Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Sub-category: Respiratory Diseases

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; coughing, especially at night or early morning

Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to narrowing and obstruction. Triggered by allergens, irritants, or respiratory infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Spirometry (to assess airflow and lung function), peak flow measurement, allergy tests, and clinical history.

Treatment:
Avoiding triggers, inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene modifiers, and biologics for severe cases.

Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (like albuterol ), long-acting beta-agonists (like salmeterol ), inhaled corticosteroids (like budesonide ), leukotriene modifiers (like montelukast ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Asthma affects approximately 10% of the global population, with higher prevalence in children and young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of asthma, exposure to allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander), respiratory infections during childhood, air pollution, smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, asthma can often be controlled, though it may persist into adulthood or worsen with age.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe asthma attacks, respiratory failure, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Respiratory Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chronic cough; wheezing; chest tightness; frequent respiratory infections; fatigue

Root Cause:
Progressive airflow limitation due to inflammation and narrowing of the airways, often caused by smoking or long-term exposure to lung irritants.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Pulmonary function tests (spirometry) to measure lung capacity and airflow, chest X-ray, and blood tests (ABGs - arterial blood gases).

Treatment:
Smoking cessation, bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and in severe cases, lung surgery or transplantation.

Medications:
Short-acting bronchodilators (like albuterol ), long-acting bronchodilators (like salmeterol ), inhaled corticosteroids (like fluticasone ), and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors (like roflumilast ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
COPD affects around 10% of the global adult population, with a higher prevalence in older adults and smokers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor), exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, occupational dust and chemicals, genetic factors (e.g., alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
COPD is progressive and irreversible; however, treatment can manage symptoms and slow progression. Prognosis varies based on severity and adherence to treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory infections, heart problems (e.g., cor pulmonale), lung cancer, chronic respiratory failure, and increased risk of pneumonia.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Single-Gene Disorders (Mendelian Inheritance)

Sub-category: Polygenic and Multifactorial Disorders

Symptoms:
often asymptomatic; headaches; shortness of breath; nosebleeds (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
Persistent elevation of blood pressure due to genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and secondary causes (e.g., kidney disease, endocrine disorders).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood pressure measurements, repeated over time; additional tests for secondary causes.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (dietary adjustments like reduced salt intake, weight loss, exercise) and antihypertensive medications.

Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide ) to reduce fluid retention. ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril ) or ARBs (e.g., losartan ) to relax blood vessels. Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine ). Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1.28 billion adults worldwide, with a higher prevalence in older populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, obesity, high salt intake, physical inactivity, stress, alcohol consumption, age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, patients can maintain normal blood pressure and prevent complications. Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of cardiovascular and renal diseases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, vision loss, aneurysms.

Atrial Fibrillation

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Cardiovascular Diseases

Symptoms:
irregular heartbeats; palpitations; fatigue; dizziness; shortness of breath; chest pain

Root Cause:
An irregular and often rapid heart rate caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the heart's atria.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
ECG, Holter monitor, and echocardiogram to evaluate heart rhythm and identify underlying causes.

Treatment:
Anticoagulants (to prevent blood clots), antiarrhythmic drugs, rate or rhythm control medications, and sometimes cardioversion or ablation.

Medications:
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin , Apixaban ) – Prevent clot formation to reduce stroke risk. Beta-blockers (e.g., Metoprolol ) – Help control heart rate and reduce palpitations. Calcium channel blockers (e.g., Diltiazem ) – Help control heart rate by blocking calcium channels in the heart.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 2-3% of the population; more common in older adults and those with heart disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, excessive alcohol use, family history, obesity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with medication; however, if untreated, AF can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, heart failure, blood clots, fatigue.

Angina

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Category: Cardiovascular Conditions

Symptoms:
chest pain or discomfort; pain radiating to arms, neck, or jaw; shortness of breath; fatigue

Root Cause:
Insufficient blood flow to the heart muscle due to narrowed coronary arteries (ischemia).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stress test, ECG, echocardiogram, coronary angiography.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, medications, possible surgical interventions (e.g., angioplasty).

Medications:
Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin ), beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil ), antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin ), statins.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals with coronary artery disease; increases with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, family history of heart disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; untreated angina increases the risk of heart attack.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmias.

Heart Failure (Mild to Moderate Management)

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Category: Cardiovascular Conditions

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; swelling in legs or abdomen; cough with pink frothy sputum; difficulty exercising

Root Cause:
The heart cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid buildup and insufficient circulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, echocardiogram, BNP blood tests, chest X-ray.

Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications, medications, treatment of underlying conditions.

Medications:
ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril ), beta-blockers (e.g., carvedilol ), diuretics (e.g., furosemide ), aldosterone antagonists (e.g., spironolactone ), SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., dapagliflozin ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1–2% of adults worldwide; increases significantly with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes, obesity, prior heart attack.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with variable outcomes; early intervention improves quality of life and survival.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Fluid overload, kidney failure, arrhythmias.

Cystic Fibrosis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Genetic and Congenital Disorders

Symptoms:
chronic cough; frequent lung infections; wheezing; shortness of breath; poor growth and weight gain; salty-tasting skin; digestive issues (e.g., greasy stools, constipation)

Root Cause:
A genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to the production of thick and sticky mucus that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sweat test (measuring chloride levels). Genetic testing to identify CFTR gene mutations. Newborn screening. Pulmonary function tests. Chest X-ray.

Treatment:
Airway clearance techniques (e.g., chest physiotherapy). Nutritional support (e.g., high-calorie diet, pancreatic enzyme supplements). Pulmonary rehabilitation. Lung transplant in advanced cases.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol )

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 3,500 live births in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern (both parents must carry a CFTR gene mutation).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Life expectancy has improved significantly with advances in treatment, with many living into their 40s and 50s. However, it remains a life-limiting condition due to progressive lung disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory infections. Respiratory failure. Diabetes (CF-related diabetes). Liver disease. Infertility in men.

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Congenital Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; frequent respiratory infections in children; heart murmur; swelling of the legs, feet, or abdomen; arrhythmias in adults

Root Cause:
An opening in the atrial septum (wall separating the heart's two upper chambers) that allows blood to flow between the atria, leading to a mix of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiogram, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), cardiac MRI, or cardiac catheterization.

Treatment:
Small defects may close on their own; larger defects require surgical closure or catheter-based repair.

Medications:
While no medications can close the defect, anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin or aspirin ) may be used to reduce stroke risk, and diuretics or beta-blockers may be used to manage symptoms of heart failure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to occur in 1 out of every 1,859 live births; more common in females than males.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of congenital heart defects, maternal alcohol or drug use during pregnancy, genetic conditions like Down syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely repair, with most individuals living normal lives; untreated large defects may lead to heart failure or pulmonary hypertension.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, stroke, atrial arrhythmias, Eisenmenger syndrome (severe pulmonary hypertension with cyanosis).

Rheumatic Heart Disease

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Cardiovascular Disorders

Sub-category: Acquired Cardiovascular Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; chest pain; heart palpitations; swollen joints; fever; unexplained weight loss; skin nodules or rash

Root Cause:
Chronic valvular damage caused by recurrent episodes of acute rheumatic fever, an autoimmune response to group A streptococcal infections (e.g., strep throat).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiography to detect valvular damage, clinical criteria (Jones criteria), history of streptococcal infection, elevated inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), and antistreptolysin O (ASO) titers.

Treatment:
Long-term antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent recurrence (e.g., benzathine penicillin G), management of heart failure with medications, and surgical valve repair or replacement in severe cases.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., benzathine penicillin G) - To eradicate streptococcal infection and prevent recurrent rheumatic fever. Diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) - To manage fluid retention in heart failure. Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ) - For arrhythmias or heart failure. Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin ) - For atrial fibrillation or prosthetic valves to prevent thromboembolism.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in low- and middle-income countries, affecting 15-20 million people worldwide. It primarily affects children aged 5-15 years.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Untreated or recurrent streptococcal infections, poor socioeconomic conditions, overcrowding, limited access to medical care.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment and preventive care, progression can be controlled, but severe cases may require lifelong management. Without treatment, it can lead to heart failure and premature death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, atrial fibrillation, infective endocarditis, stroke, and permanent disability due to valvular damage.

Myocarditis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath; fatigue; irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias); fever; leg swelling (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the heart muscle, often caused by a viral infection, autoimmune response, or exposure to toxins.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical evaluation, electrocardiogram (ECG), cardiac biomarkers, echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and sometimes endomyocardial biopsy to confirm inflammation.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity, including supportive care, medications like anti-inflammatory drugs, heart failure management, and addressing infections or autoimmune conditions when present.

Medications:
Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., corticosteroids), immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine ), and medications for heart failure (e.g., ACE inhibitors like enalapril or beta-blockers like carvedilol ). In cases caused by infection, antibiotics or antivirals may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare; incidence is estimated at 10-20 cases per 100,000 people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent viral infection; autoimmune disorders; exposure to toxins (alcohol, drugs); certain medications; weakened immune system

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies widely; some cases resolve completely, while others can lead to chronic heart failure or require a heart transplant.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure; arrhythmias; cardiogenic shock; sudden cardiac death; dilated cardiomyopathy

Hypertension in Children

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Cardiovascular Disorders

Sub-category: Acquired Cardiovascular Disorders

Symptoms:
headaches; fatigue; dizziness; nosebleeds; shortness of breath; blurred vision; chest pain; asymptomatic (common in mild cases)

Root Cause:
Elevated blood pressure due to either primary (essential) hypertension or secondary causes such as kidney disease, obesity, endocrine disorders, or congenital cardiovascular abnormalities.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serial blood pressure measurements compared to age, sex, and height percentiles; ambulatory blood pressure monitoring; laboratory tests (e.g., kidney function tests, electrolytes); imaging studies (e.g., renal ultrasound, echocardiography).

Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, weight management) and medications for severe or secondary cases. Treating the underlying cause if identified (e.g., managing kidney disease).

Medications:
ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ) - To lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine ) - To reduce blood vessel constriction. Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide ) - To decrease fluid retention and lower blood pressure. Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ) - To reduce heart rate and blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increasing in prevalence due to rising rates of obesity; affects 2-5% of children and adolescents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, family history of hypertension, sedentary lifestyle, high-sodium diet, chronic kidney disease, endocrine disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early detection and treatment, but untreated hypertension can lead to long-term complications like cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and stroke.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Left ventricular hypertrophy, chronic kidney disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Acute Complications

Symptoms:
excessive thirst; frequent urination; nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; shortness of breath; fruity-smelling breath; confusion

Root Cause:
Insulin deficiency leads to uncontrolled hyperglycemia, lipolysis, and ketone production, causing metabolic acidosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing high blood glucose, ketonemia, low bicarbonate, and arterial blood pH < 7.3; urine tests for ketones.

Treatment:
Intravenous fluids, insulin therapy, electrolyte replacement (potassium), and treating underlying causes (e.g., infection).

Medications:
Regular insulin administered intravenously to reduce blood glucose and ketone levels.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals with type 1 diabetes; can occur in type 2 diabetes during severe stress.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor diabetes management, infection, trauma, surgery, or missed insulin doses.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment leads to recovery; delayed treatment may result in coma or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cerebral edema, hypokalemia, arrhythmias, and death.

Iron-deficiency anemia

Specialty: Pediatrics

Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pale skin; shortness of breath; cold hands and feet; brittle nails; cravings for non-nutritive substances (pica); dizziness; headaches

Root Cause:
Caused by insufficient iron levels in the body, leading to reduced hemoglobin production and decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC) showing low hemoglobin and hematocrit; low serum ferritin and iron levels; increased total iron-binding capacity (TIBC); peripheral blood smear showing microcytic, hypochromic red blood cells.

Treatment:
Iron supplementation (oral or intravenous), dietary changes to include iron-rich foods (e.g., red meat, leafy greens, fortified cereals), and treating the underlying cause of iron loss (e.g., bleeding, malabsorption).

Medications:
Oral iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, or ferrous fumarate, are the first-line treatment. Intravenous iron formulations, such as ferric carboxymaltose or iron sucrose, may be used in cases of severe deficiency or malabsorption.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 20–25% of children worldwide; more common in developing countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, inadequate dietary iron intake, rapid growth during childhood, chronic blood loss (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding), malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac disease).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment; symptoms typically resolve within weeks, and hemoglobin levels normalize in a few months. Untreated cases can result in developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and heart complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Developmental delays, cognitive and behavioral issues, weakened immune system, and heart problems like tachycardia and heart failure in severe, prolonged cases.

Sickle Cell Disease

Specialty: Pediatrics

Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders

Symptoms:
episodes of pain (vaso-occlusive crisis); fatigue; swelling in hands and feet; frequent infections; delayed growth and puberty; yellowish skin or eyes (jaundice); shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Caused by a genetic mutation leading to abnormal hemoglobin (HbS), which results in red blood cells that are rigid and shaped like a crescent (sickle), leading to blockages in blood flow and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Newborn screening with hemoglobin electrophoresis; confirmatory testing includes Hb electrophoresis or DNA analysis; CBC may show anemia; peripheral blood smear reveals sickle-shaped cells.

Treatment:
Pain management, blood transfusions, hydroxyurea (to increase fetal hemoglobin), and bone marrow transplant in severe cases. Preventative care includes vaccination, prophylactic antibiotics (e.g., penicillin), and folic acid supplementation.

Medications:
Hydroxyurea (antimetabolite) reduces the frequency of sickle cell crises and increases fetal hemoglobin. Pain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, opioids) are used during crises. Prophylactic penicillin is given to prevent infections in children.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 365 African-American births in the U.S.; globally, more common in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and India.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Having two copies of the sickle cell gene (autosomal recessive inheritance); family history of the condition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and lifelong condition; life expectancy has improved with advances in treatment, but complications can reduce quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, acute chest syndrome, infections, organ damage, leg ulcers, gallstones, and severe anemia.

Thalassemia

Specialty: Pediatrics

Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pale or yellowish skin; slow growth; bone deformities (especially in the face); dark urine; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Caused by genetic mutations leading to reduced or absent production of hemoglobin chains (alpha or beta), resulting in ineffective red blood cell production and anemia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC showing microcytic, hypochromic anemia; hemoglobin electrophoresis to detect abnormal hemoglobin; DNA analysis for genetic confirmation.

Treatment:
Blood transfusions (for moderate to severe cases), iron chelation therapy to prevent iron overload, folic acid supplements, and bone marrow transplantation in select cases.

Medications:
Deferoxamine , deferasirox , or deferiprone (iron chelators) are used to prevent iron overload due to frequent transfusions. Folic acid supplements support red blood cell production.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
High prevalence in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African populations; approximately 5% of the global population carries thalassemia genes.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Inheritance of one or two defective hemoglobin genes; more severe forms (e.g., beta-thalassemia major) occur with two defective copies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on the severity; individuals with mild forms (trait or minor) lead normal lives, while severe forms require lifelong treatment. Bone marrow transplantation can be curative.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Iron overload (from transfusions), organ damage (heart, liver, endocrine system), infections, and bone deformities.

Penetrating chest or abdominal injuries

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Trauma and Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Trauma

Symptoms:
bleeding; shortness of breath; chest or abdominal pain; visible wounds; abdominal distension; shock symptoms; absent or decreased breath sounds in pneumothorax

Root Cause:
Trauma causing a break in the chest or abdominal wall, leading to organ or vascular damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST), CT scans, chest X-rays, physical examination, and diagnostic peritoneal lavage.

Treatment:
Airway management, chest tube placement (for pneumothorax or hemothorax), surgical intervention for internal repair, blood transfusion, and infection prevention.

Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone combined with metronidazole to cover gram-negative and anaerobic bacteria) and pain medications like ketorolac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in motor vehicle accidents, violence, and industrial accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Involvement in high-risk activities, accidents, and lack of protective equipment.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; survival depends on the severity and timeliness of treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Internal bleeding, infection, organ failure, and chronic pain or dysfunction.

Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Symptoms:
severe chest pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back; shortness of breath; nausea and vomiting; sweating; dizziness or fainting

Root Cause:
Complete blockage of a coronary artery due to a blood clot or plaque rupture, causing heart muscle damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG); blood tests for cardiac enzymes like troponin; echocardiography; coronary angiography

Treatment:
Emergency reperfusion therapy (e.g., percutaneous coronary intervention or thrombolysis), followed by long-term management with medications and lifestyle changes.

Medications:
Medications include antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin , clopidogrel ), anticoagulants (e.g., heparin ), beta-blockers (e.g., carvedilol ), ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ), statins (e.g., atorvastatin ), and thrombolytics (e.g., alteplase ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Leading cause of death worldwide; prevalent among older adults and those with cardiovascular risk factors.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High cholesterol; hypertension; diabetes; smoking; obesity; sedentary lifestyle; family history of heart disease

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis improves with early treatment; delayed treatment increases risk of heart failure and death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure; arrhythmias; cardiac arrest; stroke; ventricular rupture

Unstable Angina

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Symptoms:
sudden and worsening chest pain; pain at rest or with minimal exertion; shortness of breath; nausea; sweating

Root Cause:
Acute reduction in blood flow to the heart due to ruptured plaque or clot formation in the coronary arteries.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG); blood tests for cardiac biomarkers like troponins; coronary angiography

Treatment:
Immediate medical intervention to restore blood flow, often involving antiplatelet therapy and coronary interventions.

Medications:
Medications include antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin , clopidogrel ), anticoagulants (e.g., heparin , enoxaparin ), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ), nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin ), and statins (e.g., atorvastatin ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects individuals with existing coronary artery disease; a precursor to myocardial infarction.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced atherosclerosis; smoking; high blood pressure; high cholesterol; diabetes; obesity; stress

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High risk of myocardial infarction; requires prompt and aggressive treatment.

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

Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response (AFib with RVR)

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Cardiac Emergencies

Sub-category: Arrhythmias

Symptoms:
palpitations; shortness of breath; chest discomfort; dizziness; fatigue

Root Cause:
Electrical impulses in the atria are disorganized and rapid, leading to ineffective atrial contractions. This rapid rate can cause the ventricles to beat too fast, impairing cardiac output.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG), physical examination, vital signs, blood tests (electrolytes, thyroid function), echocardiogram.

Treatment:
Rate control (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers), rhythm control (e.g., cardioversion or antiarrhythmics), anticoagulation to prevent stroke.

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ) to slow the heart rate, calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem or verapamil ) for rate control, and anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin , rivaroxaban ) to reduce the risk of stroke. Antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone ) may be used for rhythm control.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2% of the global population; more common in older adults and those with heart disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, heart failure, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, hyperthyroidism, alcohol use, obesity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper rate/rhythm control and anticoagulation, most patients have a good prognosis. Untreated, it may lead to heart failure or stroke.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, thromboembolism (e.g., stroke), tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy.

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disorders)

Symptoms:
rapid heartbeat; chest pain; dizziness; shortness of breath; loss of consciousness; palpitations

Root Cause:
Abnormal electrical signals originating in the ventricles cause rapid and ineffective contractions, impairing blood flow.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), Holter monitor, cardiac MRI, or electrophysiology study.

Treatment:
Antiarrhythmic medications, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), or catheter ablation.

Medications:
Amiodarone (antiarrhythmic), lidocaine (sodium channel blocker), beta-blockers (e.g., carvedilol ), or magnesium sulfate (for Torsades de Pointes).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in the general population; more common in patients with underlying heart disease or structural abnormalities.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Coronary artery disease, heart failure, previous myocardial infarction, electrolyte imbalances, and genetic conditions (e.g., long QT syndrome).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be life-threatening if untreated, but ICDs and medical therapy significantly improve survival.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sudden cardiac arrest, heart failure, and syncope.

Bradycardia (e.g., Heart Block)

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Cardiac Emergencies

Sub-category: Arrhythmias

Symptoms:
fatigue; dizziness; lightheadedness; syncope; shortness of breath; chest discomfort

Root Cause:
Impaired electrical conduction through the heart, commonly at the sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, or bundle branches, leading to a slow heart rate and reduced cardiac output.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
ECG, Holter monitoring, electrophysiology studies, blood tests (to evaluate reversible causes such as electrolyte imbalances or hypothyroidism).

Treatment:
Reversible causes are addressed first (e.g., electrolyte correction, medication adjustments). Pacemaker placement may be required in symptomatic cases or high-grade heart block.

Medications:
Atropine (anticholinergic to increase heart rate in emergencies), dopamine or epinephrine (vasopressors for hemodynamic support).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in older adults or individuals with underlying heart disease; can occur in healthy individuals due to athletic conditioning.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, prior cardiac surgery, electrolyte disturbances, certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; untreated severe bradycardia can lead to syncope, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Syncope, heart failure, sudden cardiac arrest in untreated cases.

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.

Pericarditis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
sharp chest pain (often relieved by sitting forward); fever; shortness of breath; heart palpitations; pericardial friction rub (a specific heart sound)

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart), often due to viral infections, autoimmune disorders, or post-cardiac injury syndrome.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed based on clinical symptoms (e.g., chest pain relieved by sitting up), ECG changes (e.g., diffuse ST elevation), imaging such as echocardiography to detect pericardial effusion, and blood tests for inflammation markers.

Treatment:
Treatment typically includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids in severe or recurrent cases, along with addressing any underlying infections or conditions.

Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, e.g., ibuprofen ), colchicine (to reduce inflammation and recurrence), and corticosteroids (for autoimmune-related pericarditis). Antibiotics are used for bacterial pericarditis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 27 cases per 100,000 people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Viral or bacterial infections; autoimmune diseases; recent heart attack; chest trauma or surgery

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often resolves with treatment, but recurrent or chronic pericarditis may occur. Rarely progresses to constrictive pericarditis or cardiac tamponade.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac tamponade (fluid buildup compressing the heart); chronic constrictive pericarditis; recurrence of pericarditis

Cardiac Tamponade

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath; hypotension; tachycardia (rapid heart rate); jugular venous distention; pulsus paradoxus (abnormally large drop in blood pressure during inhalation); muffled heart sounds

Root Cause:
Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid, blood, or air accumulates in the pericardial sac (the membrane surrounding the heart), leading to increased pressure on the heart and restricting its ability to pump blood effectively.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical examination, including the characteristic signs of jugular venous distention, hypotension, and muffled heart sounds. Imaging, such as echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Immediate treatment involves pericardiocentesis (removal of fluid from the pericardium using a needle) to relieve the pressure. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the underlying cause of the tamponade.

Medications:
Medications may include vasopressors to maintain blood pressure, analgesics for pain relief, and sedatives to reduce anxiety.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cardiac tamponade occurs in approximately 2-4% of trauma patients, particularly those with blunt or penetrating chest trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (especially penetrating injuries like stab wounds or gunshot wounds), heart surgery, cancer, or infections (e.g., pericarditis).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With rapid intervention, the prognosis is generally good, but delayed treatment can lead to death from circulatory collapse.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include cardiac arrest, shock, or persistent heart failure if untreated.

Aortic Dissection

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Arterial Disorders

Symptoms:
sudden, severe chest or upper back pain; pain radiating to the neck or down the back; shortness of breath; weakness or paralysis in limbs; fainting; differences in blood pressure between arms

Root Cause:
A tear in the inner layer of the aorta, causing blood to flow between the layers of the aortic wall, potentially leading to rupture or organ ischemia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using imaging such as CT angiography, MRI, or transesophageal echocardiography.

Treatment:
Treated with blood pressure control and urgent surgical or endovascular repair for type A dissections or severe type B dissections.

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., labetalol or esmolol ) to lower blood pressure and heart rate; vasodilators like nitroprusside to reduce shear stress on the aorta.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence is about 3-4 cases per 100,000 annually, more common in older adults, especially males.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
uncontrolled hypertension; connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome); aortic aneurysm; bicuspid aortic valve; cocaine use

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality without prompt treatment; survival rates improve significantly with timely surgery and blood pressure management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
aortic rupture; organ ischemia; stroke; heart failure

Hypertensive Emergencies

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Cardiac Emergencies

Sub-category: Hypertension-related Conditions

Symptoms:
severe headache; chest pain; shortness of breath; blurred vision; confusion; nausea or vomiting; seizures

Root Cause:
Critically elevated blood pressure (typically >180/120 mmHg) causing acute end-organ damage (e.g., heart, brain, kidneys, or eyes).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood pressure measurement, clinical signs of end-organ damage, lab tests (renal function, electrolytes), and imaging (e.g., CT for stroke, ECG for cardiac involvement).

Treatment:
Immediate blood pressure reduction using intravenous antihypertensives and addressing the specific end-organ damage.

Medications:
IV antihypertensives like nitroprusside (vasodilator), labetalol (beta-blocker), nicardipine (calcium channel blocker), or hydralazine . Oral antihypertensives are introduced later.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 1-2% of patients with chronic hypertension.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poorly controlled hypertension, noncompliance with antihypertensive medications, kidney disease, and pregnancy (e.g., eclampsia).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on promptness of treatment; delayed care can result in severe complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, acute kidney injury, and retinal damage.

Asthma exacerbation

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Respiratory Emergencies

Sub-category: Lower Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; wheezing; chest tightness; coughing; rapid breathing; use of accessory muscles for breathing; cyanosis in severe cases

Root Cause:
Acute inflammation and narrowing of the airways caused by triggers like allergens, infections, or irritants, leading to increased airway resistance and airflow obstruction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation (symptoms, history of asthma), physical exam (wheezing on auscultation), and pulmonary function tests like spirometry or peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gases (ABGs) may be used in severe cases.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, bronchodilators (short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol), corticosteroids (oral or IV), anticholinergics (ipratropium), and sometimes magnesium sulfate in severe cases. Address triggers and provide mechanical ventilation if needed.

Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) like albuterol (bronchodilator), inhaled anticholinergics like ipratropium (bronchodilator), systemic corticosteroids like prednisone or methylprednisolone (anti-inflammatory), and magnesium sulfate (smooth muscle relaxant) in severe exacerbations.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Asthma affects about 5-10% of the global population; exacerbations vary widely but are a common cause of emergency department visits.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor asthma control, exposure to allergens or irritants, respiratory infections, exercise, cold air, smoking, and comorbidities like obesity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely and appropriate treatment, most exacerbations are reversible. Severe cases without treatment can lead to respiratory failure and death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxia, respiratory failure, pneumothorax, pneumonia, and cardiovascular strain.

Pneumothorax (spontaneous or tension)

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Respiratory Emergencies

Sub-category: Pleural Disorders

Symptoms:
sudden chest pain; shortness of breath; rapid heart rate; cyanosis; hypotension (in tension pneumothorax); tracheal deviation (in tension pneumothorax); decreased breath sounds on the affected side

Root Cause:
Air enters the pleural space, causing lung collapse. Tension pneumothorax involves increasing pressure, compressing mediastinal structures, and impairing venous return.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation (tracheal deviation, hypotension, and decreased breath sounds in tension pneumothorax), chest X-ray (collapsed lung and air in pleural space), and ultrasound (rapid bedside diagnosis).

Treatment:
Needle decompression followed by chest tube placement for tension pneumothorax; observation or chest tube placement for spontaneous pneumothorax depending on size and symptoms.

Medications:
Analgesics like morphine or acetaminophen (pain relief) and sedatives if procedural interventions are needed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Spontaneous pneumothorax affects approximately 7-28 per 100,000 people annually; tension pneumothorax is less common but life-threatening.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, tall and thin body type, trauma, underlying lung diseases (COPD, cystic fibrosis), and mechanical ventilation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely intervention, prognosis is excellent; untreated tension pneumothorax is rapidly fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent pneumothorax, infection, pleural adhesions, and respiratory failure in severe cases.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Chronic and Acute Kidney Diseases

Symptoms:
decreased urine output; swelling in legs, ankles, or feet; nausea; confusion; fatigue; chest pain or pressure; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Sudden loss of kidney function due to reduced blood flow, damage to kidney tissue, or blockage of urinary outflow.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (e.g., elevated creatinine), decreased urine output, and imaging studies to identify potential obstructions.

Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause, restoring fluid balance, removing toxins, and temporary dialysis if needed.

Medications:
Medications may include diuretics (e.g., furosemide ), electrolyte binders (e.g., sodium polystyrene sulfonate ), and vasopressors in cases of low blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 20% of hospitalized patients; higher risk in critical care settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, pre-existing kidney disease, diabetes, sepsis, major surgery, or exposure to nephrotoxic drugs.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; reversible in many cases, but severe or prolonged AKI can lead to chronic kidney damage or failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Electrolyte imbalances, fluid overload, chronic kidney disease, and increased risk of mortality.

