cases improve with antibiotics.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, rheumatic fever, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.

Dermatomyositis

Specialty: Dermatology

Category: Skin Disorders

Sub-category: Autoimmune and Connective Tissue Disorders

Symptoms:
heliotrope rash (purple discoloration on eyelids); gottron's papules (scaly bumps on knuckles); muscle weakness; fatigue; difficulty swallowing; photosensitivity

Root Cause:
Autoimmune attack on muscle and skin tissues, possibly triggered by infections or malignancies.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Muscle biopsy, skin biopsy, elevated muscle enzymes (e.g., CK), and EMG studies.

Treatment:
Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and physical therapy.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) – to control inflammation. Immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate , azathioprine ). Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) – for severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
1–10 per million people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Middle age, female gender, and association with malignancies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; early treatment improves outcomes but complications may arise.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Interstitial lung disease; Calcinosis; Cancer

Epiglottitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
severe sore throat; fever; difficulty swallowing; stridor; drooling; muffled voice

Root Cause:
Inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, often caused by bacterial infections, particularly Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, and confirmed through laryngoscopy, neck X-rays, or blood cultures.

Treatment:
Immediate antibiotic therapy (e.g., ceftriaxone or cefotaxime) and airway management (e.g., intubation if necessary).

Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone , cefotaxime , or vancomycin ) and corticosteroids may be used to reduce swelling. Pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence has decreased significantly due to the Hib vaccine, but still occurs in unvaccinated individuals, particularly young children.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unvaccinated children, compromised immune systems, and exposure to individuals with bacterial infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent if treated early; delay in treatment can result in fatal airway obstruction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, sepsis, aspiration pneumonia, and long-term vocal cord damage.

Sjögren’s Syndrome

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Immunologic Disorders

Sub-category: Autoimmune Disorders

Symptoms:
dry eyes; dry mouth; joint pain; fatigue; swollen salivary glands; difficulty swallowing; vaginal dryness (in women)

Root Cause:
Autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks moisture-producing glands and other parts of the body.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, blood tests (e.g., ANA, SS-A, SS-B antibodies), salivary gland biopsy, Schirmer’s test (tear production), and imaging (e.g., salivary gland scintigraphy).

Treatment:
Symptom management with artificial tears, saliva substitutes, medications like hydroxychloroquine or pilocarpine, and immunosuppressants for severe cases.

Medications:
Artificial tears, cholinergic agonists (e.g., Pilocarpine ), and immunosuppressants (e.g., Hydroxychloroquine , Methotrexate ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.1–0.6% of the population, more common in women, especially over 40.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, middle age, family history of autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition that is manageable but can reduce quality of life; systemic complications may occur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of lymphoma, dental cavities, oral yeast infections, kidney disease, and systemic organ involvement.

Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Rheumatologic Conditions

Sub-category: Systemic Autoimmune Diseases

Symptoms:
skin thickening and tightening (especially hands and face); raynaud’s phenomenon (cold, discolored fingers or toes); joint pain or stiffness; difficulty swallowing; shortness of breath (due to lung involvement); digestive issues (acid reflux, constipation)

Root Cause:
The immune system attacks the skin and internal organs, leading to excessive collagen production, which causes fibrosis (scarring) of tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for specific autoantibodies (e.g., anti-Scl-70, anticentromere antibodies). Skin biopsy to assess collagen deposition. Pulmonary function tests for lung involvement. Echocardiogram for heart involvement.

Treatment:
Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., methotrexate, cyclophosphamide). Corticosteroids for inflammation control. ACE inhibitors for kidney involvement. Pulmonary vasodilators for lung hypertension (e.g., sildenafil). Physical therapy to manage skin tightness and joint mobility.

Medications:
Methotrexate - an immunosuppressant used to slow disease progression. Cyclophosphamide - used for severe pulmonary and renal involvement. ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril ) - used to manage kidney issues. Sildenafil - a vasodilator used for pulmonary hypertension.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1 in 100,000 people, more common in women (especially between ages 30 and 50).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender. Family history of autoimmune diseases. Environmental factors (e.g., silica dust exposure).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; some individuals experience mild symptoms while others develop severe organ involvement. Early treatment can improve outcomes, but the disease can be life-threatening, especially if lung or heart complications arise.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary fibrosis. Heart failure due to fibrosis. Renal crisis leading to kidney failure.

Pharyngeal or Laryngeal Pathology

Specialty: Ear

Category: Ear Pain (Otalgia)

Sub-category: Referred Otalgia (Pain Referred to the Ear)

Symptoms:
sore throat; hoarseness; difficulty swallowing; ear pain; neck pain; swollen lymph nodes; cough

Root Cause:
Infections, tumors, or structural abnormalities in the pharynx or larynx causing referred pain to the ear through shared neural pathways.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI), laryngoscopy, biopsy (if a tumor is suspected), and throat culture for infections.

Treatment:
Depends on the cause; antibiotics or antivirals for infections, surgical resection for tumors, or speech therapy for vocal strain.

Medications:
Antibiotics like penicillin for bacterial infections; antivirals for viral infections; corticosteroids like prednisone for inflammation; proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole for reflux-associated laryngeal issues.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Pharyngeal infections like pharyngitis are very common; laryngeal cancer is less common, with approximately 13,000 cases diagnosed annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, alcohol use, GERD, vocal strain, and exposure to environmental irritants.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for infections with appropriate treatment; varies for cancer depending on stage and type but improves with early detection.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, airway obstruction, voice changes, and in severe cases, metastasis of tumors.

Laryngitis (acute or chronic)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
hoarseness; loss of voice; sore throat; dry cough; throat irritation; difficulty swallowing

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the larynx, often due to viral or bacterial infections, irritants (like smoking), or overuse of the voice.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation; laryngoscopy may be used for chronic cases to assess vocal cord damage.

Treatment:
Acute laryngitis often resolves with rest, hydration, and avoiding irritants. Chronic cases may require voice therapy, avoiding irritants, and addressing underlying causes (e.g., acid reflux, chronic infections).

Medications:
In acute cases, symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ). If bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, amoxicillin ) may be prescribed. In chronic cases, corticosteroids may be used for inflammation reduction.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; acute laryngitis affects approximately 7% of the population annually, while chronic laryngitis is less frequent but can be seen in smokers, singers, and those with GERD.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, excessive alcohol use, viral infections, voice overuse (e.g., singing, shouting), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute laryngitis typically resolves within 1-2 weeks with proper care. Chronic laryngitis may persist or worsen if underlying conditions are not addressed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic laryngitis can lead to vocal cord damage, chronic hoarseness, or even voice loss. In rare cases, it may be associated with throat cancer, particularly in smokers.

Acute Tonsillitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; swollen tonsils; difficulty swallowing; bad breath; ear pain

Root Cause:
Acute inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination and throat culture or rapid strep test to confirm if a bacterial infection is present.

Treatment:
Viral tonsillitis is treated with supportive care, while bacterial tonsillitis requires antibiotics (e.g., penicillin).

Medications:
For bacterial cases, antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin are prescribed. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used for comfort.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children and young adults; more frequent in colder months.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, age (children are more prone), weakened immune system.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically resolves within a week with treatment. Chronic or recurrent cases may require tonsillectomy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation (peritonsillar abscess), difficulty breathing, or spread of the infection to nearby areas.

Chronic Tonsillitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
recurrent sore throat; bad breath; enlarged tonsils; difficulty swallowing; ear pain; chronic coughing

Root Cause:
Persistent inflammation of the tonsils, often due to repeated infections, which can lead to chronic symptoms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on a history of recurrent tonsillitis, clinical examination, and possibly imaging or throat culture.

Treatment:
Tonsillectomy is often recommended for chronic cases. Antibiotics may be used during acute exacerbations.

Medications:
Antibiotics for bacterial flare-ups, such as penicillin or amoxicillin . Pain relievers may also be used for symptomatic relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than acute tonsillitis, but it can occur in individuals who have frequent throat infections.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Frequent throat infections, poor immune function, exposure to pathogens.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Tonsillectomy often provides a permanent solution, but without surgery, it may persist or cause recurrent throat infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, difficulty breathing, or spreading of infection to other parts of the body.

