Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Obesity and Weight Management

Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Conditions

Symptoms:
excess body fat; fatigue; breathlessness; joint pain; snoring or sleep apnea

Root Cause:
Chronic energy imbalance leading to excess fat accumulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30; waist circumference measurement.

Treatment:
Diet modifications, increased physical activity, behavioral therapy, medications, bariatric surgery (in severe cases).

Medications:
Orlistat (lipase inhibitor), liraglutide (GLP-1 agonist), phentermine /topiramate .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 13% of the global population; increasing in prevalence.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, genetics, hormonal imbalances, psychological factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; sustained weight loss significantly improves health outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, certain cancers.

Osteoarthritis

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Musculoskeletal Disorders

Sub-category: Bone Disorders

Symptoms:
joint pain; stiffness; limited range of motion; swelling; bone spurs; grating sensation during joint movement

Root Cause:
The gradual breakdown of cartilage in joints, leading to bone-on-bone contact, inflammation, and joint damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, patient history, imaging studies (X-ray, MRI), and joint fluid analysis to rule out other conditions.

Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications (weight loss, physical therapy), pain management, assistive devices, and surgery (joint replacement) for severe cases.

Medications:
Acetaminophen for mild pain; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and inflammation; corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation; and hyaluronic acid injections for joint lubrication.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 32.5 million adults in the U.S., particularly those aged 50 and older.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, obesity, joint injuries, genetics, and repetitive joint use.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive; symptoms can be managed with treatment, but cartilage loss is irreversible.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, decreased mobility, joint deformity, and increased risk of falls.

Lyme Disease

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Sub-category: Tick-borne Infections

Symptoms:
erythema migrans (bull's-eye rash); fever; chills; fatigue; joint pain; neurological symptoms such as bell's palsy

Root Cause:
Caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of infected Ixodes ticks, leading to systemic infection if untreated.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, history of tick exposure, enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or immunoblot (Western blot) testing for antibodies.

Treatment:
Antibiotics for early stages; intravenous antibiotics for severe or late-stage disease.

Medications:
Doxycycline (tetracycline-class antibiotic), amoxicillin (penicillin-class antibiotic), or cefuroxime (cephalosporin-class antibiotic) for early stages. Intravenous ceftriaxone or penicillin G for neurologic or severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in temperate regions, especially the northeastern United States and parts of Europe; incidence varies widely by region.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Outdoor activities in tick-endemic areas, not using protective clothing, and delayed removal of ticks.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early diagnosis and treatment; late or untreated cases may lead to chronic symptoms (e.g., Lyme arthritis, neurological issues).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic joint inflammation, neurological damage, heart rhythm disturbances, post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS).

Gigantism

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Growth and Development Disorders

Sub-category: Excessive Growth Disorders

Symptoms:
abnormally rapid growth; excessively tall stature; enlarged hands and feet; facial changes; joint pain; delayed puberty; headaches

Root Cause:
Excessive secretion of growth hormone, usually due to a pituitary adenoma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Growth chart analysis, blood tests for insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone, MRI of the brain to detect pituitary tumors.

Treatment:
Surgery to remove the pituitary adenoma, medication to suppress growth hormone (e.g., somatostatin analogs), or radiation therapy if surgery is not curative.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide ), dopamine agonists (e.g., cabergoline ), and growth hormone receptor antagonists (e.g., pegvisomant ). These medications are hormone regulators.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; affects fewer than 1 in 10,000,000 children.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of pituitary tumors or genetic syndromes like multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early; untreated cases can result in severe complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Diabetes, cardiomegaly, joint problems, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Rubella (German Measles)

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Infectious Diseases

Sub-category: Vaccination-Preventable Diseases

Symptoms:
low-grade fever; rash that starts on the face and spreads downward; swollen lymph nodes (especially behind the ears); joint pain; mild cold-like symptoms

Root Cause:
Caused by the rubella virus (a single-stranded RNA virus in the Togaviridae family); spreads via respiratory droplets and can lead to severe complications during pregnancy (congenital rubella syndrome).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation and confirmed through serology (rubella-specific IgM and IgG antibodies) or RT-PCR testing.

Treatment:
No specific antiviral treatment; care focuses on symptom management.

Medications:
Symptomatic treatment includes antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen ) and analgesics for fever and joint pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in countries with widespread vaccination but remains a concern in regions with low vaccination coverage.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, pregnancy (risk to the fetus), and exposure to infected individuals.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent for most individuals, but congenital rubella syndrome can result in severe birth defects or fetal death if the mother is infected during pregnancy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
congenital rubella syndrome (birth defects); arthritis; encephalitis; thrombocytopenia

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Immunologic and Rheumatologic Disorders

Sub-category: Autoimmune Disorders

Symptoms:
butterfly-shaped rash on the face; joint pain; fever; fatigue; photosensitivity; hair loss; mouth sores; kidney problems; chest pain

Root Cause:
SLE is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, including skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical signs, laboratory tests (e.g., ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith), and organ-specific testing (e.g., urinalysis for kidney involvement).

Treatment:
Treatment typically includes corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine), and biologic agents like belimumab.