Uremia

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Renal and Urologic Emergencies

Sub-category: Renal Failure Complications

Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; fatigue; confusion; seizures; muscle cramps; itching; fluid retention; shortness of breath; high blood pressure; altered mental status

Root Cause:
Accumulation of urea and other nitrogenous waste products in the blood due to impaired kidney function. This condition arises from chronic or acute renal failure, leading to toxic effects on multiple organ systems.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic acidosis; urinalysis may indicate proteinuria or hematuria; imaging (ultrasound or CT) may show kidney abnormalities. Clinical symptoms and history are also critical.

Treatment:
Emergency treatment includes dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) to remove waste products and restore electrolyte balance. Supportive care includes addressing fluid overload and managing complications such as hypertension and metabolic acidosis.

Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide )

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI); incidence rises in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, advanced age, polycystic kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders affecting the kidneys (e.g., lupus nephritis).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely dialysis and treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively; however, the underlying renal disease usually remains progressive without a transplant. Untreated uremia is life-threatening.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac arrhythmias, pericarditis, seizures, encephalopathy, fluid overload, and death if untreated.

Bacterial Endocarditis

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Infectious Diseases

Sub-category: Cardiovascular Infections

Symptoms:
fever; heart murmur; fatigue; night sweats; unexplained weight loss; skin lesions on hands or feet (janeway lesions); painful nodules (osler's nodes); shortness of breath; swelling in legs or abdomen

Root Cause:
Infection of the heart's inner lining or valves caused by bacteria, commonly Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species, entering the bloodstream.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, echocardiogram, and clinical evaluation of symptoms.

Treatment:
Long-term intravenous antibiotics and sometimes surgical valve repair or replacement.

Medications:
Antibiotics such as vancomycin or ceftriaxone (antibacterials), depending on the causative organism and susceptibility.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 3–10 cases per 100,000 population annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prosthetic heart valves, previous endocarditis, congenital heart defects, intravenous drug use, and invasive dental or medical procedures.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; good with early treatment but high risk of complications if delayed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, stroke, septic emboli, and valve damage.

Sickle Cell Crisis

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Emergencies

Sub-category: Blood Disorders

Symptoms:
severe pain in the chest, abdomen, or joints; shortness of breath; fatigue; fever; swelling in hands and feet; jaundice or pale skin

Root Cause:
Blockage of small blood vessels due to the abnormal, sickle-shaped red blood cells leading to ischemia and inflammation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of sickle cell disease, physical exam, complete blood count (CBC), reticulocyte count, hemoglobin electrophoresis, and imaging (if complications are suspected).

Treatment:
Pain management with opioids or NSAIDs, hydration (IV fluids), oxygen therapy (if hypoxic), and treatment of any underlying or associated infections. Severe cases may require blood transfusions.

Medications:
Pain is often managed with opioids (e.g., morphine , hydromorphone ) and NSAIDs (e.g., ketorolac ). Hydroxyurea , an antimetabolite, is used to reduce the frequency of crises. Antibiotics may be prescribed for infections (e.g., ceftriaxone for pneumonia).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 300,000 newborns globally each year, with higher prevalence in individuals of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian descent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Inherited condition, family history of sickle cell disease, and environmental triggers such as dehydration, extreme temperatures, and infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, most patients live into their 40s–60s; complications can reduce life expectancy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute chest syndrome, stroke, organ damage (kidneys, spleen), infections, and chronic pain.

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Coagulation, Hemostasis, and Disorders

Symptoms:
bleeding from multiple sites (e.g., gums, nose, surgical sites); bruising; blood clots; shortness of breath; chest pain; confusion or altered mental status; petechiae or purpura (small red or purple spots); organ dysfunction

Root Cause:
Abnormal activation of the coagulation cascade leads to widespread clot formation and consumption of clotting factors, resulting in bleeding and thrombosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through blood tests including elevated D-dimer, prolonged PT and aPTT, decreased platelet count, and low fibrinogen levels.

Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause, supportive care, and replacement of clotting factors.

Medications:
Anticoagulants

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Commonly seen in critically ill patients; exact prevalence depends on the underlying condition (e.g., sepsis, trauma).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sepsis, trauma, malignancy, obstetric complications, and severe infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying cause; untreated DIC can lead to multi-organ failure and death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ failure, severe hemorrhage, and death.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Toxicology and Overdose

Sub-category: Chemical Exposures

Symptoms:
headache; dizziness; nausea; shortness of breath; confusion; loss of consciousness; chest pain; seizures

Root Cause:
Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin with a higher affinity than oxygen, reducing oxygen delivery to tissues and causing hypoxia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Measurement of carboxyhemoglobin levels in blood using co-oximetry, pulse CO-oximeter, or arterial blood gas analysis. Symptoms and exposure history also aid diagnosis.

Treatment:
Immediate removal from the CO exposure source, 100% oxygen therapy through a non-rebreather mask, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy in severe cases.

Medications:
No direct medications, but 100% oxygen therapy and hyperbaric oxygen are the main treatments. Hyperbaric oxygen is classified as a high-pressure oxygen delivery treatment.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A leading cause of poisoning-related deaths worldwide, with an estimated 50,000 emergency department visits annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poorly ventilated spaces, faulty heating systems, exposure to fires, and use of charcoal or gas grills indoors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; delayed or severe exposure may lead to long-term neurological complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological sequelae (e.g., memory loss, difficulty concentrating), myocardial ischemia, arrhythmias, and death.

Cyanide Poisoning

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Toxicology and Overdose

Sub-category: Chemical Exposures

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; confusion; headache; nausea; seizures; loss of consciousness; cardiac arrest

Root Cause:
Cyanide inhibits cytochrome oxidase in mitochondria, blocking cellular respiration and leading to rapid tissue hypoxia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical suspicion based on exposure history, measurement of cyanide levels in blood, arterial blood gas showing metabolic acidosis with high lactate.

Treatment:
Administration of specific antidotes (e.g., hydroxocobalamin, sodium thiosulfate) and supportive care, including oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation if needed.

Medications:
Hydroxocobalamin (binds cyanide to form cyanocobalamin , excreted in urine), Sodium thiosulfate (enhances cyanide metabolism to thiocyanate), and Nitrites (to induce methemoglobin formation, binding cyanide). These are classified as antidotes.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in the general population but associated with industrial exposures, smoke inhalation from fires, and deliberate ingestion.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to industrial chemicals, smoke inhalation from fires, ingestion of cyanogenic compounds (e.g., amygdalin in apricot seeds).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early and appropriate treatment; poor prognosis in delayed or severe cases without intervention.

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

Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Other Renal-Associated Conditions

Sub-category: Pregnancy-Related Kidney Conditions

Symptoms:
high blood pressure; proteinuria; swelling in hands and face; headache; visual disturbances; upper abdominal pain; nausea or vomiting; shortness of breath; seizures in eclampsia

Root Cause:
Abnormal placental development leading to systemic endothelial dysfunction, causing hypertension, proteinuria, and other organ damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood pressure measurement (greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg), urine tests for proteinuria, blood tests for liver function, kidney function, and platelet count, and fetal ultrasound for growth assessment.

Treatment:
Blood pressure management, magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures, corticosteroids to accelerate fetal lung maturity if delivery is anticipated, and delivery of the baby as the definitive treatment.

Medications:
Antihypertensives such as labetalol (beta-blocker), hydralazine (vasodilator), or nifedipine (calcium channel blocker); magnesium sulfate (anticonvulsant) for seizure prevention.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 2-8% of pregnancies globally, more common in first-time pregnancies.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
First pregnancy, history of preeclampsia, multiple pregnancies (twins or more), obesity, pre-existing hypertension or diabetes, maternal age <20 or >35, and certain genetic factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely treatment, outcomes are generally good; however, severe cases can lead to long-term health issues for both mother and baby.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Eclampsia (seizures), HELLP syndrome, liver or kidney failure, placental abruption, preterm delivery, maternal or fetal death.

Severe Menorrhagia

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Obstetric and Gynecologic Emergencies

Sub-category: Gynecologic Conditions

Symptoms:
heavy menstrual bleeding lasting more than 7 days; clots larger than a quarter; fatigue; shortness of breath; dizziness; pallor

Root Cause:
Excessive uterine bleeding, often caused by hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, bleeding disorders, or underlying medical conditions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical exam, pelvic ultrasound, blood tests (CBC for anemia, coagulation profile, thyroid function tests), and endometrial biopsy if indicated.

Treatment:
Depends on the underlying cause but includes medical management and sometimes surgical interventions.

Medications:
Hormonal therapy, antifibrinolytics, and NSAIDs. Examples - Tranexamic acid (antifibrinolytic), Combined oral contraceptives (hormonal), Ibuprofen (NSAID).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-30% of menstruating individuals, with higher rates in perimenopausal women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, anticoagulant use, hereditary bleeding disorders (e.g., von Willebrand disease).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; treatable in most cases with appropriate management. Severe or untreated cases may lead to chronic anemia.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Iron-deficiency anemia, fatigue, poor quality of life, and in rare cases, severe hypovolemia requiring transfusion.

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.

Chronic Bronchitis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Sub-category: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Symptoms:
chronic cough with mucus production; shortness of breath; wheezing; fatigue; recurrent respiratory infections

Root Cause:
Persistent inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, often due to long-term exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke or air pollutants, leading to airway narrowing and mucus overproduction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through a combination of patient history (e.g., smoking), pulmonary function tests (spirometry), chest X-rays, and blood tests to rule out other conditions.

Treatment:
Includes smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and management of symptoms with medications. Oxygen therapy may be required in advanced stages.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., salbutamol, tiotropium ), inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ), combination inhalers, and mucolytics (e.g., carbocisteine). Antibiotics may be prescribed during acute exacerbations caused by bacterial infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally, with higher prevalence in smokers and older adults. Chronic bronchitis is a leading cause of COPD.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor), long-term exposure to air pollutants, occupational exposure to dust and chemicals, recurrent respiratory infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive disease with variable outcomes depending on smoking cessation and treatment adherence. Early intervention improves quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Frequent exacerbations, respiratory failure, pulmonary hypertension, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Allergic Asthma

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Respiratory Allergies

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; coughing, especially at night or early morning; triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold

Root Cause:
Inflammation and constriction of the airways due to immune system overreaction to allergens.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lung function tests (spirometry), allergy testing, medical history, peak flow measurement.

Treatment:
Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene receptor antagonists, allergen avoidance, biologic therapies (e.g., monoclonal antibodies).

Medications:
Inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide , Mometasone ), long-acting beta agonists (e.g., Salmeterol , Formoterol used with ICS), leukotriene modifiers (e.g., Montelukast ), biologics for severe asthma (e.g., Omalizumab , Mepolizumab , Dupilumab ), and rescue medications (e.g., Albuterol , Levalbuterol ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 8-10% of the global population; up to 60% of asthma cases have an allergic component.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of asthma or allergies, exposure to allergens, pollution, smoking, respiratory infections in childhood.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms are controllable with proper management; untreated asthma can lead to chronic lung issues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe asthma attacks, chronic obstructive airway disease, decreased quality of life, potential hospitalization.

Non-Allergic Asthma

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Asthma

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; persistent coughing (not linked to allergens); symptoms worsen with exposure to irritants like smoke, cold air, or strong odors

Root Cause:
Airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness triggered by non-allergic factors (e.g., infections, environmental irritants, stress, or exercise).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Medical history, physical exam, pulmonary function tests (spirometry), and exclusion of allergic causes through skin or blood tests.

Treatment:
Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and avoidance of irritants.

Medications:
Inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., mometasone , beclomethasone ) to manage chronic inflammation; bronchodilators like long-acting beta-agonists (e.g., salmeterol ) or short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) for symptom relief; and leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast ) to reduce inflammation. Biologic therapies (e.g., mepolizumab ) may be used in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than allergic asthma; typically develops in adults, especially women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Respiratory infections, occupational exposure to irritants, obesity, smoking, and air pollution.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; avoiding triggers is crucial for symptom control.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe asthma exacerbations, airway remodeling, and increased risk of infections or bronchiectasis.

Exercise-Induced Asthma (EIA)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Asthma

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; wheezing; coughing (post-exercise); chest tightness; decreased exercise tolerance; fatigue during or after exercise

Root Cause:
Temporary airway narrowing triggered by physical activity, often due to rapid breathing of dry or cold air causing airway dehydration and inflammation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Exercise challenge test (spirometry before and after exercise), eucapnic voluntary hyperpnea (EVH) test, or observation of symptom patterns during exercise.

Treatment:
Pre-exercise use of bronchodilators, maintenance inhaled corticosteroids if symptoms are frequent, warm-up exercises, and avoiding exercise in cold or dry conditions.

Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) for immediate relief before exercise; inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ) for chronic symptom control; leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast ) to reduce exercise-induced inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 10% of the general population and 90% of people with existing asthma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Underlying asthma, cold weather, dry air, high-intensity exercise, and poor physical conditioning.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper treatment and prevention strategies; most people can maintain an active lifestyle.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe exercise limitations, poor physical fitness, and risk of exacerbation of underlying asthma.

Bronchiectasis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Symptoms:
chronic cough; excessive mucus production; shortness of breath; recurrent respiratory infections; wheezing; fatigue; chest pain

Root Cause:
Permanent dilation and damage of the bronchial tubes due to chronic inflammation and infection, leading to impaired mucus clearance.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made using chest CT scans (to visualize bronchial dilation), pulmonary function tests, sputum analysis for infections, and blood tests to check for underlying conditions.

Treatment:
Treatment includes airway clearance techniques, pulmonary rehabilitation, antibiotics for infections, and management of underlying conditions.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin , ciprofloxacin , or amoxicillin-clavulanate) for bacterial infections; bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol , salmeterol ) to ease breathing; inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide , fluticasone ) to reduce airway inflammation; and mucolytics (e.g., hypertonic saline, dornase alfa) to thin mucus.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to affect 350,000–500,000 people in the United States, with higher prevalence in older adults and those with underlying conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous lung infections (e.g., tuberculosis, pneumonia), genetic conditions (e.g., cystic fibrosis), immune system disorders, chronic aspiration, and smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, symptoms can be managed, and quality of life can improve, but the condition is chronic and progressive without a cure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent lung infections, respiratory failure, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), pulmonary hypertension, and reduced quality of life.

Obliterative Bronchiolitis (Bronchiolitis Obliterans)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Small Airway Diseases

Symptoms:
chronic cough; shortness of breath; wheezing; fatigue; exercise intolerance

Root Cause:
Inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of the small airways (bronchioles), leading to airflow obstruction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical history, physical examination, pulmonary function tests (showing obstructive patterns), high-resolution CT scans (showing mosaic attenuation), and, in some cases, lung biopsy for definitive diagnosis.

Treatment:
Management includes supportive care, removal of causative agents, medications to reduce inflammation, and, in severe cases, lung transplantation.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce inflammation, immunosuppressive drugs like mycophenolate mofetil or azathioprine to slow disease progression, and macrolide antibiotics such as azithromycin for anti-inflammatory effects. Bronchodilators like albuterol may be used for symptom relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with prevalence varying based on underlying causes (e.g., post-lung transplantation, inhalational exposure to toxic fumes).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lung transplantation, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, exposure to toxic fumes (e.g., diacetyl in popcorn factories), autoimmune diseases, and viral infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive; prognosis depends on the underlying cause and response to treatment. Lung transplantation may improve survival in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive respiratory failure, pulmonary hypertension, secondary infections, and reduced quality of life due to persistent symptoms.

Sarcoidosis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD)

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; dry cough; fatigue; fever; chest pain; red or swollen patches on the skin; enlarged lymph nodes; eye irritation or vision problems

Root Cause:
Formation of granulomas (clusters of inflammatory cells) in multiple organs, particularly the lungs and lymph nodes, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray, HRCT, pulmonary function tests, biopsy showing non-caseating granulomas, blood tests (ACE levels, calcium), and exclusion of other granulomatous diseases.

Treatment:
Corticosteroids (mainstay of treatment), immunosuppressive agents (e.g., methotrexate), and symptom management.

Medications:
Prednisone (a corticosteroid) is commonly prescribed. Immunosuppressants like methotrexate , azathioprine , or mycophenolate mofetil may be used for steroid-sparing effects.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-40 per 100,000 people, more common in African Americans and women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and immune system dysregulation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many cases resolve spontaneously; some develop chronic disease, with about 10-15% of cases leading to permanent lung damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, heart involvement (sarcoid cardiomyopathy), and organ failure.

Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; cough; fever; chills; fatigue; loss of appetite; wheezing; weight loss (in chronic cases)

Root Cause:
Immune-mediated inflammation of the alveoli and small airways caused by repeated exposure to inhaled organic particles (e.g., mold, bird droppings, farming dust) or chemical antigens.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detailed exposure history, chest imaging (CT scan showing ground-glass opacities or fibrosis in chronic cases), pulmonary function tests, blood tests for specific antibodies, and sometimes lung biopsy.

Treatment:
Avoidance of exposure to causative antigens, use of corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) to reduce inflammation, and supportive measures like oxygen therapy for severe cases.

Medications:
Corticosteroids such as prednisone are the mainstay of treatment to control inflammation. Immunosuppressive drugs like azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil may be used in chronic or refractory cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Prevalence varies widely depending on exposure risk, with higher rates among farmers, bird breeders, and people working in moldy environments.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Repeated exposure to known antigens (e.g., bird droppings, mold, farming dust), genetic predisposition, and inadequate ventilation in work or home environments.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early diagnosis and avoidance of triggers lead to good outcomes; chronic exposure can cause irreversible lung damage and progressive fibrosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory failure, and reduced quality of life.

Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia (COP)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD)

Symptoms:
cough; fever; fatigue; shortness of breath; weight loss; chills; muscle aches

Root Cause:
Inflammation and fibrosis of the small airways and alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs, leading to the formation of fibrous tissue plugs in the bronchioles and alveolar ducts. The cause is unknown, but it may follow a respiratory infection or be associated with autoimmune diseases.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HRCT showing characteristic pattern of consolidation or ground-glass opacities, lung biopsy showing organizing pneumonia with fibrous tissue, and exclusion of other causes.

Treatment:
Corticosteroids (prednisone) are the first-line treatment, with longer durations in cases of relapse.

Medications:
Prednisone (a corticosteroid) is prescribed to reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressants like azathioprine may be used in cases of steroid resistance or relapse.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, estimated incidence is about 1 per 100,000 people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous respiratory infections, exposure to certain drugs, autoimmune conditions, or environmental factors like smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with treatment; many patients recover with steroid therapy, but relapse can occur in some cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Relapse of disease, development of pulmonary fibrosis in severe cases, and chronic restrictive lung disease if untreated.

Nonspecific Interstitial Pneumonia (NSIP)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD)

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; dry cough; fatigue; fever; unexplained weight loss; muscle aches

Root Cause:
Inflammation and fibrosis of the lung interstitial tissue without a clear cause, often associated with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HRCT showing ground-glass opacities, pulmonary function tests showing restrictive pattern, and lung biopsy showing a homogeneous pattern of inflammation and fibrosis.

Treatment:
Corticosteroids (prednisone) are commonly used to reduce inflammation, with immunosuppressants like methotrexate or cyclophosphamide used for autoimmune-related cases.

Medications:
Prednisone (a corticosteroid) is used to control inflammation. Methotrexate , azathioprine , or mycophenolate mofetil may be used for autoimmune-related cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare; no exact global prevalence but accounts for about 10-20% of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune diseases, environmental exposures, and genetic predispositions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally better than IPF but still associated with variable progression. Patients may respond well to corticosteroids, but some may develop persistent or progressive fibrosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory failure, and associated autoimmune disease complications.

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD)

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; cough; fatigue; pneumothorax; hemoptysis; abdominal pain

Root Cause:
Abnormal growth of smooth muscle cells in the lungs and lymphatic system, leading to cystic destruction of the lung tissue and airway obstruction. Most common in women of reproductive age and often associated with tuberous sclerosis complex.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HRCT showing characteristic cystic lesions, pulmonary function tests showing restrictive lung pattern, and genetic testing for tuberous sclerosis (if suspected).

Treatment:
No definitive cure; treatment focuses on symptom management, including oxygen therapy and management of pneumothorax. In some cases, lung transplantation may be considered.

Medications:
Rapamycin (sirolimus ), an immunosuppressant, may be used to slow disease progression, particularly in tuberous sclerosis-associated LAM.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects about 1-2 women per 1,000,000 annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, specifically in individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive with variable severity; lung transplantation may be necessary in advanced cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumothorax, pulmonary hypertension, respiratory failure, and renal tumors associated with tuberous sclerosis.

Pulmonary Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (PLCH)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD)

Symptoms:
cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; fever; unexplained weight loss

Root Cause:
Abnormal proliferation of Langerhans cells (a type of immune cell) in the lungs, causing granulomatous inflammation and tissue damage, most often in heavy smokers.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HRCT showing cystic and nodular lesions, biopsy revealing Langerhans cells and characteristic granulomas.

Treatment:
Smoking cessation, corticosteroids for inflammation, and chemotherapy or immunotherapy in severe cases.

Medications:
Prednisone (corticosteroid) for inflammation; other immunosuppressants like methotrexate may be used for refractory disease.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; primarily affects young adults, with a higher prevalence in smokers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, possibly occupational exposures to certain chemicals or dust.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often self-limiting in mild cases, but severe disease can progress to respiratory failure and fibrosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary fibrosis, pneumothorax, and secondary infections.

Asbestosis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Pneumoconiosis

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; persistent dry cough; chest pain or tightness; clubbing of fingers; loss of appetite; unexplained weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Chronic lung inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) caused by prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through a history of asbestos exposure, chest X-rays or CT scans showing pleural plaques and interstitial fibrosis, and pulmonary function tests.

Treatment:
Treated with supportive care, including smoking cessation, oxygen therapy, and managing complications like lung cancer or mesothelioma.

Medications:
Corticosteroids and bronchodilators may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and improve breathing. Antifibrotic medications such as pirfenidone or nintedanib may also be considered to slow progression.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, but more common in individuals with occupational asbestos exposure, particularly in construction, shipbuilding, or mining industries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged occupational exposure to asbestos, living near asbestos mines, smoking (which worsens the effects of asbestos exposure).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally progressive, but disease severity depends on exposure level. Symptoms may stabilize with proper care, though lung function may continue to decline.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, chronic respiratory failure, and pulmonary hypertension.

Silicosis

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Chronic Toxicity and Long-Term Exposures

Sub-category: Occupational and Environmental Exposures

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; loss of appetite; fever in advanced stages

Root Cause:
Inhalation of silica dust causes inflammation, scarring, and progressive fibrosis of the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-rays, high-resolution CT scans, pulmonary function tests, and occupational history.

Treatment:
There is no cure; treatment focuses on symptom management, pulmonary rehabilitation, and avoiding further exposure. Advanced cases may require oxygen therapy or lung transplantation.

Medications:
Anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) may be used to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among workers in mining, construction, and sandblasting industries; globally affects millions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure to silica dust, smoking, and prolonged exposure duration.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive and irreversible; prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis. Chronic and accelerated forms have a better prognosis than acute silicosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and respiratory failure.

Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis (Black Lung Disease)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Pneumoconiosis

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; wheezing; chest tightness; fatigue; dark sputum

Root Cause:
Lung tissue damage and scarring caused by prolonged inhalation of coal dust, leading to impaired lung function and reduced oxygen exchange.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Occupational history of coal dust exposure, chest X-ray (showing small nodular opacities in the upper lung zones), CT scan for detailed imaging, and pulmonary function tests (indicating restrictive or obstructive patterns).

Treatment:
Smoking cessation, avoidance of further exposure to coal dust, oxygen therapy if needed, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Annual monitoring for disease progression is recommended.

Medications:
No medications can reverse CWP. Symptomatic treatments include bronchodilators for obstructive symptoms and corticosteroids for inflammatory complications. Antibiotics may be prescribed for secondary infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common in coal miners, with regional variations based on mining practices and safety regulations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term occupational exposure to coal dust, poor workplace ventilation, and lack of respiratory protective equipment.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive; early detection can improve quality of life, but severe cases can lead to significant respiratory impairment or premature death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive massive fibrosis (PMF), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, cor pulmonale, and respiratory failure.

Kyphoscoliosis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Chest Wall and Neuromuscular Disorders

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; reduced exercise tolerance; chest discomfort; fatigue; rapid breathing; increased respiratory effort

Root Cause:
The abnormal curvature of the spine (kyphosis and scoliosis) reduces chest wall compliance, impairing lung expansion and ventilation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, chest X-ray, pulmonary function tests (showing restrictive patterns), CT or MRI imaging for detailed spine analysis, arterial blood gas analysis if respiratory failure is suspected.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on improving lung function and spinal stability through physical therapy, bracing, non-invasive ventilation (e.g., CPAP or BiPAP), and surgical correction if necessary.

Medications:
Medications are not directly used to treat kyphoscoliosis, but bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol , a beta-agonist) or mucolytics may be used to manage associated respiratory symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to affect 1-3% of the general population; higher prevalence in individuals with congenital or neuromuscular disorders.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Congenital spinal abnormalities, neuromuscular disorders (e.g., muscular dystrophy), osteoporosis, trauma, or idiopathic causes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies depending on severity; mild cases have a good prognosis with minimal impact on lung function, while severe cases can lead to chronic respiratory failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic hypoxemia, pulmonary hypertension, cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure), recurrent respiratory infections, and difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation.

Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (IPAH)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pulmonary Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Pulmonary Hypertension (PH)

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; chest pain; dizziness; fainting; swelling in ankles or legs (edema); palpitations; blue discoloration of lips or skin (cyanosis)

Root Cause:
Narrowing and stiffening of pulmonary arteries with no known cause, leading to increased pulmonary vascular resistance and high blood pressure in the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made using echocardiography, right heart catheterization (gold standard), pulmonary function tests, chest X-ray, CT scan, and blood tests to rule out other causes.

Treatment:
Treatment includes medications to lower pulmonary blood pressure, improve exercise capacity, and prevent disease progression; oxygen therapy; and in severe cases, lung transplantation.

Medications:
Medications include phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil , tadalafil ), endothelin receptor antagonists (e.g., bosentan , ambrisentan , macitentan ), prostacyclin analogs (e.g., epoprostenol , treprostinil , iloprost ), soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators (e.g., riociguat ), and calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine , diltiazem , only for specific cases).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; estimated prevalence is 1-2 cases per million annually, with a higher incidence in women aged 30-50 years.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, genetic predisposition (BMPR2 gene mutation), and autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; prognosis depends on the severity at diagnosis and response to therapy. Without treatment, survival is 2-3 years, but modern therapies improve long-term outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Right-sided heart failure, arrhythmias, blood clots, and potential death if untreated.

Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pulmonary Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Pulmonary Hypertension (PH)

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; chest pain; dizziness; fainting; swelling in ankles or legs (edema); persistent cough; reduced exercise tolerance

Root Cause:
Chronic obstruction and remodeling of pulmonary arteries due to unresolved blood clots, causing high blood pressure in the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using echocardiography, right heart catheterization (gold standard), ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan, CT pulmonary angiography, and pulmonary angiography. Blood tests and other imaging may rule out other causes.

Treatment:
Treatment options include pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) surgery, balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA), anticoagulation therapy, oxygen therapy, and medications to reduce pulmonary vascular resistance.

Medications:
Medications include anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin , rivaroxaban , apixaban ), soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators (e.g., riociguat ), and prostacyclin analogs or endothelin receptor antagonists in inoperable cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects approximately 3-5% of individuals who have had a pulmonary embolism.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of acute pulmonary embolism, inadequate anticoagulation treatment, thrombophilia, splenectomy, or chronic inflammatory diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With successful pulmonary endarterectomy, prognosis is excellent. In inoperable cases, long-term medical management improves quality of life but prognosis varies.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Right-sided heart failure, arrhythmias, blood clots, and recurrent pulmonary embolism.

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).

Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; productive cough with purulent sputum; pleuritic chest pain; shortness of breath; fatigue; chills; hypoxia

Root Cause:
Infection of the lung parenchyma caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi acquired outside of hospital settings.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray showing infiltrates, clinical symptoms, sputum culture, blood culture, and PCR for pathogens.