Retropharyngeal Abscess

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
severe sore throat; difficulty swallowing; neck stiffness; fever; drooling; stridor

Root Cause:
A bacterial infection that leads to a collection of pus in the retropharyngeal space, often following upper respiratory tract infections or trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, neck X-rays, or CT scans to detect the abscess.

Treatment:
Requires urgent drainage and antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin or ampicillin-sulbactam).

Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin , ampicillin-sulbactam, or vancomycin ) are used. Pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common, typically seen in children under 5 years old.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent upper respiratory infections, trauma to the neck, and immune system compromise.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis is good. Delayed treatment can lead to severe complications, including airway obstruction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, sepsis, aspiration pneumonia, and spread of the infection to nearby structures.

Cleft Palate

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Structural and Congenital Disorders

Symptoms:
difficulty feeding; nasal speech; recurrent ear infections; difficulty swallowing; visible gap in the roof of the mouth

Root Cause:
A congenital condition where the palate (roof of the mouth) does not fully develop during fetal growth, leading to a gap or opening in the upper lip or palate.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed at birth through physical examination, often confirmed with imaging or a detailed examination by a specialist.

Treatment:
Surgical repair of the cleft palate, which may involve multiple surgeries over time; speech therapy, orthodontic treatment, and possible hearing interventions.

Medications:
No specific medications for the cleft palate itself; however, medications may be used to manage related conditions such as ear infections (antibiotics), pain relief (acetaminophen or ibuprofen ), and, in some cases, growth hormone therapy to support facial development.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1 in 700 live births globally, with varying rates by region and ethnicity.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of cleft conditions, maternal smoking, alcohol use, certain medications during pregnancy, and exposure to infections or malnutrition during pregnancy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate surgical repair and multidisciplinary care, the prognosis is generally good, though speech or dental issues may persist into adulthood.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of speech delays, hearing loss, dental problems, ear infections, and potential psychological effects due to appearance or social challenges.

Cricopharyngeal Spasm

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Structural and Congenital Disorders

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; globus sensation (feeling of a lump in the throat); choking or coughing during meals; painful swallowing; regurgitation of food or liquids

Root Cause:
Involuntary muscle contractions in the cricopharyngeus muscle (located at the top of the esophagus) that prevent the relaxation required for normal swallowing.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through a barium swallow test, endoscopy, or manometry to assess the function of the cricopharyngeal muscle.

Treatment:
Treatments include behavioral therapy (such as swallowing exercises), relaxation techniques, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections to relax the muscle, and, in some cases, surgery to modify the muscle.

Medications:
Muscle relaxants, such as diazepam or baclofen , may be used to relieve spasm, while botulinum toxin injections can be used for targeted muscle relaxation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence is unclear, but it is a relatively rare disorder, often associated with other swallowing disorders.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), neurological conditions, or a history of head or neck surgery.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, the prognosis is generally good, though chronic cases may require ongoing management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Aspiration pneumonia from difficulty swallowing, weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition in severe cases.

Sialadenitis (inflammation of the salivary glands)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Other Specific Conditions

Symptoms:
pain and swelling in the mouth or jaw; dry mouth; difficulty swallowing; bad taste or mouth odor; fever; redness over the gland

Root Cause:
Inflammation of one or more of the salivary glands, often caused by infection, blockage, or dehydration. Commonly affects the parotid or submandibular glands.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation with physical examination; imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan; sometimes salivary gland duct culture if infection is suspected.

Treatment:
Antibiotics (for bacterial infections), warm compresses, hydration, massage of the gland, and if a duct is blocked, sialogogues (lemon drops or sour candies) may help. In some cases, surgical drainage or removal of the obstructed gland may be necessary.

Medications:
Antibiotics such as dicloxacillin, cephalexin (penicillinase-resistant antibiotics), or clindamycin (for broader coverage). Analgesics like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain management, and in severe cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively uncommon; affects adults, with an increased risk in the elderly, especially those with poor hydration or dehydration.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Dehydration, poor oral hygiene, salivary duct obstruction (stones), immune system suppression, Sjogren’s syndrome, or viral infections (e.g., mumps).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases are treatable with antibiotics and supportive care; chronic cases may require long-term management or surgical intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, chronic sialadenitis, or, in rare cases, a malignancy if left untreated for an extended period.

Ludwig’s angina (infection of the floor of the mouth)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Other Specific Conditions

Symptoms:
severe neck pain; difficulty swallowing; swelling of the neck and jaw; fever; difficulty breathing; muffled voice; drooling

Root Cause:
A rapidly spreading, severe infection of the submandibular, sublingual, and submental spaces, often following dental infections or trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation; imaging (CT scan or MRI) may help define the extent of the infection and identify any abscess formation.

Treatment:
Immediate intravenous antibiotics (broad-spectrum, such as penicillin with metronidazole or clindamycin). Surgical drainage of abscesses or infected tissue may be necessary.

Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics like ampicillin-sulbactam, ceftriaxone , or clindamycin (broad-spectrum antibiotics targeting anaerobes and aerobes). Pain management with opioids or NSAIDs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, but life-threatening if not treated promptly; most commonly affects adults, particularly those with dental infections, diabetes, or immunocompromised states.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor dental hygiene, untreated dental infections, diabetes, immunosuppression, oral trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality if untreated; with timely treatment, the prognosis is good, though recovery may take several weeks.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, sepsis, spread of infection to surrounding tissues, facial cellulitis, or mediastinitis.

Diphtheria affecting the throat

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Neurological Disorders Affecting the Throat

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; swollen lymph nodes; difficulty swallowing; pseudomembrane in the throat; difficulty breathing; hoarseness; weakness

Root Cause:
Caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produces a toxin that damages the tissues in the throat, causing a membrane to form, and potentially interfering with airway function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical examination and confirmed by throat culture, PCR testing for the bacteria, and the presence of the characteristic pseudomembrane.

Treatment:
Antitoxin is administered to neutralize the diphtheria toxin. Antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin, are used to eliminate the bacteria.

Medications:
Antitoxin (passive immunization), Penicillin (first-line antibiotic), Erythromycin (alternative antibiotic). These are classified as immunosuppressive agents (antitoxin) and antibacterial agents (penicillin, erythromycin ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Worldwide, but largely preventable with vaccination. More common in under-vaccinated regions, especially in developing countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, close contact with infected individuals, travel to endemic regions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis is good. However, untreated diphtheria can be fatal due to airway obstruction or toxin spread to other organs.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, heart failure (due to myocarditis), kidney failure, nerve damage (e.g., cranial neuropathy), and death if not treated.

Actinomycosis of the pharynx

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Rare Infections

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; difficulty swallowing; swelling or abscess formation; pus drainage

Root Cause:
Caused by Actinomyces bacteria, often following trauma or surgery to the pharynx, leading to a chronic infection with abscess formation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through cultures, biopsy, or imaging studies that show abscess formation.

Treatment:
Treatment involves long-term antibiotics, typically penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics.

Medications:
Penicillin (a beta-lactam antibiotic) is commonly used for treating actinomycosis. Alternative antibiotics like doxycycline or clindamycin may be prescribed for penicillin-allergic patients.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, but more common in immunocompromised individuals or those with poor oral hygiene.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor oral hygiene, recent dental work or trauma to the mouth or throat, immunocompromised states.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate antibiotic therapy, the prognosis is generally favorable, though chronic or recurrent infections can occur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Can cause chronic abscess formation, tissue scarring, and fistulas if left untreated.

Lemierre’s syndrome

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Rare Infections

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; neck pain; swelling in the neck; difficulty swallowing; sepsis; embolism in the lungs; pleuritic chest pain

Root Cause:
Caused by an infection with Fusobacterium necrophorum, typically following a throat infection (such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis), which leads to septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and septic embolism.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made based on clinical presentation, blood cultures, imaging (CT scan), and possibly throat culture.

Treatment:
Requires intravenous antibiotics (such as penicillin and metronidazole) and sometimes surgery to drain abscesses or remove infected tissue.

Medications:
Penicillin (a beta-lactam), Metronidazole (an antibiotic with anaerobic coverage), and sometimes Clindamycin (a lincosamide antibiotic) are used to treat the infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but has increased in incidence over the past few decades, primarily in young, otherwise healthy individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent history of throat infection (such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis), young age (adolescents and young adults), immunocompromised states.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis can be good, but if untreated, it can lead to significant complications like sepsis or organ failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic embolism to the lungs (pulmonary embolism), septic shock, deep vein thrombosis, and death if not promptly treated.

