Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Neonatal sepsis

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)

Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; poor feeding; lethargy; irritability; breathing difficulties; low blood pressure; jaundice; seizures

Root Cause:
A systemic infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi in newborns, often due to immature immune systems and exposure during or after birth.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, urine culture, complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and imaging if localized infection is suspected.

Treatment:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics initially, tailored based on culture results; supportive care including fluids, oxygen therapy, and management of complications such as shock or organ failure.

Medications:
Empiric treatment often includes a combination of ampicillin (a penicillin antibiotic) and gentamicin (an aminoglycoside antibiotic); vancomycin (a glycopeptide antibiotic) is added if MRSA is suspected. Antifungal medications like fluconazole may be used if fungal sepsis is identified.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 to 5 per 1,000 live births globally; higher prevalence in low-resource settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, prolonged rupture of membranes, maternal infections, low birth weight, invasive procedures, and lack of prenatal care.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, many neonates recover fully; however, mortality rates can range from 5% to 50% depending on the severity and resource availability.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, organ failure, developmental delays, cerebral palsy, and death in severe cases.

Adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison’s disease)

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Endocrine Disorders

Sub-category: Other Endocrine Issues

Symptoms:
fatigue; weight loss; low blood pressure; hyperpigmentation of the skin; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; salt cravings; hypoglycemia

Root Cause:
Insufficient production of cortisol and/or aldosterone by the adrenal glands, often due to autoimmune destruction, infection, or adrenal gland damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests measuring cortisol and ACTH levels, ACTH stimulation test, electrolyte panels, and imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI of the adrenal glands).

Treatment:
Hormone replacement therapy, including glucocorticoids (e.g., hydrocortisone) and mineralocorticoids (e.g., fludrocortisone), along with lifestyle adjustments and emergency injectable hydrocortisone for adrenal crises.

Medications:
Hydrocortisone or prednisone (glucocorticoids) replace cortisol; fludrocortisone (a mineralocorticoid) replaces aldosterone. Glucocorticoids are corticosteroids, while fludrocortisone is a mineralocorticoid.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 1 in 10,000 to 20,000 people globally.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune conditions (e.g., autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome), family history, infections (e.g., tuberculosis), adrenal gland damage due to trauma or surgery.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, patients can lead normal lives; however, untreated adrenal insufficiency can be life-threatening.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Adrenal crisis (acute life-threatening condition), electrolyte imbalances, hypoglycemia, and increased susceptibility to stress-related illnesses.

Splenic Rupture

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Trauma and Injuries

Sub-category: Internal Organ Trauma

Symptoms:
left upper abdominal pain; shoulder pain; dizziness; fainting; low blood pressure; rapid heart rate

Root Cause:
Tearing or damage to the spleen due to blunt or penetrating trauma, leading to internal bleeding.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, ultrasound (FAST), CT scan, and laboratory tests to assess blood loss.

Treatment:
Monitoring for stable cases, surgical intervention (splenectomy or repair) for severe cases, and blood transfusions if needed.

Medications:
Pain management (opioids or acetaminophen ), prophylactic antibiotics post-splenectomy, and vaccinations (e.g., pneumococcal vaccine).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; most common in high-impact trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Abdominal trauma, pre-existing splenic conditions (e.g., splenomegaly).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely intervention; loss of spleen increases risk of infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock, infection, and immune system compromise post-splenectomy.

Internal Bleeding

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Trauma and Injuries

Sub-category: Internal Organ Trauma

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; swelling; pallor; dizziness; fainting; rapid heartbeat; low blood pressure

Root Cause:
Damage to blood vessels or organs resulting in bleeding within the body, often due to trauma or rupture of blood vessels.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan), blood tests (hemoglobin/hematocrit), and clinical signs.

Treatment:
Stabilization, fluid resuscitation, blood transfusions, and surgical intervention to stop bleeding.

Medications:
Antifibrinolytics (e.g., tranexamic acid) in certain trauma cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in severe trauma cases and certain medical conditions (e.g., aortic aneurysm rupture).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma, anticoagulant therapy, and coagulopathies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the source and volume of bleeding; timely treatment is crucial.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock, organ failure, and death if untreated.

Cardiogenic shock

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Complications of Trauma

Symptoms:
low blood pressure; rapid heart rate; weak pulse; shortness of breath; cold, clammy skin; decreased urine output; confusion

Root Cause:
The heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s needs, usually due to severe heart damage (e.g., from a heart attack).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis includes clinical assessment, echocardiography, ECG, blood tests (e.g., cardiac enzymes), and imaging to assess heart function.