Medications:
Medications may include hydroxychloroquine (an antimalarial that modulates immune function), corticosteroids (such as prednisone ), and immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., cyclophosphamide , azathioprine ) to control inflammation and prevent flare-ups.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
SLE is rare in children, affecting approximately 0.1-0.3 per 100,000 children annually, and is more common in females, particularly in adolescence.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition (e.g., certain HLA types), environmental factors (e.g., sun exposure), hormonal influences (e.g., more common in females).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With modern treatments, many children can live normal or near-normal lives, though the disease may still cause organ damage, especially kidney involvement.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney failure (lupus nephritis), cardiovascular problems, infections due to immunosuppressive therapy, and increased risk of blood clots.

Vasculitis (e.g., Henoch-Schönlein Purpura)

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Immunologic and Rheumatologic Disorders

Sub-category: Autoimmune Disorders

Symptoms:
purple spots on the skin (purpura); abdominal pain; joint pain; kidney involvement (hematuria); vomiting; diarrhea

Root Cause:
Vasculitis in Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks small blood vessels, leading to inflammation and leakage of blood into the skin and other organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation (rash, joint pain, abdominal symptoms) and laboratory tests (e.g., urine analysis for kidney involvement, elevated ESR/CRP).

Treatment:
Treatment is typically supportive, including NSAIDs for joint pain and corticosteroids for more severe cases or to prevent kidney damage.

Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) for pain and inflammation, corticosteroids (such as prednisone ) for more severe symptoms or kidney involvement.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
HSP is the most common form of vasculitis in children, with an incidence of 10-20 per 100,000 children per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Typically follows an upper respiratory infection (e.g., streptococcal infection), genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most children recover fully without long-term consequences; however, kidney damage can occur in a small percentage, leading to chronic kidney disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney involvement (e.g., glomerulonephritis), gastrointestinal bleeding, and long-term joint pain.

Scleroderma

Specialty: Dermatology

Category: Skin Disorders

Sub-category: Autoimmune and Connective Tissue Disorders

Symptoms:
skin thickening and hardening; raynaud’s phenomenon; joint pain; swallowing difficulties; tightness around mouth and facial features

Root Cause:
Excessive collagen deposition in skin and internal organs due to autoimmunity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, ANA tests, and skin biopsies.

Treatment:
Symptom management with immunosuppressants and vasodilators for Raynaud's.

Medications:
Immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate , mycophenolate mofetil). Vasodilators (e.g., nifedipine ) – for Raynaud’s phenomenon. Proton pump inhibitors – for GERD symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
50–300 cases per million people, more common in women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, exposure to certain chemicals, and infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive; prognosis depends on the extent of organ involvement.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension; Renal crisis; Cardiac involvement

Rubella (Skin Manifestation)

Specialty: Dermatology

Category: Skin Disorders

Sub-category: Infectious Skin Diseases - Viral Infections

Symptoms:
pink, maculopapular rash starting on face and spreading downward; mild fever; swollen lymph nodes; joint pain

Root Cause:
Viral infections caused by Measles Virus or Rubella Virus, transmitted via respiratory droplets.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation; PCR testing, serology for IgM antibodies.

Treatment:
Supportive care; prevention via vaccination.

Medications:
Supportive care (e.g., antipyretics like acetaminophen ). Vitamin A supplementation – for measles in malnourished children.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in vaccinated populations; outbreaks occur in areas with low vaccination coverage.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unvaccinated status, close contact with infected individuals, and travel to endemic areas.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Self-limiting in most cases; complications are more common in malnourished or immunocompromised individuals.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Congenital rubella syndrome in pregnant women; Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease)

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Joint Disorders

Sub-category: Arthritis

Symptoms:
joint pain; stiffness; swelling; reduced range of motion; crepitus (grating sensation)

Root Cause:
Degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain and stiffness.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, X-rays, MRI scans, and sometimes joint aspiration.

Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, weight management, medications, and in severe cases, surgical interventions like joint replacement.

Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation; acetaminophen for pain relief; corticosteroid injections for inflammation; hyaluronic acid injections to lubricate joints.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 19% to 30% of adults above the age of 45.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, joint injuries, obesity, genetics, gender (more common in women), and repetitive joint stress.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with symptoms manageable through treatment; progression varies among individuals.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Joint deformities, decreased mobility, and in severe cases, disability.

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.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener’s)

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Rheumatologic Conditions

Sub-category: Vasculitis

Symptoms:
sinus congestion; nasal ulcers; hemoptysis (coughing up blood); cough; joint pain; fever; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Autoimmune vasculitis affecting small to medium-sized blood vessels, primarily in the respiratory tract and kidneys, leading to inflammation and damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests (elevated ANCA levels), imaging, and biopsy of affected tissues (e.g., lungs, kidneys).