Myasthenia gravis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Neurological Disorders Affecting the Throat

Symptoms:
weakness in the throat muscles; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness; nasal speech; fatigue; difficulty chewing; breathing difficulty in severe cases

Root Cause:
An autoimmune disorder where the body produces antibodies against acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, impairing muscle contraction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests to detect antibodies against acetylcholine receptors or anti-MuSK (muscle-specific kinase), electromyography (EMG), and the edrophonium test to assess neuromuscular junction function.

Treatment:
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (such as pyridostigmine), thymectomy (surgical removal of the thymus), immunosuppressive medications (steroids or other immunosuppressants), and plasmapheresis in severe cases.

Medications:
Pyridostigmine (acetylcholinesterase inhibitor), Prednisone (steroid), Azathioprine (immunosuppressant). These medications work to enhance neuromuscular transmission or suppress the autoimmune response.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 5,000 people worldwide; can occur at any age but more common in women under 40 and men over 60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune disorders, family history, thymoma (a tumor of the thymus gland).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, most patients can manage symptoms, but it is a chronic condition that requires long-term management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), respiratory failure, aspiration pneumonia, and in severe cases, myasthenic crisis (a life-threatening worsening of symptoms).

Stroke-related dysphagia

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Neurological Disorders Affecting the Throat

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; choking on food or liquids; coughing during or after eating; weight loss; hoarseness; aspiration pneumonia

Root Cause:
Damage to the brain regions involved in swallowing (such as the brainstem or cerebral cortex) due to ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, impairing the ability to swallow properly.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment, including a swallowing evaluation by a speech-language pathologist, videofluoroscopic swallow study (modified barium swallow), and endoscopic evaluation of swallowing.

Treatment:
Swallowing therapy, diet modifications (e.g., pureed food or thickened liquids), medications for aspiration pneumonia prevention, and in some cases, tube feeding.

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (for managing aspiration pneumonia), Antibiotics (in cases of aspiration pneumonia). These are classified as gastrointestinal protectants (PPIs) and antibacterial agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 50-70% of stroke survivors experience dysphagia.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of stroke, particularly if the stroke affects the brainstem or areas involved in swallowing control.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dysphagia can improve with rehabilitation, but some individuals may require long-term management, including feeding tubes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Aspiration pneumonia, dehydration, malnutrition, and increased risk of choking.

Liposarcoma of the throat

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Rare Tumors

Symptoms:
painful lump in the neck; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness; unexplained weight loss; breathing difficulty; visible mass or swelling in the throat area

Root Cause:
Liposarcomas are malignant tumors that arise from adipose (fat) tissue. These tumors can occur in the throat, though it is extremely rare.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging (CT, MRI) and biopsy to examine tissue histology.

Treatment:
Treatment involves surgical excision of the tumor, often with adjuvant radiation therapy. Chemotherapy may be used in cases of metastasis or if the tumor is inoperable.

Medications:
Chemotherapeutic agents such as doxorubicin , ifosfamide , or mesna, which are classified as antineoplastic and alkylating agents, may be prescribed for advanced or metastatic liposarcoma.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Liposarcomas of the throat are extremely rare, accounting for less than 0.1% of all soft tissue sarcomas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (most common in adults 40-60), genetic mutations (e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome), and previous radiation exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the size, location, and ability to completely excise the tumor. Metastasis may lead to a poorer prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Local recurrence, metastasis (especially to the lungs), and complications related to airway obstruction.

Vocal fold granuloma (due to reflux or intubation)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Other Conditions

Symptoms:
hoarseness; throat pain; difficulty swallowing; lump in the throat; chronic cough

Root Cause:
The granuloma is caused by irritation or inflammation of the vocal folds, often due to acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD) or mechanical trauma from intubation during surgery.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically made through a laryngoscopic examination, where the granuloma is seen on the vocal fold. Additional tests such as pH monitoring or endoscopy may be used to assess reflux.

Treatment:
Treatment involves managing the underlying cause, such as controlling acid reflux with lifestyle changes and medications. In severe cases, surgical removal of the granuloma may be necessary.

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole or lansoprazole are often prescribed to reduce acid reflux. Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation. These are anti-inflammatory and acid-suppressing medications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The condition is relatively uncommon but is more frequently seen in patients with a history of intubation or chronic GERD.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include chronic GERD, mechanical irritation (such as from intubation or vocal overuse), and chronic inflammation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis is generally good with appropriate treatment. Most cases resolve with medical management, but recurrence is possible, especially if the underlying cause (like GERD) is not adequately controlled.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic hoarseness, airway obstruction, and in rare cases, permanent vocal fold scarring or damage may occur if untreated.

Cricopharyngeal achalasia (difficulty relaxing the upper esophageal sphincter)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Other Conditions

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; regurgitation of food; choking; feeling of a lump in the throat; weight loss

Root Cause:
The cricopharyngeal muscle, which controls the opening of the upper esophageal sphincter, fails to relax appropriately, leading to swallowing difficulties and food regurgitation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically made with a barium swallow test or manometry to evaluate the function of the upper esophageal sphincter. Laryngoscopy may also be performed to assess for other causes of dysphagia.

Treatment:
Treatment often includes dilation of the upper esophageal sphincter or botulinum toxin injections to relax the muscle. In severe cases, surgery (myotomy) may be required.

Medications:
Botox injections are used as a muscle relaxant to treat the condition. Other treatments focus on managing symptoms and include antacids for reflux if present.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A rare disorder, more commonly diagnosed in older adults but can occur at any age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, neurological disorders (like stroke or Parkinson’s disease), and reflux disease may increase the risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, most patients experience significant improvement in swallowing function. Recurrence of symptoms is possible in some cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and severe dehydration can result from chronic swallowing difficulties.

Sjögren’s syndrome (causing dry mouth and throat)

Specialty: Conditions with Overlap

Category: Certain systemic or generalized diseases have ENT manifestations

Sub-category: Rheumatologic Disorders

Symptoms:
dry mouth (xerostomia); dry throat (pharyngitis); difficulty swallowing; fatigue; dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca); joint pain

Root Cause:
An autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its moisture-producing glands, such as the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to dryness in the mouth and throat.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a combination of blood tests (e.g., antinuclear antibody, anti-SS-A, anti-SS-B), a salivary gland biopsy, and the assessment of symptoms like dry eyes and mouth. Schirmer's test and sialography may also be used.

Treatment:
Treatment includes symptom management, such as using artificial saliva, lubricants for the eyes, and medications to stimulate saliva production (e.g., pilocarpine). Immunosuppressive therapies like corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be used for systemic manifestations.

Medications:
Pilocarpine (Salagen ) - A cholinergic agent used to stimulate saliva production. Cevimeline (Evoxac) - Another cholinergic drug for saliva stimulation. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil ) - An antimalarial drug used for systemic symptoms. Corticosteroids - Used for inflammation control. Methotrexate , Azathioprine - Immunosuppressive drugs for managing severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 0.1-4% of the population worldwide, with a higher prevalence in women, particularly those aged 40-60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, hormonal factors (more common in women), and other autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition; symptom management is the goal. Patients may experience periods of exacerbation and remission.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of lymphoma, dental decay, difficulty swallowing, and dry eye complications (e.g., corneal ulcers).

Benign Thyroid Nodules

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Thyroid Disorders

Sub-category: Thyroid Nodules and Cancers

Symptoms:
lump in the neck; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness; pressure in the neck; asymptomatic in many cases

Root Cause:
Overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue, fluid-filled cysts, or inflammation in the thyroid gland.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, thyroid function tests (TSH, T4, T3), ultrasound imaging, fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB).

Treatment:
Observation, thyroid hormone suppression therapy, minimally invasive procedures (e.g., ethanol ablation), or surgery in symptomatic cases.

Medications:
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (e.g., levothyroxine ) may be prescribed to suppress TSH levels in some cases, though its efficacy is debated.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; approximately 50-60% of adults develop thyroid nodules, but most are benign.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female sex, increasing age, iodine deficiency, family history of thyroid disease, radiation exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent, as benign nodules rarely progress to malignancy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Large nodules may cause compression symptoms (e.g., difficulty swallowing or breathing); rare transformation into malignancy.