Treatment:
Treatment includes medications (inotropes, vasopressors), mechanical support devices (e.g., intra-aortic balloon pump), and, in some cases, surgical interventions to treat the underlying cause (e.g., coronary artery bypass).

Medications:
Inotropes (e.g., dobutamine , dopamine) to improve heart contractility, vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine ) to increase blood pressure, and anticoagulants may be used to prevent blood clots.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-2% of patients with acute myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of heart disease, prior heart attacks, coronary artery disease, diabetes, hypertension.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of heart damage and the timeliness of treatment. Without prompt intervention, cardiogenic shock can be fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ failure, arrhythmias, multi-organ dysfunction, and death.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Respiratory Emergencies

Sub-category: Lower Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
severe shortness of breath; rapid breathing; cyanosis; hypoxia unresponsive to oxygen therapy; low blood pressure; organ dysfunction in severe cases

Root Cause:
Widespread inflammation and increased permeability of the pulmonary capillaries, leading to alveolar fluid accumulation, impaired gas exchange, and hypoxemia. Often caused by sepsis, trauma, or pneumonia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, arterial blood gases (ABGs) showing hypoxemia, chest X-ray or CT scan (diffuse bilateral infiltrates), and exclusion of cardiac causes (normal pulmonary capillary wedge pressure).

Treatment:
Mechanical ventilation with low tidal volumes, prone positioning, sedation, and supportive care for underlying causes (e.g., antibiotics for infection, fluids, and vasopressors for shock).

Medications:
Sedatives like propofol or midazolam (reduce ventilatory distress), vasopressors like norepinephrine (support blood pressure), antibiotics for infections, and diuretics like furosemide for fluid overload.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 10-15% of ICU patients; mortality ranges from 30-50%, depending on severity.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sepsis, major trauma, pneumonia, aspiration, pancreatitis, blood transfusions, and inhalation injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on severity and treatment. Survivors may have lasting pulmonary fibrosis and reduced quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, secondary infections, pulmonary fibrosis, and multi-organ failure.

Sepsis and Septic Shock

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; rapid heart rate; rapid breathing or difficulty breathing; confusion or altered mental state; low blood pressure; chills; reduced urine output; discolored or mottled skin

Root Cause:
A systemic inflammatory response caused by an infection that triggers widespread immune activation, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and, in severe cases, septic shock characterized by dangerously low blood pressure.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, blood cultures, imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scans), complete blood count (CBC), lactate levels, C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin levels. Diagnosed based on the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score.

Treatment:
Immediate administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, vasopressors for shock, and supportive care in an intensive care unit (ICU). Source control (e.g., surgical removal of infected tissues or drainage of abscess) may be necessary.

Medications:
Antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (beta-lactam), meropenem (carbapenem), or vancomycin (glycopeptide) are used to target the underlying infection. Vasopressors like norepinephrine (sympathomimetic) are used to maintain blood pressure. Corticosteroids like hydrocortisone may be used in refractory septic shock.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sepsis affects an estimated 48.9 million people annually worldwide, leading to 11 million deaths. It is more common in hospitalized patients, especially in intensive care units.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease), immunosuppression, recent surgery, invasive devices (e.g., catheters, ventilators), and severe infections (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract infections).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies; early recognition and treatment improve survival rates. Mortality rates for sepsis range from 10% to 40%, while septic shock has a higher mortality rate of 30% to 50%. Survivors may experience long-term complications or reduced quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), kidney failure, and long-term cognitive and physical impairments in survivors.

Necrotizing Fasciitis

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Infectious Diseases

Sub-category: Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Symptoms:
severe pain at the site of infection; rapidly spreading redness and swelling; skin discoloration; blistering; fever; chills; fatigue; low blood pressure; sepsis

Root Cause:
Rapidly progressing bacterial infection caused by bacteria such as Group A Streptococcus, Clostridium, or Vibrio vulnificus, which destroys soft tissues and fascia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging studies (MRI or CT), blood tests indicating infection, and surgical exploration for definitive diagnosis.