Treatment:
The treatment typically includes high-dose corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents like cyclophosphamide or rituximab. Maintenance therapy with methotrexate or azathioprine may follow.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (prednisone ) are used for initial treatment, often in combination with immunosuppressants like cyclophosphamide or rituximab . Maintenance therapy may involve methotrexate or azathioprine .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated incidence of 3 per million people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (typically diagnosed in adults aged 40-60), male gender, positive ANCA (antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) in blood tests.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early treatment, remission is possible, but the disease can cause irreversible damage, particularly to the kidneys and lungs.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney failure, lung damage, hearing loss, and systemic organ damage.

Microscopic Polyangiitis

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Systemic Diseases with Renal Involvement

Sub-category: Vasculitis with Kidney Involvement

Symptoms:
fatigue; fever; weight loss; hematuria (blood in urine); proteinuria; shortness of breath; cough with blood (hemoptysis); joint pain; skin purpura

Root Cause:
Autoimmune-mediated small-vessel vasculitis, characterized by inflammation without granuloma formation, leading to damage in kidneys, lungs, and skin.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical assessment, ANCA serology (commonly p-ANCA/MPO-ANCA positive), urinalysis for renal involvement, imaging for lung involvement, and kidney biopsy confirming necrotizing vasculitis.

Treatment:
Similar to Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis, treatment focuses on inducing and maintaining remission with immunosuppressive therapy.

Medications:
Commonly prescribed medications include - Glucocorticoids (e.g., prednisone ) for inflammation control. Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclophosphamide or azathioprine ) for autoimmune suppression. Biologics such as rituximab in refractory cases. Plasma Exchange for life-threatening complications like rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; incidence is approximately 1–3 cases per 100,000 people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Similar to Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis; includes genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Better outcomes with early diagnosis and treatment; relapses are common, requiring long-term monitoring and management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, respiratory failure, infections due to immunosuppression, and thromboembolic events.

Sarcoidosis (with musculoskeletal involvement)

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Rheumatologic Conditions

Sub-category: Other Rheumatologic Disorders

Symptoms:
muscle pain; joint pain; swelling of the joints; fatigue; difficulty moving affected limbs; muscle weakness

Root Cause:
Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease that results in the formation of granulomas (clusters of immune cells) in various organs, including the muscles and joints.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRI), and biopsy of affected tissue showing granulomas. Blood tests for elevated serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) may also be helpful.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) to reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressive agents may be prescribed in severe cases, and physical therapy is important for maintaining joint function and strength.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate , azathioprine , hydroxychloroquine ) — these are used to suppress inflammation and control granuloma formation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sarcoidosis affects approximately 1-40 per 100,000 people in the general population, with a higher prevalence in African American women and in certain geographical regions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of sarcoidosis, exposure to environmental factors (e.g., dust, chemicals), age (typically 20-40 years old), ethnicity (higher prevalence in African Americans and Scandinavians).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most individuals recover with treatment, but some may experience chronic or recurrent symptoms, leading to long-term disability. In severe cases, organ damage can occur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic joint damage, pulmonary fibrosis, heart and eye involvement, and nerve damage.

Relapsing Polychondritis

Specialty: Ear

Category: Autoimmune and Systemic Conditions with Ear Involvement

Symptoms:
recurrent inflammation of cartilage (ears, nose, trachea); ear pain; hearing loss; redness and swelling of the pinna; joint pain; respiratory symptoms

Root Cause:
Immune system targets cartilaginous tissues, leading to recurrent inflammation and degradation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical features, imaging (CT/MRI), cartilage biopsy, and exclusion of other conditions.

Treatment:
Corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, and symptomatic management for respiratory and joint involvement.

Medications:
Prednisone (corticosteroid), methotrexate (immunosuppressant), and biologics like rituximab (monoclonal antibody).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; estimated 3.5 cases per million population annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unknown; may be associated with other autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; relapsing course with potential for life-threatening complications if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway collapse, aortic aneurysm, hearing loss, and cosmetic deformities.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener’s Granulomatosis)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Autoimmune and Systemic Conditions

Symptoms:
chronic sinusitis; nasal ulcerations; nasal discharge (often bloody); facial pain; fatigue; weight loss; cough; hemoptysis (coughing up blood); joint pain

Root Cause:
An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis) and granulomas in the respiratory tract, kidneys, and other organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, laboratory tests (e.g., c-ANCA), and biopsy of affected tissues showing granulomatous inflammation and vasculitis.

Treatment:
Treatment involves immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) and cytotoxic agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide). Maintenance therapy may include methotrexate or rituximab.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) are used as anti-inflammatory agents, while cytotoxic agents like cyclophosphamide (alkylating agents) suppress the immune response. Methotrexate (antimetabolite) and rituximab (monoclonal antibody) may be used for maintenance therapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A rare condition, affecting approximately 3-4 people per million annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, environmental triggers (e.g., infections), and smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, the prognosis has improved, but long-term management is required to prevent relapses and complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney failure, hearing loss, pulmonary hemorrhage, and the development of other systemic organ failures.

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).

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA, formerly Wegener’s)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pulmonary Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Vasculitis with Pulmonary Involvement

Symptoms:
nasal congestion; sinus pain or bleeding; cough (sometimes with blood); shortness of breath; fatigue; weight loss; joint pain

Root Cause:
GPA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks blood vessels, leading to inflammation and damage to various organs, particularly the lungs, kidneys, and upper respiratory tract.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (e.g., ANCA – antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies). Imaging (chest X-ray, CT scans of the chest). Biopsy of affected tissue (usually lung or kidney).