Papillary Thyroid Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Endocrine Cancers

Symptoms:
slow-growing lump in the neck; hoarseness; difficulty swallowing; enlarged lymph nodes

Root Cause:
Malignant growth of follicular cells in the thyroid gland, often associated with mutations like BRAF or RET/PTC.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound, fine-needle aspiration biopsy, and molecular testing for genetic mutations.

Treatment:
Surgery (lobectomy or total thyroidectomy), radioactive iodine therapy, and levothyroxine for hormone suppression.

Medications:
Levothyroxine (thyroid hormone replacement); sorafenib or lenvatinib (for metastatic cases).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for 80–85% of cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Radiation exposure, family history, and genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent prognosis with a 10-year survival rate over 95%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence in lymph nodes or distant metastasis, hypothyroidism after treatment.

Follicular Thyroid Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Endocrine Cancers

Symptoms:
neck lump; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness; bone pain (if metastatic)

Root Cause:
Cancer develops in thyroid follicular cells; often associated with iodine deficiency or genetic mutations in the RAS or PAX8 genes.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fine-needle aspiration biopsy, radioactive iodine scans, and molecular testing.

Treatment:
Surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, and thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Medications:
Levothyroxine for hormone replacement; sorafenib or lenvatinib for advanced cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Second most common thyroid cancer, accounting for about 10–15% of cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Iodine deficiency, radiation exposure, and older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis if detected early; survival rates are 85–90% over 10 years.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to bones and lungs, recurrence.

Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Endocrine Cancers

Symptoms:
rapidly growing neck lump; difficulty breathing; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness; painful throat

Root Cause:
Highly aggressive cancer that arises from thyroid follicular cells; often associated with mutations in TP53, BRAF, or RAS genes.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fine-needle aspiration biopsy, imaging (CT, MRI, PET scans), and molecular testing for genetic mutations.

Treatment:
Surgery (if operable), external beam radiation, chemotherapy (doxorubicin, paclitaxel), and experimental targeted therapies.

Medications:
Doxorubicin (chemotherapy), paclitaxel (chemotherapy), and sorafenib (targeted therapy for advanced disease).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for 1–2% of thyroid cancers. More common in older adults, usually after the age of 60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, prior history of thyroid cancer, genetic mutations (TP53), and environmental factors such as radiation exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Very poor prognosis with a median survival of 6 months; the disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rapid growth, metastasis to distant organs (lungs, bones), airway obstruction, and difficulty in treatment due to its aggressive nature.

MEN Type 2 - Medullary Thyroid Cancer

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Rare Endocrine Disorders

Sub-category: Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) Syndromes

Symptoms:
neck lump; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness

Root Cause:
Mutation in the RET proto-oncogene causes tumor formation in thyroid C-cells, adrenal medulla, and parathyroid glands.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Genetic testing for RET mutations. Serum calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels for medullary thyroid cancer. Plasma or urine metanephrines for pheochromocytoma. Imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI) for tumors.

Treatment:
Total thyroidectomy for medullary thyroid cancer (often prophylactic in high-risk patients). Adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma. Medical management for blood pressure control in pheochromocytoma (alpha and beta-blockers). Regular follow-ups for new tumor formation.

Medications:
Alpha-blockers (e.g., phenoxybenzamine ) to control blood pressure in pheochromocytoma. Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol ) used after alpha-blockade to stabilize cardiovascular symptoms. Thyroid hormone replacement (e.g., levothyroxine ) post-thyroidectomy. Calcimimetics (e.g., cinacalcet ) for hyperparathyroidism.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 35,000 individuals worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of MEN2 syndrome, autosomal dominant inheritance.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early prophylactic thyroidectomy; pheochromocytoma and parathyroid tumors require ongoing management for optimal outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Untreated pheochromocytoma can cause hypertensive crises and cardiovascular complications. Advanced medullary thyroid cancer may lead to metastasis. Persistent hyperparathyroidism can result in long-term kidney damage.

Esophageal Diverticula (e.g., Zenker’s Diverticulum)

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Esophageal Disorders

Sub-category: Structural Disorders

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; regurgitation of undigested food; chronic bad breath (halitosis); coughing or choking while eating; unexplained weight loss

Root Cause:
Outpouching of the esophageal wall, typically caused by increased pressure within the esophagus due to motility disorders or muscle weakness.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Barium swallow X-ray or upper endoscopy.

Treatment:
Surgical correction (e.g., endoscopic diverticulotomy, myotomy), dietary modifications, and treatment of underlying motility issues.

Medications:
No specific medications directly treat diverticula; acid suppression (PPIs) may be prescribed to manage associated GERD.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, more common in older adults, especially over the age of 60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, esophageal motility disorders, chronic GERD.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with surgical treatment; untreated cases may lead to progressive symptoms and complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, perforation, or esophageal obstruction.

Achalasia

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Esophageal Disorders

Sub-category: Motility Disorders

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; regurgitation of undigested food; chest pain; heartburn-like symptoms; unintentional weight loss

Root Cause:
Failure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax due to nerve degeneration, causing impaired esophageal motility and food stasis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via esophageal manometry (gold standard), barium swallow X-ray, and endoscopy to rule out other causes.

Treatment:
Pneumatic dilation, surgical myotomy (Heller myotomy), or peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM); medications such as nitrates or calcium channel blockers may be used in mild cases.

Medications:
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine ) and nitrates (e.g., isosorbide dinitrate ) to relax the LES; botulinum toxin injections can provide temporary relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 1 in 100,000 people annually; more common in middle-aged and older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
No definitive risk factors, though genetic predisposition and autoimmune mechanisms are suspected.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate intervention, but symptoms may recur. Long-term follow-up is often required.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of aspiration, esophageal perforation during dilation, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (long-term complication).

Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Esophageal Disorders

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; food impaction; chest pain; heartburn; upper abdominal pain; vomiting in children

Root Cause:
Chronic allergic inflammatory condition caused by eosinophil infiltration into the esophageal lining.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy revealing eosinophilic infiltration (>15 eosinophils per high-power field); allergy testing.

Treatment:
Elimination diets, acid suppression therapy, and corticosteroids (topical or systemic).

Medications:
Topical corticosteroids like fluticasone or budesonide (swallowed); proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole for acid suppression.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 2,000 people, more common in males and individuals with atopic conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or atopic dermatitis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment, but it often requires long-term management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Esophageal strictures, food impactions, and reduced quality of life.

Infectious Esophagitis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Esophageal Disorders

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders

Symptoms:
painful swallowing; difficulty swallowing; chest pain; fever in some cases; nausea

Root Cause:
Infections of the esophagus, commonly caused by Candida species, herpes simplex virus (HSV), or cytomegalovirus (CMV) in immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy and culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for viral pathogens.

Treatment:
Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy, depending on the causative agent.

Medications:
Antifungals like fluconazole for Candida ; antivirals such as acyclovir for HSV and ganciclovir for CMV.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplants.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, prolonged corticosteroid use, and uncontrolled diabetes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; delayed therapy can lead to complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Perforation, strictures, and dissemination of the infection.

Barrett’s Esophagus

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Esophageal Disorders

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders

Symptoms:
often asymptomatic; chronic heartburn; difficulty swallowing; chest pain; regurgitation

Root Cause:
Replacement of normal esophageal squamous epithelium with metaplastic columnar epithelium due to chronic acid exposure from GERD.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy confirming intestinal metaplasia.

Treatment:
Regular surveillance with endoscopy, acid suppression with PPIs, and endoscopic interventions for dysplasia or early cancer.

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like esomeprazole or lansoprazole to control acid reflux.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1-2% of the population, more common in males and individuals over 50.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic GERD, obesity, smoking, and a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Stable for most; requires monitoring due to the risk of progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dysplasia and increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Nutcracker Esophagus

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Esophageal Disorders

Sub-category: Motility Disorders

Symptoms:
chest pain; painful swallowing (odynophagia); difficulty swallowing; heartburn-like symptoms; spasms triggered by hot or cold foods or drinks

Root Cause:
Excessive pressure during esophageal muscle contractions, though the contractions remain coordinated. It may result from heightened nerve sensitivity or hypercontractile response.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via high-resolution esophageal manometry, which measures pressure and coordination of esophageal contractions.