Treatment:
Immediate surgical debridement to remove dead tissue, aggressive antibiotic therapy, and supportive care in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Medications:
Broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (a beta-lactam), clindamycin (a lincosamide), and vancomycin (a glycopeptide) to cover multiple pathogens.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; approximately 0.4 cases per 100,000 people annually in developed countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
diabetes; immunosuppression; recent surgery; trauma; intravenous drug use; peripheral vascular disease

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mortality rate is 20-40%, depending on the speed of diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, organ failure, amputation, and death.

Toxic Shock Syndrome

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Infectious Diseases

Sub-category: Other Infectious Emergencies

Symptoms:
sudden high fever; low blood pressure; vomiting; diarrhea; rash resembling sunburn; confusion; seizures; muscle aches; redness of eyes, throat, and mouth; organ failure

Root Cause:
Caused by toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, often associated with tampon use, wound infections, or surgical procedures.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms, blood cultures, and other laboratory tests to identify the bacterial toxin.

Treatment:
Immediate hospitalization, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, antibiotics to target bacteria, and management of organ dysfunction.

Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics such as clindamycin and vancomycin (antibacterials). IV immunoglobulins may also be used to neutralize toxins.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an incidence of approximately 1–2 cases per 100,000 population annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged tampon use, post-surgical infections, open wounds, childbirth, or nasal packing.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; however, untreated cases can be fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Shock, organ failure, amputations due to necrosis, and death.

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Obstetric and Gynecologic Emergencies

Sub-category: Pregnancy-Related Conditions

Symptoms:
excessive vaginal bleeding post-delivery; low blood pressure; rapid heart rate; pallor; dizziness or fainting

Root Cause:
Failure of the uterus to contract adequately (uterine atony), trauma during delivery, retained placenta, or coagulation disorders.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment of blood loss (>500 mL after vaginal delivery or >1000 mL after cesarean) and evaluation of uterine tone and retained tissue.

Treatment:
Uterine massage, administration of uterotonic agents, surgical interventions if necessary, and blood transfusion to manage severe cases.

Medications:
Uterotonic agents such as oxytocin , misoprostol , carboprost tromethamine , or ergometrine are used to stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 3–5% of deliveries worldwide, being a leading cause of maternal mortality.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged labor, multiple pregnancies, uterine overdistension, chorioamnionitis, or use of certain labor-inducing medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely management but can be life-threatening if unaddressed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, hypovolemic shock, need for hysterectomy, organ failure, or maternal death.

Hemothorax

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
chest pain; difficulty breathing; rapid heart rate; low blood pressure; pale or clammy skin; coughing up blood; decreased breath sounds on one side

Root Cause:
Hemothorax occurs when blood accumulates in the pleural space (the area between the lung and the chest wall), usually due to trauma (e.g., stab wound or rib fractures) or rupture of blood vessels within the chest.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, showing blood in the pleural space. In some cases, a thoracentesis (needle insertion) may be performed to analyze the pleural fluid.

Treatment:
Treatment involves draining the blood through a chest tube (thoracostomy) to prevent further complications like lung compression. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to stop the bleeding and repair damaged structures.

Medications:
Pain management with analgesics like acetaminophen , NSAIDs, or opioids for more severe pain. In cases where bleeding is ongoing, clotting factors or blood transfusions may be required.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hemothorax is a common consequence of trauma, particularly in motor vehicle accidents, with an estimated incidence of 20-30% in trauma patients with chest injuries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (especially blunt or penetrating chest trauma), fractures of the ribs or sternum, high-impact accidents (e.g., motor vehicle crashes), or complications from anticoagulant medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis for hemothorax is generally good. However, delayed treatment or significant blood loss can lead to complications such as shock, infection, or impaired lung function.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Possible complications include infection (empyema), lung collapse, and difficulty in managing significant blood loss or shock. Chronic pleural effusion may occur if the blood does not fully resolve.

Septic Shock

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Shock Syndromes

Symptoms:
fever; low blood pressure; tachycardia; altered mental status; warm or cold skin depending on phase

Root Cause:
Systemic infection leading to widespread inflammation, vasodilation, and cardiovascular collapse.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by clinical signs, elevated lactate, and infection markers.

Treatment:
Treated with intravenous fluids, antibiotics, vasopressors, and source control.

Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., piperacillin-tazobactam), vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine ), corticosteroids (if refractory).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 20–30 million people annually worldwide; high in ICUs.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, chronic illness, invasive devices, severe infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality (20–50%), depending on timely treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Multi-organ failure, death.