Treatment:
Immunosuppressive therapy to control inflammation (such as cyclophosphamide, rituximab). Glucocorticoids (steroids). Plasmapheresis for severe cases (removal of circulating antibodies).

Medications:
Cyclophosphamide (chemotherapy agent, immunosuppressant). Rituximab (monoclonal antibody, immunosuppressant). Prednisone (corticosteroid, anti-inflammatory). Methotrexate (immunosuppressant, chemotherapy agent). Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (antibiotic for prevention of infections).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated incidence of 3 to 12 cases per million people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, environmental factors (such as exposure to certain chemicals or infections), and smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many patients achieve remission. However, it can be life-threatening without treatment and relapses are common.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney failure. Lung damage. .Respiratory failure. Infections due to immunosuppressive therapy. Heart complications (in rare cases).

Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Infectious Diseases of the Respiratory System

Sub-category: Fungal Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; fatigue; chest pain; shortness of breath; rash; headache; joint pain

Root Cause:
Caused by inhaling spores of Coccidioides species, fungi found in desert soils in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico and Central and South America.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for antibodies, antigen detection, fungal cultures, imaging (chest X-ray or CT scan), or biopsy of affected tissues.

Treatment:
Mild cases often resolve without treatment; antifungal therapy is required for severe or chronic cases.

Medications:
Fluconazole or itraconazole (triazole antifungals) for most cases; amphotericin B (a polyene antifungal) for severe or disseminated infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic to arid regions; affects tens of thousands annually in the U.S., particularly in Arizona and California.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in or traveling to endemic areas, occupational exposure to dust, pregnancy, and immune suppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for acute cases; chronic or disseminated infections may require long-term treatment and carry a risk of complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pulmonary disease, disseminated infection affecting bones, skin, or meninges, and severe respiratory distress.

Acromegaly (Excess Growth Hormone)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Pituitary Disorders

Sub-category: Pituitary Tumors

Symptoms:
enlargement of hands and feet; facial changes (e.g., protruding jaw); joint pain; deepened voice; headaches; vision disturbances; insulin resistance

Root Cause:
Caused by a benign tumor (adenoma) in the pituitary gland leading to overproduction of growth hormone (GH).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Elevated IGF-1 levels, oral glucose tolerance test for GH suppression, MRI of the pituitary gland.

Treatment:
Surgery to remove the tumor, medications to inhibit GH production, and radiation therapy if surgery and medications are insufficient.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide , lanreotide ), GH receptor antagonists (e.g., pegvisomant ), and dopamine agonists (e.g., cabergoline ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with approximately 3-4 cases per million people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Typically occurs in middle-aged adults; no significant hereditary predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment improves outcomes; untreated acromegaly can lead to significant complications and reduced life expectancy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, sleep apnea, arthritis, and compression of surrounding brain structures.

Hyperphosphatemia

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Bone and Mineral Metabolism Disorders

Symptoms:
muscle cramps; tetany; calcifications in soft tissues; itching; joint pain

Root Cause:
Excess phosphate in the blood due to decreased renal excretion (e.g., kidney disease), excessive intake, or cellular release.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serum phosphate levels >4.5 mg/dL, often accompanied by elevated serum PTH, calcium, and creatinine in secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Treatment:
Reducing dietary phosphate, phosphate binders (e.g., sevelamer, lanthanum carbonate), and treating underlying conditions like chronic kidney disease.

Medications:
Phosphate binders like sevelamer , calcium acetate, and lanthanum carbonate are used to lower phosphate levels in the blood.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in chronic kidney disease patients, with prevalence up to 70% in advanced stages.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic kidney disease, excessive phosphate intake (e.g., supplements or processed foods), hypoparathyroidism, and certain genetic disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with dietary and medical management, but persistent hyperphosphatemia increases cardiovascular and mortality risks.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vascular calcifications, cardiovascular disease, and secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Obesity (Endocrine-Related)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Metabolic Disorders

Sub-category: Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

Symptoms:
excessive body fat; difficulty losing weight; fatigue; shortness of breath; joint pain; snoring or sleep apnea; insulin resistance

Root Cause:
Chronic imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, including abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, leptin resistance, and insulin dysregulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on BMI ≥30 kg/m², waist circumference, body fat percentage, and associated comorbidities (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension). Blood tests may assess insulin resistance, lipid profile, thyroid function, and cortisol levels.

Treatment:
Lifestyle interventions (diet and exercise), behavior modification programs, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery for severe cases. Treatment plans are personalized based on comorbid conditions and underlying factors.