Treatment:
Treatment includes muscle relaxants, pain management, and dietary adjustments. Behavioral therapy may be helpful for managing stress-related triggers.

Medications:
Medications include calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine ), nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin ) to reduce muscle pressure, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., sertraline ) to modulate pain perception.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for about 4-6% of esophageal motility disorders.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Stress, anxiety, and other functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with appropriate management; symptoms can be alleviated, but chronic cases may require ongoing treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential weight loss or esophageal mucosal damage if the condition is associated with significant reflux.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Neuromuscular Disorders

Symptoms:
muscle weakness; difficulty swallowing; difficulty breathing; loss of motor skills; poor muscle tone; delayed physical milestones

Root Cause:
Genetic mutation in the SMN1 gene leads to insufficient production of the SMN protein, essential for motor neuron survival.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Genetic testing to identify SMN1 mutations; electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies; muscle biopsy in rare cases.

Treatment:
Physical therapy, respiratory support, nutritional support, and medications targeting SMN protein production.

Medications:
Spinraza (nusinersen , an antisense oligonucleotide that increases SMN protein levels), Zolgensma (onasemnogene abeparvovec-xioi , a gene therapy delivering functional SMN1 gene), and Evrysdi (risdiplam , an oral medication that enhances SMN2 gene protein production).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 10,000 live births globally.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of SMA; autosomal recessive inheritance pattern.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by type and early intervention; Type I (severe) has a poorer prognosis, while Types II and III have improved outcomes with treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, scoliosis, joint contractures, and reduced mobility.

Myopathies (e.g., Inclusion Body Myositis, Polymyositis)

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Neuromuscular Disorders

Symptoms:
progressive muscle weakness; difficulty swallowing; muscle pain; fatigue; loss of fine motor control

Root Cause:
Inflammatory or degenerative processes affecting muscle fibers, often involving autoimmune or genetic factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Muscle biopsy, creatine kinase (CK) level measurement, MRI of muscles, and electromyography (EMG).

Treatment:
Immunosuppressive therapies, physical therapy, and management of complications such as dysphagia.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone , an anti-inflammatory), immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine , methotrexate ), and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG, modulates immune response).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Polymyositis is rare, affecting approximately 1 in 100,000 people annually; Inclusion Body Myositis primarily affects individuals over 50.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune disorders, age (older adults for Inclusion Body Myositis), and certain genetic predispositions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive, with varying rates of progression; Inclusion Body Myositis is resistant to most treatments.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, difficulty swallowing, and severe muscle weakness leading to immobility.

Chiari Malformation

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Congenital and Genetic Disorders

Symptoms:
headache (worsened by coughing or straining); neck pain; balance problems; dizziness; numbness or weakness in limbs; difficulty swallowing; tinnitus; breathing irregularities

Root Cause:
Structural defect causing the cerebellum to extend into the spinal canal, disrupting normal CSF flow.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with MRI to visualize brain and spinal cord abnormalities.

Treatment:
Treated with surgical decompression in symptomatic cases.

Medications:
Pain management with NSAIDs or prescription analgesics; muscle relaxants for associated muscle spasms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated at 1 in 1,000 individuals, though many cases are asymptomatic.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Congenital brain malformations, genetic predispositions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early surgical intervention for severe cases; some mild cases remain asymptomatic for life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hydrocephalus, syringomyelia, chronic pain, or neurological deficits if untreated.

Oral Thrush (Candidiasis)

Specialty: Dental and Oral Health

Category: Oral Cavity and Mucosal Disorders

Sub-category: Fungal Infections

Symptoms:
creamy white patches on the tongue, cheeks, or throat; pain or discomfort in the mouth; loss of taste; difficulty swallowing

Root Cause:
Overgrowth of Candida species, usually Candida albicans, in the oral cavity due to an imbalance in normal flora or weakened immunity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by clinical examination or scraping for fungal culture.

Treatment:
Treated with antifungals such as nystatin or fluconazole.

Medications:
Topical antifungals like nystatin or clotrimazole lozenges; systemic antifungals (fluconazole or itraconazole ) for severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes, use of inhaled corticosteroids, antibiotics, dentures, immunosuppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Responds well to treatment; recurrence is possible if underlying issues are not addressed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Esophageal candidiasis, systemic spread in immunocompromised patients.

Salivary Gland Tumors

Specialty: Dental and Oral Health

Category: Salivary Gland Disorders

Sub-category: Other Salivary Gland Conditions

Symptoms:
painless lump or swelling in the salivary gland; facial asymmetry; difficulty swallowing; numbness or weakness in the face if malignant

Root Cause:
Abnormal cell growth in salivary glands; most are benign (e.g., pleomorphic adenoma), but some can be malignant (e.g., mucoepidermoid carcinoma).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging (ultrasound, MRI, CT), and fine-needle aspiration biopsy.

Treatment:
Surgery is the primary treatment, with radiation therapy for malignant cases.

Medications:
No specific medications for benign tumors; chemotherapy agents (e.g., cisplatin , fluorouracil ) for advanced malignancies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign tumor, accounting for 60–70% of cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Radiation exposure, genetic predisposition, tobacco and alcohol use for malignant cases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for benign tumors with surgical removal; varies for malignant tumors based on stage and type.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence (benign tumors), facial nerve damage, metastasis (malignant tumors).

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Oral Cavity)

Specialty: Dental and Oral Health

Category: Oral Cancer and Precancerous Conditions

Sub-category: Oral Cancer

Symptoms:
persistent oral sore; white or red patches in the mouth; difficulty swallowing; lump in the neck; ear pain

Root Cause:
Malignant proliferation of squamous cells in the mucosal lining of the mouth or throat.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Biopsy of the lesion, imaging (CT or MRI), and endoscopy.

Treatment:
Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy (or combinations).

Medications:
Cisplatin (chemotherapy), targeted therapies like cetuximab (EGFR inhibitor), and immunotherapies like pembrolizumab (PD-1 inhibitor).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 90% of all oral cancers; more common in men over 50.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, and poor oral hygiene.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies with stage; early detection leads to a high survival rate.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Local invasion, metastasis, and difficulty speaking or eating.

Salivary Gland Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Head and Neck Cancers

Symptoms:
painless lump in the mouth, jaw, or neck; numbness or weakness in the face; pain in the mouth or throat; difficulty swallowing; dry mouth

Root Cause:
Malignant tumors in the salivary glands, can arise in major (parotid, submandibular) or minor glands.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fine needle aspiration biopsy, imaging (CT/MRI), ultrasound, sialography.

Treatment:
Surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and in some cases, chemotherapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents such as Cisplatin and Doxorubicin ; radiation therapy may be used if surgery is not an option.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for less than 5% of all head and neck cancers; most cases are in the parotid gland.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, radiation exposure, genetic conditions (e.g., Cowden syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by tumor type; overall 5-year survival rates are good for localized tumors but poor for advanced stages.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Facial nerve damage, difficulty eating and swallowing, recurrence after surgery.

Lymphoma (affecting oral tissues)

Specialty: Dental and Oral Health

Category: Oral Cancer and Precancerous Conditions

Sub-category: Oral Cancer

Symptoms:
painless swelling in the oral cavity; ulceration or mass in the gums, palate, or tonsils; difficulty swallowing; weight loss; night sweats

Root Cause:
Malignancy of lymphatic cells; may be non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) or, less commonly, Hodgkin lymphoma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Biopsy of the lesion, immunohistochemical analysis, and imaging (CT, PET scan) for staging.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy depending on the type and stage.

Medications:
Rituximab (anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody for NHL). CHOP regimen (cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , prednisone ). Brentuximab vedotin (for specific subtypes of lymphoma).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for less than 5% of all oral cancers; more common in individuals with immunosuppression.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
HIV/AIDS, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, immunosuppressive therapy, and autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on subtype and stage; low-grade lymphomas may have prolonged survival with treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spread to lymph nodes or distant organs, systemic symptoms, and treatment-related toxicity.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity

Sub-category: Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Disorders

Symptoms:
heartburn; regurgitation; chest pain; difficulty swallowing; chronic cough; sore throat; acidic taste in mouth

Root Cause:
A malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES) allows stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus, causing irritation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical history, symptoms, and may involve tests like endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring, or esophageal manometry.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (diet modification, weight loss, elevating the head of the bed), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, antacids, and sometimes surgery (fundoplication).