Cardiac Amyloidosis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Metabolic and Genetic Cardiovascular Disorders

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; swelling in legs and feet (edema); fatigue; irregular heartbeat; difficulty exercising; low blood pressure; chest pain

Root Cause:
Deposition of amyloid protein in the heart, leading to stiffened heart walls and impaired heart function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiography, cardiac MRI, endomyocardial biopsy, blood tests (e.g., serum free light chain assay), and imaging with technetium-labeled radiotracers. Genetic testing may be performed for hereditary forms.

Treatment:
Includes addressing heart failure symptoms, halting amyloid protein deposition, and organ transplantation in advanced cases.

Medications:
Tafamidis (stabilizes transthyretin amyloid proteins), diuretics (e.g., furosemide , to manage fluid buildup), and anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin , if atrial fibrillation is present). Tafamidis is a transthyretin stabilizer; diuretics are used for symptom management, and anticoagulants prevent blood clots.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) affects approximately 1 in 100,000 people, with higher prevalence in older adults and certain populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, male sex, African or Mediterranean ancestry, family history of amyloidosis, chronic inflammatory diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on the type and extent of amyloidosis. Prognosis improves with early diagnosis and treatment. Without treatment, progression leads to heart failure and poor outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, arrhythmias, thromboembolism, sudden cardiac death.

Primary (Addison’s Disease)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Adrenal Disorders

Sub-category: Adrenal Insufficiency

Symptoms:
fatigue; weight loss; muscle weakness; low blood pressure; salt cravings; hyperpigmentation of the skin; nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; hypoglycemia

Root Cause:
Destruction or dysfunction of the adrenal cortex leads to insufficient production of cortisol and, often, aldosterone.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, blood tests showing low cortisol and high ACTH levels, and confirmation with an ACTH stimulation test. Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hyponatremia, hyperkalemia) and low aldosterone may also be observed.

Treatment:
Lifelong hormone replacement therapy with glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, stress management, and patient education on managing adrenal crises.

Medications:
Medications include hydrocortisone or prednisone (glucocorticoids) to replace cortisol and fludrocortisone (a mineralocorticoid) to replace aldosterone. These are classified as corticosteroid replacement therapies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; approximately 1 in 100,000 people are affected, with equal distribution across genders.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome), infections (e.g., tuberculosis), adrenal hemorrhage, or genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, individuals can live normal lives, but they must manage the risk of adrenal crises, especially during stress or illness.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Adrenal crisis (life-threatening), severe hypotension, electrolyte imbalances, and hypoglycemia.

Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency (e.g., Pituitary Dysfunction)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Adrenal Disorders

Sub-category: Adrenal Insufficiency

Symptoms:
fatigue; muscle weakness; low blood pressure; nausea; vomiting; dizziness; hypoglycemia

Root Cause:
Inadequate production of ACTH by the pituitary gland leads to insufficient stimulation of the adrenal glands, resulting in low cortisol levels.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves measuring cortisol and ACTH levels, as well as dynamic testing (e.g., ACTH stimulation test, insulin tolerance test). Brain imaging (MRI) may be used to identify pituitary abnormalities.

Treatment:
Glucocorticoid replacement therapy and, if applicable, addressing the underlying cause (e.g., pituitary tumor or discontinuation of long-term corticosteroid use).

Medications:
Medications include hydrocortisone or prednisone to replace cortisol. These are classified as glucocorticoid replacement therapies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common than primary adrenal insufficiency; often associated with prolonged corticosteroid use or pituitary dysfunction. Exact prevalence is unclear but estimated to be higher than Addison's disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term corticosteroid use, pituitary tumors, traumatic brain injury, or radiation therapy to the brain.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with treatment, but adrenal crises may occur during stress or illness if glucocorticoid dosing is not increased.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Adrenal crisis, persistent fatigue, hypoglycemia, and dependence on hormone replacement therapy.

Sheehan’s Syndrome (Postpartum Hypopituitarism)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Pituitary Disorders

Sub-category: Postpartum Endocrine Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; inability to lactate; loss of pubic and axillary hair; low blood pressure; cold intolerance; weight loss; amenorrhea; nausea

Root Cause:
Pituitary gland necrosis caused by severe blood loss or hypovolemic shock during or after childbirth.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of postpartum hemorrhage, blood tests for hormone levels, MRI of the pituitary gland.

Treatment:
Lifelong hormone replacement therapy, including cortisol (hydrocortisone or prednisone), levothyroxine, and sex hormones as needed.

Medications:
Hydrocortisone or prednisone for adrenal insufficiency, levothyroxine for thyroid hormone replacement, and estrogen/progesterone or testosterone for sex hormone deficiency.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 1 in 10,000 deliveries, more common in low-resource settings with inadequate obstetric care.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe postpartum hemorrhage, prolonged labor, multiple pregnancies, anemia, low-resource settings.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with appropriate hormone replacement therapy, but quality of life depends on timely diagnosis and treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Adrenal crisis, infertility, osteoporosis, psychological effects such as depression or anxiety.

Anesthesia Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Drug Allergies

Symptoms:
hives or rash; difficulty breathing; low blood pressure; anaphylaxis

Root Cause:
Immune-mediated reaction or direct histamine release triggered by anesthetic agents.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, perioperative monitoring, skin testing, or specific IgE testing.

Treatment:
Avoidance of the specific anesthetic, preoperative antihistamines or corticosteroids, and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.

Medications:
Epinephrine for severe reactions, corticosteroids (e.g., Hydrocortisone ) for inflammation, and antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
True allergies are rare, estimated at 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 20,000 anesthesia administrations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous surgeries, atopy, and certain medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate preoperative planning and alternative anesthetic options.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, or death in rare cases.

Mastocytosis

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Other Related Disorders

Sub-category: Mast Cell Disorders

Symptoms:
flushing; itching; skin lesions (urticaria pigmentosa); abdominal pain; diarrhea; low blood pressure; anaphylaxis

Root Cause:
Abnormal accumulation and activation of mast cells in the skin, bone marrow, or other organs, leading to excessive histamine release.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin or bone marrow biopsy showing increased mast cells, blood tryptase levels, and genetic testing (e.g., KIT mutation).

Treatment:
Symptom management with antihistamines, leukotriene inhibitors, mast cell stabilizers (e.g., cromolyn sodium), and avoidance of triggers. Severe cases may require tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., Cetirizine , Diphenhydramine ), mast cell stabilizers (e.g., Cromolyn Sodium), and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; estimated to affect 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 20,000 individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Mutations in the KIT gene, certain environmental triggers, and other immune or systemic disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; indolent forms have a good prognosis, while aggressive forms can lead to organ dysfunction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Osteoporosis, organ failure, and anaphylaxis due to mast cell degranulation.

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Other Related Disorders

Sub-category: Mast Cell Disorders

Symptoms:
flushing; hives; low blood pressure; abdominal cramping; diarrhea; brain fog; fatigue; anaphylaxis

Root Cause:
Dysfunctional activation of mast cells causing excessive release of histamine and other mediators, leading to recurrent allergic-like symptoms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical criteria include symptoms consistent with mast cell activation, elevated mediators (e.g., tryptase, histamine), and symptom improvement with medications like antihistamines.

Treatment:
Antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and avoidance of known triggers.

Medications:
H1 and H2 blockers (e.g., Cetirizine , Ranitidine), mast cell stabilizers (e.g., Cromolyn Sodium), and epinephrine for severe reactions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Precise prevalence unknown; considered an underdiagnosed condition.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, coexisting allergic disorders, chronic infections, and environmental triggers.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic but manageable with lifestyle adjustments and medications; quality of life can vary widely.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, organ damage due to chronic inflammation, and significant impact on daily functioning.

Hypovolemic shock

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Complications of Trauma

Symptoms:
rapid heart rate; low blood pressure; weak pulse; pale, cool, clammy skin; rapid, shallow breathing; dizziness; confusion; thirst

Root Cause:
A significant loss of blood or body fluids leading to inadequate blood volume, causing insufficient oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues and organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, symptoms, and a history of trauma or fluid loss. It is confirmed by blood tests (e.g., hemoglobin levels, electrolytes) and physical exams. Imaging may be used to identify the source of fluid loss.

Treatment:
The primary treatment is to restore blood volume through intravenous fluids (normal saline or lactated Ringer's solution) and blood transfusions if necessary. Identifying and treating the underlying cause of fluid loss is crucial.

Medications:
Medications may include vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine , phenylephrine ) to raise blood pressure and antibiotics if infection is the cause. Vasopressors are sympathomimetic drugs that increase vascular tone and blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
It is a medical emergency that can occur in any age group. The exact prevalence varies based on the population and the underlying causes, but it is commonly seen in trauma patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Major trauma (e.g., accidents, burns), gastrointestinal bleeding, surgery, dehydration, severe burns, and certain medical conditions like aneurysms or ruptured organs.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the cause, timing of treatment, and overall health of the patient. Early intervention with fluid resuscitation significantly improves outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ failure (kidneys, liver), electrolyte imbalances, acidosis, and, if untreated, death due to shock.

Septic shock

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Other Trauma-Related Conditions

Sub-category: Complications of Trauma

Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; tachycardia; low blood pressure; confusion; rapid breathing; warm or cold extremities; decreased urine output; chills

Root Cause:
Severe infection leading to widespread inflammation, blood vessel dilation, and impaired blood flow, resulting in low blood pressure and organ dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical symptoms of sepsis, blood cultures, imaging to identify the source of infection, and laboratory tests (e.g., white blood cell count, lactate levels).

Treatment:
Early antibiotic therapy, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine), and supportive care for organ function.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., broad-spectrum agents like meropenem , piperacillin-tazobactam), vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine , dopamine), and corticosteroids in some cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Septic shock occurs in approximately 10-15% of patients with severe sepsis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunocompromised patients, recent surgery, chronic illnesses like diabetes or liver disease, invasive devices, older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis can be improved with early diagnosis and treatment, but the risk of death is high without timely intervention. Mortality rate can be as high as 30-50%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ failure (kidneys, lungs, liver), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), prolonged hospitalization, and multi-organ failure.

Gitelman Syndrome

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Hereditary and Congenital Kidney Disorders

Symptoms:
muscle cramps; fatigue; salt craving; low blood pressure; tetany (muscle spasms)

Root Cause:
Genetic defect affecting the renal tubules, leading to low potassium and magnesium levels and reduced blood pressure.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for electrolytes, urine analysis, and genetic testing.

Treatment:
Electrolyte supplementation and dietary adjustments.

Medications:
Potassium and magnesium supplements, NSAIDs (e.g., indomethacin ) for symptom control.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; estimated 1 in 40,000 people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autosomal recessive inheritance.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with lifelong supplementation and monitoring.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias due to electrolyte imbalances.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Genetic Contributions to Common Diseases

Sub-category: Endocrine Disorders

Symptoms:
ambiguous genitalia in females; early onset puberty; rapid growth during childhood; short stature in adulthood; low blood pressure; electrolyte imbalances; dehydration; salt cravings

Root Cause:
Mutations in genes like CYP21A2 lead to impaired cortisol production and sometimes aldosterone deficiency, causing adrenal hyperplasia and excess androgen production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Newborn screening (17-hydroxyprogesterone levels), hormone assays, genetic testing, and family history.

Treatment:
Lifelong glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement therapy to normalize hormone levels, surgical correction for ambiguous genitalia (if needed), and salt supplements in severe cases.

Medications:
Common medications include hydrocortisone (glucocorticoid replacement), fludrocortisone (mineralocorticoid replacement), and sodium supplements for salt-wasting types. Dexamethasone or prednisone may be used in older patients.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1 in 15,000 to 1 in 20,000 live births globally.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of CAH, autosomal recessive inheritance.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, most individuals live normal lives; untreated, severe cases can result in adrenal crises and early mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Adrenal crises, infertility, psychological distress, and metabolic issues (e.g., obesity or osteoporosis) due to prolonged steroid therapy.

Synthetic opioids and novel psychoactive substances toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
respiratory depression; unconsciousness; pinpoint pupils; low blood pressure; bradycardia; cyanosis; seizures

Root Cause:
Potent opioid receptor activation, leading to severe respiratory and central nervous system depression.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, history of drug use, and toxicology screening.

Treatment:
Administration of naloxone (opioid antagonist), respiratory support, and intensive monitoring.

Medications:
Naloxone (opioid antagonist) to reverse respiratory depression; intravenous fluids for hypotension.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Synthetic opioid overdoses, particularly fentanyl, are a leading cause of drug-related deaths worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of high-potency opioids, lack of knowledge about drug potency, and mixing with other depressants.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt naloxone administration, though delays can result in fatal outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anoxic brain injury, cardiac arrest, and death.

Sepsis-related toxins (cytokine storm)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Endogenous Toxins

Sub-category: Pathologic Toxins

Symptoms:
fever; chills; rapid heart rate; shortness of breath; confusion; low blood pressure; organ dysfunction; rash or mottled skin; low blood pressure; organ dysfunction

Root Cause:
An excessive immune response to infection leads to widespread release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, causing systemic inflammation and organ damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical criteria for sepsis (qSOFA, SIRS), blood cultures, inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP, procalcitonin), and organ function tests (liver enzymes, creatinine, arterial blood gases).

Treatment:
Intravenous antibiotics, fluid resuscitation, vasopressors for low blood pressure, mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure, and immunomodulatory therapies in severe cases.us antibiotics, fluid resuscitation, vasopressors for low blood

Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., piperacillin-tazobactam, meropenem ), corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone for refractory septic shock), and biologics targeting cytokines (e.g., tocilizumab for IL-6).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sepsis affects 49 million people annually worldwide, with cytokine storm occurring in a subset of severe cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, cancer), immunosuppression, major surgeries, and infections (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract infections).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality rate (25–50%) in severe cases, particularly without prompt treatment; survivors may have long-term complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ failure, and long-term physical and cognitive impairments.

Bacterial Sepsis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; chills; rapid heart rate; rapid breathing; low blood pressure; confusion; reduced urine output

Root Cause:
Systemic inflammatory response caused by bacterial infection in the blood, often due to Gram-positive (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) or Gram-negative (e.g., Escherichia coli) bacteria.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, imaging studies to locate infection, complete blood count, and markers like procalcitonin or C-reactive protein.

Treatment:
Prompt administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, source control (e.g., draining abscess), and supportive care in intensive care.

Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (penicillin/beta-lactamase inhibitor) or carbapenems. Tailored therapy based on culture results.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Significant; affects millions globally, with high mortality in severe cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, invasive procedures, chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes), or hospital-acquired infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; early treatment improves outcomes. Severe cases can lead to multi-organ failure and death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, multi-organ dysfunction, and long-term disability.

Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome in Sepsis (MODS)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Systemic Syndromes

Sub-category: Critical Illnesses

Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; rapid heart rate; low blood pressure; altered mental status; respiratory failure; kidney dysfunction; liver dysfunction

Root Cause:
Results from a dysregulated immune response to infection, leading to systemic inflammation, organ ischemia, and failure.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical criteria, laboratory tests showing organ dysfunction (e.g., elevated creatinine, bilirubin, lactate), and imaging for underlying infection.

Treatment:
Prompt treatment of the underlying infection, organ support (e.g., mechanical ventilation, dialysis), and management of sepsis.

Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam or meropenem initially; later adjusted based on culture results. Vasopressors like norepinephrine for septic shock.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in intensive care units (ICUs) among patients with severe sepsis; mortality rates range from 30% to 50%.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe infections, immunosuppression, advanced age, and comorbidities like diabetes or cancer.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor without aggressive treatment; prognosis depends on the number of organs involved and timeliness of intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Multi-organ failure, prolonged ICU stay, secondary infections, and death.

Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; altered mental status; diarrhea; low blood pressure; tachycardia

Root Cause:
Infection of the peritoneal fluid in patients with cirrhosis and ascites, often due to bacterial translocation from the gut.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnostic paracentesis showing ascitic fluid with polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) >250 cells/mm³, positive bacterial cultures, and low protein levels in ascitic fluid.

Treatment:
Antibiotics, supportive care, and management of the underlying cirrhosis or liver disease.

Medications:
Empiric therapy typically includes third-generation cephalosporins (e.g., cefotaxime or ceftriaxone ). Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin ) may be used for prophylaxis in high-risk patients.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10-30% of patients with cirrhosis and ascites.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced liver cirrhosis, low protein concentration in ascitic fluid, gastrointestinal bleeding, prior episodes of SBP.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the mortality rate can be reduced, but the recurrence rate is high without prophylaxis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, hepatic encephalopathy, acute kidney injury, death.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Sub-category: Toxin-Mediated Illnesses

Symptoms:
fever; rash; low blood pressure; desquamation of skin; multisystem organ failure

Root Cause:
Toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes leading to systemic inflammatory response.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, cultures, and toxin identification.

Treatment:
Antibiotics, supportive care for shock, and surgical debridement if necessary.

Medications:
Clindamycin (inhibits toxin production) combined with vancomycin or penicillin for bacterial eradication. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) may be considered.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; associated with tampon use, wounds, or post-surgical infections.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Tampon use, wounds, surgical procedures, immune suppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early treatment, survival is high; delayed treatment increases mortality risk.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Multisystem organ failure, death.