Medications:
Medications prescribed for obesity include orlistat (lipase inhibitor), liraglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonist), and semaglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonist). Other options may include phentermine-topiramate (appetite suppressant) or naltrexone-bupropion (combination therapy for appetite and reward system modulation).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Over 1 billion adults worldwide are affected; the prevalence is rising globally due to sedentary lifestyles and high-calorie diets.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, sedentary lifestyle, high-calorie diet, hormonal disorders (e.g., hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome), certain medications (e.g., antipsychotics, corticosteroids), and socioeconomic factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate intervention, weight loss and risk reduction for comorbid conditions are achievable. Long-term success depends on adherence to lifestyle and treatment plans.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), certain cancers, and reduced life expectancy.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Liver Disorders

Sub-category: Hepatitis

Symptoms:
fatigue; jaundice; abdominal discomfort; joint pain; skin rashes; spider angiomas; loss of appetite

Root Cause:
The immune system attacks healthy liver cells, leading to inflammation and progressive liver damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (autoantibodies like ANA, ASMA, LKM-1), liver function tests, imaging studies, and liver biopsy.

Treatment:
Immunosuppressive therapy and monitoring of liver function.

Medications:
Prednisone (corticosteroid to reduce inflammation). Azathioprine (immunosuppressant to maintain remission). Mycophenolate mofetil or tacrolimus (alternative immunosuppressants for refractory cases).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated prevalence of 10–20 per 100,000 people worldwide; more common in females.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, female gender, environmental triggers like infections or certain medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; untreated cases can progress to cirrhosis or liver failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cirrhosis, liver failure, and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Hemochromatosis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Liver Disorders

Sub-category: Metabolic and Genetic Liver Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; joint pain; abdominal pain; bronze or gray skin discoloration; weakness; diabetes; irregular heartbeat; liver dysfunction

Root Cause:
Excessive iron absorption and accumulation in tissues due to a genetic mutation, typically in the HFE gene.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (serum ferritin, transferrin saturation), genetic testing, liver biopsy, MRI for iron quantification.

Treatment:
Regular therapeutic phlebotomy to remove excess iron, iron chelation therapy in cases where phlebotomy is not possible.

Medications:
Iron chelators such as deferoxamine , deferiprone , and deferasirox ; these are used to bind excess iron and promote its excretion in severe cases or when phlebotomy is not feasible.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 200-500 individuals of Northern European descent; more common in men than women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, genetic mutations (e.g., HFE C282Y and H63D mutations), being male (symptoms often manifest earlier in men).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early diagnosis and management; untreated, it can lead to serious complications like liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and diabetes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, arthritis, hypothyroidism, and chronic fatigue.

Long COVID-related Hypersensitivity or Autoimmune-like Syndromes

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Other Related Disorders

Sub-category: Post-COVID-19 Immune Dysregulation

Symptoms:
persistent fatigue; brain fog; joint pain; palpitations; skin rashes; worsened allergies

Root Cause:
Post-viral immune dysregulation leading to hypersensitivity or autoimmunity in genetically predisposed individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed based on persistent post-COVID symptoms and exclusion of other conditions.

Treatment:
Treated with supportive care, immunomodulators, or targeted therapy for specific symptoms.

Medications:
Symptomatic treatment with antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine ), corticosteroids, and immunomodulators as needed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated in 10–30% of people recovering from COVID-19, depending on study populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe COVID-19 illness; Female sex; Preexisting allergies or autoimmune diseases

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; most recover gradually over months, but some experience prolonged symptoms.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Reduced quality of life; Disability; Secondary autoimmune conditions

Tubulointerstitial Nephritis

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Tubulointerstitial Diseases

Symptoms:
fatigue; nausea; loss of appetite; fever; rash; joint pain; decreased urine output; blood in urine; edema

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the kidney's tubules and interstitial tissue, often caused by an immune-mediated response to drugs, infections, or systemic diseases.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urinalysis (presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, or casts), blood tests (elevated creatinine and BUN), imaging (ultrasound or CT for structural abnormalities), kidney biopsy (to confirm inflammation and etiology).

Treatment:
Discontinuing causative agents, managing underlying infections or systemic diseases, corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants in severe cases.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce inflammation; antibiotics or antivirals for infection-related causes; immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., azathioprine or cyclosporine ) in autoimmune-associated cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for approximately 10-15% of cases of acute kidney injury.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of nephrotoxic medications (e.g., NSAIDs, antibiotics like penicillin), infections (e.g., streptococcus, cytomegalovirus), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, sarcoidosis).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with early detection and management; chronic kidney damage can occur if treatment is delayed or if the underlying cause persists.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, permanent scarring of the kidneys, electrolyte imbalances, progression to end-stage renal disease.

Acute Interstitial Nephritis

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Tubulointerstitial Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; rash; joint pain; eosinophilia; hematuria; oliguria; flank pain

Root Cause:
Acute inflammation of the interstitial tissue of the kidneys, usually caused by an allergic or hypersensitivity reaction to drugs or infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urinalysis (eosinophils in urine, sterile pyuria), blood tests (elevated creatinine and eosinophilia), kidney biopsy (interstitial inflammation and edema).

Treatment:
Discontinuation of the offending drug, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) to reduce inflammation, supportive care for renal function.