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole ), H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine), antacids (e.g., calcium carbonate), and prokinetic agents (e.g., metoclopramide ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 20-30% of the adult population in the United States.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, pregnancy, smoking, alcohol use, hiatal hernia, and certain foods (spicy foods, citrus, etc.).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with a potential for symptom control, though complications like esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus can develop.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Esophagitis, strictures, Barrett's esophagus, esophageal cancer, respiratory problems (e.g., asthma, pneumonia).

Xerostomia (dry mouth)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Sensory Disorders

Sub-category: Oral and Dental Health

Symptoms:
dryness in the mouth; difficulty swallowing; sore throat; cracked lips; difficulty speaking; bad breath; altered taste

Root Cause:
Xerostomia occurs due to a decrease in saliva production, often caused by medications, radiation therapy, dehydration, or autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
A diagnosis is made through a clinical evaluation, including a physical examination, patient history, and sometimes sialography or salivary flow tests.

Treatment:
Treatment includes salivary substitutes, improving hydration, using medications to stimulate saliva production (e.g., pilocarpine), and managing underlying conditions like autoimmune diseases.

Medications:
Medications prescribed for xerostomia include pilocarpine (classified as a cholinergic agent) and cevimeline (also a cholinergic agent). These drugs stimulate saliva production. Saliva substitutes are also available over-the-counter.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Xerostomia affects 10-30% of the population, with higher prevalence in older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, certain medications (e.g., antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics), radiation therapy to the head or neck, and autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis can vary; while xerostomia may improve if the underlying cause is treated, it may become a chronic condition if not managed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include increased risk of dental decay, difficulty speaking and swallowing, oral infections, and discomfort.

Tree Nut Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Food Allergies

Symptoms:
skin reactions like hives; swelling of lips or tongue; difficulty swallowing; wheezing; anaphylaxis

Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins in tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pecans.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge.

Treatment:
Avoidance of tree nuts, carrying epinephrine for severe reactions, allergen immunotherapy in development.

Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine ) for mild reactions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.5-1% of the population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, atopic conditions, prior allergic reactions to nuts.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Rarely outgrown; lifelong management is often necessary.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, cross-reactivity with other nuts, social and dietary challenges.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Other Related Disorders

Sub-category: Eosinophilic Disorders

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; food impaction; chest pain; heartburn; abdominal pain; vomiting in children; failure to thrive in children

Root Cause:
Chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the esophagus with eosinophil infiltration, often triggered by food allergens.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Upper endoscopy with esophageal biopsy showing eosinophilic infiltration; allergy testing may identify triggers.

Treatment:
Elimination diets, proton pump inhibitors, corticosteroids (topical or systemic), and esophageal dilation for strictures.

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole ), topical corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone ), and elimination diets.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 2,000 individuals in the U.S.; more common in males.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Personal or family history of allergic diseases, including asthma, eczema, or food allergies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with proper treatment, but symptoms often recur if treatment is stopped.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Esophageal strictures, food impaction, and chronic inflammation leading to fibrosis.

Laryngeal trauma

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Neck Injuries

Symptoms:
hoarseness; difficulty swallowing; neck pain; stridor (noisy breathing); dyspnea (difficulty breathing); coughing up blood

Root Cause:
Injury to the larynx (voice box), typically due to blunt trauma, compression, or penetrating injury, leading to swelling, fractures, or displacement.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, laryngoscopy, and imaging studies (CT or X-rays) to evaluate the extent of the damage to the larynx.

Treatment:
Treatment may involve airway management, surgery for laryngeal reconstruction, and voice therapy.

Medications:
Analgesics for pain management (e.g., acetaminophen ), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce swelling, and antibiotics if there's a risk of infection.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Laryngeal trauma is rare, but it can occur in motor vehicle accidents, assaults, or sports injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blunt or penetrating trauma to the neck, violent impacts, or physical altercations.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the injury. Mild cases can heal with conservative treatment, but severe injuries may result in long-term complications, including vocal cord dysfunction or airway obstruction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, airway obstruction, and permanent loss of voice.

Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Head and Neck Cancers

Symptoms:
nasopharyngeal obstruction; bloody nasal discharge; ear fullness or hearing loss; difficulty swallowing; neck lump; headaches; nasal congestion

Root Cause:
Malignant tumors arising in the nasopharynx, often linked to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging (CT/MRI scans), biopsy of nasopharyngeal tissue, endoscopy.

Treatment:
Combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on stage and location.

Medications:
Chemotherapeutic agents such as Cisplatin (alkylating agent), Paclitaxel (taxane chemotherapy), and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU, antimetabolite).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in Western countries, more common in Southeast Asia and parts of North Africa.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Epstein-Barr virus infection, family history, consumption of salted fish and preserved foods, exposure to tobacco and alcohol.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if detected early, with a 5-year survival rate of around 60-80%; prognosis worsens in later stages.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to lymph nodes and distant organs, difficulty with speech and swallowing, radiation side effects (dry mouth, thyroid dysfunction).

Oropharyngeal Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Head and Neck Cancers

Symptoms:
sore throat; difficulty swallowing; ear pain; lump in the neck; unexplained weight loss; voice changes; mouth sores that don’t heal

Root Cause:
Malignant growths in the oropharynx, often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging (CT/MRI), biopsy, panendoscopy.

Treatment:
Surgery (if localized), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination, especially for HPV-positive cases.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like Cisplatin , 5-FU, and Docetaxel ; immunotherapy agents like Pembrolizumab (anti-PD-1 antibody) may be used in advanced stages.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increasing incidence, especially in younger populations due to HPV-related cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
HPV infection, tobacco use, alcohol use, poor oral hygiene.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
5-year survival rates vary, with HPV-related cancers having a better prognosis than HPV-negative cancers.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Difficulty swallowing, voice changes, metastasis to distant organs, radiation side effects.

Hypopharyngeal Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Head and Neck Cancers

Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing; painful swallowing; hoarseness; chronic sore throat; neck mass; ear pain; weight loss

Root Cause:
Malignant tumor in the hypopharynx, commonly linked to smoking and alcohol use.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, imaging (CT/MRI), biopsy, panendoscopy.

Treatment:
Surgery (often involving partial or total laryngectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents such as Cisplatin , 5-FU, and Docetaxel ; radiation therapy may be used as adjunctive treatment.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but more common in individuals over 50 years old, with a strong link to tobacco and alcohol use.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, HPV infection.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often diagnosed at later stages, with a poor prognosis (5-year survival rates around 30%).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Difficulty swallowing, airway obstruction, metastasis, radiation side effects.

Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Symptoms:
chest pain or discomfort; persistent cough; shortness of breath; fatigue; weight loss; myasthenia gravis (in some cases); difficulty swallowing

Root Cause:
Thymoma is a cancer originating from the thymus gland, located in the chest. Thymic carcinoma is a more aggressive form of thymic cancer.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray. CT scan of the chest. MRI for better tissue detail. Biopsy (usually via CT-guided needle aspiration or mediastinoscopy). PET scan to check for metastasis.

Treatment:
Surgical resection (thymectomy) is the primary treatment, especially for thymoma. Radiation therapy if surgery is not fully effective or if cancer has spread. Chemotherapy for thymic carcinoma or advanced thymoma. Immunotherapy is sometimes considered in advanced stages.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin , doxorubicin , and cyclophosphamide are used for thymic carcinoma. For cases with myasthenia gravis, medications like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants (e.g., pyridostigmine ) may be prescribed. Targeted therapies and checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab are being explored in clinical trials.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Thymomas are rare, with about 300-400 new cases annually in the U.S. Thymic carcinoma is even rarer.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Myasthenia gravis (autoimmune disorder). Other autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Family history of cancer. Genetic conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome or DiGeorge syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis for thymoma is relatively good when detected early and treated with surgery. The 5-year survival rate is about 70-90%. Thymic carcinoma has a poorer prognosis, especially if diagnosed at advanced stages.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence of cancer after treatment. Spread to surrounding organs (e.g., lungs, heart). Myasthenia gravis-related complications. Infection from treatments (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy).