Treatment:
Empiric antibiotic therapy, oxygen support, fluids, and antipyretics. Adjust antibiotics based on culture results if needed.

Medications:
Beta-lactams (e.g., amoxicillin-clavulanate), macrolides (e.g., azithromycin ), or fluoroquinolones (e.g., levofloxacin ) depending on severity and patient factors.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 5–11 cases per 1,000 adults annually; higher in the elderly and those with chronic conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, diabetes, or recent viral respiratory infection.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment, though mortality risk increases in older adults or those with comorbidities.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, sepsis, pleural effusion, empyema, or lung abscess.

Histoplasmosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; chest pain; fatigue; shortness of breath; night sweats; weight loss

Root Cause:
Infection by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, commonly through inhalation of spores from contaminated soil or bird/bat droppings.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Antigen detection in blood or urine, fungal cultures, histopathology, and imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans.

Treatment:
Antifungal medications such as itraconazole (first-line for mild cases) or amphotericin B (for severe cases).

Medications:
Itraconazole (triazole antifungal) and amphotericin B (polyene antifungal) for more severe infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in certain areas like the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys in the United States; affects 500,000 people annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in or traveling to endemic areas, immunosuppression, occupational exposure to bird/bat droppings.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable in mild cases; chronic or disseminated histoplasmosis can be life-threatening without treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pulmonary histoplasmosis, disseminated histoplasmosis, pericarditis, or adrenal insufficiency in severe 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.

Aspergillosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; weight loss; sinus congestion; wheezing

Root Cause:
Infection caused by the Aspergillus fungus, which is found in soil, decaying organic matter, and indoor environments; affects individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying lung conditions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests, imaging studies (CT or X-rays of lungs), sputum cultures, biopsy, galactomannan assay, and PCR for Aspergillus DNA.

Treatment:
Antifungal medications, surgical removal of fungal masses (if necessary), corticosteroids in allergic forms.

Medications:
Voriconazole (antifungal triazole), Amphotericin B (antifungal polyene), Itraconazole (antifungal triazole), and Posaconazole (antifungal triazole).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in the general population; more common in individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic lung diseases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, long-term corticosteroid use, chemotherapy, solid organ transplants, hematologic malignancies, and existing lung diseases such as COPD or tuberculosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; invasive aspergillosis has a high mortality rate without prompt treatment, while allergic forms are manageable with proper therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, dissemination to other organs, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.

COVID-19

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Infectious Diseases of the Respiratory System

Sub-category: Viral Infections

Symptoms:
fever; dry cough; shortness of breath; fatigue; loss of taste or smell; sore throat; muscle aches; headache; chills; nausea or vomiting; diarrhea

Root Cause:
Caused by SARS-CoV-2, a novel coronavirus. Transmitted through respiratory droplets, aerosols, and contaminated surfaces.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
PCR testing, rapid antigen tests, and clinical evaluation of symptoms.

Treatment:
Supportive care, antiviral drugs, corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy in severe cases.

Medications:
Antiviral drugs such as remdesivir (RNA polymerase inhibitor) and paxlovid (combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir ) may be used. Severe cases may require corticosteroids like dexamethasone or monoclonal antibodies for immunomodulation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects populations globally; widespread outbreaks occurred in 2020-2021 with continued endemic cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, obesity, chronic medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease, COPD), immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; mild cases recover in 1-2 weeks, while severe cases can lead to long-term complications or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), blood clots, multi-organ failure, "long COVID" (persistent symptoms).

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
high fever; dry cough; shortness of breath; muscle pain; headache; chills; diarrhea; fatigue

Root Cause:
Viral infection caused by the SARS-CoV coronavirus, primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets or close contact. Severe cases involve acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves PCR testing for SARS-CoV, chest imaging showing pneumonia or ARDS, and serologic tests for antibodies.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation in severe cases, and management of secondary infections. No specific antiviral treatment is universally accepted.

Medications:
Experimental - Ribavirin , corticosteroids, and interferons were used during the 2003 outbreak but with limited efficacy. Supportive medications - Antipyretics for fever, analgesics for pain, and bronchodilators for respiratory relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Emerged in 2002–2003 with approximately 8,000 cases globally and a mortality rate of about 9.6%.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, healthcare workers exposed to infected patients, and travelers to outbreak areas.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early supportive care improves outcomes. Severe cases may lead to high mortality, especially in older adults or those with comorbidities.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
ARDS, septic shock, organ failure, and long-term pulmonary dysfunction in survivors.

Acute Bronchitis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Infectious Diseases of the Respiratory System

Sub-category: Bronchitis

Symptoms:
cough (with or without mucus production); chest discomfort; shortness of breath; fatigue; low-grade fever

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by a viral infection, leading to irritation and mucus production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on symptoms and physical examination. Tests like a chest X-ray or sputum analysis may be performed to rule out pneumonia or other conditions.

Treatment:
Symptom management includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for fever and cough. In some cases, bronchodilators may be used.

Medications:
Antibiotics are generally not prescribed unless a bacterial infection is suspected. Cough suppressants (e.g., dextromethorphan ) and expectorants (e.g., guaifenesin ) may be used for symptomatic relief. Bronchodilators like albuterol can relieve wheezing or shortness of breath if present.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions of people annually; most common during fall and winter seasons.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, exposure to air pollutants, weakened immune system, and recent upper respiratory infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally self-limiting, resolving within 2–3 weeks. Persistent symptoms may indicate complications or another condition.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or exacerbation of asthma or COPD.

Lung Abscess

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
persistent cough with foul-smelling sputum; fever; chills; night sweats; chest pain; fatigue; weight loss; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Localized collection of pus in the lung tissue due to necrosis caused by bacterial infection, often following aspiration or obstruction of airways.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT scan) to identify cavities with air-fluid levels, sputum culture, bronchoscopy, and blood tests to detect infection markers.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves prolonged antibiotic therapy, drainage of the abscess if needed, and supportive care such as oxygen therapy.

Medications:
Antibiotics - Beta-lactam antibiotics combined with beta-lactamase inhibitors (e.g., amoxicillin-clavulanate), clindamycin , or carbapenems. These are used for anaerobic and polymicrobial infections. Adjunct medications - Analgesics for pain management and antipyretics for fever.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare; accounts for less than 1% of cases of pneumonia in developed countries, more common in individuals with risk factors like aspiration or immunosuppression.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aspiration due to impaired swallowing or altered consciousness (e.g., alcohol use, anesthesia), poor dental hygiene, chronic lung diseases, or immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most patients recover with appropriate antibiotic therapy; however, untreated cases can lead to severe complications. Mortality is higher in immunocompromised patients.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Empyema, bronchopleural fistula, sepsis, hemorrhage, and chronic lung disease.

Empyema (Pleural Infection)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Infectious Diseases of the Respiratory System

Symptoms:
fever; chest pain; cough; shortness of breath; fatigue; weight loss; chills

Root Cause:
Accumulation of pus in the pleural cavity, often as a complication of pneumonia or lung infection, caused by bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Staphylococcus aureus.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan of the chest; thoracentesis to analyze pleural fluid; and blood tests to assess infection markers.

Treatment:
Antibiotics targeting the causative organism, drainage of the infected fluid via chest tube (thoracostomy), and occasionally surgical decortication if the infection is refractory.

Medications:
Empiric antibiotics such as vancomycin (glycopeptide antibiotic) and ceftriaxone (third-generation cephalosporin) are typically used initially. Specific antibiotics may be chosen based on culture results.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 20% of hospitalized patients with pneumonia; incidence varies by region and population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Untreated or inadequately treated pneumonia, recent chest surgery or trauma, weakened immune system, diabetes, or chronic lung diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, most patients recover, but delayed treatment can lead to severe outcomes. Mortality rates range from 5–20% depending on severity.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, respiratory failure, pleural thickening, lung entrapment, and persistent infection requiring surgery.

Transudative Pleural Effusion

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pleural Diseases

Sub-category: Pleural Effusion

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; cough; reduced breath sounds on the affected side; dullness to percussion on physical exam

Root Cause:
An imbalance between hydrostatic and oncotic pressures, often due to conditions such as congestive heart failure (CHF) or hypoalbuminemia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, and thoracentesis (analysis of pleural fluid to confirm low protein and lactate dehydrogenase levels consistent with transudate).

Treatment:
Treating the underlying cause (e.g., diuretics for CHF, correcting hypoalbuminemia) and therapeutic thoracentesis if symptomatic relief is required.

Medications:
Diuretics, such as furosemide , are commonly prescribed to manage fluid overload in cases of CHF. Albumin infusions may be used if hypoalbuminemia is present.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among patients with chronic heart failure and liver or kidney disease; precise prevalence varies by population and comorbidities.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Congestive heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, liver cirrhosis, and hypoalbuminemia.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good when the underlying condition is effectively treated, but recurrence is possible if the primary cause is not addressed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of lung compression, secondary infections, and respiratory failure if untreated.

Exudative Pleural Effusion

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pleural Diseases

Sub-category: Pleural Effusion

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; pleuritic chest pain; cough; fever if infection is present; reduced breath sounds and dullness to percussion

Root Cause:
Inflammation or infection of the pleura causing increased capillary permeability, often associated with conditions like pneumonia, malignancy, or pulmonary embolism.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan) and thoracentesis with pleural fluid analysis showing high protein, high lactate dehydrogenase, and possible infection markers.

Treatment:
Treatment of the underlying cause (e.g., antibiotics for infection, chemotherapy for malignancy) and drainage via thoracentesis or chest tube placement if needed.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone for bacterial pneumonia), corticosteroids for inflammatory causes, and chemotherapy or targeted agents for malignancy-related effusions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies depending on underlying conditions; common in cases of pneumonia, cancer, or tuberculosis in certain populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lung infections, malignancy, pulmonary embolism, connective tissue diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the underlying cause; potentially serious if not addressed promptly, particularly in malignancy or infection-related cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Empyema (infected pleural fluid), trapped lung, and respiratory failure if left untreated.

Spontaneous Pneumothorax

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pleural Diseases

Sub-category: Pneumothorax

Symptoms:
sudden chest pain; shortness of breath; rapid breathing; coughing; fatigue

Root Cause:
Air leaks into the pleural space, causing partial or complete lung collapse, typically without trauma. Often due to ruptured air blisters (blebs) on the lung surface.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray or CT scan confirms the presence of air in the pleural space; physical examination may reveal reduced breath sounds and hyperresonance on percussion.

Treatment:
Observation for small pneumothoraces; supplemental oxygen; needle aspiration or chest tube placement for larger cases; surgery (thoracoscopy or thoracotomy) for recurrent cases.

Medications:
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be prescribed to manage discomfort.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated at 7.4–18 cases per 100,000 annually in men and 1.2–6 cases per 100,000 annually in women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, tall and thin body habitus, male gender, age 20–40, and conditions like Marfan syndrome or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with appropriate treatment; recurrence rates are around 30% after the first episode.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, tension pneumothorax, infection, or chronic lung issues in severe cases.

Traumatic Pneumothorax

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pleural Diseases

Sub-category: Pneumothorax

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath; difficulty breathing; visible chest injury; cyanosis (bluish skin); rapid heart rate

Root Cause:
Air enters the pleural space due to an external injury, such as blunt or penetrating chest trauma, causing lung collapse.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound to identify air in the pleural space; physical exam may show diminished breath sounds or tracheal deviation in severe cases.

Treatment:
Immediate needle decompression if life-threatening; chest tube placement to remove air and re-expand the lung; surgical repair for extensive injuries.

Medications:
Antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, and pain management with opioids or NSAIDs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence is variable, depending on trauma prevalence; more common in trauma centers and emergency settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-risk activities (e.g., motor vehicle accidents, contact sports), rib fractures, medical procedures like central line placement, or penetrating injuries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with timely intervention, though recovery may take weeks depending on severity.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, tension pneumothorax, and long-term lung scarring or reduced function.

Pleural Mesothelioma

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pleural Diseases

Sub-category: Malignancies

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath; persistent cough; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; pleural effusion (fluid buildup)

Root Cause:
A rare, aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, originating in the pleura (lining of the lungs).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT, PET scans), biopsy of pleural tissue, and blood tests for biomarkers like mesothelin.

Treatment:
Multimodal treatment includes surgery (e.g., pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy), chemotherapy (e.g., cisplatin with pemetrexed), and radiation therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin (a platinum-based agent) and pemetrexed (an antifolate agent) are commonly used. Immunotherapy agents like nivolumab may also be considered.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with approximately 2,500 to 3,000 new cases annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged asbestos exposure, older age, male gender, smoking (synergistic risk with asbestos).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor, with a median survival of 12-21 months post-diagnosis; earlier stages have better outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, metastasis, pleural effusion, and severe chest pain.

Pleurisy (Pleuritis)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pleural Diseases

Sub-category: Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing; shortness of breath; dry cough; fever in infectious cases

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the pleura, often caused by viral or bacterial infection, autoimmune diseases, or lung injury.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through physical examination, chest X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, and blood tests for inflammation markers and infection.

Treatment:
Treatment targets the underlying cause

Medications:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen (anti-inflammatory); antibiotics such as amoxicillin (beta-lactam) for bacterial infections; and corticosteroids like prednisone (immunosuppressant) in autoimmune cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies widely; more common in viral infections and autoimmune conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Respiratory infections, autoimmune diseases, trauma to the chest, or a history of pleural effusion.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated promptly, with most cases resolving within a few weeks. Chronic cases may occur with underlying autoimmune conditions.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pleural effusion, empyema, or fibrosis if untreated.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Sub-category: Lung Cancer

Symptoms:
persistent cough; chest pain; shortness of breath; wheezing; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; hemoptysis (coughing up blood)

Root Cause:
Abnormal and uncontrolled growth of lung cells leading to tumor formation in the lung.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests (CT scan, chest X-ray), biopsy (either via bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or surgery), and molecular testing for genetic mutations.

Treatment:
Treatment options depend on the stage and type but can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin (alkylating agent) and pemetrexed (antimetabolite); targeted therapies like osimertinib (EGFR inhibitor); immunotherapies such as nivolumab (checkpoint inhibitor).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor), exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental toxins (e.g., radon, asbestos), family history, older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage NSCLC has a better prognosis, with survival rates improving with surgery or targeted therapy; advanced stages generally have lower survival rates.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, metastasis to other organs, pleural effusion, recurrence after treatment, and side effects from treatments (e.g., chemotherapy-induced neutropenia).

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Sub-category: Lung Cancer

Symptoms:
cough; chest pain; shortness of breath; wheezing; hoarseness; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; paraneoplastic syndromes (e.g., siadh, cushing’s syndrome)

Root Cause:
Rapidly growing, aggressive cancer that typically starts in the bronchi and spreads early to other parts of the body.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis often involves chest imaging (X-ray, CT), biopsy (bronchoscopy or needle biopsy), and staging with PET scan to assess metastasis.

Treatment:
Treatment primarily involves chemotherapy and radiation. SCLC is less commonly treated with surgery due to its early spread.

Medications:
Chemotherapy regimens typically include etoposide (topoisomerase inhibitor) and cisplatin (alkylating agent). Immunotherapy agents like atezolizumab are also used in combination with chemotherapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
SCLC accounts for about 15% of all lung cancer cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (strongest risk factor), secondhand smoke exposure, occupational exposures (asbestos, radon), genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
SCLC is aggressive with a poor prognosis. It often metastasizes quickly and is typically diagnosed at a later stage. However, with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, some patients may achieve remission.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to brain, liver, and bones, paraneoplastic syndromes, treatment-related side effects, and cachexia.

Lung Carcinoid Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Sub-category: Lung Cancer

Symptoms:
persistent cough; wheezing; chest pain; shortness of breath; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; coughing up blood (hemoptysis); recurrent pneumonia

Root Cause:
Slow-growing neuroendocrine tumors that form in the lung tissue, often originating from bronchial epithelial cells.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging (CT scans, X-ray), biopsy (bronchoscopy or percutaneous biopsy), and possibly a bronchial lavage or cytology. Immunohistochemistry is used to confirm the neuroendocrine nature of the tumor.

Treatment:
Surgery is the primary treatment for localized carcinoid tumors. For advanced stages, treatments may include chemotherapy or somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide) for symptom control and slowing tumor growth.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide ) for symptom control, chemotherapy agents such as streptozocin (alkylating agent) or etoposide (topoisomerase inhibitor) for advanced disease.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Lung carcinoid tumors are rare, accounting for about 1–2% of all lung cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking is less of a risk factor compared to other types of lung cancer. There may be associations with genetic conditions such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good prognosis, especially when diagnosed early. These tumors tend to grow slowly and are often treatable with surgery, with many patients surviving long-term after removal of the tumor.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis (though rare), recurrence of tumors, carcinoid syndrome (flushing, diarrhea, wheezing), and treatment-related side effects.

Metastatic Lung Disease

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Neoplastic Conditions

Symptoms:
chronic cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; unintentional weight loss; hemoptysis (coughing up blood); wheezing

Root Cause:
Cancer that has spread (metastasized) to the lungs from other parts of the body, often through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT scan, PET scan), biopsy of lung tissue, bronchoscopy, and analysis of fluid (if pleural effusion is present).

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on palliative care and control of the primary cancer. Options include systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and sometimes localized radiation therapy.

Medications:
Common medications include systemic chemotherapy agents (e.g., paclitaxel , carboplatin ), targeted therapies (e.g., EGFR inhibitors like erlotinib or ALK inhibitors like crizotinib ), and immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab , nivolumab ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 20-40% of cancers metastasize to the lungs. Prevalence depends on the type of primary cancer (e.g., breast, colorectal, kidney, and melanoma are common sources).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Primary cancers with high metastatic potential, advanced-stage cancer, genetic predispositions, and immune suppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor overall prognosis, as metastatic lung disease is often a late-stage finding; survival depends on the type and extent of primary cancer and response to therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, pleural effusion, significant pain, decreased quality of life, and complications from treatments such as infections or side effects of systemic therapy.

Malignant Pleural Effusion

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Neoplastic Conditions

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; dry cough; fatigue; orthopnea (difficulty breathing while lying down); decreased exercise tolerance

Root Cause:
Accumulation of cancerous fluid in the pleural space (the area between the lungs and chest wall) due to malignancies, often from lung cancer, breast cancer, or lymphoma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Thoracentesis with fluid cytology, chest imaging (X-ray, CT scan), pleural biopsy if needed, and thoracoscopy in selected cases.

Treatment:
Treatment involves drainage of the effusion (thoracentesis, chest tube placement), pleurodesis, indwelling pleural catheter for symptom relief, and systemic therapy targeting the underlying malignancy.

Medications:
Medications to manage the condition may include chemotherapy (e.g., cisplatin , pemetrexed ), targeted agents (e.g., bevacizumab for VEGF inhibition), and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 15% of cancer patients, most frequently associated with lung and breast cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced malignancy, particularly lung or breast cancer, lymphoma, or cancers with high pleural involvement.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally poor, with median survival ranging from 3 to 12 months depending on the underlying cancer and response to therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence of effusion, infection, lung collapse (atelectasis), impaired quality of life, and progression of underlying cancer.

Thymomas

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Neoplastic Conditions

Sub-category: Mediastinal Tumors

Symptoms:
chest pain; persistent cough; shortness of breath; hoarseness; fatigue; weight loss; muscle weakness (in cases of associated myasthenia gravis)

Root Cause:
A tumor arising from the epithelial cells of the thymus gland, typically located in the anterior mediastinum.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves imaging studies such as chest X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, along with biopsy (needle biopsy or surgical biopsy) to confirm histology. Blood tests may be used to check for associated autoimmune conditions.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor (thymectomy), with or without adjuvant radiation therapy or chemotherapy depending on the stage of the disease.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like cisplatin (a platinum-based chemotherapy) or cyclophosphamide (an alkylating agent) may be used for advanced or unresectable cases. Immunosuppressive medications like prednisone or mycophenolate mofetil may also be prescribed if associated with autoimmune complications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for approximately 0.2-1.5% of all malignancies; thymomas are more common in adults, particularly in their 40s to 60s.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Associated with autoimmune diseases such as myasthenia gravis, red cell aplasia, and hypogammaglobulinemia. No strong environmental or genetic risk factors have been identified.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good if detected early and completely resected. Advanced stages may have a poorer prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 50-90%, depending on stage and treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include metastasis, recurrence, superior vena cava syndrome, and autoimmune disorders such as myasthenia gravis, red cell aplasia, or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Lymphomas

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Neoplastic Conditions

Sub-category: Mediastinal Tumors (Primary or secondary involvement of the mediastinum)

Symptoms:
enlarged lymph nodes (in the chest or other areas); persistent cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fever; night sweats; unexplained weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Malignancies of the lymphatic system involving abnormal proliferation of lymphocytes, often in the lymph nodes or extranodal lymphatic tissues such as the thymus. Common types include Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through imaging (CT, PET scan, or MRI), lymph node biopsy, and laboratory tests such as blood counts and immunophenotyping. Bone marrow biopsy may also be performed for staging.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the type and stage. It may include chemotherapy (e.g., R-CHOP regimen for non-Hodgkin lymphoma or ABVD for Hodgkin lymphoma), radiation therapy, targeted therapies like rituximab (monoclonal antibody), and stem cell transplantation in refractory or relapsed cases.

Medications:
Chemotherapy regimens include cyclophosphamide (alkylating agent), doxorubicin (anthracycline), vincristine (vinca alkaloid), and prednisone (corticosteroid). Targeted therapy such as rituximab (monoclonal antibody against CD20) or brentuximab vedotin (antibody-drug conjugate) may also be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hodgkin lymphoma represents about 10% of all lymphomas, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma is one of the most common cancers globally. Mediastinal involvement occurs in 60-80% of Hodgkin cases and in certain subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphomas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, immunosuppressive conditions (e.g., HIV/AIDS), exposure to Epstein-Barr virus (for Hodgkin lymphoma), exposure to herbicides or pesticides, and prior chemotherapy or radiation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies depending on type and stage. Hodgkin lymphoma has an overall 5-year survival rate of approximately 85-90%, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma varies widely from 40-90%, depending on subtype and stage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include organ infiltration, immune system dysfunction, infections, secondary malignancies (due to chemotherapy or radiation), and complications from treatment (e.g., cardiotoxicity, pulmonary fibrosis).

Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Sleep-Related Respiratory Disorders

Sub-category: Hypoventilation Syndromes

Symptoms:
daytime sleepiness; fatigue; shortness of breath; headaches (especially in the morning); difficulty concentrating; loud snoring; interrupted sleep

Root Cause:
Impaired breathing due to excess weight causing mechanical and metabolic effects that disrupt normal respiratory function, leading to elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) and reduced oxygen (O2) levels.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, arterial blood gas analysis to detect hypercapnia, overnight polysomnography to assess sleep-disordered breathing, and ruling out other causes of hypoventilation (e.g., lung disease).

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on weight loss through lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery if indicated, and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (e.g., CPAP or BiPAP) during sleep to improve breathing.

Medications:
Medications such as acetazolamide (a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor) may be used to stimulate breathing and reduce CO2 levels in select cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
OHS affects approximately 0.15–0.3% of the general population and 10–20% of individuals with severe obesity.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe obesity (BMI greater than or equal to 30 kg/m²), sleep apnea, male gender, advancing age, and underlying respiratory disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, symptoms and quality of life can improve significantly. However, untreated OHS can lead to severe complications and increased mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, right-sided heart failure (cor pulmonale), systemic hypertension, and increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Occupational Asthma

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; cough; symptoms worsening at work and improving during time off

Root Cause:
Inflammation and narrowing of the airways caused by exposure to allergens or irritants in the workplace, such as dust, fumes, chemicals, or animal proteins.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detailed occupational history, pulmonary function tests (spirometry and peak expiratory flow monitoring), allergen-specific tests, and possibly a methacholine challenge test.

Treatment:
Avoidance of workplace triggers, use of bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids, and implementing workplace safety measures (e.g., masks, ventilation).

Medications:
Commonly prescribed medications include short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) for quick relief, long-acting beta-agonists (e.g., salmeterol ) combined with inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone or budesonide ) for maintenance, and leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast ) to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occupational asthma accounts for up to 15% of all adult asthma cases in industrialized countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Workplace exposure to allergens (e.g., animal dander, latex, flour), irritants (e.g., smoke, fumes, dust), or specific chemicals (e.g., isocyanates, cleaning agents), and having a history of allergies or asthma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early diagnosis and removal from exposure, symptoms can improve or resolve; delayed diagnosis or continued exposure may lead to persistent asthma and long-term lung damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic asthma, reduced lung function, job loss due to inability to work in certain environments, and diminished quality of life.

Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis (CWP)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Pneumoconiosis

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; persistent cough; chest tightness; progressive fatigue; black-colored sputum (rare); unexplained weight loss

Root Cause:
Lung inflammation and scarring caused by inhalation of coal dust over an extended period, leading to coal macules and progressive fibrosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by occupational history, chest imaging showing coal macules or nodules, and pulmonary function tests.

Treatment:
Treated with supportive care, smoking cessation, and managing complications such as progressive massive fibrosis or respiratory failure.

Medications:
Bronchodilators and corticosteroids may be prescribed to ease breathing difficulties. Antifibrotic therapies are being researched. Antibiotics may be used for secondary infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common among coal miners, particularly those with long-term exposure to high levels of coal dust. Prevalence has declined in regulated industries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged exposure to coal dust, working in poorly ventilated mines, inadequate use of respiratory protective equipment.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive, with the severity ranging from simple pneumoconiosis (milder) to progressive massive fibrosis (severe). Early diagnosis and cessation of exposure can improve outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive massive fibrosis (PMF), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, respiratory failure, and increased risk of lung infections.

Acute and Chronic Beryllium Disease

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; cough; chest pain; fatigue; fever; weight loss; night sweats; skin rash (in some cases)

Root Cause:
Exposure to beryllium, a lightweight metal found in certain industries (e.g., aerospace, electronics, and nuclear sectors), triggers an immune-mediated response. Acute beryllium disease results from high-level exposure causing chemical pneumonitis, while chronic beryllium disease (CBD) arises from prolonged low-level exposure leading to granulomatous inflammation and scarring in the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a detailed occupational history, chest imaging (e.g., X-rays or CT scans), pulmonary function tests, and the beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT), which detects sensitization to beryllium. Bronchoscopy with biopsy may be used to confirm granulomatous inflammation.

Treatment:
Acute cases typically involve supportive care, such as oxygen therapy and avoiding further exposure. Chronic beryllium disease is treated with corticosteroids to reduce lung inflammation and immunosuppressive drugs in severe cases. Pulmonary rehabilitation and supplemental oxygen may also be necessary.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) - Used to reduce inflammation in chronic beryllium disease. Immunosuppressive agents (e.g., methotrexate or azathioprine ) - Prescribed in cases where corticosteroids are insufficient or contraindicated. Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) - Used to alleviate symptoms such as wheezing and airway constriction. Supplemental oxygen - Not a medication but often required in advanced disease stages to improve oxygenation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The exact prevalence is unknown but primarily affects workers exposed to beryllium, with approximately 2-10% of exposed individuals developing sensitization and a smaller subset progressing to chronic beryllium disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged occupational exposure to beryllium, genetic predisposition (HLA-DPB1 gene mutations), inadequate workplace safety measures, smoking, and pre-existing lung conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute beryllium disease has a good prognosis with prompt removal from exposure and treatment, while chronic beryllium disease is a lifelong condition with variable progression. Early detection and management can improve quality of life, but severe cases may lead to respiratory failure or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary fibrosis, progressive lung dysfunction, cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure due to lung disease), and increased risk of infections due to impaired lung function.

Smoke Inhalation

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Environmental Exposures

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; cough; soot in the mouth or nose; wheezing; burning sensation in the throat or chest; confusion or altered mental state (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
Inhalation of smoke, which can contain toxic gases, particulates, and chemicals that cause irritation, damage to the respiratory system, and inflammation in the airways and lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on a patient's history of exposure to smoke, physical examination, and symptoms. Imaging such as chest X-ray or CT scan may be used to assess lung damage. Blood gases may be taken to evaluate respiratory function.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy to improve oxygen levels. Bronchodilators to open airways. Steroids to reduce inflammation. Supportive care including fluids and monitoring in severe cases.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol , salbutamol) to relax the muscles of the airways and improve airflow. These are beta-agonists that act as bronchodilators. Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce inflammation in the airways. Analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen ) for pain management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs frequently in fire-related incidents, with thousands of cases annually. It can also affect individuals who work in industries with high exposure to smoke, such as firefighting.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to high levels of smoke (e.g., during fires). Occupations involving exposure to smoke (e.g., firefighting). Pre-existing respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis can vary depending on the severity of inhalation and lung damage. Mild cases generally recover fully with treatment, while severe cases may result in long-term lung damage and even death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure. Acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Chronic lung disease (e.g., COPD). Infections due to weakened immune system or lung damage.

Chemical Inhalation (e.g., ammonia, chlorine)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Environmental Exposures

Symptoms:
cough; shortness of breath; chest tightness; burning sensation in the throat, nose, or eyes; watery eyes or conjunctivitis; nausea or vomiting; wheezing or stridor (if airway is affected)

Root Cause:
Inhalation of toxic chemicals such as ammonia or chlorine leads to direct irritation of the respiratory tract, causing inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and potentially chemical burns to the airway and lung tissue.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a detailed history of exposure, clinical examination, and lung function tests. Imaging like chest X-rays or CT scans may be used to detect any structural damage. Blood gases may be assessed to evaluate oxygenation.

Treatment:
Removal from the source of exposure. Oxygen therapy to support breathing. Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol) to relieve wheezing and bronchospasm. Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the lungs. Supportive care for more severe cases.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) are prescribed to relieve bronchospasm. Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to control inflammation. Antibiotics if secondary infection develops in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Chemical inhalation injuries are relatively rare but occur in industrial settings, accidents, or exposure to household products. Ammonia and chlorine are common in industrial accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupations involving chemicals (e.g., industrial workers, cleaners). Accidental chemical spills or exposure. Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) during work. Proximity to hazardous materials or inadequate ventilation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the concentration of the chemical and the duration of exposure. Mild exposures often resolve without long-term effects, but severe cases may result in permanent lung damage or even death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory problems (e.g., asthma-like symptoms). Pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs). Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Chemical burns to the airway.

Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Respiratory Failure and Critical Care

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; confusion; headache; drowsiness; flushed skin; rapid breathing

Root Cause:
Hypercapnic respiratory failure occurs when the lungs are unable to remove enough carbon dioxide from the blood, often due to obstructive lung diseases such as COPD or severe asthma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed through ABG analysis showing elevated levels of carbon dioxide (PaCO2 > 45 mmHg), along with clinical symptoms of hypoventilation.

Treatment:
Management includes non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) or invasive mechanical ventilation, bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and addressing the underlying cause (e.g., COPD exacerbation).

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol , ipratropium ) to open the airways, corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ), and respiratory stimulants (e.g., theophylline ) are commonly used. These medications are classified as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and respiratory stimulants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and severe asthma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obesity, neuromuscular disorders, severe asthma, and drug overdose.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying condition; with appropriate treatment, many patients can recover, although severe cases may have poor outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory acidosis, pulmonary hypertension, organ failure, and long-term respiratory impairment.

Tracheomalacia

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
noisy breathing; wheezing; shortness of breath; coughing; stridor; recurrent respiratory infections

Root Cause:
The trachea is abnormally soft, leading to collapse during exhalation, resulting in airflow obstruction and respiratory distress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical assessment and confirmed by imaging, such as flexible bronchoscopy, chest X-rays, or CT scans of the chest.

Treatment:
Treatment may involve conservative management such as observation, airway clearance techniques, or in severe cases, surgery like tracheal stenting or tracheoplasty.

Medications:
No specific medications treat tracheomalacia directly. However, bronchodilators like albuterol (a beta-agonist) may be prescribed to relieve wheezing and improve airflow. In cases of associated infections, antibiotics may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare condition, often present in infants, with some cases continuing into adulthood.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, low birth weight, congenital disorders (e.g., Down syndrome), and a history of prolonged intubation or mechanical ventilation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often improves with age as the airway structure becomes more rigid; however, some may require surgical intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent respiratory infections, airway collapse, and potential for respiratory failure in severe cases.

Tracheobronchitis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
cough; fever; sore throat; wheezing; shortness of breath; chest discomfort

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the trachea and bronchi, often due to viral or bacterial infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and confirmed with a chest X-ray or sputum culture if a bacterial infection is suspected.

Treatment:
Symptomatic treatment with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications (e.g., acetaminophen for fever). Antibiotics may be required if a bacterial infection is diagnosed.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin or azithromycin ) may be prescribed if bacterial infection is identified. Bronchodilators and corticosteroids may help alleviate symptoms of wheezing and inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in the winter months and in individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to respiratory infections, smoking, weakened immune system, and pre-existing lung conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically resolves with appropriate treatment, but can take longer in people with underlying lung diseases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Vocal Cord Dysfunction (Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; wheezing; coughing; choking sensation; difficulty breathing; voice changes; stridor

Root Cause:
The vocal cords close instead of opening during inhalation, which can obstruct airflow and cause respiratory distress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation and may involve laryngoscopy to observe vocal cord motion.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on breathing exercises, speech therapy, and stress management techniques. Medications may be used to manage symptoms.

Medications:
Inhaled bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) may be prescribed to relieve symptoms of wheezing or difficulty breathing. Anxiety or stress-related medications may also be used in some cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects both adults and children, with a higher incidence in women and those with asthma or anxiety.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Asthma, anxiety, stress, irritant exposure, and history of upper respiratory infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often improves with proper treatment, including speech therapy and breathing exercises. However, symptoms may recur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Misdiagnosis as asthma or other respiratory conditions, ongoing breathing difficulties, and impaired quality of life.

Chronic Cough

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Other Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
persistent cough lasting more than 8 weeks; dry or productive cough; wheezing; shortness of breath; sore throat; fatigue

Root Cause:
Chronic cough is often a symptom of an underlying condition such as asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), post-nasal drip, or chronic bronchitis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on a thorough medical history, physical examination, and ruling out other conditions with tests like chest X-rays, pulmonary function tests, and possibly endoscopy or pH monitoring for GERD.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, such as managing asthma with inhalers, controlling GERD with antacids or proton pump inhibitors, or using decongestants or antihistamines for post-nasal drip.

Medications:
Medications may include bronchodilators like albuterol (a beta-agonist), inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ), antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine ), proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole ), or cough suppressants like dextromethorphan (a non-opioid antitussive). These medications fall into categories of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antihistamines, proton pump inhibitors, and antitussives.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-20% of the adult population. Chronic cough is a common reason for medical visits.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, allergies, asthma, exposure to environmental irritants, respiratory infections, GERD.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying cause; with appropriate treatment, most cases resolve or improve significantly. If the underlying cause is not treated, the cough may persist.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, chronic cough can lead to sleep disturbances, rib fractures, urinary incontinence, or headaches.

Dyspnea (Shortness of Breath)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Other Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; rapid breathing; feeling of suffocation or tight chest; fatigue

Root Cause:
Dyspnea may result from obstructive pulmonary diseases (e.g., COPD, asthma), heart failure, anemia, anxiety, or pulmonary embolism.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves history taking, physical examination, pulse oximetry, chest X-ray, blood tests, and pulmonary function tests to assess lung and heart function.

Treatment:
Treatment targets the underlying cause, including bronchodilators, oxygen therapy, diuretics (for heart failure), or anti-anxiety medications.

Medications:
Common medications include bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone for inflammation), oxygen therapy, and diuretics (e.g., furosemide for fluid retention in heart failure). These medications belong to the categories of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, diuretics, and anti-anxiety agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Dyspnea is a common symptom in conditions like COPD and heart failure, affecting millions worldwide. It is a major reason for hospital admissions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, obesity, cardiovascular disease, lung disease, physical inactivity, anxiety.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the underlying condition. With treatment, many individuals experience improvement, though chronic conditions like COPD may have a progressive course.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Untreated dyspnea can lead to severe hypoxia, fatigue, and reduced quality of life. In chronic cases, it can lead to cardiac or respiratory failure.

Pulmonary Eosinophilia

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Other Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
cough; shortness of breath; wheezing; fever; fatigue; chest pain

Root Cause:
Pulmonary eosinophilia is characterized by an increase in eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the lungs, often triggered by allergies, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis includes blood tests showing elevated eosinophil counts, chest imaging (CT scan), and sometimes bronchoscopy with biopsy.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) to reduce inflammation and addressing any underlying causes (e.g., infection or allergy).

Medications:
Common medications include corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for inflammation and antibiotics if an infection is present. These are classified as corticosteroids and antibiotics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare; more common in individuals with allergies or asthma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Allergies, asthma, infections (e.g., parasitic), autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, the condition often improves, though recurrence can occur if the underlying cause is not resolved.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Untreated pulmonary eosinophilia may lead to lung damage, fibrosis, or respiratory failure in severe cases.

Atherosclerosis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Symptoms:
chest pain or discomfort (angina); shortness of breath; fatigue; muscle weakness; cold or numb extremities; poor wound healing in extremities

Root Cause:
Buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in the arterial walls, leading to narrowing and reduced blood flow.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for cholesterol and triglycerides; angiography; ultrasound of blood vessels; CT or MRI scans; ankle-brachial index (ABI) test for peripheral artery disease

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), medications to reduce cholesterol and prevent clots, and procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery if necessary.

Medications:
Medications include statins (e.g., atorvastatin or rosuvastatin ) to reduce cholesterol, antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin , clopidogrel ) to prevent blood clots, and antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors like lisinopril or beta-blockers like metoprolol ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally; the leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High LDL cholesterol; hypertension; diabetes; obesity; smoking; family history of heart disease; sedentary lifestyle

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive disease that can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart attack; stroke; peripheral artery disease; aneurysms; chronic kidney disease

Stable Angina

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Symptoms:
chest pain or discomfort triggered by physical activity or stress; pain usually subsides with rest; shortness of breath; nausea

Root Cause:
Reduced blood flow to the heart due to atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG); exercise stress test; coronary angiography; blood tests for cardiac enzymes

Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications, medications to improve blood flow and reduce heart workload, and coronary interventions if needed.

Medications:
Medications include nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin ) to relieve chest pain, beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ) to reduce heart workload, calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine ), and antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin ) to prevent clot formation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals with coronary artery disease, especially those aged 50+.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking; high cholesterol; high blood pressure; obesity; sedentary lifestyle; family history of heart disease

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms are controllable with medications and lifestyle changes, but it may progress to more severe forms of coronary artery disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progression to unstable angina; myocardial infarction; heart failure

Systolic Heart Failure (Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Heart Failure

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; swelling in legs, ankles, and feet; persistent cough or wheezing; reduced exercise tolerance

Root Cause:
Impaired ability of the left ventricle to pump blood effectively due to weakened heart muscle.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiography to measure ejection fraction; chest X-ray; BNP blood test; ECG; cardiac MRI

Treatment:
Medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, devices like ICDs or LVADs; heart transplantation in severe cases.

Medications:
Medications include ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril ), beta-blockers (e.g., bisoprolol ), diuretics (e.g., furosemide ), aldosterone antagonists (e.g., spironolactone ), and angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) (e.g., sacubitril /valsartan ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among older adults with cardiovascular disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension; coronary artery disease; myocardial infarction; diabetes; obesity

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with variable outcomes; prognosis improves with optimal medical therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias; kidney damage; liver congestion; cardiac arrest

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Heart Failure

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; swelling in legs, feet, and abdomen; persistent cough or wheezing; fatigue; weight gain due to fluid retention

Root Cause:
Reduced heart function leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and other tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiography; chest X-ray; BNP blood test; ECG; cardiac MRI

Treatment:
Comprehensive management includes lifestyle changes, medications, and device therapy like ICDs or biventricular pacemakers.

Medications:
Medications include ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ), diuretics (e.g., furosemide ), aldosterone antagonists (e.g., spironolactone ), and ARNIs (e.g., sacubitril /valsartan ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally, especially in older adults with comorbid conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension; coronary artery disease; diabetes; obesity; valvular heart disease

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive, but with treatment, quality of life and longevity can improve significantly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney dysfunction; arrhythmias; pulmonary edema; cardiac arrest

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Cardiomyopathies

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet; irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias); chest pain or discomfort; fainting episodes

Root Cause:
The heart's ventricles (usually the left) become enlarged and weakened, reducing the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, echocardiogram, EKG, chest X-ray, cardiac MRI, blood tests, and sometimes a heart biopsy.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, medications, implanted devices (e.g., pacemakers or defibrillators), and in severe cases, heart transplantation.

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., carvedilol , metoprolol ), ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril , lisinopril ), ARBs (e.g., losartan , valsartan ), diuretics (e.g., furosemide ), aldosterone antagonists (e.g., spironolactone ), and anticoagulants if there is a risk of blood clots.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 250 individuals; more common in men and often diagnosed in middle age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, viral infections, chronic alcohol use, chemotherapy, uncontrolled hypertension, or autoimmune conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; many patients live normal lives with treatment, though severe cases may progress to heart failure requiring advanced therapies.

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

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Genetic Contributions to Common Diseases

Sub-category: Cardiovascular Disorders

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; fainting (syncope); palpitations; fatigue; sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases

Root Cause:
Genetic mutations in sarcomeric proteins lead to abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, particularly in the left ventricle, impairing normal function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), genetic testing, cardiac MRI, and family history assessment.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, medications, surgical interventions (myectomy), septal ablation, or implantation of a cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil ), and antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., amiodarone ). Beta-blockers help reduce heart rate and workload, while calcium channel blockers improve relaxation of the heart muscle.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1 in 500 individuals worldwide; higher in families with known genetic mutations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of HCM, genetic mutations in sarcomeric proteins, young age at diagnosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases can be managed effectively, but the risk of sudden cardiac death remains, especially in untreated or undiagnosed cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias, heart failure, stroke, and sudden cardiac death.

Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Cardiomyopathies

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; swelling in the legs, ankles, and abdomen; palpitations; reduced exercise tolerance

Root Cause:
Stiffness of the heart muscle impairs its ability to fill with blood, leading to diastolic dysfunction while systolic function remains relatively normal.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, EKG, blood tests, and sometimes biopsy.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, as the condition is often progressive. Diuretics and anticoagulants may be used, and underlying causes (e.g., amyloidosis) are treated if identified.

Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) for symptom relief, anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin ) if atrial fibrillation is present, and medications specific to the underlying cause, such as tafamidis for transthyretin amyloidosis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; exact prevalence unknown but often associated with other systemic diseases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Amyloidosis, sarcoidosis, hemochromatosis, radiation therapy, and connective tissue disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally poor without specific treatment for the underlying cause; supportive care can improve quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, arrhythmias, heart failure, and thromboembolic events.

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Cardiomyopathies

Symptoms:
palpitations; dizziness or fainting; shortness of breath; chest pain; sudden cardiac death during physical activity

Root Cause:
A genetic condition where the muscle tissue of the right ventricle is replaced by fat and fibrous tissue, leading to arrhythmias.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
EKG, echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, genetic testing, and sometimes a biopsy.

Treatment:
Lifestyle modification (avoiding strenuous exercise), medications, ICDs, and catheter ablation for arrhythmias.

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., bisoprolol ) and antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone , sotalol ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 5,000 people; more common in athletes and often diagnosed in young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations (e.g., desmosomal protein genes), family history, and vigorous physical activity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong condition requiring close monitoring; risk of sudden cardiac death in untreated cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death.

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (Stress-Induced Cardiomyopathy)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Cardiomyopathies

Symptoms:
sudden chest pain; shortness of breath; palpitations; fainting; symptoms mimicking a heart attack

Root Cause:
Temporary weakening or ballooning of the left ventricle, often triggered by extreme emotional or physical stress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, blood tests (troponin), coronary angiography to rule out blocked arteries.

Treatment:
Supportive care, managing symptoms, and addressing triggers. Most patients recover within weeks.

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ), ACE inhibitors (e.g., ramipril ), and diuretics (e.g., spironolactone ) for heart function recovery.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for about 1-2% of all cases initially suspected to be heart attacks; more common in postmenopausal women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Extreme emotional or physical stress, prior mental health conditions, female sex, and postmenopausal status.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate care; most patients recover fully within weeks.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias, heart failure, cardiogenic shock, and recurrence in some cases.

Aortic Stenosis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Valvular Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
chest pain (angina); shortness of breath; fatigue; fainting (syncope); heart murmur

Root Cause:
Narrowing of the aortic valve opening, leading to restricted blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through echocardiography to assess valve narrowing and blood flow, often supported by auscultation of a systolic murmur.

Treatment:
Treatment involves valve replacement or repair, typically through surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Medications:
Medications may include beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to reduce the heart’s workload, diuretics to manage fluid overload, and ACE inhibitors or ARBs for concurrent hypertension. These are supportive treatments rather than curative.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 2-4% of individuals over 65 years old in developed countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging; bicuspid aortic valve; rheumatic fever; calcium buildup on the valve; congenital valve abnormalities

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely valve replacement; untreated severe cases lead to heart failure or death within a few years after symptom onset.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure; arrhythmias; sudden cardiac death; endocarditis; blood clots

Mitral Stenosis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Valvular Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; palpitations; swollen feet or ankles; hemoptysis (coughing up blood); heart murmur

Root Cause:
Narrowing of the mitral valve, leading to restricted blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via echocardiography to measure mitral valve area and detect restricted flow, often accompanied by auscultation of a diastolic murmur.

Treatment:
Treatment includes percutaneous balloon valvotomy, surgical repair, or valve replacement, often supported by diuretics for symptom control.

Medications:
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants) to prevent thromboembolism, beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to manage atrial fibrillation, and diuretics to reduce pulmonary congestion.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in developed countries; more common in developing regions due to rheumatic fever.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of rheumatic fever; female sex; atrial fibrillation; endocarditis

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated cases often progress to severe pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Atrial fibrillation; pulmonary hypertension; stroke; heart failure

Mitral Regurgitation

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Valvular Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; palpitations; swelling in feet or ankles; heart murmur

Root Cause:
Mitral valve allows blood to flow backward into the left atrium, causing volume overload in the heart.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Evaluated with echocardiography to visualize regurgitant flow and assess valve structure and function.

Treatment:
Options include medical management for symptoms and surgical repair or replacement in severe or symptomatic cases.

Medications:
Vasodilators (e.g., ACE inhibitors or ARBs), diuretics for fluid management, and anticoagulants if atrial fibrillation is present.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 2% of the population; prevalence increases with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Connective tissue disorders; rheumatic fever; infective endocarditis; previous heart attack

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely intervention; untreated severe regurgitation can lead to heart failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure; atrial fibrillation; pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonic Stenosis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Valvular Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; chest pain; heart murmur; fainting (syncope); cyanosis in severe cases

Root Cause:
Narrowing of the pulmonic valve restricts blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary arteries, increasing the workload on the right heart.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with echocardiography and Doppler imaging to measure valve narrowing and pressure gradients.

Treatment:
Managed with balloon valvuloplasty or surgical intervention in severe or symptomatic cases.

Medications:
Medications are typically not needed, but diuretics may be used to manage fluid retention in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A rare congenital heart defect, occurring in about 0.6-0.8 per 1,000 live births.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Congenital heart defects; Noonan syndrome; Carcinoid syndrome

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated severe cases can lead to right-sided heart failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Right-sided heart failure; arrhythmias; cyanosis; infective endocarditis

Pulmonic Regurgitation

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Valvular Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; swelling in the legs or abdomen; palpitations; heart murmur

Root Cause:
The pulmonic valve doesn’t close properly, allowing blood to flow back into the right ventricle, causing volume overload and strain on the right side of the heart.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Evaluated using echocardiography to detect regurgitant flow and assess right heart function.

Treatment:
Typically monitored, with surgical or transcatheter valve replacement reserved for severe cases causing right heart dysfunction.

Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) for fluid management; vasodilators (e.g., prostacyclin analogs or endothelin receptor antagonists) may be used to address underlying pulmonary hypertension.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare as an isolated condition; more commonly secondary to pulmonary hypertension or previous cardiac surgery.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Pulmonary hypertension; tetralogy of Fallot repair; endocarditis; rheumatic fever

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated cases can lead to right-sided heart failure over time.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Right-sided heart failure; arrhythmias; infective endocarditis

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Congenital Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
heart murmur; difficulty feeding in infants; poor growth; fatigue; shortness of breath; frequent respiratory infections

Root Cause:
A hole in the ventricular septum (wall separating the heart's lower chambers) allows oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix, leading to increased blood flow to the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiogram, chest X-ray, ECG, cardiac MRI, or cardiac catheterization.

Treatment:
Small VSDs may close on their own; larger defects require surgical repair or catheter-based closure.

Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) to manage fluid overload, ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril ) to reduce heart strain, and digoxin to improve heart function.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The most common congenital heart defect, occurring in 1-3 per 1,000 live births.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome), maternal infections, or toxin exposure during pregnancy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Very good if repaired early; untreated large defects may lead to heart failure or Eisenmenger syndrome.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, endocarditis, arrhythmias, heart failure.

Tetralogy of Fallot

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Congenital Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
cyanosis (bluish skin); shortness of breath; clubbing of fingers and toes; poor weight gain; fainting; heart murmur

Root Cause:
A combination of four defects

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiogram, chest X-ray (showing a "boot-shaped" heart), ECG, pulse oximetry, cardiac catheterization, or cardiac MRI.

Treatment:
Surgical repair (intracardiac repair) during infancy; temporary shunt placement may be needed for stabilization.

Medications:
Prostaglandins (to keep the ductus arteriosus open in neonates), beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol ) to manage "Tet spells" (cyanotic episodes).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 1 in 3,000 live births.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome), maternal rubella or toxin exposure during pregnancy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with surgery; ongoing monitoring for arrhythmias or pulmonary valve issues is required.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias, pulmonary regurgitation, heart failure, sudden cardiac death.

Ebstein’s Anomaly

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Congenital Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
cyanosis; shortness of breath; heart palpitations; fatigue; heart murmur; swelling in the legs or abdomen

Root Cause:
Malformation of the tricuspid valve, which is displaced downward into the right ventricle, causing abnormal blood flow and heart function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiogram, chest X-ray, ECG, or cardiac MRI.

Treatment:
Observation for mild cases, surgical repair or valve replacement for severe cases, and arrhythmia management with medication or catheter ablation.

Medications:
Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., amiodarone or sotalol ) to manage arrhythmias; diuretics to manage fluid retention.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, occurring in about 1 in 20,000 live births.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Maternal lithium use during pregnancy, genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies depending on severity; mild cases may have a near-normal life expectancy, while severe cases require surgical intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, arrhythmias, stroke, infective endocarditis.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disorders)

Symptoms:
irregular or rapid heartbeat; palpitations; shortness of breath; fatigue; dizziness; chest pain

Root Cause:
Abnormal electrical signals in the atria cause them to beat irregularly and out of sync with the ventricles.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), Holter monitor, echocardiogram, stress tests, or event recorders.

Treatment:
Rate control (medications), rhythm control (medications or cardioversion), catheter ablation, and lifestyle modifications (e.g., weight loss, avoiding triggers).

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem ), antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone ), and anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin , apixaban , or rivaroxaban ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1–2% of the global population, with increasing prevalence in individuals over 65 years of age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, obesity, diabetes, alcohol consumption, and hyperthyroidism.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate management, patients can maintain a good quality of life, but the condition increases the risk of stroke and heart failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, heart failure, blood clots, and cardiomyopathy.

Atrial Flutter

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disorders)

Symptoms:
rapid heart rate; palpitations; shortness of breath; fatigue; lightheadedness; chest discomfort

Root Cause:
Abnormal electrical signals in the atria create a "sawtooth" rhythm, leading to rapid and organized contractions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), Holter monitor, or electrophysiology study.

Treatment:
Cardioversion, catheter ablation, rate control, and rhythm control with medications or procedures.

Medications:
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem ), beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ), anticoagulants (e.g., dabigatran or warfarin ), and antiarrhythmics (e.g., sotalol or flecainide ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than AFib, with an estimated prevalence of 0.1–1% in the general population, more common in older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, hypertension, previous heart surgery, structural heart disease, and thyroid dysfunction.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often treatable, especially with catheter ablation, but recurrence is possible without intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, heart failure, and progression to atrial fibrillation.

Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disorders)

Symptoms:
rapid heartbeat; palpitations; dizziness; shortness of breath; chest tightness; fainting (syncope)

Root Cause:
Rapid electrical activity originating above the ventricles, often due to reentrant circuits or accessory pathways.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), Holter monitor, event recorder, or electrophysiology study.

Treatment:
Vagal maneuvers, cardioversion, catheter ablation, and lifestyle modifications (e.g., avoiding stimulants like caffeine).

Medications:
Adenosine (acute episodes), beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil ), and antiarrhythmics (e.g., flecainide ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated at 2.25 per 1,000 people, with a higher prevalence in women and younger individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Structural heart abnormalities, accessory pathways (e.g., Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome), thyroid dysfunction, and caffeine or stimulant use.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually benign and treatable, especially with catheter ablation, but recurrent episodes can affect quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, syncope, or progression to more severe arrhythmias.

Sick Sinus Syndrome

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disorders)

Symptoms:
fatigue; dizziness; syncope (fainting); bradycardia or tachycardia; shortness of breath; palpitations

Root Cause:
Dysfunction of the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart's natural pacemaker, causing irregular heart rhythms (bradycardia, tachycardia, or alternating rhythms).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
ECG, Holter monitoring, event monitoring, or electrophysiological studies.

Treatment:
Pacemaker implantation is the primary treatment; antiarrhythmic medications may be needed for tachyarrhythmias.

Medications:
For tachyarrhythmias, beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem ), or antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone ) may be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in the elderly, with increasing prevalence due to aging; estimated to affect 1 in 600 cardiac patients over age 65.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, heart disease, hypothyroidism, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With a pacemaker, most individuals live normal lives, though it may indicate underlying cardiac conditions.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Syncope, heart failure, stroke (due to tachyarrhythmias like atrial fibrillation).

Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome (WPW)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disorders)

Symptoms:
palpitations; dizziness; shortness of breath; chest pain; syncope; rapid heart rate (tachycardia)

Root Cause:
Presence of an extra electrical pathway (accessory pathway) in the heart leads to episodes of tachycardia or pre-excitation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
ECG showing a shortened PR interval and delta waves, electrophysiological testing, or Holter monitoring.

Treatment:
Catheter ablation is the preferred treatment; vagal maneuvers and medications may control acute episodes.

Medications:
Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., procainamide or flecainide ) may be used to manage symptoms. Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers are avoided if atrial fibrillation is present.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, occurring in about 1-3 per 1,000 people; often diagnosed in younger individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Congenital condition; family history may play a role.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with catheter ablation; untreated WPW may lead to life-threatening arrhythmias.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sudden cardiac arrest, atrial fibrillation, or supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

Heart Block

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Arrhythmias (Heart Rhythm Disorders)

Symptoms:
fatigue; dizziness; fainting; shortness of breath; bradycardia

Root Cause:
Impaired electrical conduction between the atria and ventricles, ranging from delayed conduction (first-degree) to complete block (third-degree).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
ECG, Holter monitoring, or electrophysiological studies.

Treatment:
May include pacemaker implantation for symptomatic or advanced cases.

Medications:
No specific medications for heart block, but beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers may worsen conduction delays. Pacemakers manage severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
First-degree block

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, Lyme disease, and medications (e.g., digoxin, beta-blockers).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
First-degree has an excellent prognosis. Advanced blocks require pacemaker but can allow a normal life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Syncope, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases.

Endocarditis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; heart murmurs; shortness of breath; unexplained weight loss; petechiae (tiny red spots on the skin); janeway lesions or osler nodes

Root Cause:
Infection or inflammation of the endocardium (inner lining of the heart) and often the heart valves, typically caused by bacteria or fungi entering the bloodstream.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through blood cultures and echocardiography to detect infection and vegetation

Treatment:
Treated with prolonged intravenous antibiotics and sometimes valve surgery.

Medications:
Antibiotics such as penicillin, ceftriaxone , or vancomycin (bacterial infections); antifungals like amphotericin B for fungal endocarditis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 3-10 cases per 100,000 people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prosthetic heart valves; congenital heart defects; IV drug use; previous endocarditis; rheumatic heart disease

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, prognosis is generally good; untreated, it is often fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart valve damage; heart failure; stroke or embolism; abscess formation; sepsis

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Heart Diseases

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Infectious Heart Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; swelling in the legs; heart murmur

Root Cause:
Chronic damage to the heart valves caused by an autoimmune response to untreated streptococcal infections (group A strep).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by echocardiography and clinical history of rheumatic fever.

Treatment:
Treatment includes antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and valve repair or replacement for severe damage.

Medications:
Long-term antibiotics (e.g., penicillin prophylaxis), diuretics for fluid management, and anticoagulants to prevent embolism.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 39 million people worldwide, primarily in low-income countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Untreated strep throat; poverty; poor access to healthcare; overcrowding

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong monitoring and treatment required; severe valve damage may necessitate surgery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure; arrhythmias; stroke; infective endocarditis

Essential Hypertension (Primary Hypertension)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Symptoms:
often asymptomatic; headaches; dizziness; blurred vision; shortness of breath; nosebleeds (rare)

Root Cause:
Chronic elevation of blood pressure with no identifiable secondary cause, likely due to genetic and environmental factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Repeated blood pressure measurements; ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM); basic labs (CBC, CMP, lipid panel, urinalysis); EKG to check for complications

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, dietary modifications (DASH diet), regular physical activity, weight management, and pharmacological interventions.

Medications:
First-line medications include thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide ), ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ), ARBs (e.g., losartan ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine ), and beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol , used in select patients).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 30-45% of adults globally; prevalence increases with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history; obesity; high salt intake; sedentary lifestyle; smoking; alcohol consumption; stress; age (older individuals)

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be well-managed with treatment; untreated hypertension significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Left ventricular hypertrophy; heart failure; stroke; chronic kidney disease; retinopathy; vascular dementia

Hypertensive Crisis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Symptoms:
severe headache; blurred vision; shortness of breath; chest pain; confusion; nausea/vomiting; nosebleeds

Root Cause:
Sudden, severe elevation of blood pressure (≥180/120 mmHg) with or without acute organ damage. Hypertensive emergency involves organ damage, while urgency does not.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood pressure measurement; assessment for end-organ damage (e.g., labs for kidney function, EKG, imaging for stroke or heart damage)

Treatment:
Immediate reduction of blood pressure in a controlled manner to prevent or minimize organ damage. In emergencies, intravenous medications are used.

Medications:
For hypertensive emergencies, IV medications such as nitroprusside (vasodilator), labetalol (beta-blocker), or nicardipine (calcium channel blocker). For urgency, oral medications like captopril (ACE inhibitor) or clonidine (alpha agonist) are used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, but more common in patients with poorly controlled hypertension or non-adherence to treatment.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Uncontrolled hypertension; kidney disease; pheochromocytoma; pregnancy-related hypertension (e.g., preeclampsia); sudden discontinuation of antihypertensive medications

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, prognosis is good; delayed treatment can lead to permanent organ damage or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke; heart attack; acute kidney injury; pulmonary edema; aortic dissection

Myxoma

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Heart Tumors

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; palpitations; syncope (fainting); systemic embolism (stroke or arterial blockage); fever; fatigue

Root Cause:
A benign tumor originating in the heart, most commonly in the left atrium, attached to the interatrial septum.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed via echocardiography or cardiac MRI.

Treatment:
Treated with surgical resection.

Medications:
No specific medications treat myxoma itself; anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin ) may be used to prevent embolic events if indicated.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated prevalence of 0.5 per million people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sporadic in most cases; familial forms may occur in Carney complex (a genetic syndrome).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with surgical removal; recurrence is rare but possible in familial cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Embolic events (stroke, organ infarction), valve obstruction, arrhythmias, sudden death.

Rhabdomyoma

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Dyslipidemia

Symptoms:
heart murmurs; arrhythmias; heart failure; shortness of breath; cyanosis in severe cases

Root Cause:
A benign tumor of the heart muscle, often associated with tuberous sclerosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with echocardiography or MRI, often in infants or children.

Treatment:
Treatment may not be required as many regress spontaneously, but surgery is needed if symptomatic.

Medications:
Everolimus (an mTOR inhibitor) may reduce tumor size in tuberous sclerosis-associated rhabdomyomas.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with most cases occurring in infants and children.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Tuberous sclerosis (genetic disorder).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good; many regress spontaneously. Symptomatic cases improve after surgery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Obstructed blood flow, arrhythmias, heart failure.

Metastatic Tumors to the Heart

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Dyslipidemia

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; arrhythmias; heart failure symptoms; pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart)

Root Cause:
Secondary invasion of the heart by cancers such as lung, breast, or melanoma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through imaging like echocardiography, CT, or MRI, and biopsy if needed.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on palliative care, chemotherapy, or radiation for the primary cancer.

Medications:
Depends on the primary cancer type (e.g., platinum-based chemotherapy for lung cancer).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common than primary cardiac tumors; seen in advanced cancer cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced-stage cancer, aggressive malignancies, hematogenous spread.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor, due to advanced disease.

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

Cardiogenic Shock

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Shock Syndromes

Symptoms:
hypotension; cold, clammy skin; altered mental status; weak pulse; reduced urine output; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Severe pump failure, often due to myocardial infarction (heart attack) or advanced heart failure.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by clinical signs, echocardiography, and hemodynamic monitoring.

Treatment:
Treated with inotropes, mechanical support (e.g., intra-aortic balloon pump), and addressing the underlying cause.

Medications:
Vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine ), inotropes (e.g., dobutamine ), and diuretics if pulmonary congestion is present.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 5–10% of acute myocardial infarctions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Acute MI, heart failure, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality (~40–50%) even with treatment.

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

Obstructive Shock

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Shock Syndromes

Symptoms:
severe hypotension; shortness of breath; distended neck veins; cold extremities

Root Cause:
Physical obstruction to blood flow (e.g., pulmonary embolism, cardiac tamponade).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by imaging (e.g., echocardiography or CT) to identify obstruction.

Treatment:
Treated by relieving the obstruction (e.g., thrombolysis for pulmonary embolism, pericardiocentesis for tamponade).

Medications:
Thrombolytics (e.g., alteplase ) for pulmonary embolism; vasopressors may stabilize hemodynamics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than other shock types; associated with specific conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Pulmonary embolism, trauma, malignancy, pericarditis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable, depending on the cause and promptness of treatment.

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

Complications of Heart Valve Surgery

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Post-Surgical/Cardiac Intervention Complications

Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; shortness of breath; chest pain; arrhythmias; swelling in legs; wound infection symptoms (redness, discharge)

Root Cause:
Complications can arise from mechanical valve malfunction, infection (endocarditis), or issues related to prosthetic valve placement (e.g., thrombosis, structural degeneration).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Echocardiography (TTE or TEE), blood cultures (for infections), imaging studies (e.g., CT for paravalvular leaks), and clinical symptoms.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the complication.

Medications:
Antibiotics for infection (e.g., vancomycin , ceftriaxone ); anticoagulants like warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for thromboembolism; diuretics or antiarrhythmic drugs for heart failure or arrhythmias.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies depending on the type of valve and procedure; prosthetic valve endocarditis occurs in 1-6% of cases, while mechanical valve thrombosis is less frequent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, diabetes, poor surgical technique, previous infections, inadequate anticoagulation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment but varies by complication; prosthetic valve endocarditis can have a high mortality rate if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection (endocarditis), valve dysfunction (stenosis or regurgitation), paravalvular leaks, thromboembolism, arrhythmias, bleeding from anticoagulation.

Complications of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Post-Surgical/Cardiac Intervention Complications

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath; fever (infection); arrhythmias; leg pain or swelling (if graft is from the leg)

Root Cause:
Complications may arise from graft failure, wound infections, arrhythmias, or stroke during or after the surgery.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Angiography (to assess graft patency), blood cultures (for infections), imaging studies (CT or ultrasound), and echocardiography.

Treatment:
Depends on the complication.

Medications:
Aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitors (e.g., clopidogrel ) to prevent graft thrombosis; antibiotics for infections; beta-blockers or amiodarone for arrhythmias; statins to manage cholesterol.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Major complications occur in about 5-12% of patients, with infection rates around 1-2% and graft failure rates around 10% within the first year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, diabetes, obesity, smoking, poor graft selection, and poor perioperative care.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with successful surgery, but long-term outcomes depend on the patient's adherence to lifestyle changes and medications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Graft occlusion, infection (sternal or leg wound), atrial fibrillation, heart attack, stroke.

Stent Thrombosis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Post-Surgical/Cardiac Intervention Complications

Symptoms:
sudden chest pain; shortness of breath; heart attack symptoms (e.g., diaphoresis, nausea); fainting

Root Cause:
Blood clot formation within a coronary stent, leading to partial or complete obstruction of the coronary artery.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Coronary angiography confirms the presence of a clot in the stent; elevated cardiac biomarkers (troponin) support myocardial injury.

Treatment:
Emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to restore blood flow; thrombolytic therapy in some cases.

Medications:
Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitors (e.g., clopidogrel , ticagrelor , or prasugrel ); anticoagulants like heparin during PCI.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, occurring in approximately 0.5-1% of patients after stent placement.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy, suboptimal stent placement, diabetes, smoking, and acute coronary syndrome at presentation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor if untreated, as it often leads to myocardial infarction or death; better outcomes with prompt revascularization.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmias, 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.

Hemochromatosis-Related Cardiomyopathy

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Metabolic and Genetic Cardiovascular Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; chest pain; palpitations; edema in legs; irregular heartbeat; signs of heart failure

Root Cause:
Excessive iron deposition in the heart muscle, leading to oxidative damage, fibrosis, and impaired heart function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (serum ferritin, transferrin saturation), genetic testing (HFE gene mutations), cardiac MRI (to assess iron overload), echocardiography, and liver biopsy (to confirm systemic iron overload).

Treatment:
Iron removal through phlebotomy or chelation therapy, and management of heart failure symptoms.

Medications:
Deferoxamine , deferasirox , or deferiprone (iron chelators). These are used to reduce iron overload in patients who cannot undergo phlebotomy. Diuretics and beta-blockers may also be used to manage heart failure symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hemochromatosis affects approximately 1 in 200–300 individuals of European descent; cardiomyopathy develops in a subset of untreated cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition (HFE gene mutations), male sex, excessive alcohol consumption, metabolic syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if diagnosed and treated early; untreated cases can lead to severe heart failure and other organ damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, arrhythmias, liver cirrhosis, diabetes, hypogonadism.

Fabry Disease

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Metabolic and Genetic Cardiovascular Disorders

Symptoms:
pain in hands and feet; decreased sweating; heat and cold intolerance; fatigue; angiokeratomas (dark skin spots); proteinuria; shortness of breath; cardiomyopathy; arrhythmias

Root Cause:
X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the GLA gene, leading to deficient alpha-galactosidase A activity and accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (GL3/Gb3) in tissues, including the heart.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Enzyme assay (alpha-galactosidase A activity), genetic testing (GLA mutation), urine tests (for GL3 levels), echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and biopsy.

Treatment:
Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) or chaperone therapy, supportive care for symptoms, and management of cardiac and renal complications.

Medications:
Agalsidase alfa or beta (enzyme replacement therapy), migalastat (chaperone therapy). Diuretics and ACE inhibitors are used for heart and kidney complications, respectively. ERT replaces deficient enzymes; migalastat stabilizes mutant enzymes in eligible patients.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, estimated at 1 in 40,000 to 1 in 60,000 males; females can be carriers or mildly symptomatic.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, X-linked inheritance (affects males more severely).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Improved with early diagnosis and treatment. Untreated cases may lead to progressive kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, stroke, kidney failure.

Cardiac Syndrome X (Microvascular Angina)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Lifestyle-Related and Functional Disorders

Symptoms:
chest pain during physical or emotional stress; fatigue; shortness of breath; chest tightness without coronary artery blockages

Root Cause:
Impaired blood flow in the coronary microvasculature due to endothelial dysfunction or increased sensitivity to stimuli, without significant large coronary artery blockages.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Exclusion of coronary artery disease via angiography; stress testing; coronary flow reserve measurement using imaging like PET or cardiac MRI.

Treatment:
Symptom management with lifestyle changes, medications, and stress reduction techniques.

Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ) to reduce heart workload, calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem ) to improve blood flow, and nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin ) for angina relief. Antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin ) may be considered.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2-4% of patients undergoing angiography for chest pain, more common in women than men.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female sex (postmenopausal), hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and chronic stress.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis as it’s not usually associated with myocardial infarction; symptoms can be persistent but manageable.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic angina, reduced quality of life, and potential overlap with other cardiovascular conditions.

Deconditioning (from Prolonged Inactivity)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Other Cardiovascular Conditions

Sub-category: Lifestyle-Related and Functional Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; reduced exercise tolerance; shortness of breath; muscle weakness; lightheadedness

Root Cause:
Loss of cardiovascular and muscular efficiency due to prolonged physical inactivity, leading to reduced cardiac output, muscle atrophy, and orthostatic intolerance.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation; exercise stress testing; assessment of muscle strength and endurance; postural vital sign measurements (e.g., orthostatic hypotension).

Treatment:
Gradual reconditioning with supervised exercise programs (e.g., aerobic and resistance training), physical therapy, and dietary optimization.

Medications:
Medications are typically not necessary unless treating underlying conditions such as orthostatic hypotension (e.g., midodrine ) or cardiac issues (e.g., beta-blockers).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals with prolonged hospitalization, chronic illness, or sedentary lifestyles; prevalence increases with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Bed rest, chronic illness, aging, sedentary lifestyle, prolonged recovery after injury or surgery.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Full recovery is possible with proper rehabilitation; untreated deconditioning can lead to chronic fatigue, frailty, and cardiovascular decline.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of falls, cardiovascular decompensation, and prolonged recovery from illness or surgery.

Thyroid Storm (Thyrotoxic Crisis)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Thyroid Disorders

Sub-category: Other Thyroid Disorders

Symptoms:
high fever; rapid heart rate (tachycardia); nervousness or anxiety; tremors; confusion; diarrhea; vomiting; extreme fatigue; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Severe, life-threatening exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, often triggered by infection, surgery, trauma, or untreated Graves' disease.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation (severe hyperthyroid symptoms), lab tests showing suppressed TSH and elevated T3/T4 levels, alongside exclusion of other conditions (e.g., sepsis).

Treatment:
Immediate hospitalization, beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) for symptom control, antithyroid medications (e.g., methimazole or propylthiouracil), iodine to inhibit thyroid hormone release, and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Medications:
Methimazole or propylthiouracil (antithyroid drugs); propranolol (beta-blocker); potassium iodide (iodine preparation ); hydrocortisone (corticosteroid).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, occurring in approximately 1–2% of patients with untreated or poorly managed hyperthyroidism.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Untreated hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease, recent surgery, infection, pregnancy, or iodine exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality if untreated (up to 30%); prognosis improves significantly with prompt treatment.

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

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.

Carcinoid Syndrome

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Rare Endocrine Disorders

Symptoms:
flushing of the skin; diarrhea; abdominal cramping; heart palpitations; shortness of breath; wheezing; weight loss; skin lesions; edema; carcinoid heart disease (in advanced cases)

Root Cause:
Excessive secretion of serotonin and other vasoactive substances by carcinoid tumors, usually arising in the gastrointestinal tract or lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through elevated 24-hour urinary 5-HIAA levels and imaging to locate neuroendocrine tumors.

Treatment:
Treatment includes somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide), symptom control, and surgical resection or targeted therapies for tumor management.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide or lanreotide )

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects approximately 1-2 individuals per 100,000 annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of neuroendocrine tumors, conditions like MEN1 syndrome, smoking, and previous cancer diagnoses.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on the extent of disease; with localized tumors, 5-year survival exceeds 80%, but metastatic disease lowers survival rates to approximately 30%-50%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Carcinoid heart disease (fibrotic damage to heart valves). Intestinal obstruction or bleeding from primary tumors. Severe malnutrition due to chronic diarrhea. Hormone crisis during tumor manipulation or anesthesia.

Upper GI Bleeding (e.g., Varices, Peptic Ulcers)

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions

Sub-category: Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Symptoms:
hematemesis (vomiting blood); melena (black, tarry stools); weakness; dizziness; abdominal pain; shortness of breath; fatigue

Root Cause:
Bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, commonly caused by peptic ulcers, gastric or esophageal varices, Mallory-Weiss tears, or erosive gastritis/esophagitis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), stool guaiac test, complete blood count (CBC) to check hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, and imaging if required.

Treatment:
Stabilization with intravenous fluids and blood transfusions if necessary, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), endoscopic interventions (e.g., banding or sclerotherapy for varices, cauterization for ulcers), and in severe cases, surgery or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS).

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole , pantoprazole ) to reduce acid production, octreotide (a somatostatin analog) to control variceal bleeding, and antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone ) to prevent infections in variceal cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 50-150 per 100,000 people annually; variceal bleeding is common in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic use of NSAIDs, Helicobacter pylori infection, liver cirrhosis, alcohol abuse, coagulopathies, and high blood pressure in the portal vein.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, most cases are manageable; however, recurrent bleeding and mortality are significant concerns, especially in variceal cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypovolemic shock, recurrent bleeding, organ failure, and in variceal cases, high mortality if untreated.

Ascites (Abdominal Fluid Accumulation)

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions

Sub-category: Peritoneal Disorders

Symptoms:
abdominal distension; weight gain; shortness of breath; abdominal discomfort; nausea; early satiety

Root Cause:
Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, commonly caused by liver cirrhosis, but also associated with cancers, heart failure, or infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam (shifting dullness, fluid wave test), ultrasound for fluid detection, and paracentesis to analyze the ascitic fluid (e.g., albumin gradient, cell count, cultures).

Treatment:
Management of the underlying cause (e.g., liver disease), sodium restriction, diuretics (e.g., spironolactone and furosemide), therapeutic paracentesis for symptomatic relief, and in severe cases, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or liver transplant.

Medications:
Diuretics such as spironolactone (potassium-sparing) and furosemide (loop diuretic) to reduce fluid accumulation. Albumin infusions post-paracentesis to prevent complications like hypovolemia.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 50% of patients with cirrhosis develop ascites within 10 years of diagnosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic liver disease, excessive alcohol use, hepatitis infection, malignancies (e.g., ovarian cancer), and heart or kidney failure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on the cause; ascites related to cirrhosis indicates advanced liver disease and carries a 50% mortality rate over two years without transplant.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome, and impaired quality of life due to recurrent fluid accumulation.

Dysautonomia

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Autonomic Nervous System Disorders

Symptoms:
dizziness; fainting; rapid heartbeat; fatigue; difficulty regulating body temperature; digestive issues; blurred vision; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive clinical evaluation, tilt table test, autonomic reflex screening, sweat testing, and blood tests to identify secondary causes.

Treatment:
Tailored based on the type and cause; lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, dietary changes, and symptom-specific medications.

Medications:
Medications may include beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ) for heart rate control, fludrocortisone (a mineralocorticoid) to expand blood volume, pyridostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) for autonomic modulation, and midodrine (an alpha-1 agonist) to improve blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence varies widely; associated conditions like POTS and neurodegenerative diseases suggest a significant affected population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune disorders, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, genetic predisposition, and viral illnesses.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; some forms are reversible or manageable, while others (e.g., those linked to neurodegenerative diseases) may progress.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Poor quality of life, limited physical activity, secondary complications like blood pooling, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and potential overlap with other chronic conditions.

Congestive Heart Failure

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Cardiovascular Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; fatigue; swelling in legs and ankles; coughing or wheezing; rapid or irregular heartbeat

Root Cause:
The heart's inability to pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs and other parts of the body.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on physical exam, medical history, and tests such as echocardiograms, chest X-rays, and BNP blood tests.

Treatment:
Medications to reduce fluid overload (diuretics), ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, heart transplant may be considered.

Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide ) – Help reduce fluid buildup by increasing urination. ACE inhibitors (e.g., Enalapril , Ramipril ) – Help relax blood vessels and reduce the heart’s workload. Beta-blockers (e.g., Carvedilol , Bisoprolol ) – Help the heart pump more efficiently by slowing the heart rate. Aldosterone antagonists (e.g., Spironolactone ) – Help reduce fluid retention.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2% of the population; more common in older adults and those with a history of heart disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous heart attack, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, alcohol use, family history.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, many people with CHF can live for years, but the condition may worsen over time without treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney failure, liver damage, arrhythmias, stroke, severe fluid retention.

Coronary Artery Disease

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Single-Gene Disorders (Mendelian Inheritance)

Sub-category: Polygenic and Multifactorial Disorders

Symptoms:
chest pain or discomfort (angina); shortness of breath; fatigue; heart attack symptoms such as severe chest pain, sweating, and nausea

Root Cause:
Buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis) in the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart. Genetic predispositions combined with lifestyle factors exacerbate the risk.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG), stress tests, echocardiography, coronary angiography, and blood tests for cholesterol and cardiac enzymes.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), medications, and surgical interventions like angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Medications:
Statins (e.g., atorvastatin ) to lower cholesterol. Antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin , clopidogrel ) to prevent clot formation. Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ) to reduce heart workload. ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ) to lower blood pressure and protect the heart. Nitroglycerin for angina relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The leading cause of death worldwide, affecting millions annually. Prevalence increases with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment and lifestyle modifications, CAD can be managed, though it remains a lifelong condition. Untreated, it can lead to fatal heart attacks.

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

Valvular Heart Disease (e.g., Aortic Stenosis)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Cardiovascular Diseases

Symptoms:
chest pain; shortness of breath; fatigue; dizziness; fainting; heart murmur

Root Cause:
Narrowing, leaking, or dysfunction of the heart valves, which impairs the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, echocardiogram, chest X-ray, and electrocardiogram (ECG).

Treatment:
Valve repair or replacement surgery (e.g., aortic valve replacement), lifestyle modifications, medications to manage symptoms such as diuretics and beta-blockers.

Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide ) – Help reduce fluid buildup and lower blood pressure. Beta-blockers (e.g., Metoprolol ) – Reduce the heart's workload by slowing the heart rate. ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril ) – Relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin ) – Prevent blood clots in cases of valve dysfunction leading to increased clotting risk.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Aortic stenosis affects approximately 2% of people over 65, with a higher prevalence in elderly individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, history of rheumatic fever, congenital heart defects, hypertension, high cholesterol, and smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
If untreated, valvular heart disease can lead to heart failure and other serious complications; valve replacement surgery can greatly improve symptoms and prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, arrhythmias, stroke, endocarditis, blood clots, and sudden cardiac arrest.

Pulmonary Fibrosis

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Respiratory Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chronic dry cough; fatigue; unexplained weight loss; clubbing of fingers

Root Cause:
Scarring of the lung tissue due to inflammation, often resulting from an unknown cause (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis), environmental exposures, or secondary to other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
High-resolution CT scans of the chest, pulmonary function tests, and sometimes a lung biopsy.

Treatment:
No cure, but treatments include antifibrotic medications (pirfenidone, nintedanib), oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lung transplantation in severe cases.

Medications:
Antifibrotic agents (pirfenidone , nintedanib ), corticosteroids for inflammation management in some cases, oxygen therapy for advanced stages.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 3-5 in 100,000 people globally; more common in older adults, especially those over 60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, smoking, environmental exposures (e.g., asbestos, silica), genetics, underlying autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis is often poor, with a median survival time of 3-5 years post-diagnosis, although some patients can live longer with treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, pulmonary hypertension, lung infections, and heart problems due to strain on the heart from reduced lung function.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Chronic and Acute Kidney Diseases

Symptoms:
fatigue; swelling in ankles, feet, or hands; frequent urination, especially at night; nausea; loss of appetite; muscle cramps; itchy skin; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Gradual loss of kidney function over time due to diabetes, hypertension, or other chronic conditions leading to decreased filtration capacity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (e.g., creatinine and eGFR), urine tests (e.g., protein or albumin levels), imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound), and kidney biopsy in select cases.

Treatment:
Managing underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and slowing progression with medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs.

Medications:
Medications may include ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ), angiotensin receptor blockers (e.g., losartan ), diuretics, phosphate binders, and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents for anemia.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10% of the global population, with higher prevalence in individuals over 60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, family history of kidney disease, and advanced age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; early detection and treatment can slow progression, but advanced CKD may progress to end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis or transplantation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anemia, electrolyte imbalances, cardiovascular disease, bone disorders, fluid overload, and progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Acute Kidney Injury (in elderly patients)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Urologic and Renal Disorders

Symptoms:
decreased urine output; swelling in legs or ankles; fatigue; shortness of breath; confusion; nausea and vomiting; severe fatigue or weakness

Root Cause:
Acute kidney injury (AKI) in elderly patients is typically caused by factors such as dehydration, medication toxicity, infections, or obstruction of the urinary tract. The kidneys suddenly lose their ability to filter waste from the blood.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
AKI is diagnosed through blood tests (elevated creatinine levels and BUN), urine tests (urinalysis for protein, blood, and other abnormalities), and imaging studies (ultrasound to assess for obstructions). In some cases, kidney biopsy may be performed.

Treatment:
Treatment includes identifying and addressing the underlying cause (e.g., rehydration, stopping harmful medications, treating infections), medications to support kidney function, and possibly dialysis if kidney function does not recover.

Medications:
Medications may include diuretics to manage fluid overload, vasopressors for blood pressure support, and antibiotics if an infection is present. In cases of electrolyte imbalances, medications like potassium binders or phosphate binders may be required.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
AKI is common in elderly patients, particularly those who are hospitalized or have multiple comorbid conditions. The incidence increases with age, affecting up to 20-30% of hospitalized elderly individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, dehydration, underlying chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, use of nephrotoxic medications (e.g., NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors), infections, and surgery.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for AKI depends on the underlying cause, the extent of kidney damage, and the patient's overall health. Some elderly patients recover full kidney function, while others may develop chronic kidney disease or experience long-term kidney dysfunction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include electrolyte imbalances, fluid overload, infections, and progression to chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease if not managed promptly.

Anemia (Iron deficiency, chronic disease, etc.)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pale skin; shortness of breath; dizziness; cold hands and feet; chest pain (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
A lack of healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues, often due to low iron levels or chronic disease affecting red blood cell production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (complete blood count (CBC), iron studies, ferritin levels, reticulocyte count), bone marrow biopsy (in some cases).

Treatment:
Iron supplementation (oral or intravenous), treatment of underlying causes (such as addressing chronic disease), blood transfusions in severe cases.

Medications:
Oral iron supplements (e.g., ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate) are commonly prescribed to treat iron deficiency anemia. Intravenous iron (e.g., iron sucrose, ferric gluconate) may be used for more severe or resistant cases. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents may be prescribed in anemia due to chronic disease.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Anemia affects approximately 25% of the global population, with higher prevalence in elderly individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor diet (low iron intake), chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease, diabetes), gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., Crohn's disease), blood loss (e.g., menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding), age (elderly individuals are at higher risk).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
If treated appropriately, the prognosis is generally good. However, untreated anemia can lead to severe complications like heart failure or cognitive impairment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, fatigue affecting quality of life, cognitive decline, complications from untreated underlying diseases.

Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; frequent infections; unexplained bruising or bleeding; pale skin; shortness of breath; weakness

Root Cause:
A group of disorders caused by poorly formed or dysfunctional blood cells in the bone marrow. There is a problem with the maturation of blood cells, leading to ineffective blood cell production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (CBC, peripheral blood smear), bone marrow biopsy, cytogenetic analysis.

Treatment:
Supportive care (e.g., blood transfusions), chemotherapy, stem cell transplant (in some cases), and medications to stimulate bone marrow production (e.g., lenalidomide, growth factors).

Medications:
Medications include growth factors like erythropoietin and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) to stimulate blood cell production, immunosuppressive agents (e.g., antithymocyte globulin ), and chemotherapy drugs for more aggressive cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
MDS is more common in older adults, with an incidence of 4 to 5 cases per 100,000 people annually. The risk increases with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (most cases occur in people aged 60 and older), previous chemotherapy or radiation treatments, exposure to chemicals (e.g., benzene), genetic mutations.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis varies depending on the type of MDS and response to treatment. Some forms are relatively indolent, while others may progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Development of acute leukemia, severe infections, bleeding complications, anemia requiring repeated transfusions.

Lung cancer

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Sub-category: Oncologic Disorders

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; wheezing; coughing up blood

Root Cause:
Abnormal growth of cells in the lungs, often starting in the lining of the airways. It may be non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis includes chest X-ray, CT scan, biopsy, and sputum cytology.

Treatment:
Treatment includes surgery (lobectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

Medications:
Chemotherapy (e.g., cisplatin , carboplatin , paclitaxel ). Targeted therapies (e.g., erlotinib , osimertinib for EGFR mutations). Immunotherapy (e.g., nivolumab , pembrolizumab ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Lung cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, with higher incidence in smokers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor). Exposure to radon, asbestos, and environmental pollutants. Family history of lung cancer.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is poor in advanced stages, but early-stage lung cancer can be treated successfully.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to other organs (brain, liver, bones). Respiratory failure. Pneumonitis.

Palliative and End-of-Life Care

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Geriatric Syndromes

Symptoms:
pain; shortness of breath; fatigue; nausea; loss of appetite; difficulty sleeping; anxiety; depression; emotional distress

Root Cause:
Progressive, incurable illnesses such as cancer, advanced heart disease, or neurodegenerative conditions. Aimed at alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life rather than curing the underlying disease.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Palliative care specialists assess symptoms, goals of care, and prognosis. This process often involves input from oncologists, cardiologists, or neurologists.

Treatment:
Symptom management through medications (analgesics, antiemetics, etc.), psychological support, spiritual care, and counseling. Hospice care is often used in the final stages of life.

Medications:
Opioids (morphine or fentanyl ) for pain management, antiemetics like ondansetron for nausea, anxiolytics such as lorazepam for anxiety, and corticosteroids for appetite stimulation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in those with advanced age, particularly among those with terminal illnesses.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, terminal illness, declining functional status, and frailty.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Focus is on comfort rather than cure; the prognosis depends on the underlying condition and the effectiveness of symptom management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications often include unmanaged symptoms, family distress, and caregiver burnout. If palliative care is not available, unnecessary suffering may occur.

Penicillin Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Drug Allergies

Symptoms:
hives; swelling; shortness of breath; anaphylaxis in severe cases

Root Cause:
Immune system overreaction to penicillin antibiotics.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin testing for penicillin-specific IgE, clinical history, and sometimes graded oral challenges.

Treatment:
Avoidance of penicillin, alternative antibiotics, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.

Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine ), corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ), and epinephrine for severe reactions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Reported by up to 10% of the population, but true allergy is confirmed in only about 1%.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous exposure to penicillin, family history of drug allergies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with alternative medications; many people outgrow the allergy over time.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Limited antibiotic options, which may lead to suboptimal treatment.

Chemotherapy Drug Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Drug Allergies

Symptoms:
hives or rash; swelling; shortness of breath; fever; anaphylaxis

Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction to chemotherapeutic agents due to immune activation or direct mast cell degranulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, skin testing, and drug challenge under close supervision.

Treatment:
Premedication with antihistamines or corticosteroids, desensitization protocols, or alternative agents.

Medications:
Premedication with corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone ) and antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 10% of patients receiving chemotherapy, depending on the drug.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous exposure to chemotherapy, atopy, female gender.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with premedication or desensitization; alternative drugs may be required in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Delayed treatment, anaphylaxis, and therapy-limiting reactions.

Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Immune System and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weight loss; skin rash; itching; cough; shortness of breath; cardiac symptoms like chest pain or heart failure

Root Cause:
Persistent overproduction of eosinophils leading to tissue damage in organs such as the heart, lungs, skin, and gastrointestinal tract.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Persistent eosinophilia (greater than or equal to 1500/micro L for at least 6 months), clinical evaluation for organ damage, and exclusion of secondary causes like infections or malignancies.

Treatment:
Corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, and biologics targeting eosinophils (e.g., mepolizumab).

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone for inflammation), tyrosine kinase inhibitors like imatinib (for specific molecular subtypes), and biologics like mepolizumab (anti-IL-5 monoclonal antibody).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; incidence is approximately 0.36–0.9 cases per 100,000 per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition, male sex, and certain molecular mutations (e.g., PDGFRA rearrangements).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; manageable with treatment but may be life-threatening without intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac complications (e.g., endomyocardial fibrosis), thromboembolism, and organ failure.

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Other Related Disorders

Symptoms:
chronic cough; wheezing; shortness of breath; fever; brownish mucus plugs; recurrent asthma exacerbations

Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction to Aspergillus fumigatus spores, leading to immune-mediated lung inflammation and airway damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Elevated total serum IgE levels, specific IgE and IgG antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus, imaging studies (CT or X-rays) showing central bronchiectasis or mucus impaction, and pulmonary function tests.

Treatment:
Oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, antifungal therapy (e.g., itraconazole or voriconazole) to control fungal load, and bronchodilators for symptomatic relief.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ), antifungals (e.g., Itraconazole ), and biologics (e.g., Omalizumab ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-2% of individuals with asthma and 2-15% of individuals with cystic fibrosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Asthma, cystic fibrosis, environmental exposure to Aspergillus spores, and underlying atopic conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies depending on early diagnosis and treatment; progression to chronic pulmonary aspergillosis or permanent lung damage is possible without treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bronchiectasis, chronic respiratory insufficiency, recurrent lung infections, pulmonary fibrosis, and reduced lung function.

Sternal Fractures

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Blunt Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
localized chest pain (worse with breathing or movement); swelling and bruising over the sternum; shortness of breath; crepitus (grating sensation) over the fracture site

Root Cause:
A break in the sternum caused by direct trauma, typically from motor vehicle accidents or high-impact injuries.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, chest X-rays, and CT scans to confirm the fracture and rule out associated injuries (e.g., cardiac or lung damage).

Treatment:
Pain management with NSAIDs or opioids, rest, and monitoring for complications. Severe or displaced fractures may require surgical fixation.

Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen ) or acetaminophen for pain relief. Opioids like tramadol may be prescribed for more severe pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 5-8% of all blunt chest trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Motor vehicle accidents (seatbelt injuries), falls, contact sports, or osteoporosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most fractures heal well with conservative treatment within 6-8 weeks. Severe cases with associated injuries may have a guarded prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac contusion, pneumothorax, hemothorax, and chronic chest pain.

Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Penetrating Chest Trauma

Symptoms:
sharp chest pain; shortness of breath; decreased breath sounds on one side; cyanosis (bluish skin); rapid breathing; fatigue

Root Cause:
A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space (the area between the lung and the chest wall), causing the lung to collapse. This can result from trauma, injury, or spontaneously due to lung disease or weakness in the lung tissue.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made via a chest X-ray or CT scan, which will show air in the pleural space and a collapsed lung.

Treatment:
Treatment varies depending on the size and severity. Small pneumothoraxes may resolve on their own, while larger ones may require chest tube insertion to remove the air and re-expand the lung. In some cases, surgery is needed.

Medications:
Pain relief with medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and opioids for severe pain in some cases. Medications for anxiety and stress related to difficulty breathing may also be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Pneumothorax is relatively common, particularly among young, tall men (especially in their 20s). The estimated annual incidence is about 18-28 cases per 100,000 people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma to the chest, underlying lung conditions such as COPD or asthma, smoking, and a family history of pneumothorax.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for pneumothorax is generally good, particularly if diagnosed early and treated properly. Recurrence is possible, especially in individuals with underlying lung disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include re-expansion pulmonary edema (fluid in the lung), infection, tension pneumothorax (a life-threatening condition), and recurrence of pneumothorax.

Diaphragmatic rupture (from blunt or penetrating trauma)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Thoracic (Chest) Injuries

Sub-category: Diaphragmatic Injuries

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chest pain; abdominal pain; respiratory distress; decreased breath sounds on the affected side; abdominal contents visible in the chest on imaging

Root Cause:
A tear in the diaphragm caused by blunt or penetrating trauma, allowing abdominal organs to herniate into the thoracic cavity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, chest X-ray, CT scan, ultrasound (FAST scan), or diagnostic laparoscopy.

Treatment:
Surgical repair of the diaphragm, typically through thoracotomy or laparotomy. Emergency management may include stabilizing the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs).

Medications:
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , opioids), antibiotics to prevent infection if there is organ herniation or contamination (e.g., broad-spectrum antibiotics like ceftriaxone or metronidazole ). These medications are supportive and adjunct to surgical treatment.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs in approximately 5-7% of patients with significant blunt trauma to the chest or abdomen, and in a higher proportion of penetrating trauma cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-energy blunt trauma (e.g., motor vehicle collisions, falls from a height), penetrating injuries to the chest or abdomen, prior surgical or congenital diaphragmatic defects.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely surgical intervention. Delayed diagnosis can increase morbidity and mortality due to complications like strangulation of herniated organs or respiratory compromise.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory distress, herniation and strangulation of abdominal organs, infection, sepsis, multi-organ failure, recurrence of the rupture if not properly repaired.

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Chronic and Acute Kidney Diseases

Symptoms:
severe fatigue; fluid retention causing swelling; nausea and vomiting; loss of appetite; persistent itching; shortness of breath; decreased mental sharpness

Root Cause:
Complete or near-complete failure of kidney function, typically resulting from advanced CKD.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
eGFR below 15 mL/min/1.73m², blood tests, and clinical symptoms requiring dialysis or transplantation.

Treatment:
Long-term dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) or kidney transplantation.

Medications:
Immunosuppressants post-transplant (e.g., tacrolimus , mycophenolate mofetil), phosphate binders, and erythropoietin-stimulating agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects over 2 million people worldwide on dialysis or living with kidney transplants.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension, prolonged CKD, autoimmune diseases, and family history.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong dialysis or transplant is required; transplant offers better quality of life and survival.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular disease, infections, bone disorders, and complications related to dialysis or immunosuppressive therapy.

Goodpasture Syndrome (Anti-GBM Disease)

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Glomerular Diseases

Symptoms:
hemoptysis (coughing up blood); blood in the urine; foamy urine; shortness of breath; fatigue

Root Cause:
Autoimmune disorder in which antibodies attack the glomerular and alveolar basement membranes.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with anti-GBM antibodies and kidney biopsy.

Treatment:
Treated with plasmapheresis, corticosteroids, and cyclophosphamide.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclophosphamide ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; estimated at 1 case per million annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, exposure to hydrocarbons, and certain genetic predispositions (e.g., HLA-DR15).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment can improve outcomes. Without treatment, can lead to kidney failure and respiratory failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, and permanent lung damage.

Respiratory Acidosis (secondary to renal issues)

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Acid-Base Disorders

Symptoms:
confusion; fatigue; shortness of breath; headache; cyanosis; drowsiness; tremors

Root Cause:
Impaired CO2 elimination by the lungs, with kidneys unable to adequately compensate by increasing bicarbonate reabsorption.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood gas analysis (low pH, elevated pCO2), kidney function tests, and imaging of the lungs.

Treatment:
Improve ventilation (mechanical ventilation if needed), treat underlying renal dysfunction, and correct any electrolyte imbalances.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol for reversible airway obstruction), bicarbonate therapy (in severe cases).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in patients with chronic lung disease and renal dysfunction.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), renal failure, and neuromuscular disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on the reversibility of the underlying causes; timely intervention improves outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Coma, cardiac arrhythmias, and respiratory failure.

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.

Scleroderma Renal Crisis

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Systemic Diseases with Renal Involvement

Symptoms:
severe hypertension; acute kidney injury; headaches; seizures; blurred vision; shortness of breath; fluid retention

Root Cause:
Vascular injury and narrowing of the renal arteries due to systemic sclerosis lead to decreased renal perfusion, activating the renin-angiotensin system and causing a hypertensive crisis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation (acute hypertension and renal dysfunction), lab tests (elevated serum creatinine, proteinuria), and kidney biopsy (if necessary).

Treatment:
Aggressive blood pressure control, primarily with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, supportive care for kidney function, and possibly dialysis.

Medications:
ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril , enalapril ) are the primary treatment. They are antihypertensive medications that inhibit the renin-angiotensin system to lower blood pressure and protect kidney function.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 5–10% of patients with systemic sclerosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diffuse systemic sclerosis, anti-RNA polymerase III antibodies, recent use of high-dose corticosteroids.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, prognosis has improved, but long-term outcomes depend on kidney function recovery. Untreated cases may lead to irreversible kidney damage or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, hypertensive encephalopathy, heart failure.

NSAIDs, Aminoglycosides, Cisplatin, etc.

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Other Renal-Associated Conditions

Sub-category: Drug-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Symptoms:
decreased urine output; swelling (edema); fatigue; nausea; shortness of breath; elevated blood pressure

Root Cause:
These medications can cause direct injury to renal tubular cells, disrupt glomerular filtration, or induce interstitial inflammation. Mechanisms include oxidative stress, vasoconstriction, and impaired renal perfusion.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves patient history (exposure to nephrotoxic drugs), lab tests (elevated serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen levels), urine analysis (proteinuria, hematuria), and imaging studies (ultrasound to assess kidney structure).

Treatment:
Discontinuation of the offending drug, supportive care, and measures to enhance renal recovery (hydration, electrolyte balance). In severe cases, dialysis may be required.

Medications:
Treatment includes medications like N-acetylcysteine (antioxidant used to mitigate cisplatin-induced toxicity), diuretics (loop diuretics like furosemide for volume control), and electrolyte supplements for disturbances. Medications to manage complications like antihypertensives may also be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is reported in approximately 10-25% of hospitalized patients exposed to nephrotoxic agents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Pre-existing renal impairment; Advanced age; Concurrent use of multiple nephrotoxic drugs; Dehydration; Diabetes; Hypertension

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies depending on the extent of kidney damage and timely intervention. Acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by drugs is often reversible, but delayed treatment can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progression to chronic kidney disease; Electrolyte imbalances; Fluid overload; Increased risk of cardiovascular events; Need for long-term dialysis in severe cases

Contrast-Induced Nephropathy

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Iatrogenic Renal Disorders

Symptoms:
reduced urine output; nausea; fatigue; shortness of breath; swelling in legs or feet

Root Cause:
Administration of contrast media causes direct tubular toxicity, oxidative stress, and renal vasoconstriction, leading to decreased renal function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Rise in serum creatinine within 48-72 hours of contrast exposure; urinalysis and imaging may support diagnosis.

Treatment:
Discontinuation of nephrotoxic agents, aggressive hydration with isotonic saline, and supportive care to manage symptoms.

Medications:
Antioxidants like N-acetylcysteine are sometimes used to reduce oxidative damage, though efficacy is debated. Intravenous bicarbonate may also be used to alkalinize urine and reduce toxicity.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1-5% of patients with normal kidney function and up to 50% in those with chronic kidney disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic kidney disease, diabetes, dehydration, high doses of contrast media, and concurrent use of nephrotoxic drugs.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically reversible with prompt treatment, but severe cases can lead to prolonged kidney injury or chronic kidney disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent AKI, need for dialysis, chronic kidney disease, and increased mortality in high-risk patients.

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; fever; frequent infections; unexplained bruising or bleeding; shortness of breath; bone or joint pain; swollen lymph nodes; pale skin; unintended weight loss

Root Cause:
Rapid proliferation of immature lymphoblasts in the bone marrow, crowding out normal blood cells.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (CBC showing high white blood cell counts, low red blood cells and platelets), bone marrow biopsy, flow cytometry, cytogenetic analysis, and imaging studies.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplantation, and supportive care (e.g., blood transfusions, antibiotics).

Medications:
Medications commonly prescribed include vincristine (vinca alkaloid), dexamethasone (corticosteroid), asparaginase (enzyme), and imatinib (tyrosine kinase inhibitor, if Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common childhood cancer, with approximately 3,000–5,000 cases annually in the United States; less common in adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes (e.g., Down syndrome), family history of leukemia, previous chemotherapy or radiation, and exposure to high doses of radiation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High cure rates in children (5-year survival over 90%), lower in adults (35–50% 5-year survival); depends on age, subtype, and treatment response.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, relapse, long-term side effects of chemotherapy (e.g., cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity), and secondary malignancies.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; pale skin; shortness of breath; frequent infections; easy bruising or bleeding; bone or joint pain; swollen gums; unintended weight loss

Root Cause:
Uncontrolled proliferation of immature myeloid cells in the bone marrow, impairing normal blood cell production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (CBC showing anemia, thrombocytopenia, and high/low WBC counts), bone marrow biopsy, cytogenetic and molecular testing, flow cytometry.

Treatment:
Intensive chemotherapy, targeted therapies, stem cell transplantation, and supportive care (e.g., transfusions, growth factors).

Medications:
Medications include cytarabine (antimetabolite), daunorubicin (anthracycline), and targeted agents like midostaurin (FLT3 inhibitor) or venetoclax (BCL-2 inhibitor).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for about 1% of adult cancers; incidence increases with age (median age at diagnosis ~68 years).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, prior chemotherapy/radiation, smoking, benzene exposure, and certain genetic disorders (e.g., Fanconi anemia).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poorer in older adults; overall 5-year survival ~29%; better outcomes with favorable cytogenetics.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Relapse, infection, bleeding, organ damage, and treatment-related secondary cancers.

Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mesothelioma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; swelling or mass; chest pain; coughing; shortness of breath; unexplained weight loss; fever; night sweats

Root Cause:
Extragonadal germ cell tumors (EGCTs) arise from germ cells that are typically found in the gonads (ovaries or testes) but develop in areas outside of these organs, such as the mediastinum, retroperitoneum, or pineal gland. These tumors are believed to be the result of abnormal migration of germ cells during fetal development.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, or chest X-rays to locate the tumor. Blood tests to measure tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are also used. A biopsy is necessary for histological confirmation.

Treatment:
Treatment for extragonadal germ cell tumors often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. The standard chemotherapy regimen includes bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP). Surgery is used to remove the primary tumor when feasible.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents such as bleomycin (an antibiotic used as a chemotherapy agent), etoposide (a plant alkaloid), and cisplatin (a platinum-based chemotherapy drug) are used to treat extragonadal germ cell tumors. These drugs are classified as alkylating agents, antimetabolites, and plant alkaloids , respectively.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extragonadal germ cell tumors are rare, representing about 1-5% of all germ cell tumors. The incidence is lower than gonadal germ cell tumors, with approximately 2-3 cases per million people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (most common in adolescents and young adults), history of gonadal germ cell tumors, and certain genetic syndromes like Klinefelter syndrome. In rare cases, a family history of germ cell tumors or other related conditions may increase risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for extragonadal germ cell tumors depends on the tumor's location, stage at diagnosis, and response to treatment. If caught early and treated aggressively, the 5-year survival rate can be around 70-90%, but survival rates drop significantly for metastatic or advanced disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include metastasis to the lungs, liver, or other organs, recurrence after treatment, and side effects of chemotherapy such as organ toxicity (e.g., to the lungs or kidneys), fertility issues, and secondary cancers.

Arsine Poisoning

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Coagulation, Hemostasis, and Disorders

Symptoms:
dark red urine (hemoglobinuria); jaundice; fatigue; shortness of breath; nausea and vomiting; abdominal pain; weakness

Root Cause:
Hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) caused by exposure to arsine gas, a highly toxic compound.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through history of exposure, symptoms, and laboratory findings of hemolysis (elevated lactate dehydrogenase, low haptoglobin, and hemoglobinuria).

Treatment:
Remove the patient from exposure, supportive care, and blood transfusions for severe hemolysis.

Medications:
Chelating agents

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; typically occurs in industrial settings with accidental exposure to arsine gas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Working in industries handling arsenic compounds, such as semiconductor manufacturing or metallurgical processes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Recovery is possible with prompt treatment, but severe cases may lead to kidney failure or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute kidney injury, severe anemia, multi-organ failure, and death if untreated.

Eosinophilia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Immune System and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; rash; itching; fever; shortness of breath; abdominal pain

Root Cause:
Elevated eosinophil count in the blood or tissues, often due to allergic reactions, parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancies.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC) with differential, evaluation of medical history, imaging studies, and testing for parasitic or autoimmune causes.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause (e.g., treating infections, managing allergies, or suppressing immune responses).

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone , to reduce inflammation), antihistamines (for allergic symptoms), and antiparasitic agents (e.g., albendazole , ivermectin , for parasitic infections). Biologics like mepolizumab may be used for refractory cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies; higher in areas with endemic parasitic infections. Often occurs in individuals with allergies or asthma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Allergic disorders, parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases, exposure to certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, NSAIDs).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the underlying cause; manageable with appropriate treatment but may require ongoing monitoring for chronic or severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ damage (e.g., heart, lungs, skin) in cases of hypereosinophilic syndrome; increased risk of infections if associated with immune dysfunction.

Light-Chain Deposition Disease

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Plasma Cell Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; edema (swelling in the legs); proteinuria; hypertension; progressive kidney failure

Root Cause:
Abnormal deposition of monoclonal light chains in tissues, typically the kidneys, leading to structural damage and organ dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through kidney biopsy revealing light-chain deposits, serum and urine protein electrophoresis, immunofixation electrophoresis, and free light chain assay. Additional tests may include imaging for organ involvement and blood work to evaluate renal function.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on controlling the underlying plasma cell disorder using chemotherapy or immunotherapy and managing organ damage through supportive care like blood pressure control and dialysis if needed.

Medications:
Medications include bortezomib (a proteasome inhibitor), dexamethasone (a corticosteroid), and lenalidomide (an immunomodulatory agent). These target the abnormal plasma cells producing the light chains. Supportive medications may include antihypertensives and diuretics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare condition, exact prevalence unknown but more common in association with plasma cell dyscrasias like multiple myeloma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Plasma cell disorders (e.g., MGUS or multiple myeloma), family history of plasma cell dyscrasias, older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies depending on the extent of organ damage and response to treatment. Early detection and effective plasma cell suppression improve outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome, organ failure (commonly renal), and progression to systemic amyloidosis or multiple myeloma.

Anemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; pale or yellowish skin; shortness of breath; dizziness; cold hands and feet; irregular heartbeat; chest pain

Root Cause:
A decrease in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues. Causes include iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies (B12 or folate), chronic diseases, and blood loss.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) to measure hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell indices. Additional tests may include ferritin, vitamin B12, folate levels, and reticulocyte count.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include dietary supplements (iron, B12, folate), blood transfusions, and treating underlying chronic diseases or conditions.

Medications:
Iron supplements (e.g., ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate), vitamin B12 injections or oral supplements, folic acid supplements, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (e.g., epoetin alfa or darbepoetin alfa) for anemia related to chronic disease or kidney failure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1.62 billion people globally, with higher prevalence in women, children, and individuals in developing countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor diet, chronic illnesses (e.g., kidney disease, inflammatory conditions), heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, gastrointestinal bleeding, and genetic conditions (e.g., sickle cell anemia).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis with appropriate treatment; prognosis depends on underlying cause. Untreated, it can lead to significant complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart problems (e.g., left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure), delayed growth in children, and reduced ability to perform physical activities.

Anemia in Elderly Persons

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
weakness; fatigue; diminished physical performance; shortness of breath; increased susceptibility to falls; cognitive decline

Root Cause:
Often related to nutritional deficiencies, chronic inflammation, or age-related decline in erythropoiesis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC), ferritin levels, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and tests for vitamin B12 and folate levels. Additional testing may investigate chronic diseases.

Treatment:
Address underlying causes, including dietary deficiencies or chronic diseases. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents may be used in some cases.

Medications:
Oral or intravenous iron, vitamin B12 injections, folic acid, and erythropoietin-stimulating agents such as epoetin alfa.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in elderly populations, affecting approximately 10% of people over 65 years.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease, inflammatory disorders), malnutrition, and medications interfering with absorption of nutrients.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on identifying and managing the cause. Nutritional deficiencies often respond well to treatment, while chronic disease-associated anemia may require long-term management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased mortality, cardiovascular events, frailty, and reduced quality of life.

Anemia of Chronic Disease and Kidney Failure

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; shortness of breath; pale skin; reduced exercise tolerance; dizziness; cold hands and feet

Root Cause:
Decreased red blood cell production due to chronic inflammation or reduced erythropoietin production by the kidneys. Additional factors include iron-restricted erythropoiesis and shortened red blood cell lifespan.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC) showing low hemoglobin and hematocrit, serum iron and ferritin levels, transferrin saturation, erythropoietin levels, and evaluation of kidney function through creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

Treatment:
Management of the underlying chronic condition (e.g., controlling inflammation or treating kidney disease) and replenishment of iron stores and erythropoiesis support.

Medications:
Iron supplementation (oral or intravenous), erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (e.g., epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa), and vitamin B12 or folate if deficiencies exist.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Anemia of chronic disease is the second most common type of anemia worldwide. It is highly prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), affecting up to 90% of individuals with end-stage kidney disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic illnesses (e.g., kidney disease, autoimmune diseases, cancer), inflammation, diabetes, hypertension, and older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the severity of the underlying condition and the response to treatment. With appropriate management, anemia can be controlled, improving quality of life and reducing complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure, reduced quality of life, increased hospitalization rates, and higher mortality in severe cases of untreated anemia.

Aplastic Anemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; frequent infections; unexplained or easy bruising; prolonged bleeding from cuts; pale skin; dizziness; headache; rapid or irregular heartbeat

Root Cause:
A rare condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce sufficient red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Causes include autoimmune damage, exposure to toxic chemicals, certain medications, radiation, viral infections, or inherited conditions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing pancytopenia (low levels of all blood cells) and reticulocytopenia (low reticulocyte count). Bone marrow biopsy confirms hypocellular (empty) or fatty bone marrow.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on severity. Mild cases may involve supportive care, while severe cases often require immunosuppressive therapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (bone marrow transplant), or blood transfusions.

Medications:
Immunosuppressants (e.g., antithymocyte globulin [ATG], cyclosporine , corticosteroids), hematopoietic growth factors (e.g., filgrastim or sargramostim ), androgens (e.g., danazol ) in certain cases, and antibiotics or antifungals to prevent or treat infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 1-2 individuals per million people annually worldwide, with higher incidence in Asia.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to toxic chemicals (e.g., benzene), radiation or chemotherapy, certain medications (e.g., chloramphenicol), viral infections (e.g., hepatitis, Epstein-Barr virus), autoimmune diseases, and genetic predisposition (e.g., Fanconi anemia).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, prognosis varies. Bone marrow transplantation offers a potential cure for eligible patients. Immunosuppressive therapy is effective for many, though relapses can occur. Without treatment, severe aplastic anemia is often fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Life-threatening infections, severe bleeding, iron overload from repeated transfusions, progression to myelodysplastic syndrome or leukemia, and organ damage from iron overload.

Bone Marrow Failure

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Disorders

Sub-category: Aplastic Anemia

Symptoms:
fatigue; easy bruising; frequent infections; shortness of breath; pallor; unexplained bleeding; slow wound healing

Root Cause:
Dysfunction or destruction of hematopoietic stem cells leading to insufficient production of blood cells (red, white, and platelets).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC with low blood counts across all cell lines, bone marrow biopsy, and cytogenetic testing.

Treatment:
Immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine), bone marrow transplant, growth factors (e.g., erythropoietin), and transfusions.

Medications:
Immunosuppressants like cyclosporine , antithymocyte globulin , and corticosteroids. Growth factors include filgrastim (G-CSF).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; incidence is approximately 2–3 cases per million people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune diseases, chemotherapy, radiation exposure, viral infections (e.g., hepatitis), and toxic chemical exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; treatable with transplant in younger patients, but chronic cases may require ongoing care.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of infections, bleeding, secondary cancers, and transfusion-related iron overload.

Folate Deficiency

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Nutritional Deficiencies and Disorders

Sub-category: Macrocytic Anemia

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; pale skin; irritability; weakness; tongue swelling or soreness

Root Cause:
Insufficient folic acid intake or absorption disrupts DNA synthesis, particularly affecting red blood cell production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC with macrocytic anemia, serum folate levels, and homocysteine levels.

Treatment:
Dietary supplementation with folic acid and addressing underlying causes.

Medications:
Folic acid supplements (1 mg daily) and vitamin B12 supplements if a deficiency is concurrent.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in areas with poor nutrition; incidence is higher in pregnant women and alcoholics.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Alcoholism, pregnancy, malabsorption syndromes, and certain medications (e.g., methotrexate).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; anemia resolves with supplementation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, neural tube defects in pregnancy, and cardiovascular risks from elevated homocysteine levels.

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Sub-category: Hemolytic Anemia

Symptoms:
fatigue; dark urine; jaundice; pallor; shortness of breath; rapid heart rate

Root Cause:
Deficiency in the G6PD enzyme makes red blood cells vulnerable to oxidative stress, leading to hemolysis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
G6PD enzyme activity assay, CBC, and peripheral blood smear.

Treatment:
Avoidance of triggers (e.g., certain drugs, fava beans, infections), supportive care during hemolytic episodes, and blood transfusions if severe.

Medications:
No specific medications; management focuses on avoiding oxidative stress.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in malaria-endemic regions, affecting approximately 400 million people globally.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male sex (X-linked condition), African, Mediterranean, or Asian ancestry.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with trigger avoidance; hemolytic episodes are self-limiting.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute hemolysis, neonatal jaundice, and potential kidney damage during severe episodes.

Hemolytic Anemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; jaundice; pallor; dark urine; splenomegaly; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Premature destruction of red blood cells leads to anemia and increased production of bilirubin. Causes include autoimmune reactions, genetic disorders, infections, and medications.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC), reticulocyte count, bilirubin levels, Coombs test, and peripheral blood smear.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the cause and may include corticosteroids for autoimmune causes, plasmapheresis, or blood transfusions. Splenectomy may be necessary in chronic cases.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for autoimmune hemolytic anemia; rituximab for refractory cases; folic acid to support red blood cell production.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies widely depending on the cause; autoimmune hemolytic anemia affects 1-3 per 100,000 annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune disorders, infections, hereditary conditions (e.g., G6PD deficiency, sickle cell disease), and certain medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying cause; manageable with appropriate treatment in most cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, heart failure, gallstones, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pallor; shortness of breath; brittle nails; pica; cold intolerance

Root Cause:
Insufficient iron levels lead to reduced hemoglobin production, impairing oxygen delivery to tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC), serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation.

Treatment:
Iron supplementation (oral or intravenous), dietary modifications, and addressing the underlying cause of iron loss.

Medications:
Ferrous sulfate (oral iron supplement), ferric carboxymaltose (IV iron for severe cases), erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in chronic diseases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting up to 25% of the global population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor dietary intake, chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding), pregnancy, and malabsorption disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment; symptoms resolve as iron levels normalize.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, delayed growth in children, heart failure, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Macrocytosis

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; shortness of breath; pallor; neurological symptoms in cases of vitamin b12 deficiency

Root Cause:
Enlargement of red blood cells due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, liver disease, or bone marrow disorders.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC), peripheral blood smear, vitamin B12 and folate levels, liver function tests, and bone marrow biopsy if needed.

Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause, such as supplementation for vitamin B12 or folate deficiency or treatment of liver disease.

Medications:
Vitamin B12 injections or oral supplementation; folic acid supplements; hydroxyurea in certain bone marrow disorders.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, particularly in older adults or individuals with dietary deficiencies or chronic illnesses.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, alcohol use, liver disease, hypothyroidism, and bone marrow disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; reversible in most cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, neurological deficits in vitamin B12 deficiency, and progression to bone marrow disorders.

Megaloblastic Anemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; pale or yellowish skin; shortness of breath; weakness; irritability; numbness or tingling in hands and feet; difficulty concentrating; glossitis (swollen, red tongue); loss of appetite

Root Cause:
A defect in DNA synthesis caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate, leading to the production of abnormally large and immature red blood cells (megaloblasts) in the bone marrow.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing macrocytosis (large red blood cells), hypersegmented neutrophils, low vitamin B12 or folate levels, elevated homocysteine, and possibly elevated methylmalonic acid (specific for B12 deficiency). A bone marrow biopsy may confirm megaloblastic changes.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying deficiency. Supplementation of vitamin B12 (oral or intramuscular injections) or folate, along with dietary modifications to include foods rich in these nutrients.

Medications:
Vitamin B12 supplements (cyanocobalamin or hydroxocobalamin ) — classified as vitamin therapy. Folic acid supplements — also classified as vitamin therapy. Combination therapy with both vitamin B12 and folic acid if the deficiency is unclear.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies by region; more common in areas with dietary deficiencies or high rates of malabsorption disorders (e.g., pernicious anemia). Common among older adults and populations with limited access to fortified foods.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
dietary deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate; alcoholism; pregnancy; pernicious anemia; gastrointestinal surgeries (e.g., gastrectomy); malabsorption conditions (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn's disease); medications interfering with vitamin absorption (e.g., methotrexate, metformin, proton pump inhibitors)

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate supplementation and treatment of the underlying cause, symptoms typically resolve, and prognosis is excellent. Untreated cases can lead to irreversible neurological damage in vitamin B12 deficiency.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
irreversible neurological damage; infertility; cardiovascular risks due to elevated homocysteine levels; increased susceptibility to infections; peripheral neuropathy; cognitive decline or memory issues

Methemoglobinemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
cyanosis (bluish skin, especially lips and fingers); shortness of breath; fatigue; confusion; headache; dizziness; tachycardia; loss of consciousness in severe cases

Root Cause:
Elevated levels of methemoglobin (an oxidized form of hemoglobin that cannot bind oxygen effectively) in the blood, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Arterial blood gas analysis showing low oxygen saturation despite normal oxygen levels, co-oximetry detecting elevated methemoglobin levels, and a chocolate-brown appearance of arterial blood.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on severity. Methylene blue (an antidote) is administered intravenously in severe cases. Ascorbic acid may also help in mild cases. Removal of the causative agent (e.g., drugs or toxins) is crucial.

Medications:
Methylene blue — a reducing agent to convert methemoglobin back to functional hemoglobin. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) — classified as an antioxidant, used in mild chronic cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; often seen in people exposed to oxidizing agents (e.g., nitrates, dapsone, or benzocaine). Can also be congenital due to genetic mutations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
exposure to oxidizing drugs or chemicals; genetic predisposition (e.g., cytochrome b5 reductase deficiency); infants under 6 months (due to immature enzyme systems); industrial exposure to nitrates

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is excellent with prompt treatment. Chronic or untreated cases may result in tissue hypoxia and severe complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
hypoxia; seizures; cardiovascular collapse; death in severe untreated cases

Myelophthisic Anemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; pallor; weakness; shortness of breath; easy bruising; frequent infections; bone pain in some cases

Root Cause:
Bone marrow failure caused by infiltration of abnormal cells or substances (e.g., cancer cells, fibrosis, granulomas), displacing normal hematopoietic tissue.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood smear showing immature blood cells (leukoerythroblastosis), anemia, and abnormal red cell shapes. Bone marrow biopsy confirms marrow infiltration.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause (e.g., chemotherapy for cancer, corticosteroids for fibrosis, or infection management). Supportive measures include transfusions.

Medications:
Specific to the underlying cause (e.g., chemotherapy for malignancies, corticosteroids for granulomatous diseases). Erythropoietin-stimulating agents to support red blood cell production in some cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, primarily associated with malignancies (e.g., metastatic cancer, leukemia, lymphoma) or chronic infections (e.g., tuberculosis).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
malignancies; chronic granulomatous infections; fibrotic disorders; radiation exposure; certain genetic predispositions

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying condition. Early diagnosis and treatment of the causative factor can improve outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
severe anemia; organ failure due to infiltration; increased susceptibility to infections; bleeding disorders

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pernicious Anemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pale or jaundiced skin; shortness of breath; numbness or tingling in the hands and feet; difficulty walking; memory problems; mood changes; glossitis (sore, red tongue); loss of appetite

Root Cause:
Autoimmune destruction of gastric parietal cells leads to a lack of intrinsic factor, which is necessary for vitamin B12 absorption, resulting in impaired red blood cell production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC), vitamin B12 levels, methylmalonic acid (MMA) levels, intrinsic factor antibody test, and bone marrow biopsy (if needed).

Treatment:
Vitamin B12 supplementation through injections or high-dose oral supplements, along with management of any neurological symptoms or complications.

Medications:
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin or hydroxocobalamin ), typically administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously. These medications are classified as vitamins and nutritional supplements.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals over 60 years old; higher prevalence in people of Northern European descent and those with autoimmune conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune conditions (e.g., Hashimoto's thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes), family history, vegetarian or vegan diets (due to low dietary B12), and gastrointestinal surgeries or disorders (e.g., gastric bypass, chronic gastritis).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely treatment; symptoms and hematologic abnormalities often resolve with B12 replacement therapy. Delayed treatment may lead to irreversible neurological damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological symptoms (e.g., peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment), increased risk of gastric cancer, and severe anemia.

Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
severe fatigue; pallor; shortness of breath; dizziness; tachycardia (rapid heartbeat); headaches

Root Cause:
Selective suppression or destruction of red blood cell precursors in the bone marrow, often due to autoimmune mechanisms, viral infections (e.g., parvovirus B19), or medications.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC) showing severe anemia with low reticulocyte count, bone marrow biopsy revealing absence or reduction of red blood cell precursors, and testing for associated infections or autoimmune markers.

Treatment:
Treated based on the underlying cause and includes immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., corticosteroids, cyclosporine, or rituximab), antiviral medications for parvovirus B19 infection, and in some cases, plasmapheresis or supportive care with red blood cell transfusions.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone , dexamethasone ), immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine , tacrolimus ), and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) for autoimmune causes. These medications are classified as immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an incidence of 1–5 cases per million people annually; can occur in any age group.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), exposure to certain medications (e.g., isoniazid, phenytoin), infections (e.g., parvovirus B19, Epstein-Barr virus), and hematologic malignancies (e.g., leukemia).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; may resolve spontaneously if caused by infection or medication. Chronic or idiopathic cases may require long-term immunosuppressive therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia requiring transfusions, iron overload from chronic transfusions, and progression to aplastic anemia or other bone marrow disorders.

Sideroblastic Anemias

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Red Blood Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; pallor; shortness of breath; dizziness; irritability; enlarged spleen or liver

Root Cause:
Defective hemoglobin synthesis due to impaired incorporation of iron into heme, resulting in iron buildup in mitochondria of erythroblasts (ringed sideroblasts in the bone marrow).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Bone marrow biopsy showing ringed sideroblasts, complete blood count (CBC) with anemia, peripheral blood smear, and iron studies (elevated serum iron and ferritin). Genetic testing for hereditary causes.

Treatment:
reated by addressing the underlying cause, with options including pyridoxine (vitamin B6) supplementation for hereditary forms, management of contributing factors like alcohol or toxins, iron chelation therapy for iron overload, and transfusions for severe anemia.

Medications:
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) for hereditary forms, iron chelators such as deferoxamine , deferiprone , or deferasirox to manage iron overload.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; hereditary forms are often seen in childhood, while acquired forms are more common in adults, especially in myelodysplastic syndromes.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations (e.g., ALAS2 gene), alcohol use, lead poisoning, certain medications (e.g., isoniazid, chloramphenicol), and myelodysplastic syndromes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; hereditary forms respond well to pyridoxine, while acquired forms depend on the underlying cause. Iron overload can lead to complications without proper management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, organ damage from iron overload (e.g., heart, liver, endocrine glands), and progression to myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukemia in some cases.

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.

Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
bleeding and bruising; shortness of breath; chest pain; fever; fatigue; low platelet counts; nosebleeds or bleeding gums; blood clots in veins or arteries

Root Cause:
Blocked maturation of promyelocytes due to a specific genetic translocation (t(15;17)), leading to accumulation in the bone marrow.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (low platelets, high WBC counts, and DIC markers), bone marrow biopsy, genetic testing for PML-RARA fusion gene.

Treatment:
Differentiation therapy with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) combined with arsenic trioxide (ATO) or chemotherapy.

Medications:
All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) (vitamin A derivative ), arsenic trioxide (ATO), and occasionally anthracyclines (e.g., daunorubicin ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A rare subtype of AML, accounting for about 10% of AML cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predispositions, exposure to radiation, and prior chemotherapy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; 5-year survival rates exceed 80%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), relapse, and differentiation syndrome.

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
swollen lymph nodes; unexplained fever; night sweats; weight loss; fatigue; loss of appetite; shortness of breath; chest pain

Root Cause:
Rapid and abnormal growth of large B-cells (a type of white blood cell), leading to tumor formation in lymph nodes and/or extranodal sites.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, blood tests, lymph node biopsy, imaging studies (e.g., PET or CT scans), and molecular testing to identify genetic markers and cell surface proteins.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy (if localized), and stem cell transplantation in refractory or relapsed cases.

Medications:
Commonly prescribed medications include R-CHOP regimen (Rituximab – a monoclonal antibody, Cyclophosphamide – an alkylating agent, Doxorubicin – an anthracycline, Vincristine – a vinca alkaloid, and Prednisone – a corticosteroid).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
DLBCL is the most common subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, accounting for about 30-40% of cases worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, male sex, family history of lymphoma, weakened immune system, exposure to certain infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus), and previous cancer treatments.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies; approximately 60-70% achieve remission with R-CHOP therapy. Advanced stage, high-risk genetic markers, and refractory disease worsen outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Relapse, tumor lysis syndrome, secondary infections, organ dysfunction, and therapy-related secondary cancers.

Erythroleukemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weakness; paleness; easy bruising; bleeding; frequent infections; shortness of breath; bone pain

Root Cause:
Malignant transformation of immature red and white blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to ineffective hematopoiesis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Bone marrow biopsy, complete blood count (CBC) showing anemia and blast cells, flow cytometry, and cytogenetic analysis.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy (e.g., induction and consolidation), targeted therapy, supportive care (e.g., blood transfusions), and allogeneic stem cell transplantation for eligible patients.

Medications:
Cytarabine (an antimetabolite), anthracyclines (e.g., daunorubicin ), and hypomethylating agents (e.g., azacitidine or decitabine ) may be used in treatment regimens.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for less than 5% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, prior exposure to chemotherapy or radiation, and genetic predispositions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor prognosis; 5-year survival rates are low and depend on response to treatment and patient factors.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pancytopenia, infections, hemorrhage, and disease relapse.

Mediastinal Lymphoma

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; swelling in the face or arms (superior vena cava syndrome); fatigue; fever; night sweats

Root Cause:
A subtype of lymphoma originating in the thymus or mediastinal lymph nodes, commonly associated with primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL) or Hodgkin lymphoma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (CT or PET scans), biopsy of the affected tissue, and immunohistochemistry to determine cell type.

Treatment:
Combination chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

Medications:
R-CHOP regimen (rituximab , cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , prednisone ); checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab for refractory cases. These include chemotherapy drugs and immunotherapy agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 2–4% of all lymphomas, more common in young women aged 20–40.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, Epstein-Barr virus, and genetic abnormalities in tumor suppressor genes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with modern treatment; five-year survival rates exceed 80% for most patients.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Superior vena cava syndrome, tumor lysis syndrome, and relapse.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; shortness of breath; frequent infections; easy bruising or bleeding; pale skin (anemia)

Root Cause:
Ineffective blood cell production in the bone marrow, leading to low counts of red cells, white cells, and platelets. Often caused by acquired genetic mutations.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Bone marrow biopsy, cytogenetic analysis, and blood tests (CBC with peripheral smear).

Treatment:
Supportive care (transfusions, growth factors), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplantation.

Medications:
Azacitidine and decitabine (DNA hypomethylating agents); lenalidomide (immunomodulator for del(5q) cases); erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). These include epigenetic drugs, immunomodulators, and growth factors.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10,000–12,000 people annually in the U.S., primarily older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, prior chemotherapy/radiation, exposure to toxins (e.g., benzene), and genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; median survival ranges from months to years depending on risk group (low vs. high).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), infections, and bleeding complications.

Secondary Polycythemia

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
headache; dizziness; flushing; itching after a warm bath; shortness of breath; fatigue

Root Cause:
Excess erythropoietin production due to chronic hypoxia, tumors, or other conditions that increase red blood cell production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC, erythropoietin levels, arterial blood gas, imaging to identify potential causes (e.g., tumors, lung disease).

Treatment:
Address underlying cause (e.g., oxygen therapy for hypoxia, surgical removal of tumors), phlebotomy if necessary.

Medications:
No specific medications for polycythemia itself; underlying conditions dictate treatment (e.g., erythropoiesis-stimulating agents are avoided).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common than primary polycythemia; varies based on prevalence of causative factors like chronic lung disease.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), high altitude, kidney tumors, sleep apnea.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if underlying cause is treatable; chronic cases require long-term management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of thrombosis, stroke, or heart attack due to elevated red blood cell count.

Blood Substitutes

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Transfusion Medicine

Symptoms:
pallor; shortness of breath; fatigue; dizziness; low blood pressure (in cases of blood loss)

Root Cause:
The need for alternative oxygen-carrying or volume-expanding solutions due to insufficient or unavailable donor blood.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Assessment of hemoglobin levels, oxygen-carrying capacity, and hemodynamic stability.

Treatment:
Administration of hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) or perfluorocarbon emulsions (PFCs) to maintain oxygen delivery and plasma expanders for volume replacement.

Medications:
Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (e.g., Hemopure, PolyHeme), perfluorocarbon-based substitutes (e.g., Oxygent), crystalloids or colloids for volume replacement.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Experimental use; not widely available as routine clinical practice due to safety concerns and limited indications.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Situations of massive blood loss, rare blood types, or transfusion refusal (e.g., religious reasons).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Promising for specific clinical scenarios but limited by side effects and regulatory approval.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypertension, renal toxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation associated with synthetic substitutes.

Transfusion Reactions

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Transfusion Medicine

Symptoms:
fever; chills; rash; shortness of breath; hypotension; dark urine; back pain

Root Cause:
Adverse reactions caused by incompatibility, contamination, or immune response to transfused blood products.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical observation of symptoms during or after transfusion; direct antiglobulin test (DAT), blood culture (if bacterial contamination is suspected), and laboratory markers of hemolysis (e.g., LDH, bilirubin, and haptoglobin levels).

Treatment:
Immediate discontinuation of the transfusion, supportive care (e.g., fluids, oxygen), antihistamines for mild reactions, corticosteroids for severe allergic responses, and antibiotics if infection is suspected.

Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine ), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), epinephrine for anaphylaxis, and antibiotics for bacterial contamination.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1-2% of transfusions; severity ranges from mild allergic reactions to severe hemolytic reactions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Non-matching blood types, immune disorders, or pre-existing antibodies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mild reactions resolve with appropriate treatment; severe reactions can be life-threatening but are preventable with careful crossmatching and screening.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemolysis, organ failure, sepsis, anaphylaxis, or death in severe cases.

Hereditary Spherocytosis

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Uncommon RBC Membrane Disorders

Symptoms:
anemia; jaundice; splenomegaly; fatigue; shortness of breath; spherocytes on blood smear

Root Cause:
Mutations in genes encoding membrane proteins (such as ankyrin, spectrin, or band 3) cause red blood cells to lose their biconcave shape and become spherical, leading to reduced deformability and increased hemolysis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Peripheral blood smear, osmotic fragility test, eosin-5-maleimide binding test (flow cytometry).

Treatment:
Folic acid supplementation, splenectomy in severe cases, and blood transfusions for acute anemia.

Medications:
No specific medications; supportive care includes folic acid and, in rare cases, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
1 in 2,000–5,000 individuals, more common in Northern European populations.

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

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate management; splenectomy often resolves anemia.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gallstones, aplastic crisis during infections, post-splenectomy sepsis.

Cystic fibrosis (CFTR gene mutation)

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Single-Gene Disorders (Mendelian Inheritance)

Sub-category: Autosomal Recessive Disorders

Symptoms:
persistent coughing with phlegm; frequent lung infections; shortness of breath; salty-tasting skin; poor growth or weight gain; greasy, bulky stools; male infertility

Root Cause:
Mutations in the CFTR gene lead to defective or absent CFTR protein, resulting in thick, sticky mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sweat chloride test, genetic testing for CFTR mutations, newborn screening, pulmonary function tests, and imaging (e.g., chest X-ray).

Treatment:
Airway clearance techniques, physical therapy, nutritional support, lung transplant in severe cases.

Medications:
CFTR modulators (e.g., ivacaftor , lumacaftor /ivacaftor ), bronchodilators, mucolytics (e.g., dornase alfa), antibiotics for lung infections (e.g., tobramycin , azithromycin ), pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 70,000 individuals worldwide; most common in people of Northern European descent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, being of Northern European ancestry.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Life expectancy has improved significantly with advancements in treatment; median survival is around 40–50 years.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory failure, diabetes, osteoporosis, infertility, liver disease.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (SERPINA1 gene mutation)

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Single-Gene Disorders (Mendelian Inheritance)

Sub-category: Autosomal Recessive Disorders

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chronic cough; wheezing; recurrent respiratory infections; jaundice; liver disease

Root Cause:
Mutations in the SERPINA1 gene lead to low or dysfunctional alpha-1 antitrypsin protein, causing lung damage from uninhibited neutrophil elastase and liver damage due to protein accumulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood test measuring alpha-1 antitrypsin levels, genetic testing for SERPINA1 mutations, imaging for lung damage (e.g., CT scan), liver function tests.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (e.g., avoiding smoking), augmentation therapy with alpha-1 antitrypsin, and, in severe cases, lung or liver transplantation.

Medications:
Alpha-1 antitrypsin protein (augmentation therapy), bronchodilators, corticosteroids for lung inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1 in 2,500 to 1 in 5,000 individuals of European descent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history; higher prevalence in Northern European populations.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; better with early diagnosis and lifestyle modifications. Without treatment, may lead to early-onset COPD or liver disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Early-onset emphysema, liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma.

Hereditary spherocytosis

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Immune and Hematologic Disorders

Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders

Symptoms:
anemia; jaundice; splenomegaly; fatigue; shortness of breath; gallstones

Root Cause:
Genetic defect in red blood cell membrane proteins (ankyrin, spectrin, or others), leading to spherical red blood cells that are prone to hemolysis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood smear (reveals spherocytes), osmotic fragility test, flow cytometry, and family history.

Treatment:
Splenectomy (if severe), folic acid supplementation, and managing anemia symptoms.

Medications:
Folic acid supplementation to support red blood cell production. No direct medication treats the structural defect; antibiotics or vaccines may be used prophylactically post-splenectomy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 2,000 individuals of Northern European descent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of hereditary spherocytosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with treatment; splenectomy significantly reduces hemolysis, but infection risks increase.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gallstones, severe anemia, aplastic crises (especially following parvovirus B19 infection), and increased infection risk post-splenectomy.

Cyanide poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
headache; confusion; seizures; shortness of breath; cardiac arrhythmias; cherry-red skin coloration (rare); metabolic acidosis; coma

Root Cause:
Inhibition of cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, leading to cellular hypoxia and metabolic failure despite adequate oxygenation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of exposure, symptoms presentation, blood cyanide levels, and arterial blood gases (showing metabolic acidosis).

Treatment:
Administration of hydroxocobalamin (binds cyanide to form cyanocobalamin), sodium thiosulfate (enhances cyanide detoxification), and supportive care (oxygen therapy).

Medications:
Hydroxocobalamin (cyanide antidote), sodium thiosulfate (sulfur donor for detoxification), amyl nitrite or sodium nitrite (optional, promotes methemoglobin formation).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in industrialized countries but associated with fires, industrial exposure, and intentional poisoning.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoke inhalation from fires, occupational exposure (e.g., mining, metal plating), ingestion of cyanide-containing compounds.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with rapid intervention; delay in treatment can result in death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological damage, cardiopulmonary arrest, lactic acidosis.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
headache; dizziness; nausea; vomiting; confusion; chest pain; shortness of breath; loss of consciousness; seizures; coma

Root Cause:
Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin with greater affinity than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces oxygen delivery to tissues and causes cellular hypoxia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, carboxyhemoglobin levels via blood gas analysis, pulse CO-oximetry (if available).

Treatment:
Removal from exposure source, administration of 100% oxygen, hyperbaric oxygen therapy in severe cases.

Medications:
No specific medications; 100% oxygen or hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the treatment of choice.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, particularly in poorly ventilated areas with gas heaters, car exhaust, or during fire incidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Indoor use of gas appliances, fires, motor vehicle exhaust, faulty heating systems.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early treatment; delayed treatment can result in neurological sequelae or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxic brain injury, delayed neuropsychiatric syndrome (DNS), arrhythmias, myocardial ischemia.

Chlorine gas exposure

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
coughing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; burning sensation in the throat and eyes; wheezing; nausea; vomiting; pulmonary edema

Root Cause:
Chlorine gas reacts with water in the respiratory tract to form hydrochloric acid and hypochlorous acid, causing irritation and damage to respiratory tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of exposure, symptoms presentation, chest X-ray or CT scan to assess lung damage.

Treatment:
Removal from exposure, supportive care with oxygen therapy, bronchodilators for wheezing, corticosteroids for severe inflammation.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), oxygen therapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sporadic cases, often associated with industrial accidents or improper mixing of cleaning agents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Industrial exposure, household accidents, swimming pool maintenance (chlorine release).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; severe exposure can lead to chronic respiratory issues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Reactive airway dysfunction syndrome (RADS), chronic bronchitis, pulmonary edema.

Ammonia exposure

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
burning sensation in the nose and throat; coughing; shortness of breath; chest pain; wheezing; eye irritation; skin burns

Root Cause:
Ammonia is a caustic substance that causes chemical burns to mucous membranes and tissues upon contact.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of exposure, symptoms presentation, examination of affected tissues, arterial blood gases for respiratory compromise.

Treatment:
Removal from exposure, irrigation of affected skin or eyes with water, oxygen therapy for respiratory distress, supportive care.

Medications:
No specific antidote; symptomatic treatment includes bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) and corticosteroids for severe airway inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sporadic cases, often in industrial settings or household cleaning accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Industrial accidents, improper handling of ammonia-containing products, inadequate ventilation during cleaning.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; severe exposure can lead to permanent respiratory damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chemical burns, reactive airway dysfunction syndrome (RADS), pulmonary edema.

Cadmium Poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Chronic Toxicity and Long-Term Exposures

Sub-category: Heavy Metal Toxicity

Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; diarrhea; shortness of breath; cough; weakness; bone pain; renal dysfunction (proteinuria); osteomalacia

Root Cause:
Cadmium exposure occurs primarily through inhalation of fumes or dust (e.g., in industrial settings) or ingestion of contaminated food or water. Cadmium accumulates in the kidneys and bones, leading to oxidative stress, cellular damage, and impaired calcium metabolism.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made by measuring cadmium levels in blood or urine. Renal function tests (e.g., urinary protein levels) and bone density studies are often conducted to assess long-term damage.

Treatment:
Treatment includes removing the source of cadmium exposure, supportive care for symptoms, and chelation therapy in severe cases. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be recommended for bone health.

Medications:
Chelating agents like dimercaprol and EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) may be used in cases of severe poisoning. Chelation is less effective for chronic exposure due to cadmium's strong tissue binding.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cadmium poisoning is more common in industrial workers (e.g., battery manufacturing, metal plating) and populations exposed to contaminated food or water, particularly in areas with poor environmental regulations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure (e.g., smelting, welding), smoking (tobacco contains cadmium), consumption of cadmium-contaminated food (e.g., rice, shellfish), and living near industrial sites.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early removal from exposure can improve outcomes, but chronic exposure may result in irreversible kidney damage, bone demineralization, and other complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term complications include chronic kidney disease (CKD), osteoporosis, fractures, respiratory disorders (e.g., emphysema), and an increased risk of cancers (e.g., lung, prostate).

Asbestos-Related Diseases (e.g., Mesothelioma)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Chronic Toxicity and Long-Term Exposures

Sub-category: Occupational and Environmental Exposures

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; persistent cough; chest pain; unintended weight loss; fatigue; swelling in the abdomen (for peritoneal mesothelioma); clubbing of fingers

Root Cause:
Prolonged inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers causes chronic inflammation and cellular damage, leading to fibrosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging tests (chest X-rays, CT scans, MRIs), pulmonary function tests, tissue biopsies, and biomarker analysis.

Treatment:
Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care for symptom management.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as pemetrexed (an antifolate) combined with cisplatin (a platinum-based compound ) are commonly prescribed. Other medications may include bevacizumab (an angiogenesis inhibitor).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but more common among individuals with prolonged occupational asbestos exposure; latency period can span decades.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure (construction, shipbuilding, insulation), environmental exposure, smoking (increases risk of lung cancer but not mesothelioma).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor for mesothelioma (median survival ~12–21 months after diagnosis); better for asbestos-related lung fibrosis if exposure ceases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, lung infections, secondary malignancies.

Radon Gas Exposure-Related Lung Cancer

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Chronic Toxicity and Long-Term Exposures

Sub-category: Environmental Exposure

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; wheezing; unexplained weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Inhalation of radon gas and its radioactive decay products leads to DNA damage in lung tissues, triggering carcinogenesis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
History of radon exposure, imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT scan), and lung tissue biopsy to confirm malignancy.

Treatment:
Standard lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

Medications:
Targeted therapies like erlotinib (EGFR inhibitor), pembrolizumab (immune checkpoint inhibitor), or chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin and paclitaxel .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Second leading cause of lung cancer globally; high in areas with natural radon emission.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in homes with poor ventilation and high radon levels, smoking (amplifies radon effects), and occupational exposure (e.g., mining).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early detection improves survival rates, but late-stage lung cancer often has a poor prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to other organs, respiratory failure, and treatment-related side effects like immunosuppression or toxicity.

Chronic exposure to cleaning agents

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Chronic Toxicity and Long-Term Exposures

Sub-category: Industrial and Household Chemicals

Symptoms:
chronic cough; shortness of breath; irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; skin rashes or dermatitis; headaches; dizziness; fatigue; reduced lung function over time

Root Cause:
Prolonged inhalation or dermal absorption of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia, bleach, or other toxic agents found in cleaning products.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on a detailed occupational and environmental history, physical examination, pulmonary function tests, and possibly blood or urine tests to detect chemical biomarkers.

Treatment:
The primary treatment involves discontinuing or limiting exposure to the cleaning agents, using personal protective equipment (PPE), symptomatic relief with medications, and addressing any secondary organ damage.

Medications:
Symptomatic treatment may involve antihistamines for allergic reactions, corticosteroids for inflammatory symptoms, and bronchodilators for airway irritation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Prevalence varies based on occupation and household exposure but is more common in individuals in cleaning professions or those with frequent exposure to cleaning agents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged occupational exposure, improper ventilation during use, lack of PPE, and sensitivity to chemical irritants.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with early intervention and reduced exposure, but chronic exposure may lead to permanent lung or skin damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, contact dermatitis, and increased risk of respiratory infections.

Ozone Toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Toxic Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Sub-category: Air Pollutants

Symptoms:
coughing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; throat irritation; wheezing; increased susceptibility to respiratory infections; worsening of asthma or copd symptoms

Root Cause:
Exposure to high levels of ozone damages lung tissues and triggers inflammation, oxidative stress, and airway hyperresponsiveness.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of exposure to polluted air, pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gas analysis, and ruling out other causes of respiratory distress.

Treatment:
Avoidance of exposure, supportive care with oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, corticosteroids for inflammation, and hospitalization in severe cases.

Medications:
Bronchodilators such as albuterol (a beta-2 agonist) to relieve airway constriction, and inhaled corticosteroids like budesonide to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in urban areas with high pollution levels; ozone is a primary component of smog.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in industrial or urban areas, outdoor physical activity during high pollution times, preexisting respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms generally improve with reduced exposure and treatment; long-term exposure may lead to chronic respiratory diseases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), reduced lung function, increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Nitrogen Dioxide Exposure

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Toxic Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Sub-category: Air Pollutants

Symptoms:
coughing; wheezing; shortness of breath; irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; worsening of asthma or copd symptoms

Root Cause:
NO2 exposure irritates the respiratory tract, causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and reduced immune defense in the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on environmental history, pulmonary function tests, and imaging to assess lung damage.

Treatment:
Remove the patient from exposure, provide oxygen therapy, administer bronchodilators, and use corticosteroids in severe cases.

Medications:
Albuterol (beta-2 agonist) for bronchospasm, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for inflammation, and mucolytics like acetylcysteine to thin mucus.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects individuals in areas with heavy vehicle traffic or industrial emissions; prevalent in urban and industrial settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living near highways or industrial plants, preexisting respiratory conditions, and occupational exposure (e.g., industrial workers).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute symptoms typically resolve with removal from exposure, but chronic exposure increases the risk of long-term respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Development of asthma, COPD, decreased lung function, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Particulate Matter Exposure (PM2.5, PM10)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Toxic Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Sub-category: Air Pollutants

Symptoms:
coughing; wheezing; shortness of breath; chest discomfort; fatigue; irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; worsening of preexisting respiratory or cardiovascular conditions

Root Cause:
Fine and ultrafine particles penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiovascular strain.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Exposure history, pulmonary function tests, imaging for lung abnormalities, and biomarkers for systemic inflammation.

Treatment:
Avoidance of exposure, oxygen therapy, bronchodilators for airway constriction, and anti-inflammatory drugs for severe symptoms.

Medications:
Bronchodilators like salmeterol (long-acting beta-2 agonist) for sustained relief and corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ) to manage inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Highly prevalent in urban and industrial areas with significant air pollution; PM2.5 is a major health concern worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Urban living, proximity to industrial zones, smoking, preexisting health conditions, and occupational exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute symptoms can be managed with treatment, but long-term exposure increases the risk of chronic diseases and mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, reduced lung function, and increased mortality risk from respiratory and cardiovascular events.

Nitrate/Nitrite Poisoning (Blue Baby Syndrome)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Toxic Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Sub-category: Water Contaminants

Symptoms:
cyanosis; shortness of breath; fatigue; vomiting; diarrhea; irritability

Root Cause:
Nitrates in water are reduced to nitrites in the body, which interfere with the ability of hemoglobin to carry oxygen, leading to hypoxia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed by measuring blood methemoglobin levels and detecting elevated nitrate/nitrite concentrations in water or food sources.

Treatment:
Treatment involves administering methylene blue (a medication that converts methemoglobin back to hemoglobin), oxygen therapy, and removal from the contaminated environment.

Medications:
Methylene blue (a medication used to treat methemoglobinemia) is the primary treatment for nitrate/nitrite poisoning. It is classified as an antidote for methemoglobinemia.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Blue baby syndrome is primarily found in infants under six months old, particularly in rural areas where water sources are contaminated with high levels of nitrates.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of well water contaminated with nitrates, young infants consuming formula mixed with nitrate-contaminated water, and agricultural runoff in farming areas.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
If treated early with methylene blue, the prognosis is usually good. However, severe cases can lead to neurological damage if not treated in time.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Without prompt treatment, cyanosis and severe hypoxia can lead to death. Chronic exposure to high levels of nitrates can also cause long-term developmental issues in infants.

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.

Panic Disorder

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Anxiety Disorders

Symptoms:
sudden and intense episodes of fear; racing heart; shortness of breath; dizziness; sweating; fear of losing control or dying

Root Cause:
Dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations, and cognitive misinterpretations of threat.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria, including recurrent panic attacks and fear of future attacks or their consequences.

Treatment:
Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and pharmacotherapy.

Medications:
SSRIs (e.g., sertraline , paroxetine ) or SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine ) are first-line treatments. Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam , clonazepam ) may be used for short-term relief but are not recommended for long-term management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2%-3% of the population annually, more common in women than men.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, chronic stress, history of trauma, and co-existing anxiety disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; many achieve significant symptom reduction, but some may experience recurrence or require ongoing therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Agoraphobia, avoidance behaviors, depression, and substance use disorders.

Somatic Symptom Disorders

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Psychosomatic

Symptoms:
excessive worry about physical symptoms; chronic pain; fatigue; shortness of breath; gastrointestinal complaints

Root Cause:
Maladaptive thought processes and emotional responses to bodily sensations.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical interviews, ruling out medical conditions, and identifying disproportionate anxiety about symptoms.

Treatment:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication for comorbid conditions.

Medications:
SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine ) or SNRIs (e.g., duloxetine ) to manage associated anxiety or depression.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 5-7% of the general population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Childhood trauma, chronic illness, or a family history of similar disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic but can improve with psychotherapy and consistent care.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Frequent medical visits, unnecessary procedures, and functional impairment.

Burkholderia Cepacia Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; sepsis in severe cases

Root Cause:
Opportunistic pathogen causing infections in immunocompromised individuals or those with chronic conditions like cystic fibrosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sputum cultures, blood cultures, and molecular testing (e.g., PCR).

Treatment:
Combination antibiotic therapy tailored to susceptibility testing due to resistance.

Medications:
Ceftazidime (third-generation cephalosporin), meropenem (carbapenem), and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (sulfonamide antibiotic).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but significant in hospital settings and among cystic fibrosis patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Cystic fibrosis, chronic lung disease, immunosuppression, and prolonged hospital stays.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; can be severe in immunocompromised patients or those with underlying conditions.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, septicemia, and increased mortality in vulnerable populations.

CBRNE - Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; chills; headache; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; shortness of breath; potential septic shock

Root Cause:
Caused by exposure to Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxins, which act as superantigens triggering an exaggerated immune response.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms and potential exposure history. Laboratory confirmation by identifying enterotoxins in biological samples.

Treatment:
Supportive care (fluids, oxygen therapy). Antibiotics if secondary bacterial infection is suspected.

Medications:
Beta-lactam antibiotics such as cefazolin for secondary infections. Antipyretics like acetaminophen to reduce fever.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically associated with bioterrorism events or foodborne outbreaks.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure, bioterrorism incidents, consumption of contaminated food.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt supportive care; severe cases can result in complications or death if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dehydration, respiratory failure, toxic shock syndrome.

Elizabethkingia Infections

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Sub-category: Nosocomial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; chills; shortness of breath; sepsis; localized infections such as cellulitis or endocarditis

Root Cause:
Caused by Elizabethkingia anophelis or Elizabethkingia meningoseptica, opportunistic pathogens that thrive in immunocompromised hosts, often transmitted in healthcare settings.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood or tissue cultures, molecular identification techniques like MALDI-TOF MS, and PCR-based testing.

Treatment:
Targeted antibiotic therapy based on susceptibility testing, as the bacteria are often multidrug-resistant.

Medications:
Combination therapy may include vancomycin (glycopeptide), ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone), or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (sulfonamide-antibiotic).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but increasingly reported in hospitalized and immunocompromised patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hospitalization, invasive procedures, immunosuppression, and use of medical devices like ventilators or catheters.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; better outcomes with early diagnosis and appropriate therapy, though mortality is high in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, meningitis, endocarditis, and multi-organ failure.

HACEK Group Infections

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; heart murmurs; shortness of breath; night sweats; weight loss

Root Cause:
Infections caused by a group of fastidious Gram-negative bacteria (Haemophilus, Aggregatibacter, Cardiobacterium, Eikenella, Kingella) commonly associated with infective endocarditis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures (may require prolonged incubation), echocardiography for suspected endocarditis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for specific bacterial identification.

Treatment:
Empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics followed by targeted antimicrobial therapy based on blood culture results; surgical intervention for complications such as heart valve damage.

Medications:
Antibiotics such as ceftriaxone (third-generation cephalosporin) or ampicillin (beta-lactam antibiotic) are the main treatments. In cases of penicillin allergy, fluoroquinolones like ciprofloxacin may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for approximately 1–3% of cases of infective endocarditis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Pre-existing heart valve disease, prosthetic heart valves, poor dental hygiene, immunocompromised state.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment, though complications like heart valve damage can occur. Long-term outcomes depend on the presence of comorbidities and complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart valve destruction, abscess formation, systemic embolization, and relapse of infection.

Haemophilus Influenzae Infections

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; shortness of breath; stiff neck; altered mental status; ear pain; sore throat; swelling in the face

Root Cause:
Caused by the bacterium Haemophilus influenzae, which can lead to respiratory infections, meningitis, or sepsis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, cerebrospinal fluid analysis (in meningitis cases), sputum cultures, and imaging for complications such as pneumonia.

Treatment:
Antibiotics targeting H. influenzae, supportive care for respiratory distress or meningitis symptoms, and vaccination for prevention.

Medications:
Cefotaxime or ceftriaxone (third-generation cephalosporins), or amoxicillin-clavulanate (beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor). Rifampin may be used for prophylaxis in close contacts of cases with invasive disease.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Reduced significantly in countries with widespread vaccination, but still prevalent in unvaccinated populations. Non-typeable H. influenzae remains a common cause of respiratory infections.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of vaccination, immunocompromised state, young age (infants), chronic pulmonary conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with prompt treatment, though complications can lead to increased morbidity and mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Meningitis, sepsis, pneumonia, epiglottitis, and hearing loss (from meningitis).

Klebsiella Infections

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough with thick sputum; shortness of breath; abdominal pain; urinary symptoms; chills; fatigue

Root Cause:
Infections caused by Klebsiella species, primarily Klebsiella pneumoniae, leading to pneumonia, urinary tract infections, sepsis, and liver abscesses.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, sputum cultures, urine cultures, imaging (chest X-ray, CT scan) for pneumonia or abscesses.

Treatment:
Targeted antibiotic therapy based on susceptibility testing; supportive care for severe infections.

Medications:
Carbapenems (e.g., meropenem or imipenem ) for multidrug-resistant strains; cephalosporins (e.g., ceftriaxone ) or fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin ) for susceptible strains. Colistin or tigecycline for extensively drug-resistant strains.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increasing incidence due to antibiotic resistance, particularly in healthcare settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hospitalization, use of invasive devices (e.g., catheters), immunosuppression, diabetes, chronic lung disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; good with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, but mortality rates are high in severe, resistant infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, lung abscesses, liver abscesses, and antibiotic resistance.

Moraxella Catarrhalis Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Sub-category: Respiratory Infections

Symptoms:
ear pain; fever; sinus pressure; cough; shortness of breath; purulent nasal discharge

Root Cause:
Caused by Moraxella catarrhalis, a gram-negative bacterium that primarily affects the respiratory tract.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, sputum culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.

Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy for symptomatic cases; supportive care for mild infections.

Medications:
Amoxicillin-clavulanate (penicillin-class antibiotic with beta-lactamase inhibitor), cefuroxime (cephalosporin-class antibiotic), or macrolides like azithromycin .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common cause of otitis media in children and respiratory tract infections in adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (young children, elderly), underlying respiratory conditions, and weakened immune systems.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with appropriate treatment; mild cases often resolve without complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Middle ear infections, sinus infections, exacerbation of COPD, or pneumonia.

Plague

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; chills; headache; swollen lymph nodes (buboes); cough; shortness of breath; septic shock in severe cases

Root Cause:
Caused by Yersinia pestis, transmitted via flea bites or contact with infected animals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Confirmed by blood, sputum, or lymph node aspirate culture; rapid diagnostic tests for Yersinia pestis.

Treatment:
Early antibiotic therapy and supportive care are critical.

Medications:
Streptomycin (aminoglycoside) or gentamicin is the treatment of choice; alternatives include doxycycline or ciprofloxacin .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in modern times but endemic in some regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Flea exposure, handling infected animals, or residing in endemic regions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt antibiotic treatment; high mortality in untreated cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, septicemia, and multi-organ failure.

Rhodococcus Equi Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
chronic cough; fever; shortness of breath; weight loss; chest pain

Root Cause:
Caused by infection with Rhodococcus equi, a gram-positive bacterium that primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or on immunosuppressive therapy.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, sputum cultures, or imaging (chest X-ray or CT scan).

Treatment:
Prolonged antibiotic therapy, typically with a combination of a macrolide (e.g., azithromycin) and rifampin.

Medications:
Azithromycin (macrolide antibiotic), rifampin (rifamycin antibiotic), and sometimes vancomycin (glycopeptide antibiotic) for resistant cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; more common in areas with endemic livestock populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, exposure to farm animals, or occupational exposure in agriculture.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; good with early diagnosis and treatment but potentially fatal in advanced or untreated cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary abscesses, disseminated infection, or recurrence.

Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Sub-category: Nosocomial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; shortness of breath; wound infections; urinary tract infections; sepsis in immunocompromised individuals

Root Cause:
Opportunistic infection caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, often associated with hospital environments.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood, sputum, or wound culture and susceptibility testing.

Treatment:
Targeted antibiotic therapy; supportive care.

Medications:
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (first-line), with alternatives including levofloxacin or minocycline based on resistance patterns.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A rare cause of infection, primarily in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged hospital stays, mechanical ventilation, central venous catheters, immunosuppressive therapy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor in critically ill or immunosuppressed patients; high mortality in systemic infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, multi-organ failure, prolonged hospitalization.

Pneumocystis Jiroveci Pneumonia (PJP)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Symptoms:
fever; dry cough; shortness of breath; fatigue; chest pain; hypoxia

Root Cause:
Opportunistic fungal infection caused by Pneumocystis jiroveci, primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic identification of Pneumocystis jiroveci in respiratory samples (e.g., sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage); PCR and beta-D-glucan assays; chest X-rays or CT scans.

Treatment:
Antifungal therapy with adjunctive corticosteroids in severe cases to reduce inflammation.

Medications:
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is the first-line treatment. Alternatives include pentamidine , atovaquone , or clindamycin with primaquine . TMP-SMX is an antibiotic with antifungal properties; pentamidine is an antiprotozoal and antifungal agent.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among HIV/AIDS patients and other immunosuppressed populations; incidence decreases with antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation, cancer chemotherapy, chronic corticosteroid use.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality if untreated but generally good with early treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, pneumothorax, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and systemic infections.

Chlamydial Pneumonias

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
persistent dry cough; low-grade fever; mild fatigue; pharyngitis; wheezing; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Infection caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae or Chlamydia psittaci, leading to atypical pneumonia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serologic testing, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and culture of respiratory secretions.

Treatment:
Antibiotics targeting atypical organisms, supportive care, and management of symptoms.

Medications:
Macrolides like azithromycin or clarithromycin , tetracyclines such as doxycycline , or fluoroquinolones like levofloxacin . These antibiotics target the intracellular lifecycle of Chlamydia.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for about 5–15% of community-acquired pneumonia cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, immunosuppression, smoking, and exposure to birds in the case of C. psittaci.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with prompt treatment; severe cases can occur in older or immunocompromised patients.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, chronic lung disease, or systemic spread in immunocompromised individuals.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia Empiric Therapy

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; productive or dry cough; shortness of breath; pleuritic chest pain; chills; malaise

Root Cause:
Suspected bacterial or atypical pathogen causing pneumonia before specific pathogen identification is available.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Empiric therapy is initiated based on clinical presentation, radiographic findings, and severity assessment tools like CURB-65 or PSI scores.

Treatment:
Antibiotics targeting common pathogens (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, atypical organisms like Mycoplasma pneumoniae). Therapy is tailored to patient risk factors and severity of illness.

Medications:
Outpatient cases

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Empiric therapy guidelines apply universally in managing CAP; up to 10% of cases require hospitalization.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, chronic diseases, immunosuppression, prior antibiotic use, and recent healthcare exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable in most cases; early treatment reduces morbidity and mortality. Severe or misdiagnosed cases may have a higher risk of complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Development of antibiotic resistance, incomplete pathogen coverage leading to clinical deterioration, or adverse drug reactions.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; cough; shortness of breath; fatigue; loss of taste or smell; muscle aches; sore throat; headache; congestion or runny nose; nausea or vomiting; diarrhea

Root Cause:
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection causing inflammation, immune response dysregulation, and damage to lung and other organ tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through a combination of clinical symptoms, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, antigen tests, chest imaging (e.g., chest X-rays or CT scans showing ground-glass opacities), and blood tests indicating inflammation or coagulopathy.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and supporting organ function. Includes antiviral medications, corticosteroids, anticoagulation therapy, and supportive care (e.g., oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation if needed). Vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis are also key preventive measures.

Medications:
Antiviral medications - Remdesivir (nucleotide analog), Paxlovid (combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir ), and molnupiravir (nucleoside analog). Corticosteroids - Dexamethasone is used to reduce inflammation in severe cases. Anticoagulants - Low-molecular-weight heparin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) to prevent thromboembolism. Immunomodulators - Tocilizumab (IL-6 receptor antagonist) or baricitinib (JAK inhibitor) in severe inflammatory cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A global pandemic affecting hundreds of millions of people since its emergence in late 2019. Prevalence varies by region, vaccination rates, and public health measures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, immunosuppression, and being unvaccinated or undervaccinated.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The majority of cases are mild to moderate, with recovery expected in a few weeks. Severe or critical cases can lead to long-term complications or death. Prognosis is improved with early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and vaccination.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), thromboembolic events (e.g., pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis), myocarditis, long COVID (persistent symptoms lasting weeks to months), kidney injury, neurological complications, and secondary infections.

Fungal Pneumonia

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
cough (sometimes with blood); fever; chest pain; shortness of breath; fatigue; night sweats

Root Cause:
Infection of the lungs caused by fungal organisms, such as Aspergillus, Histoplasma capsulatum, or Coccidioides. These fungi typically enter through inhalation of spores.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging (chest X-rays or CT scans), fungal cultures, antigen or antibody blood tests, and histopathological examination.

Treatment:
Antifungal medications, supportive care (oxygen therapy if needed), and addressing underlying immunosuppressive conditions.

Medications:
Antifungals such as fluconazole (azole class), amphotericin B (polyene class), or itraconazole (azole class).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, with higher prevalence in immunocompromised individuals or those living in endemic areas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression (e.g., HIV, chemotherapy), residing in or visiting endemic areas, long-term corticosteroid use, or organ transplantation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with timely treatment, but delayed or untreated cases may lead to severe complications or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, dissemination to other organs, and secondary bacterial infections.

Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia (HAP) and Ventilator-Associated Event (VAE) Empiric Therapy

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Nosocomial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; increased respiratory secretions; new or worsening infiltrates on chest x-rays; cough; shortness of breath; elevated white blood cell count

Root Cause:
Infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter, or MRSA due to prolonged hospital stay or mechanical ventilation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical suspicion, imaging studies, and microbiological culture from respiratory secretions.

Treatment:
Empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics based on local antibiograms, later narrowed by culture results.

Medications:
Piperacillin-tazobactam (beta-lactam), vancomycin (glycopeptide), or meropenem (carbapenem).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common nosocomial infection, especially in ICU settings; incidence is approximately 5-15% among intubated patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Mechanical ventilation, prolonged hospitalization, immunosuppression, prior antibiotic use, and invasive procedures.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies based on pathogen and promptness of treatment; higher mortality rates in multidrug-resistant infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and prolonged hospitalization.

Human Metapneumovirus

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Viral Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Symptoms:
cough; runny nose; fever; sore throat; shortness of breath; wheezing

Root Cause:
Viral infection of the respiratory tract caused by human metapneumovirus, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
PCR testing of nasal or throat swabs, viral cultures, or serological testing for specific antibodies.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration, antipyretics, and oxygen therapy for severe cases.

Medications:
No specific antiviral therapy; ribavirin has been studied in severe cases, but its use is not standardized.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common cause of respiratory infections, particularly in winter and spring; contributes to 5-10% of pediatric hospitalizations for acute respiratory illness.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age extremes, daycare or school exposure, chronic respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, and immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good, with most cases resolving spontaneously; severe outcomes possible in high-risk groups.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bronchiolitis, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and secondary bacterial infections.

Legionnaires' Disease

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
high fever; chills; cough (productive or dry); shortness of breath; muscle aches; headache; diarrhea; nausea; confusion or mental changes in severe cases

Root Cause:
Caused by infection with Legionella bacteria, commonly Legionella pneumophila. Infection occurs through inhalation of aerosolized water droplets contaminated with the bacteria.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves chest X-rays to detect pneumonia, urine antigen tests for Legionella species, sputum culture, and PCR tests. Blood tests may show abnormalities indicating infection.

Treatment:
Treated primarily with antibiotics that target Legionella, supportive care for symptoms such as oxygen therapy for breathing difficulties, and hydration for fluid balance.

Medications:
Antibiotics - Fluoroquinolones (e.g., levofloxacin , ciprofloxacin ), macrolides (e.g., azithromycin ), or tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline ) are commonly prescribed. These are bactericidal or bacteriostatic medications effective against Legionella.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Infrequent but can occur sporadically or in outbreaks, especially in settings with poorly maintained water systems. Affects approximately 1-2 cases per 100,000 people annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age over 50, smoking, chronic lung disease, weakened immune system, history of recent travel (hotels or cruise ships with poor water system maintenance).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment with antibiotics results in recovery in most cases; however, severe cases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, may lead to complications and higher mortality rates (10-15%).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, septic shock, multi-organ failure, long-term lung scarring, and secondary bacterial infections.

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; cough; shortness of breath; muscle pain; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; abdominal pain

Root Cause:
Caused by the MERS-CoV coronavirus, transmitted through respiratory droplets or contact with infected individuals or camels. Severe cases involve acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on PCR testing for MERS-CoV in respiratory samples, chest imaging to detect pneumonia or ARDS, and serologic tests.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation in severe cases, and treatment of secondary infections. No specific antiviral therapy is widely accepted.

Medications:
Experimental - Antivirals (e.g., ribavirin ) combined with interferon have been investigated but are not standard treatments. Supportive medications - Antipyretics for fever, and bronchodilators for respiratory relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Outbreaks have primarily occurred in the Middle East. Limited cases in other regions due to travel-associated spread. Mortality rates range from 30-40%.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with camels, healthcare exposure to infected individuals, age over 50, pre-existing chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Severe cases can progress to multi-organ failure and death, particularly in high-risk groups. Mild cases may resolve with symptomatic management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
ARDS, septic shock, renal failure, and long-term pulmonary complications in survivors.

Nursing Home Acquired Pneumonia (NHAP)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
cough; fever; shortness of breath; chest pain; confusion or altered mental status in elderly patients; fatigue; weakness

Root Cause:
Pneumonia occurring in nursing home residents due to increased exposure to pathogens, aspiration, and weakened immune defenses. Common causative agents include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, chest X-ray showing infiltrates, sputum culture, blood tests indicating infection (elevated white blood cell count, CRP), and pulse oximetry to assess oxygen levels.

Treatment:
Empirical antibiotic therapy tailored to likely pathogens, oxygen supplementation, hydration, and management of comorbidities.

Medications:
Antibiotics - Beta-lactams (e.g., ceftriaxone ), macrolides (e.g., azithromycin ), or fluoroquinolones (e.g., levofloxacin ). These are selected based on the patient’s condition and local antimicrobial resistance patterns. Supportive medications - Antipyretics for fever and bronchodilators for airway relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
One of the most common infections in nursing home residents, with a significant impact on morbidity and mortality in this population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, immobility, chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, COPD), malnutrition, aspiration, and use of feeding tubes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies based on promptness of treatment, severity of pneumonia, and the patient’s underlying health. Mortality rates range from 10-30%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, sepsis, empyema, and exacerbation of chronic conditions.

Pneumococcal Infections (Streptococcus pneumoniae)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; chills; cough (productive or dry); shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; headache; confusion in severe cases

Root Cause:
Infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, including pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis, often following viral respiratory infections or in individuals with compromised immunity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray for pneumonia, blood cultures for bacteremia, lumbar puncture for meningitis, and rapid antigen testing for S. pneumoniae.

Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy based on severity and resistance patterns, supportive care, and vaccination for prevention.

Medications:
Antibiotics - Penicillin, ceftriaxone , or vancomycin for severe cases; macrolides (e.g., azithromycin ) or fluoroquinolones for milder presentations. Vaccination - Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) for prevention.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia worldwide, particularly in children under 5 and adults over 65.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age extremes, chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, COPD), smoking, immunosuppression, and absence of vaccination.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment, though severe cases can lead to complications. Mortality is higher in meningitis or bacteremia.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Empyema, sepsis, meningitis, and hearing loss in meningitis survivors.

Psittacosis (Parrot Fever)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Symptoms:
fever; chills; headache; dry cough; muscle aches; shortness of breath; nausea; vomiting; fatigue

Root Cause:
Zoonotic infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci, typically transmitted through inhalation of dried droppings, secretions, or dust from infected birds.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves serologic testing for C. psittaci antibodies, PCR testing, and chest imaging to confirm pneumonia.

Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy is the primary treatment, often combined with supportive care for symptom relief.

Medications:
Antibiotics - Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline ) are the treatment of choice. Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin ) may be used as an alternative.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, primarily affecting individuals in close contact with birds, such as pet owners, veterinarians, and bird handlers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to infected birds, handling bird droppings, or working in environments with birds.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; most patients recover fully. Untreated cases can lead to severe complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Endocarditis, myocarditis, respiratory failure, and multi-organ dysfunction in severe cases.

Viral Pneumonia

Specialty: Infectious Diseases