Medications:
Corticosteroids like prednisone are commonly used. In some cases, antihistamines may be used for allergic reactions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 10-15% of cases of acute kidney injury in hospitalized patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of drugs such as NSAIDs, proton pump inhibitors, and antibiotics; systemic infections; autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually good with prompt treatment, but delayed intervention may lead to chronic kidney damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, permanent loss of renal function.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener's)

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Systemic Diseases with Renal Involvement

Sub-category: Vasculitis with Kidney Involvement

Symptoms:
fatigue; fever; weight loss; sinusitis; nasal crusting; hematuria (blood in urine); shortness of breath; joint pain; skin rashes or ulcers

Root Cause:
Autoimmune-mediated vasculitis affecting small- to medium-sized blood vessels, leading to inflammation and necrosis in multiple organs, particularly the kidneys, lungs, and upper respiratory tract.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical assessment, laboratory tests (e.g., ANCA test, ESR, CRP), imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI), and tissue biopsy of affected organs (commonly kidney or nasal tissues).

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on inducing and maintaining remission with immunosuppressive therapy and supportive care.

Medications:
Commonly prescribed medications include - Glucocorticoids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclophosphamide or methotrexate ) to control autoimmune activity. Biologics such as rituximab , a monoclonal antibody targeting B-cells. Plasma Exchange in severe cases with kidney or lung involvement.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; estimated incidence is 1 in 20,000–30,000 people, with equal distribution across genders and a peak onset between ages 40–65.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, environmental triggers (e.g., infections), and possibly silica dust exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis has improved with treatment, with remission achieved in most cases, but relapses are common; untreated, it can be fatal within a year.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney failure, pulmonary hemorrhage, chronic sinusitis, hearing loss, secondary infections due to immunosuppression.

Transfusion-Induced Iron Overload

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; joint pain; darkened skin; abdominal pain; heart palpitations; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Repeated blood transfusions lead to excessive iron accumulation in tissues, as the body cannot excrete the excess iron.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serum ferritin levels, transferrin saturation, liver MRI to assess iron deposition, and liver biopsy in certain cases.

Treatment:
Iron chelation therapy to remove excess iron and minimize organ damage. Lifestyle modifications, such as reducing dietary iron intake.

Medications:
Deferoxamine (parenteral), deferasirox (oral), and deferiprone (oral). These are classified as iron chelators.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in patients receiving chronic transfusions for conditions such as thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and myelodysplastic syndromes.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Frequent blood transfusions, hereditary hemochromatosis, ineffective erythropoiesis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early detection and treatment, but untreated cases can lead to significant organ damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ damage (heart, liver, pancreas), diabetes, cirrhosis, and heart failure.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Chronic Toxicity and Environmental Exposures

Sub-category: Persistent Organic Pollutants

Symptoms:
skin conditions like chloracne; fatigue; headaches; joint pain; abnormal liver function tests; immune system suppression; neurological symptoms like memory and concentration problems

Root Cause:
Accumulation of PCBs in the body due to environmental or occupational exposure, leading to endocrine disruption, hepatotoxicity, and neurotoxicity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through a history of exposure, clinical symptoms, and testing for PCB levels in blood, fat, or breast milk.

Treatment:
There is no specific antidote. Treatment focuses on minimizing further exposure, symptomatic management, nutritional support, and in some cases, bile acid sequestrants to enhance elimination.

Medications:
Cholestyramine , a bile acid sequestrant, may be used to increase the excretion of PCBs. Symptomatic treatments may include antihistamines for skin irritation and hepatoprotective agents for liver damage.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exposure is declining due to regulatory measures, but it remains a concern in individuals exposed to PCBs through industrial work or contaminated food sources.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure, consumption of contaminated fish or animal products, and living near PCB-contaminated sites.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With reduced exposure, symptoms may improve, but chronic exposure can lead to long-term health effects, including cancer.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of cancer (e.g., liver and skin cancers), reproductive issues, endocrine disorders, and long-term immune dysfunction.

Brucellosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; sweats; fatigue; joint pain; muscle pain; weight loss

Root Cause:
Caused by Brucella species bacteria, transmitted from infected animals or contaminated animal products, leading to systemic infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, serologic tests (e.g., Brucella antibody titers), and molecular methods (PCR).

Treatment:
Prolonged antibiotic therapy to eradicate infection and prevent relapses.

Medications:
Doxycycline (tetracycline antibiotic) and rifampin (rifamycin antibiotic) combination therapy for 6 weeks; in severe cases, streptomycin or gentamicin (aminoglycosides) may be added.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in regions such as the Mediterranean, the Middle East, South America, and sub-Saharan Africa; approximately 500,000 cases annually worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure (e.g., veterinarians, farmers), consumption of unpasteurized dairy products, and travel to endemic regions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated cases may lead to chronic brucellosis with relapsing symptoms.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Osteomyelitis, endocarditis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

CNS Whipple Disease

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: CNS Infections

Sub-category: Rare Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
cognitive dysfunction; ophthalmoplegia; seizures; ataxia; headache; weight loss; joint pain

Root Cause:
Caused by Tropheryma whipplei, a rare bacterial infection leading to systemic and neurological symptoms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
PCR testing for Tropheryma whipplei in CSF or tissue biopsy, histopathology with PAS-positive macrophages, and endoscopic biopsy of the duodenum.