Mesothelioma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain (pleuritic pain); persistent dry cough; fatigue; unexplained weight loss; night sweats; difficulty swallowing

Root Cause:
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that affects the mesothelial cells lining the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), or heart (pericardial mesothelioma). It is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray or abdominal X-ray. CT scan or MRI. Biopsy (thoracoscopic or peritoneoscopic). PET scan for staging. Blood tests (e.g., for markers like mesothelin, but these are not definitive).

Treatment:
Surgical resection (pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy). Radiation therapy, particularly for symptom control. Chemotherapy, often with drugs like cisplatin and pemetrexed. Immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., nivolumab, ipilimumab). Palliative treatments to improve quality of life (e.g., pleurodesis for fluid buildup).

Medications:
Chemotherapy medications such as cisplatin and pemetrexed are commonly used to treat mesothelioma. Immunotherapy agents like nivolumab and pembrolizumab may be used for advanced stages of mesothelioma. Pain management drugs like opioids (e.g., morphine ) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Mesothelioma is rare, with approximately 3,000 new cases per year in the U.S. The prevalence is expected to rise due to the long latency period after asbestos exposure (20-50 years).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to asbestos, especially in occupational settings (e.g., construction, shipbuilding, mining). Family history of mesothelioma. Living with someone exposed to asbestos. Genetic mutations (in some cases).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mesothelioma has a poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%. Survival rates are higher in patients with localized disease treated with surgery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pleural effusion (fluid buildup in the lungs). Difficulty breathing (dyspnea). Spread to other organs (e.g., liver, peritoneum). Blood clotting disorders. Cachexia (severe weight loss and muscle wasting).

Thyroid Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Endocrine Cancers

Symptoms:
lump or swelling in the neck; hoarseness; difficulty swallowing; persistent cough not due to a cold; neck pain; enlarged lymph nodes

Root Cause:
Abnormal growth of cells in the thyroid gland, which may be caused by genetic mutations, radiation exposure, or other factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, thyroid ultrasound, fine-needle aspiration biopsy, blood tests (TSH, thyroglobulin), imaging (CT, MRI), and radioactive iodine scans.

Treatment:
Treatment options include surgery (thyroidectomy), radioactive iodine therapy, external beam radiation, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy.

Medications:
Targeted therapy drugs such as sorafenib and lenvatinib (tyrosine kinase inhibitors) may be prescribed. Hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine (thyroid hormone) is commonly required after thyroidectomy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1% of all cancers globally; more common in women and often diagnosed in individuals aged 30–60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of thyroid cancer, exposure to radiation, genetic mutations (e.g., RET proto-oncogene), iodine deficiency, and female sex.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable, especially for differentiated thyroid cancers like papillary and follicular types; survival rates exceed 90% with early diagnosis and treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent cancer, metastasis to other organs (lungs, bones), hypothyroidism after treatment, and damage to nearby structures (e.g., vocal cords, parathyroid glands).

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
dark-colored urine (often in the morning); fatigue; weakness; shortness of breath; abdominal pain; difficulty swallowing; blood clots; jaundice

Root Cause:
A rare acquired mutation in the PIGA gene, leading to defective complement regulation on red blood cells and resulting in hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Flow cytometry detecting absent GPI-anchored proteins (e.g., CD55, CD59) on blood cells, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) elevation, and hemoglobinuria.

Treatment:
Eculizumab (a complement inhibitor) is the main treatment. Supportive therapies include blood transfusions, iron supplementation, and anticoagulation for thrombosis.

Medications:
Eculizumab (Soliris ) — classified as a complement inhibitor, reduces hemolysis and thrombosis risk. Ravulizumab — a longer-acting complement inhibitor. Anticoagulants — used to prevent or treat thrombosis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects 1-2 per million people annually. More common in young adults and associated with aplastic anemia or bone marrow failure syndromes.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
genetic predisposition; association with aplastic anemia; exposure to certain toxins; immune dysregulation

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Improved significantly with complement inhibitors; however, untreated cases have a high risk of thrombosis and early mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
thrombosis; kidney failure; chronic hemolysis; iron overload from transfusions; pulmonary hypertension

Thyroid Lymphoma

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
rapidly enlarging thyroid mass; difficulty swallowing; difficulty breathing; hoarseness; weight loss; fever; night sweats

Root Cause:
Malignant lymphocytes infiltrate the thyroid, often associated with chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (Hashimoto's thyroiditis).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) or core biopsy of thyroid mass, imaging (CT or PET scans), immunohistochemistry.

Treatment:
Combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy; sometimes surgery for airway obstruction.

Medications:
Rituximab (monoclonal antibody), CHOP regimen (cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , prednisone ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; accounts for less than 5% of all thyroid malignancies.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, female sex, underlying Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, family history of lymphoma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if detected early; 5-year survival rate is over 80% with appropriate treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Compression of trachea or esophagus, metastasis to other organs, treatment-related toxicities.

Deadly nightshade (atropine) poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Plant Toxins

Symptoms:
dry mouth; blurred vision; difficulty swallowing; rapid heart rate; hallucinations; severe agitation; urinary retention; seizures

Root Cause:
Atropine is an anticholinergic compound that blocks the effects of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, leading to nervous system dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of ingestion, characteristic anticholinergic symptoms, and confirmation through toxicology tests if needed.

Treatment:
Activated charcoal (for recent ingestion), supportive care, and physostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) as an antidote.

Medications:
Physostigmine (cholinesterase inhibitor), benzodiazepines (for seizures or agitation), and IV fluids for hydration.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically due to accidental ingestion of berries or leaves or intentional misuse.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Proximity to or handling of deadly nightshade plants; young children or pets at higher risk of accidental ingestion.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; severe cases can lead to coma or death without intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Coma, respiratory failure, severe dehydration, or cardiac complications (e.g., arrhythmias).

Botulism (Clostridium botulinum toxin)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Bacterial and Fungal Toxins

Symptoms:
muscle weakness; drooping eyelids; blurred vision; difficulty swallowing; paralysis; respiratory failure

Root Cause:
Botulism is caused by the toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, which interferes with neurotransmitter release, leading to paralysis of muscles.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made based on clinical signs and symptoms, supported by laboratory tests to detect botulinum toxin in the blood, stool, or suspected food.

Treatment:
Botulism is treated with botulinum antitoxin, which can neutralize the toxin if administered early. Supportive care, including mechanical ventilation, may be required for respiratory failure.

Medications:
"Botulism antitoxin" (neutralizes the botulinum toxin, not a cure but a treatment). It is classified as an immunoglobulin.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Botulism is rare, with about 145 cases reported annually in the U.S., though the prevalence varies by type (foodborne, infant, and wound botulism).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated food (especially improperly canned food), open wounds, and infants consuming honey (for infant botulism).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis can be good, though recovery may take weeks to months, especially if respiratory failure occurs.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, permanent neurological damage, and death if untreated.

Tetanus (Clostridium tetani toxin)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Bacterial and Fungal Toxins

Symptoms:
muscle stiffness; spasms; jaw clenching; difficulty swallowing; neck stiffness; fever

Root Cause:
Tetanus is caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria, which produces a neurotoxin that affects the nervous system, causing painful muscle contractions and spasms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, including muscle rigidity and spasms. There are no specific laboratory tests for the toxin, but wound culture or blood tests can help identify the bacteria.

Treatment:
Tetanus is treated with tetanus immunoglobulin (TIG) to neutralize the toxin, muscle relaxants, antibiotics (such as metronidazole), and wound care.

Medications:
"Tetanus immunoglobulin" (neutralizes the tetanus toxin) is a type of immunoglobulin. "Metronidazole " (antibiotic, antiprotozoal, used to treat infections by anaerobic bacteria), "muscle relaxants" (such as diazepam , to control muscle spasms).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in developed countries due to widespread vaccination. Around 30 cases occur annually in the U.S., but incidence is higher in non-vaccinated populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, poor wound care, and contaminated puncture wounds.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, prognosis is generally good, but severe cases can lead to complications like respiratory failure and even death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, bone fractures due to spasms, autonomic dysregulation, and death in severe cases.

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Foodborne and Natural Toxins

Symptoms:
numbness; tingling; dizziness; weakness; paralysis; respiratory distress; difficulty swallowing; nausea; vomiting

Root Cause:
Toxins (saxitoxins) produced by certain marine algae accumulate in shellfish (e.g., clams, mussels, oysters), leading to poisoning after consumption.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and history of shellfish consumption from affected areas. Laboratory tests can detect saxitoxins in shellfish, blood, or urine.