Treatment:
Long-term antibiotic therapy, typically starting with intravenous ceftriaxone followed by oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for one year.

Medications:
Ceftriaxone (IV beta-lactam antibiotic) followed by oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide antimicrobial combination).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; precise prevalence is unknown but estimated at less than 1 per 1,000,000 people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Middle-aged males, HLA-B27 positivity, and immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment can lead to full recovery, but delayed diagnosis increases the risk of irreversible neurological damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cognitive impairment, seizures, motor dysfunction, and death if untreated.

Coccidioidomycosis and Valley Fever

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Sub-category: Endemic Mycoses

Symptoms:
fever; cough; chest pain; fatigue; headache; rash; joint pain

Root Cause:
Infection caused by Coccidioides species (C. immitis or C. posadasii) through inhalation of fungal spores, leading to localized or disseminated disease.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serologic testing (IgM and IgG antibodies), fungal cultures, histopathology, or PCR-based diagnostics.

Treatment:
Mild cases may resolve without treatment; moderate to severe cases require antifungal therapy, such as azoles or amphotericin B.

Medications:
Fluconazole or itraconazole for most cases. Amphotericin B is used for severe or disseminated disease. These drugs are systemic antifungal agents targeting fungal growth or membrane integrity.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in the southwestern U.S., northern Mexico, and parts of Central and South America; incidence rates vary but are increasing with climate change.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Residing or working in endemic areas, soil disturbance, immunosuppression, and pregnancy (third trimester).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases are self-limited; severe or disseminated cases have variable outcomes, with mortality up to 30% in untreated disseminated infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dissemination to skin, bones, or meninges; chronic pulmonary disease; and meningitis.

Hepatitis B

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Liver Infections

Sub-category: Chronic Viral Hepatitis

Symptoms:
fatigue; loss of appetite; nausea; jaundice; dark urine; joint pain; abdominal pain

Root Cause:
Infection with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which can cause both acute and chronic liver inflammation, leading to liver damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for HBsAg (surface antigen), anti-HBc antibodies, and HBV DNA; liver function tests.

Treatment:
Treated with antiviral medications such as tenofovir or entecavir to suppress viral replication, alongside interferon therapy in select cases, and supportive care, with monitoring for liver function and complications.

Medications:
Nucleos(t)ide analogs (e.g., entecavir , tenofovir ) to inhibit viral replication. Interferon-alpha injections to boost the immune response.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects over 296 million people worldwide; common in Asia and Africa.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sex, needle-sharing, perinatal transmission, healthcare worker exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute cases often resolve; chronic cases may progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer without treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver failure.

Hepatitis C

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Liver Infections

Sub-category: Chronic Viral Hepatitis

Symptoms:
fatigue; nausea; loss of appetite; jaundice; dark urine; joint pain; abdominal pain

Root Cause:
Infection with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), often leading to chronic liver inflammation and scarring.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for anti-HCV antibodies and HCV RNA, liver function tests.

Treatment:
Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) to cure the infection.

Medications:
DAAs (e.g., sofosbuvir , ledipasvir , velpatasvir ) targeting viral proteins for replication. Ribavirin (in combination in certain cases).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects over 58 million people worldwide; common in intravenous drug users.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Needle-sharing, blood transfusions (before 1992), healthcare exposure, tattoos or piercings with unsterilized equipment.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly curable with DAAs in 8–12 weeks; untreated, it may progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, portal hypertension.

Hepatitis D

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Liver Infections

Sub-category: Chronic Viral Hepatitis

Symptoms:
fatigue; nausea; jaundice; dark urine; abdominal pain; joint pain

Root Cause:
Co-infection or superinfection with the Hepatitis D virus (HDV) in individuals already infected with Hepatitis B. HDV requires HBV to replicate.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for anti-HDV antibodies and HDV RNA, liver function tests.

Treatment:
Pegylated interferon-alpha; no specific antiviral therapy.

Medications:
Pegylated interferon-alpha to suppress viral replication; supportive care.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated 5–10% of individuals with HBV are co-infected with HDV.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Same as Hepatitis B, especially intravenous drug use and unprotected sex.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Worse than HBV alone; higher risk of progression to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver failure.

African Trypanosomiasis (Sleeping Sickness)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
fever; headache; joint pain; itching; swelling of lymph nodes; confusion; personality changes; severe sleep disturbances; neurological impairments

Root Cause:
Caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma brucei species transmitted via tsetse fly bites, leading to systemic and central nervous system infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood smear microscopy, serological tests, lumbar puncture to detect trypanosomes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Treatment:
Antiparasitic therapy, depending on the disease stage.

Medications:
Pentamidine (for early-stage T. brucei gambiense), suramin (for early-stage T. brucei rhodesiense), melarsoprol (for late-stage CNS involvement), eflornithine , or fexinidazole (recently approved oral treatment).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, with periodic outbreaks. Cases have decreased due to control programs.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in or traveling to endemic areas, exposure to tsetse fly habitats, and lack of protective measures.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment leads to recovery; untreated cases are fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological damage, seizures, coma, and death in advanced stages.