Treatment:
There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive, including respiratory support (e.g., mechanical ventilation) in severe cases. Activated charcoal may be used if ingestion is recent.

Medications:
No specific medications are used, but supportive care involves fluids, respiratory support, and sometimes atropine for bradycardia. Antihistamines and antiemetics may be used for mild cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs primarily in coastal regions where shellfish harvesting occurs. Prevalence can vary depending on local algal blooms.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Consumption of shellfish during bloom seasons when high levels of toxins are present.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of symptoms. Most individuals recover within hours to days if treated promptly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
In severe cases, respiratory failure, paralysis, or death can occur due to respiratory muscle paralysis.

Radiation therapy-induced toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Adverse Effects of Therapeutics and Medical Agents

Sub-category: Iatrogenic Conditions

Symptoms:
skin burns; fatigue; nausea; vomiting; dry mouth; difficulty swallowing; pneumonitis; esophagitis

Root Cause:
The ionizing radiation used in cancer therapy causes damage to normal healthy tissues, leading to acute or chronic inflammation and cellular damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, timing in relation to radiation therapy, and imaging findings; biopsy or laboratory tests may be used to assess tissue damage.

Treatment:
Management involves corticosteroids, anti-nausea medications, pain relief, and symptomatic management of skin or mucosal irritation. Depending on the affected organ, more specific treatments may be required (e.g., antibiotics for radiation pneumonitis).

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone , dexamethasone ) are used to reduce inflammation, anti-nausea drugs (e.g., ondansetron ), pain relievers, and sometimes antibiotics or immunosuppressants for more severe reactions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Radiation-induced toxicity is a common complication, though its severity depends on the type and location of radiation therapy.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High radiation doses, field size, proximity of radiation to critical organs, underlying health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), and concurrent chemotherapy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most toxicity symptoms resolve after treatment; however, long-term or permanent tissue damage can occur, especially with high doses.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic fatigue, fibrosis, secondary cancers, esophageal stenosis, and pulmonary issues.

Conversion Disorders

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Psychosomatic

Symptoms:
weakness or paralysis; abnormal movements (tremors, gait abnormalities); speech issues (slurred or loss of speech); non-epileptic seizures; loss of sensation; vision problems (double vision, blindness); difficulty swallowing; pain with no physical cause

Root Cause:
Psychological distress manifests as physical symptoms without an organic medical cause. It is thought to be the result of trauma, stress, or unconscious conflict.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, ruling out neurological or medical conditions through imaging (MRI, CT scans) and laboratory tests, and consideration of psychological factors.

Treatment:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, physical therapy, and stress management techniques.

Medications:
Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs like fluoxetine or sertraline ) to address associated depression or anxiety, anxiolytics for severe anxiety, and in some cases, off-label use of antipsychotics for associated psychiatric symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, with an estimated prevalence of 2-5 per 100,000 individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of trauma or abuse, high levels of stress, comorbid psychiatric disorders (anxiety, depression), and low socioeconomic status.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by case; symptoms may resolve with appropriate treatment, but recurrence is possible. Early intervention improves outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic disability, emotional distress, impaired social and occupational functioning, and risk of unnecessary medical interventions.

Botulism

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
muscle weakness; blurred vision; drooping eyelids; slurred speech; difficulty swallowing; difficulty breathing; paralysis

Root Cause:
Caused by the neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, which blocks acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions, leading to paralysis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms, patient history (e.g., ingestion of contaminated food or wound exposure), and confirmed with laboratory tests such as toxin assays or stool cultures.

Treatment:
Administering antitoxins, supportive care (e.g., mechanical ventilation if respiratory muscles are affected), and wound debridement in wound botulism cases.

Medications:
Botulinum antitoxin (neutralizes circulating toxins); antibiotics such as penicillin or metronidazole for wound botulism to address infection (penicillin

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; approximately 1,000 cases annually worldwide, including foodborne, wound, and infant botulism.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Ingesting improperly preserved or canned foods, intravenous drug use (wound botulism), and consuming honey in infants under 1 year.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, most patients recover fully, though recovery may take weeks to months; untreated cases can be fatal due to respiratory failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, long-term muscle weakness, and secondary infections due to prolonged hospitalization.

Tetanus

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: CNS Infections

Symptoms:
muscle stiffness; lockjaw (trismus); painful muscle spasms; difficulty swallowing; fever; sweating

Root Cause:
Caused by Clostridium tetani bacteria, which release tetanospasmin, a toxin that interferes with motor neuron signaling, leading to muscle rigidity and spasms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms and history of injury; no definitive lab test but may include wound culture for C. tetani.

Treatment:
Wound care, administration of tetanus immunoglobulin (TIG), supportive care (e.g., muscle relaxants, ventilatory support if needed), and antibiotics.

Medications:
Penicillin G or metronidazole (antibiotics to eradicate C. tetani), diazepam or baclofen (muscle relaxants to control spasms).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in developed countries due to vaccination; most cases occur in unvaccinated individuals or in areas with poor healthcare access.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unvaccinated status, puncture wounds, animal bites, burns, or other injuries contaminated with soil or feces.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be life-threatening if untreated; with appropriate care, survival is high, but recovery may take weeks to months.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, fractures from severe spasms, autonomic dysfunction, secondary infections, and death if untreated.

Bacterial Pharyngitis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: HEENT Infections

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; difficulty swallowing; swollen lymph nodes; red throat with or without exudates

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the pharynx caused by bacterial pathogens, most commonly Group A Streptococcus (GAS).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Rapid antigen detection test (RADT) for GAS; throat culture as the gold standard.

Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy to eradicate the infection, reduce symptoms, and prevent complications.

Medications:
Penicillin V or amoxicillin is the first-line treatment. For penicillin-allergic patients, alternatives include azithromycin or clindamycin (macrolide and lincosamide antibiotics, respectively).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
GAS causes 20-30% of pharyngitis in children and 5-15% in adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, young age, crowded living conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; untreated infections may lead to complications like rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rheumatic fever, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, peritonsillar abscess.

Herpangina

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: HEENT Infections

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; painful ulcers in the mouth and throat; difficulty swallowing

Root Cause:
Viral infection, most commonly caused by coxsackievirus A, leading to ulcerative lesions in the posterior oral cavity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination based on characteristic oral lesions and history of fever.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration, pain relief, and antipyretics.

Medications:
Analgesics like ibuprofen or acetaminophen ; topical anesthetics like viscous lidocaine for oral pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children under 10, especially during summer and early fall.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young age, close contact in daycare or school settings.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; resolves in 7-10 days with supportive care.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare but can include dehydration and febrile seizures.

Noncandidal Fungal Infections of the Mouth

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Sub-category: Oral Conditions

Symptoms:
painful oral lesions; difficulty swallowing; red or white patches; ulcers that don't heal

Root Cause:
Caused by fungi such as Aspergillus, Histoplasma, or Cryptococcus; often in immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, fungal culture, biopsy, and imaging.

Treatment:
Antifungal therapy tailored to the causative organism.

Medications:
Amphotericin B (polyenes), fluconazole or itraconazole (triazoles) depending on the fungus involved.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but occurs globally, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy), prolonged corticosteroid use, organ transplantation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment, but severe cases may lead to systemic dissemination.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Disseminated fungal infection, airway obstruction, secondary bacterial infections.

Kuru

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: COVID-19 Reinfections

Symptoms:
ataxia; tremors; muscle stiffness; emotional lability; dementia-like symptoms; difficulty swallowing

Root Cause:
Prion disease caused by the transmission of misfolded prion proteins through cannibalistic practices.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, genetic testing for prion protein gene mutations, and post-mortem brain biopsy showing spongiform degeneration.

Treatment:
No cure; supportive care focuses on managing symptoms and providing comfort.

Medications:
None; experimental treatments have been attempted but remain ineffective.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; primarily observed in the Fore tribe of Papua New Guinea, where the disease originated.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in cannibalistic rituals, exposure to infected neural tissue.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Fatal; typically leads to death within 1–2 years of symptom onset.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive neurological decline, complete loss of motor and cognitive functions, death.

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