Loiasis (African Eye Worm)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
skin swelling (calabar swelling); migrating worms visible under the skin or in the eye; itching; joint pain; fatigue

Root Cause:
Caused by the Loa loa filarial worm transmitted through the bite of infected deerflies.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of blood samples (daytime blood smear), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and visualization of adult worms.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications to kill adult and larval worms, along with symptomatic treatment for itching and swelling.

Medications:
Diethylcarbamazine (DEC, an anti-helminthic), ivermectin (for larval microfilariae), albendazole (a broad-spectrum antiparasitic).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in rainforests of Central and West Africa; estimated 10–20 million people infected.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living or traveling in endemic regions, exposure to infected deerflies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with antiparasitics, but severe worm burden can cause complications during treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney damage, heart problems, encephalopathy (rare, associated with high worm loads during treatment).

Gonococcal Arthritis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Symptoms:
joint pain; swelling in one or more joints; fever; skin lesions; painful or restricted joint movement

Root Cause:
Dissemination of Neisseria gonorrhoeae into the bloodstream, leading to septic arthritis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Synovial fluid analysis and culture, blood cultures, and NAAT for gonorrhea.

Treatment:
Antibiotics and joint drainage in severe cases.

Medications:
Ceftriaxone (third-generation cephalosporin) followed by oral therapy with Azithromycin or Doxycycline ; NSAIDs may be used for symptom relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but more common in sexually active young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Untreated gonorrhea, multiple sexual partners, immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with prompt treatment; delayed treatment may result in joint damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic arthritis, joint destruction, and systemic infection.

Erysipeloid

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections

Symptoms:
painful, red, violaceous lesions on the hands or fingers; mild fever; joint pain

Root Cause:
Bacterial infection caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, often from handling raw meat or fish.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, lesion swab or biopsy for culture, blood cultures in systemic cases.

Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy and protective measures to prevent recurrence.

Medications:
Penicillin (beta-lactam antibiotic); alternatives include doxycycline (tetracycline ) or ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occupational hazard for butchers, fish handlers, and veterinarians.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure to raw meat, fish, or animal products.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; self-limiting in mild cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Systemic infection, endocarditis.

Tick-Borne Diseases

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Infectious Diseases

Sub-category: Vector-Borne Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; rash; joint pain; muscle aches; neurological symptoms like headaches or paralysis; fatigue

Root Cause:
Diseases transmitted by tick bites, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Babesiosis, caused by bacteria, viruses, or protozoa.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on history of tick exposure, clinical signs, serological tests (e.g., ELISA, Western blot), or PCR testing.

Treatment:
Antibiotics such as doxycycline, amoxicillin, or ceftriaxone for bacterial infections. Supportive care for viral causes.

Medications:
Antibiotics (doxycycline for most tick-borne bacterial diseases; ceftriaxone for severe cases like neuroborreliosis). Antimalarials (atovaquone for Babesiosis). These are antimicrobial agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence varies by region; Lyme disease affects approximately 300,000 people annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to wooded or grassy areas, improper clothing, lack of tick repellents, and outdoor activities.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment results in excellent outcomes, but delayed diagnosis can lead to chronic symptoms or severe complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic fatigue, arthritis, neurological disorders, or cardiovascular issues in untreated cases.

Dermatologic Manifestations of Rubella

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Viral Exanthems

Sub-category: Dermatologic Disorders

Symptoms:
pink, maculopapular rash; fever; lymphadenopathy; joint pain; red spots on the soft palate (forchheimer spots)

Root Cause:
Rubella virus infection causing immune-mediated skin and systemic reactions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of rash and symptoms, confirmed by rubella IgM antibodies or PCR.

Treatment:
Supportive care, as the disease is usually self-limiting. Vaccination is key for prevention.

Medications:
No specific antiviral therapy; symptomatic relief includes acetaminophen or NSAIDs for fever and pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Reduced globally due to vaccination; still occurs in regions with low immunization rates.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, pregnancy (risk of congenital rubella syndrome), and close contact with infected individuals.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for most individuals; self-limiting in immunocompetent hosts.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arthralgia, encephalitis, congenital rubella syndrome in pregnant women.

Long Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: COVID-19 Reinfections

Symptoms:
fatigue; brain fog; persistent cough; shortness of breath; joint pain; chest pain; anxiety or depression

Root Cause:
Persistent inflammation and immune dysregulation following acute COVID-19 infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Symptom persistence for >12 weeks post-infection; exclusion of other conditions; specialized post-COVID clinics.

Treatment:
Symptom management with physical therapy, mental health support, pulmonary rehabilitation, and medications tailored to specific symptoms.

Medications:
Antidepressants (SSRIs for anxiety or depression), bronchodilators (for respiratory symptoms), or antihistamines (for fatigue or brain fog).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated in 10–30% of individuals recovering from acute COVID-19.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe acute COVID-19, female sex, pre-existing comorbidities, unvaccinated status.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; symptoms may persist for months or resolve gradually.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic fatigue syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, cardiovascular issues, mental health disorders.

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Symptoms: