Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Rheumatoid Arthritis (Early Detection and Referral)

Category: Musculoskeletal and Joint Conditions

Symptoms:
joint pain and swelling; morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes; fatigue; weight loss; low-grade fever

Root Cause:
Autoimmune disorder causing chronic inflammation in joints and systemic effects.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (e.g., rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, CRP), X-rays or MRI showing joint erosion.

Treatment:
Referral to a rheumatologist for disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs); NSAIDs and corticosteroids for symptom relief.

Medications:
DMARDs (e.g., methotrexate , leflunomide ), biologics (e.g., adalimumab , etanercept ), corticosteroids.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1% of the population; more common in women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, smoking, certain infections, female sex.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment slows disease progression; untreated cases lead to joint damage and disability.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Joint deformity, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, lung disease.

Pyloric Stenosis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Stomach Disorders

Sub-category: Structural and Functional Disorders

Symptoms:
forceful projectile vomiting (non-bilious); palpable olive-shaped mass in the abdomen; dehydration; weight loss; persistent hunger

Root Cause:
Thickening of the pyloric sphincter muscle, causing narrowing of the passage between the stomach and duodenum, leading to obstruction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound is the gold standard for diagnosis, showing thickened pyloric muscle. Additional tests may include an upper GI series (contrast study) for confirmation.

Treatment:
Surgery (pyloromyotomy) to cut the thickened muscle and relieve obstruction. Preoperative treatment involves correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Medications:
No long-term medications; immediate care involves IV fluids for dehydration and electrolyte replenishment. Antiemetics like ondansetron may be used temporarily.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 2-3 per 1,000 live births, more common in male infants.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male sex, firstborn status, family history of pyloric stenosis, and macrolide antibiotic use during early infancy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely surgical intervention; most infants recover fully without long-term complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis), and failure to thrive if left untreated.

Celiac Disease

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Immunologic Disorders

Sub-category: Autoimmune Disorders

Symptoms:
diarrhea; abdominal pain; bloating; weight loss; iron deficiency anemia; fatigue; dermatitis herpetiformis (skin rash)

Root Cause:
Autoimmune reaction to gluten, causing damage to the small intestine lining and nutrient malabsorption.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for anti-tTG or EMA antibodies, endoscopic biopsy of the small intestine.

Treatment:
Strict lifelong gluten-free diet.

Medications:
Gluten-free diet and supplements for nutrient deficiencies.

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

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition (HLA-DQ2/DQ8), family history, other autoimmune disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with adherence to a gluten-free diet; untreated cases can lead to serious complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, small intestinal cancer, other autoimmune disorders.

Crohn’s Disease

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders

Sub-category: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; persistent diarrhea; fatigue; weight loss; fever; mouth sores; blood in stool; reduced appetite

Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation affecting any part of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly the ileum and colon, caused by an abnormal immune response to intestinal microbiota.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, colonoscopy with biopsy, capsule endoscopy, CT or MRI enterography, blood tests (e.g., CRP, anemia, hypoalbuminemia), and stool tests.

Treatment:
Treatment involves anti-inflammatory medications, immune modulators, biologic therapies, dietary management, and, in some cases, surgical resection of affected bowel segments.

Medications:
Aminosalicylates (e.g., sulfasalazine , mesalamine ) for mild disease; corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide , prednisone ) for acute flares; immunomodulators (e.g., methotrexate , azathioprine ); biologics (e.g., adalimumab , ustekinumab ) targeting TNF or interleukins; antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole , ciprofloxacin ) for secondary infections or complications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 780,000 people in the United States; incidence is rising globally, especially in developed nations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, smoking, urban lifestyle, Western diet, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and younger age (typically diagnosed between 15-30 years).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with variable severity; periods of remission and exacerbation; not curable but manageable; surgery is often needed in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel obstruction, fistulas, abscesses, malnutrition, increased risk of colorectal cancer, osteoporosis, and extraintestinal manifestations like skin disorders and joint inflammation.

Ulcerative Colitis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders

Sub-category: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)

Symptoms:
persistent diarrhea; abdominal pain; rectal bleeding; urgency to defecate; fatigue; weight loss; fever

Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation and ulceration of the mucosal lining of the colon and rectum, likely due to an autoimmune response triggered by environmental and genetic factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, colonoscopy with biopsy, stool tests, blood tests (e.g., CRP, ESR), and imaging studies like CT or MRI enterography.

Treatment:
Treatment includes anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, dietary changes, and in severe cases, surgery (proctocolectomy with ileostomy or ileal pouch-anal anastomosis).

Medications:
Aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine , sulfasalazine ) to reduce inflammation; corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for acute flares; immunomodulators (e.g., azathioprine ) to suppress the immune response; biologics (e.g., infliximab , adalimumab ) targeting specific inflammatory pathways.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-2 million people in the United States, with incidence rates rising in many developed countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, Caucasian or Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity, living in urban or industrialized areas, younger age (usually diagnosed before age 30).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic condition with periods of remission and flare-ups; manageable with treatment; surgery can be curative but has associated risks.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of colon cancer, toxic megacolon, perforation, severe bleeding, malnutrition, and extraintestinal manifestations like arthritis and uveitis.

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

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Endocrine Disorders

Sub-category: Other Endocrine Issues

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Neuroblastoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal mass; pain; fever; weight loss; bone pain; bulging eyes; high blood pressure

Root Cause:
Cancer originating in nerve tissue, most commonly in the adrenal glands, sympathetic nervous system, or nerve tissue along the neck, chest, abdomen, or pelvis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound), biopsy, urine tests for catecholamine metabolites (VMA, HVA), bone marrow aspiration.

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like cyclophosphamide , vincristine , doxorubicin , and cisplatin ; Immunotherapy drugs such as dinutuximab (Unituxin ); Pain medications such as acetaminophen or opioids for severe pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 100,000 children; accounts for 6-10% of pediatric cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations (e.g., MYCN amplification), family history, certain congenital conditions like Hirschsprung disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the stage at diagnosis, age of the child, and response to treatment. The survival rate is approximately 70-80% for low-risk cases but significantly lower for high-risk cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tumor metastasis, organ dysfunction, hearing loss, developmental delays, long-term effects from chemotherapy and radiation.

Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Infectious Diseases

Sub-category: Systemic Conditions

Symptoms:
persistent fever lasting more than three weeks; weakness; night sweats; weight loss; anorexia

Root Cause:
FUO can result from various causes, including infections, malignancies, autoimmune diseases, and other systemic disorders.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive history, physical examination, laboratory tests (CBC, blood cultures, ESR/CRP), imaging (CT, MRI, PET), and biopsy if indicated.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the identified cause; empirical therapy may be used in select cases while diagnostic efforts are ongoing.

Medications:
Antibiotics (broad-spectrum, such as vancomycin or ceftriaxone ), corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants depending on the cause. These belong to anti-infectives, anti-inflammatory agents, or immunomodulators.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
FUO accounts for about 2-3% of hospital admissions in tertiary care settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, immunosuppression, travel history, or recent surgeries.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies widely and depends on the underlying cause. Many cases resolve with appropriate treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent fever can lead to dehydration, organ dysfunction, or worsening of the underlying condition.

Giant Cell Arteritis (Temporal Arteritis)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Vasculitis

Symptoms:
headache; jaw claudication (pain while chewing); scalp tenderness; vision loss; fever; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Inflammation of large- and medium-sized arteries, especially the temporal arteries, due to an immune-mediated process.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms; elevated ESR and CRP; temporal artery biopsy (showing granulomatous inflammation); Doppler ultrasound of the temporal artery

Treatment:
High-dose corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and prevent complications, followed by a gradual tapering.

Medications:
Corticosteroids such as prednisone (anti-inflammatory), tocilizumab (an IL-6 receptor antagonist for refractory cases), and aspirin (antiplatelet therapy to reduce vascular complications).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 200 per 100,000 people aged over 50; more common in women and people of Northern European descent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age >50 years; female sex; genetic predisposition (HLA-DR4); Northern European ancestry

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; untreated cases risk permanent vision loss or aortic aneurysm.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent vision loss; aortic aneurysm; stroke; vascular stenosis

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Rheumatologic Conditions

Symptoms:
muscle pain and stiffness in the shoulders and hips; fatigue; fever; weight loss; difficulty with movement or mobility; morning stiffness

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the muscles and joints, particularly around the shoulders and hips. It is often associated with Giant Cell Arteritis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, elevated ESR and CRP levels, and the exclusion of other conditions. No specific test exists, but imaging or muscle biopsy may occasionally be used.

Treatment:
First-line treatment includes corticosteroids (prednisone) to reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressants like methotrexate may be used in cases of resistance to steroids.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (prednisone ) are the primary treatment for Polymyalgia Rheumatica. Methotrexate or other immunosuppressive agents may be used in cases where corticosteroids are insufficient or cause side effects.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 1,000 people over the age of 50, with a higher incidence in females and those of Northern European descent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (over 50), female gender, family history of autoimmune conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, symptoms often improve within weeks; however, corticosteroids are typically required long-term.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension, and cataracts.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener’s)

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Rheumatologic Conditions

Sub-category: Vasculitis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Microscopic Polyangiitis

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Systemic Diseases with Renal Involvement

Sub-category: Vasculitis with Kidney Involvement

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuberculosis of the Spine (Pott’s Disease)

Specialty: Orthopedics and Rheumatology

Category: Conditions with Overlap

Sub-category: Infections

Symptoms:
back pain; fever; night sweats; weight loss; fatigue; difficulty moving or bending; neurological symptoms if nerves are affected

Root Cause:
A form of tuberculosis that affects the spine, typically caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It often spreads from the lungs via the bloodstream to the vertebrae, leading to bone destruction and abscess formation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), positive tuberculosis skin test (TST), blood tests (e.g., TB-PCR, culture), and biopsy of the infected vertebrae.

Treatment:
Treatment includes long-term antibiotic therapy (often a combination of anti-TB drugs) and sometimes surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and drain abscesses if necessary.

Medications:
First-line anti-TB drugs include isoniazid , rifampin , pyrazinamide , and ethambutol . In some cases, corticosteroids are prescribed to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Tuberculosis of the spine is a rare complication, with Pott's disease occurring in less than 1% of all TB cases. It is more common in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Active pulmonary tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, weakened immune system, and living in or traveling to areas with high rates of TB.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate and prolonged treatment, the prognosis is generally good, but delayed treatment can lead to deformities, neurological impairment, or even paraplegia.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spinal deformities (e.g., kyphosis), neurological damage, paraplegia, chronic pain, and recurrent infections.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener’s Granulomatosis)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Autoimmune and Systemic Conditions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stroke-related dysphagia

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Neurological Disorders Affecting the Throat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cricopharyngeal achalasia (difficulty relaxing the upper esophageal sphincter)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Other Conditions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Emphysema

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Symptoms:
shortness of breath (dyspnea); chronic cough (often dry); wheezing; fatigue; barrel-shaped chest; weight loss; reduced exercise tolerance

Root Cause:
Destruction of alveolar walls and loss of elastic recoil in the lungs due to chronic exposure to irritants like smoking. This results in air trapping, hyperinflation of the lungs, and impaired gas exchange.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, spirometry (showing reduced FEV1/FVC ratio), chest X-ray (showing hyperinflated lungs and flattened diaphragms), CT scan (for visualization of emphysematous changes), and blood gas analysis in severe cases.

Treatment:
Smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, bronchodilators, corticosteroids (inhaled or oral), long-term oxygen therapy for advanced cases, and surgical options like lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplant in severe cases.

Medications:
Inhaled bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol - a short-acting beta-agonist, salmeterol - a long-acting beta-agonist); anticholinergics (e.g., ipratropium ); combination inhalers (e.g., budesonide /formoterol ); inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ); and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors (e.g., roflumilast ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Emphysema affects approximately 5%–6% of the adult population globally, with higher prevalence among smokers and individuals over 40.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Cigarette smoking (most significant factor), exposure to air pollutants, occupational exposure to dust and chemicals, recurrent respiratory infections, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive disease with no cure. Smoking cessation and proper treatment slow progression and improve quality of life. Advanced disease often leads to disability and reduced life expectancy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, right-sided heart failure (cor pulmonale), pneumothorax (collapsed lung), frequent exacerbations, and respiratory failure in advanced stages.

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.

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).

Churg-Strauss Syndrome (Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Pulmonary Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Vasculitis with Pulmonary Involvement

Symptoms:
asthma or worsening asthma symptoms; eosinophilia (elevated eosinophil count in the blood); sinusitis; fatigue; weight loss; muscle and joint pain; skin rashes or lesions

Root Cause:
An autoimmune vasculitis that causes inflammation of blood vessels, particularly affecting the lungs and the peripheral nerves. It’s often associated with severe asthma and eosinophilia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (eosinophil count, ANCA). Chest X-ray or CT scan. Biopsy (skin or lung).

Treatment:
Immunosuppressive medications (such as cyclophosphamide or rituximab). Corticosteroids (prednisone) to control inflammation. Bronchodilators for asthma management.

Medications:
Cyclophosphamide (chemotherapy agent, immunosuppressant). Rituximab (monoclonal antibody, immunosuppressant). Prednisone (corticosteroid, anti-inflammatory). Methotrexate (immunosuppressant). Inhalers (bronchodilators for asthma management).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated incidence of 1 to 3 cases per million people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Asthma, atopic conditions (e.g., hay fever), and genetic factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, many patients experience remission. However, the condition can be life-threatening without prompt intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart damage (especially in severe cases). Kidney damage. Respiratory failure due to lung involvement. Nerve damage or neuropathy.

Active TB

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Infectious Diseases of the Respiratory System

Sub-category: Tuberculosis (TB)

Symptoms:
persistent cough; hemoptysis (coughing up blood); night sweats; weight loss; fatigue; fever; chest pain

Root Cause:
Active TB occurs when the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria multiply and spread, causing symptoms and tissue damage, most commonly in the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed with sputum smear microscopy, culture, chest X-ray, and molecular testing (e.g., GeneXpert). A positive tuberculin skin test or interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) may indicate latent TB or recent exposure.

Treatment:
Treatment involves a combination of antibiotics for 6-9 months, often including Isoniazid, Rifampin, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol.

Medications:
The main medications used are Isoniazid (a bactericidal antibiotic), Rifampin (an antitubercular), Pyrazinamide (a bactericidal drug that targets dormant bacteria), and Ethambutol (an antimycobacterial). All are classified as antituberculars.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
TB remains a significant global health issue with over 10 million people affected each year. It is more common in developing countries and among individuals with compromised immune systems.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
HIV infection, immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., corticosteroids, chemotherapy), living in or traveling to high-risk areas, close contact with someone with active TB, malnutrition, and poor living conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
If diagnosed early and treated appropriately, the prognosis is generally good, with a high cure rate. However, drug-resistant TB can complicate treatment and worsen prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications may include drug-resistant TB, lung damage, pneumonia, pleural effusion, hemoptysis, and dissemination of TB to other organs (e.g., kidneys, bones, brain).

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.

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.

Lung Abscess

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

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.

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.

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.

Interstitial Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Other Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
progressive shortness of breath; cough; fatigue; weight loss; chest discomfort; cyanosis

Root Cause:
A rare lung disorder where a substance called surfactant builds up in the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory distress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging (CT scan showing ground-glass opacities), bronchoalveolar lavage, and sometimes lung biopsy.

Treatment:
The main treatment is whole lung lavage (a procedure to wash out the surfactant buildup), and in some cases, a lung transplant may be necessary.

Medications:
There are no specific medications approved for this condition, but corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) may be used for inflammation in some cases. These are classified as corticosteroids.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very rare, with only a few cases reported worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Most commonly occurs in otherwise healthy adults, with no clear risk factors identified.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Without treatment, the prognosis is poor, but with interventions like lung lavage, many individuals can experience improvements.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, the disease can lead to respiratory failure, fibrosis, or secondary infections.

Takayasu Arteritis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Vasculitis

Symptoms:
fatigue; arm or leg claudication; diminished or absent pulses; blood pressure discrepancies; fever; night sweats; weight loss

Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation of large vessels, particularly the aorta and its major branches, causing stenosis, occlusion, or aneurysms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Angiography (CT or MRI); vascular ultrasound; elevated ESR and CRP; clinical findings such as pulse deficits

Treatment:
Corticosteroids for inflammation control and immunosuppressants in refractory cases.

Medications:
Prednisone (corticosteroid), methotrexate or azathioprine (immunosuppressants), and biologics like tocilizumab or infliximab (TNF inhibitors) in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated incidence of 1-3 cases per million annually; more common in women of Asian descent aged 10–40 years.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female sex; Asian or Indian ancestry; young age (10–40 years); genetic predisposition

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; most cases respond to treatment, but some experience relapses or vascular complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Aneurysms; vascular stenosis; ischemic stroke; aortic regurgitation

Polyarteritis Nodasa

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Vasculitis

Symptoms:
fever; weight loss; abdominal pain; muscle aches; skin rashes; neuropathy; hypertension

Root Cause:
Necrotizing vasculitis affecting medium-sized arteries, leading to tissue ischemia and organ damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Biopsy of affected tissue; angiography; elevated ESR/CRP; hepatitis B serology (associated in some cases)

Treatment:
Corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs for inflammation control. Treat underlying hepatitis B if present.

Medications:
Prednisone (corticosteroid), cyclophosphamide (immunosuppressant), and antiviral therapy if hepatitis B is involved.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence is 2–9 per million annually; more common in men aged 40–60 years.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hepatitis B infection; male sex; middle age

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be life-threatening without treatment but good with early intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Renal failure; intestinal perforation; stroke; peripheral neuropathy

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Symptoms:
gradual onset of hyperglycemia; excessive thirst (polydipsia); frequent urination (polyuria); fatigue; blurred vision; weight loss

Root Cause:
A slow-progressing autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, resulting in reduced insulin production. Often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes due to its slower progression.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through positive islet autoantibodies and gradual insulin dependence.

Treatment:
Treated initially with oral antidiabetics (e.g., metformin) and progression to insulin therapy as beta-cell function declines.

Medications:
Initially, oral medications such as metformin or sulfonylureas may be used. Insulin therapy becomes necessary as the disease progresses. Insulin is classified as a hormone replacement therapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 5–10% of all diabetes cases; more common in adults over 30 but often underdiagnosed.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of autoimmune conditions, genetic predisposition (e.g., certain HLA genes), and environmental factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early diagnosis and treatment, blood sugar levels can be effectively managed. Delayed diagnosis may increase the risk of complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Similar to type 1 diabetes, including an increased risk of retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular complications.

Secondary Diabetes

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Other Specific Types of Diabetes

Symptoms:
hyperglycemia; frequent urination; excessive thirst; weight loss; symptoms related to the underlying condition (e.g., cushing’s syndrome or acromegaly)

Root Cause:
Insulin resistance or deficiency caused by an underlying medical condition (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, acromegaly) or medications (e.g., glucocorticoids).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood glucose levels, HbA1c testing, OGTT, and assessment for underlying conditions via imaging or hormonal studies.

Treatment:
Managing the underlying condition, lifestyle changes, and glucose-lowering medications (e.g., metformin, insulin).

Medications:
Insulin for glycemic control; metformin to improve insulin sensitivity; glucocorticoid antagonists if due to steroid therapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies widely depending on the prevalence of underlying conditions (e.g., 2-4% of people on long-term steroid therapy develop secondary diabetes).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term glucocorticoid therapy, tumors affecting hormone production, genetic predisposition to insulin resistance.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment of the underlying condition and proper glycemic control; outcomes depend on the severity of the primary disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Microvascular and macrovascular complications if glycemic control is not achieved, complications related to the primary condition.

Pancreatic Diabetes (Type 3c Diabetes)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Other Specific Types of Diabetes

Symptoms:
chronic hyperglycemia; digestive issues (e.g., steatorrhea); weight loss; frequent urination; excessive thirst

Root Cause:
Damage to the pancreas due to chronic conditions like pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic surgery, impairing insulin and digestive enzyme production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fasting glucose, HbA1c, C-peptide levels, imaging of the pancreas (e.g., CT or MRI), and fecal elastase for exocrine insufficiency.

Treatment:
Insulin therapy for hyperglycemia, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) for digestive insufficiency, and dietary modifications.

Medications:
Insulin (short-acting and basal types) for glucose control; pancreatic enzyme replacements (e.g., pancrelipase ) for digestion.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated in 5-10% of diabetes cases; underdiagnosed.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, hemochromatosis, pancreatic surgery, or trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Challenging to manage; requires coordinated care for endocrine and exocrine dysfunctions.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe hypoglycemia, malnutrition due to digestive enzyme deficiencies, and long-term complications of poorly controlled diabetes (e.g., retinopathy, nephropathy).

Toxic Multinodular Goiter

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Thyroid Disorders

Sub-category: Hyperthyroidism

Symptoms:
enlarged thyroid gland (goiter); palpitations; weight loss; heat intolerance; nervousness; muscle weakness; difficulty breathing or swallowing (due to goiter compression)

Root Cause:
Overactive nodules within the thyroid produce excess thyroid hormones independent of TSH regulation, often due to mutations in TSH receptors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, thyroid function tests (T3, T4, TSH), ultrasound imaging, and radioactive iodine uptake scan.

Treatment:
Antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgical thyroidectomy (especially in cases with large goiters causing compressive symptoms).

Medications:
Methimazole or propylthiouracil to reduce hormone production; beta-blockers such as atenolol to manage symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in iodine-deficient regions and typically seen in older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Iodine deficiency, aging, and history of thyroid nodules or goiter.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can be managed with treatment. Long-term control often requires definitive therapy such as radioactive iodine or surgery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart arrhythmias, bone loss (osteoporosis), and compressive symptoms (tracheal or esophageal compression).

Toxic Adenoma

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Thyroid Disorders

Sub-category: Hyperthyroidism

Symptoms:
palpitations; weight loss; tremors; heat intolerance; nervousness; enlarged nodule in the neck; mild difficulty swallowing or breathing in large adenomas

Root Cause:
A single, benign thyroid nodule autonomously secretes excessive thyroid hormones due to somatic mutations in TSH receptors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, blood tests showing elevated T3 and T4 with suppressed TSH, thyroid ultrasound, and radioactive iodine uptake scan showing focal uptake.

Treatment:
Radioactive iodine therapy to ablate the adenoma or surgical removal of the affected thyroid lobe (lobectomy). Antithyroid drugs may be used temporarily.

Medications:
Methimazole (antithyroid drug) may be used to manage hyperthyroidism symptoms pre-surgery or pre-radioactive iodine therapy. Beta-blockers such as propranolol to control symptoms like tachycardia.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than Graves' Disease; typically occurs in middle-aged adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of thyroid nodules, iodine deficiency, and exposure to radiation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment. Definitive therapy like surgery or radioactive iodine typically resolves the condition.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent hyperthyroidism, arrhythmias, or compressive symptoms if the adenoma enlarges significantly.

Primary (Addison’s Disease)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Adrenal Disorders

Sub-category: Adrenal Insufficiency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Adrenal Disorders

Sub-category: Adrenal Hyperfunction

Symptoms:
episodic high blood pressure; headaches; palpitations; excessive sweating; anxiety or panic attacks; tremors; pale skin; weight loss

Root Cause:
Tumors in the adrenal medulla (pheochromocytoma) or extra-adrenal chromaffin tissue (paraganglioma) causing excessive secretion of catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed using plasma or urine metanephrines and imaging (CT/MRI).

Treatment:
Treated with surgical resection after preoperative alpha- and beta-blockade.

Medications:
Preoperative medications include phenoxybenzamine or doxazosin (alpha-blockers) and propranolol (beta-blocker) to manage symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated prevalence of 0.1% in hypertensive patients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations (e.g., MEN2, VHL, NF1), family history, and age (most common in adults aged 30–50).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early surgical treatment, but undiagnosed cases can be fatal due to hypertensive crises.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular complications (stroke, arrhythmias), multi-organ damage, and malignant transformation in rare cases.

Sheehan’s Syndrome (Postpartum Hypopituitarism)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Pituitary Disorders

Sub-category: Postpartum Endocrine Disorders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Somatostatinoma

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Pancreatic Endocrine Disorders

Symptoms:
diabetes; gallstones; steatorrhea (fatty stools); abdominal pain; weight loss; diarrhea; nausea

Root Cause:
Overproduction of somatostatin, usually due to a rare neuroendocrine tumor in the pancreas or duodenum, leading to inhibition of other hormone secretions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (elevated somatostatin levels), imaging studies (CT, MRI, or octreotide scans), and biopsy of the tumor.

Treatment:
Surgical resection of the tumor, somatostatin analogs for symptom control, and supportive therapy for nutritional issues.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs such as octreotide or lanreotide may be used to manage symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; incidence is estimated to be less than 1 per million people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Often sporadic but may be associated with genetic syndromes like MEN1 or von Hippel-Lindau disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; early detection and treatment improve outcomes, but metastatic disease has a poor prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis, severe malnutrition due to malabsorption, and hormonal imbalances.

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.

Lymphoma of the Stomach

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Stomach Disorders

Sub-category: Stomach Lymphomas

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; bloating; weight loss; nausea; vomiting; fatigue; fever; night sweats; loss of appetite

Root Cause:
Malignant proliferation of lymphoid tissue in the stomach, often linked to chronic H. pylori infection or immune suppression.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, imaging (CT, PET scan), and bone marrow biopsy for staging.

Treatment:
Eradication of H. pylori with antibiotics if associated, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy (e.g., rituximab), or a combination depending on the lymphoma type.

Medications:
Antibiotics (for H. pylori-associated cases, e.g., amoxicillin and clarithromycin ), rituximab (CD20 monoclonal antibody), and chemotherapy agents like cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , and prednisone (CHOP regimen).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Represents less than 5% of all stomach cancers, with a higher prevalence in individuals with chronic H. pylori infection.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
H. pylori infection, autoimmune disorders, immunosuppression, and family history of lymphoma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by type and stage; early-stage cases have a good prognosis, particularly with H. pylori eradication, while advanced cases depend on response to chemotherapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gastrointestinal bleeding, obstruction, perforation, and spread to lymph nodes or other organs.

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (Gastrinoma)

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Other Stomach Conditions

Sub-category: Stomach Cancer

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; diarrhea; nausea; vomiting; weight loss; heartburn; gastric ulcers; gastrointestinal bleeding

Root Cause:
Excessive secretion of gastrin due to a gastrin-secreting tumor (gastrinoma), leading to increased stomach acid production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests to measure gastrin levels, secretin stimulation test, imaging studies (CT, MRI, or somatostatin receptor scintigraphy) to locate gastrinoma, and endoscopic examination.

Treatment:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production, surgical removal of the gastrinoma, and chemotherapy or targeted therapy for metastatic disease.

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole or esomeprazole ) to reduce gastric acid secretion; somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide ) to inhibit gastrin release; chemotherapeutic agents (e.g., streptozocin and doxorubicin ) for advanced cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs in approximately 1–3 individuals per million annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), family history of endocrine tumors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; curable if localized gastrinoma is surgically removed, but prognosis worsens with metastatic disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Peptic ulcers, perforation of the stomach or intestines, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe diarrhea, and malnutrition.

Menetrier’s Disease (Hypertrophic Gastropathy)

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Other Stomach Conditions

Sub-category: Stomach Cancer

Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; epigastric pain; diarrhea; anorexia; weight loss; edema due to protein loss

Root Cause:
Overgrowth of the stomach’s mucosal lining, leading to large gastric folds, protein loss, and reduced acid production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy of stomach tissue, barium swallow test, serum albumin levels to assess protein loss, and imaging to identify gastric wall thickening.

Treatment:
Symptomatic management, nutritional support, proton pump inhibitors, and sometimes total gastrectomy in severe cases.

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., pantoprazole or lansoprazole ) to reduce gastric secretion; cetuximab , a monoclonal antibody targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), has shown promise in some cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; incidence is not well-documented.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unknown, though some cases are linked to cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in children or H. pylori infection in adults.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; some cases resolve spontaneously, while others progress and require surgical intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe protein loss leading to hypoalbuminemia, gastric adenocarcinoma, malnutrition, and fluid retention (edema).

Short Bowel Syndrome

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Small Intestine Disorders

Sub-category: Malabsorption Syndromes

Symptoms:
diarrhea; steatorrhea; weight loss; fatigue; nutritional deficiencies; dehydration

Root Cause:
Reduced absorptive capacity of the small intestine due to surgical removal or congenital defect, leading to malabsorption of nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Medical history of intestinal surgery or congenital abnormality, imaging studies (e.g., CT scan, MRI), and tests to evaluate nutrient levels.

Treatment:
Nutritional support (parenteral nutrition, enteral feeding), dietary modifications (high-calorie, low-fat diet), and medications to slow intestinal transit or enhance absorption.

Medications:
GLP-2 analogs (e.g., teduglutide ) to improve intestinal absorption, antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide ), and proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole ) to reduce gastric acid.

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

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Intestinal surgery (e.g., for Crohn's disease, cancer, trauma), congenital defects (e.g., gastroschisis), or ischemic bowel disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on the remaining length and function of the intestine. With appropriate management, many patients can achieve nutritional independence.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, dependence on parenteral nutrition, liver dysfunction, and bacterial overgrowth.

Giardiasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Gastrointestinal Tract and Intra-abdominal Infections

Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; greasy, foul-smelling stools; abdominal cramps; bloating; nausea; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia infects the small intestine, often transmitted via contaminated water, food, or contact with infected individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool tests for Giardia antigens, microscopic examination of stool samples, or molecular tests like PCR.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications, hydration, and supportive care.

Medications:
Metronidazole (nitroimidazole antibiotic), Tinidazole (similar to metronidazole , also a nitroimidazole), or Nitazoxanide (antiprotozoal agent).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in developing countries; in the U.S., Giardia is a leading cause of waterborne outbreaks of diarrhea.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Consuming contaminated water (e.g., from lakes or streams), poor sanitation, travel to endemic areas, and close contact with infected individuals.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; without treatment, symptoms can persist or become chronic.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, weight loss, and in severe cases, growth retardation in children.

Tropical Sprue

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Small Intestine Disorders

Sub-category: Malabsorptive Disorders

Symptoms:
chronic diarrhea; steatorrhea (fatty stools); abdominal cramps; bloating; weight loss; fatigue; nutritional deficiencies (e.g., b12 and folate deficiency)

Root Cause:
A poorly understood condition affecting the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients, likely caused by environmental or infectious factors in tropical regions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, blood tests showing nutritional deficiencies, stool tests to exclude other infections, and small bowel biopsy showing villous atrophy.

Treatment:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics like tetracycline combined with folate and vitamin B12 supplementation for malabsorption correction.

Medications:
Tetracycline (an antibiotic effective against intestinal infections) and folic acid or vitamin B12 supplements for nutritional support.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Limited to tropical and subtropical regions; prevalence is higher in residents and long-term visitors to these areas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term residence in or travel to tropical regions, exposure to contaminated food or water, and poor sanitation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment, but relapses can occur if untreated or if the individual returns to the same environment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe malnutrition, anemia, and prolonged nutritional deficiencies if untreated.

Whipple’s Disease

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Small Intestine Disorders

Sub-category: Infectious Disorders

Symptoms:
chronic diarrhea; abdominal pain; weight loss; arthritis; fever; lymphadenopathy; neurological symptoms (e.g., cognitive changes)

Root Cause:
Caused by Tropheryma whipplei, a Gram-positive bacterium that affects the small intestine and other organs, leading to systemic inflammation and malabsorption.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Small bowel biopsy showing periodic acid–Schiff (PAS)-positive macrophages, PCR testing for Tropheryma whipplei, and blood or cerebrospinal fluid tests if systemic involvement is suspected.

Treatment:
Long-term antibiotic therapy, starting with intravenous ceftriaxone or penicillin, followed by oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for 1–2 years.

Medications:
Ceftriaxone or penicillin (initial intravenous treatment) followed by trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide combination for extended therapy).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 1–3 cases per million people annually, typically seen in middle-aged Caucasian males.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unknown; may include genetic predisposition or environmental exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early; without treatment, the disease is usually fatal. Relapses are possible and require monitoring.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Systemic involvement affecting the heart (endocarditis), central nervous system, and joints, potentially leading to life-threatening outcomes if untreated.

Carcinoid Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
flushing; diarrhea; abdominal pain; wheezing; heart valve problems; weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Carcinoid tumors arise from neuroendocrine cells, which produce hormones such as serotonin and other chemicals. These tumors often grow slowly and can secrete hormones that affect various body systems.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically through imaging studies such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans, and blood tests measuring elevated levels of serotonin or 5-HIAA (a serotonin metabolite). Biopsy and histopathological examination confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Treatment may include surgery to remove the tumor, somatostatin analogs (like octreotide) to control symptoms, chemotherapy, and in some cases, liver-directed therapies (such as ablation or embolization) if the tumors have spread to the liver.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide and lanreotide ) are often prescribed to control symptoms and inhibit hormone secretion. These medications are classified as peptide receptor drugs and can help reduce flushing and diarrhea. Chemotherapy agents may also be used, depending on the tumor's progression, such as streptozocin and temozolomide , which are alkylating agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Carcinoid tumors are rare, accounting for about 0.5% of all cancers, but the incidence of neuroendocrine tumors is rising, with an estimated prevalence of 2-5 cases per 100,000 people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (more common in older adults), a family history of neuroendocrine tumors, certain inherited genetic syndromes (such as MEN1 and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome), and conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract like Crohn's disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the location and spread of the tumor. Localized tumors have a relatively good prognosis with surgery, but metastatic or advanced cases can be more challenging to treat. The 5-year survival rate for localized carcinoid tumors is around 80%, while it drops significantly with distant metastases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include carcinoid syndrome (which leads to flushing, diarrhea, and heart valve problems), liver metastasis, and malnutrition due to nutrient malabsorption from the gastrointestinal symptoms.

Lymphoma of the Small Intestine

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Small Intestine Disorders

Sub-category: Tumors

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; weight loss; diarrhea; intestinal obstruction; fever; night sweats

Root Cause:
Malignant proliferation of lymphocytes in the small intestine, often associated with immune dysregulation or infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopic biopsy, imaging (CT scans, PET scans), blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and immunophenotyping.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy; surgery may be required in some cases of localized disease.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like CHOP regimen (cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , prednisone ), and monoclonal antibodies such as rituximab (anti-CD20 agent).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; accounts for 1-4% of gastrointestinal malignancies and 30-40% of primary gastrointestinal lymphomas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunodeficiency (e.g., HIV/AIDS, post-transplant), chronic inflammatory diseases (e.g., celiac disease), and infections (e.g., Helicobacter pylori, Epstein-Barr virus).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on subtype and stage; indolent types have a good prognosis (5-year survival rate ~80%), while aggressive types have lower survival rates (~30-50%).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal perforation, obstruction, bleeding, malabsorption, and systemic spread to other lymphoid or non-lymphoid tissues.

Clostridium difficile Infection

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders

Sub-category: Infectious Disorders

Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; abdominal pain or cramping; fever; nausea; loss of appetite; weight loss; fatigue; blood or pus in stool in severe cases

Root Cause:
Overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria in the colon, often after disruption of normal gut flora due to antibiotic use. This leads to toxin production and colonic inflammation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool tests for C. difficile toxins (toxin A and B), PCR assays for toxin genes, and enzyme immunoassays; sometimes colonoscopy or imaging studies if complications are suspected.

Treatment:
Discontinuation of the offending antibiotic, initiating specific antibiotic therapy targeting C. difficile, fluid replacement for dehydration, probiotics, and in severe cases, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).

Medications:
Vancomycin (oral) or fidaxomicin are the primary treatments; metronidazole may be used in mild cases. Vancomycin and fidaxomicin are antibiotics specifically targeting C. difficile. Bezlotoxumab , a monoclonal antibody, may be used to reduce recurrence in high-risk patients.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea; approximately 500,000 cases annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent antibiotic use, hospitalization, advanced age, weakened immune system, gastrointestinal surgery, or a history of C. difficile infection.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, most recover fully; however, recurrent infections occur in about 20% of patients. Severe cases can lead to complications, such as toxic megacolon or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, dehydration, toxic megacolon, bowel perforation, sepsis, and death in severe cases.

Infectious Colitis (e.g., Viral, Bacterial, Parasitic)

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Large Intestine (Colon) Disorders

Sub-category: Infectious Disorders

Symptoms:
diarrhea (often with blood or mucus); abdominal pain; fever; nausea; vomiting; fatigue; dehydration; weight loss

Root Cause:
Infection of the colon by pathogens such as bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, Campylobacter), viruses (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus), or parasites (e.g., Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia). This leads to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool tests for pathogens (culture, PCR, or antigen detection), blood tests for inflammatory markers, and colonoscopy in chronic or severe cases to assess mucosal damage.

Treatment:
Supportive care (hydration, electrolyte replacement) and pathogen-specific treatment. Antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiparasitic medications for parasitic infections, and sometimes antiviral therapy for severe viral infections.

Medications:
Antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or azithromycin for bacterial infections; metronidazole or tinidazole for parasitic infections like Giardia or Entamoeba; oral rehydration salts for dehydration. Antibiotics are categorized as antimicrobials, while antiparasitic drugs target protozoa.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Infectious colitis is a common cause of diarrhea worldwide, with bacterial pathogens accounting for 85% of foodborne outbreaks in developed countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated food or water, international travel, poor hygiene, immunosuppression, and exposure to infected individuals.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases resolve within days to weeks with appropriate treatment, but severe infections can lead to prolonged illness or death, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS, associated with E. coli O157:H7), chronic post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome, and intestinal perforation.

Alcoholic Hepatitis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Gastrointestinal Tract and Intra-abdominal Infections

Symptoms:
jaundice; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; fever; weight loss; fatigue; anorexia

Root Cause:
Inflammation and liver cell damage caused by prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption leading to toxic metabolites.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of alcohol use, physical examination, liver function tests (elevated AST, ALT, and bilirubin levels), imaging (ultrasound/CT), and sometimes liver biopsy.

Treatment:
Cessation of alcohol, nutritional support, corticosteroids (for severe cases), and addressing complications like infections or ascites.

Medications:
Medications include corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone ), which reduce inflammation; pentoxifylline , a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that may prevent complications like hepatorenal syndrome. Vitamin supplementation (e.g., thiamine and folate) is often provided for nutritional deficiencies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Alcoholic hepatitis is most common in individuals with a history of chronic alcohol use, with a prevalence of approximately 1–2% of heavy drinkers annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic heavy alcohol consumption, malnutrition, genetic predisposition, female gender (higher susceptibility), obesity, and prior liver disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies with severity; mild cases may recover with alcohol cessation, while severe cases have a high mortality rate without intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and increased risk of infections.

Alcohol-Induced Pancreatitis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders

Sub-category: Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis

Symptoms:
severe abdominal pain; pain radiating to the back; nausea; vomiting; weight loss; diarrhea; steatorrhea (fatty stools)

Root Cause:
Chronic alcohol consumption leads to inflammation, scarring, and dysfunction of the pancreas.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
History of alcohol use, blood tests (elevated lipase and amylase levels), imaging (CT, MRI, or ultrasound), and stool tests for fat malabsorption.

Treatment:
Abstinence from alcohol, supportive care with IV fluids, pain management, enzyme replacement therapy, nutritional support, and addressing complications.

Medications:
Pancreatic enzyme supplements (e.g., pancrelipase ), pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen or opioids for severe cases), proton pump inhibitors (to reduce gastric acid).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Alcohol is the second most common cause of acute pancreatitis and a leading cause of chronic pancreatitis, often affecting males aged 30–50 years.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic alcohol use, genetic predisposition, smoking, high-fat diet, concurrent gallstone disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; improved with alcohol cessation. Chronic cases can lead to irreversible damage, diabetes, and complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pancreatitis, pseudocysts, diabetes mellitus, malnutrition, pancreatic cancer, or organ failure.

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Pancreatic Disorders

Sub-category: Digestive Enzyme Deficiencies

Symptoms:
steatorrhea (fatty stools); diarrhea; weight loss; abdominal pain; bloating; malnutrition; vitamin deficiencies (a, d, e, k)

Root Cause:
Insufficient production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas, leading to impaired digestion and nutrient absorption.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fecal elastase-1 test, direct pancreatic function tests, imaging studies (CT or MRI) to identify underlying pancreatic pathology.

Treatment:
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), dietary modifications (low-fat diet, supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins).

Medications:
Pancreatic enzyme supplements like pancrelipase (Creon, Zenpep, Pancrease); these contain lipase, protease, and amylase to aid digestion.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated prevalence varies; more common in individuals with chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic surgery.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, pancreatic surgery, alcoholism.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with proper enzyme replacement and dietary management; untreated EPI can lead to severe malnutrition and quality-of-life impairment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malnutrition, osteoporosis, chronic diarrhea, increased risk of infections due to vitamin deficiencies.

Hereditary Pancreatitis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: Pancreatic Disorders

Sub-category: Genetic Pancreatic Disorders

Symptoms:
recurrent episodes of abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; jaundice; steatorrhea; chronic fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Genetic mutations (e.g., PRSS1, SPINK1, CFTR) leading to abnormal pancreatic enzyme activity and recurrent inflammation of the pancreas.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Genetic testing, family history, imaging studies (CT or MRI), and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

Treatment:
Pain management, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), dietary modifications, and in severe cases, total pancreatectomy with islet cell autotransplantation.

Medications:
Analgesics (acetaminophen , NSAIDs, or opioids for severe pain), pancreatic enzyme supplements, antioxidants to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare condition, accounting for less than 1% of chronic pancreatitis cases; higher prevalence in families with known mutations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Positive family history, specific genetic mutations (e.g., PRSS1 mutation).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on frequency and severity of episodes. Higher risk of developing diabetes and pancreatic cancer over time.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, pancreatic cancer.

Gastroparesis

Specialty: Gastrointestinal

Category: General and Miscellaneous GI Conditions

Sub-category: Motility Disorders

Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; early satiety; bloating; abdominal pain; weight loss; poor appetite

Root Cause:
Impaired gastric motility due to delayed emptying of the stomach without mechanical obstruction; often associated with nerve or muscle dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Gastric emptying studies (e.g., scintigraphy, breath tests), upper endoscopy to rule out obstruction, and imaging such as CT or MRI to assess anatomy.

Treatment:
Dietary modifications (small, low-fat, low-fiber meals), prokinetic medications, antiemetics, and in severe cases, interventions like gastric electrical stimulation or jejunal feeding tubes.

Medications:
Prokinetic agents such as metoclopramide (a dopamine antagonist) and erythromycin (a macrolide antibiotic) are prescribed to enhance gastric motility. Antiemetics, such as ondansetron (a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist) or promethazine (a phenothiazine derivative ), are used to control nausea and vomiting.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects an estimated 4% of the U.S. population, with higher prevalence in individuals with diabetes or post-surgical complications.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes mellitus (type 1 and 2), prior abdominal surgery, systemic disorders affecting nerves or muscles (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, scleroderma), and certain medications (e.g., opioids, anticholinergics).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by severity; manageable with lifestyle changes and medications, but symptoms can persist and significantly affect quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe malnutrition, dehydration, bezoar formation, fluctuating blood glucose levels in diabetic patients, and impaired medication absorption.

Lymphoma (affecting oral tissues)

Specialty: Dental and Oral Health

Category: Oral Cancer and Precancerous Conditions

Sub-category: Oral Cancer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peptic ulcer disease

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity

Sub-category: Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Disorders

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; bloating; nausea; vomiting; heartburn; loss of appetite; weight loss

Root Cause:
Ulcers in the stomach lining or the first part of the small intestine caused by an imbalance between stomach acid and protective factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on symptoms, endoscopy, and tests for H. pylori infection (blood, breath, or stool tests).

Treatment:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antibiotics for H. pylori infection, antacids, and sometimes surgery.

Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., lansoprazole ), H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine), antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin , amoxicillin for H. pylori), and antacids.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10-15% of people at some point in their lives, more common in those aged 55-70.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
H. pylori infection, long-term NSAID use, alcohol use, smoking, stress, and spicy foods.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, most ulcers heal within a few weeks; recurrence is common if risk factors are not managed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, gastric cancer.

Immunodeficiency due to HIV/AIDS

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Immunologic Disorders

Sub-category: Secondary Immunodeficiency Disorders

Symptoms:
persistent fatigue; frequent infections; weight loss; swollen lymph nodes; night sweats; fever; opportunistic infections like pneumocystis pneumonia or kaposi's sarcoma

Root Cause:
HIV infects and destroys CD4+ T cells, leading to a weakened immune system and vulnerability to infections and cancers.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HIV antibody/antigen tests; CD4+ T cell count; Viral load testing; AIDS diagnosis based on specific opportunistic infections or CD4 count below 200 cells/mm³

Treatment:
Array

Medications:
Antiretroviral therapy (ART), prophylactic antibiotics (e.g., Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole), and vaccines as appropriate.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 39 million people living with HIV globally as of 2022.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sexual activity; IV drug use; Mother-to-child transmission; Contaminated blood transfusions

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With ART, individuals can lead near-normal life spans; untreated HIV progresses to AIDS, leading to high mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Opportunistic infections; Cancers (e.g., Kaposi's sarcoma); Neurological disorders; Wasting syndrome

Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Other Related Disorders

Sub-category: Eosinophilic Disorders

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; diarrhea; vomiting; weight loss; fatigue; anemia

Root Cause:
Eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, likely triggered by food or environmental allergens.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy with biopsy showing eosinophilic infiltration, imaging studies, and blood tests for eosinophilia.

Treatment:
Elimination diets, corticosteroids, and symptom management (e.g., anti-nausea medications).

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ) and dietary modifications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; precise prevalence is unknown.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Allergic diseases, family history of eosinophilic disorders, and certain infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic but manageable with treatment; symptoms may relapse without ongoing management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel obstruction, malabsorption, and perforation in severe cases.

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.

Atheroembolic Renal Disease

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Vascular Kidney Diseases

Symptoms:
sudden kidney dysfunction; skin changes (blue toes or livedo reticularis); abdominal pain; fever; weight loss

Root Cause:
Cholesterol crystals or debris from atherosclerotic plaques embolize to the renal arteries, causing ischemia and inflammation in the kidneys.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Kidney biopsy, imaging studies (angiography, CT), and lab tests (eosinophilia, elevated creatinine).

Treatment:
Supportive care, management of underlying atherosclerosis, and avoidance of anticoagulation if possible.

Medications:
Statins, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin , clopidogrel ), and occasionally corticosteroids for inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but increasing with the rise of cardiovascular interventions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Atherosclerosis, recent vascular procedures, advanced age, and hypertension.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor if left untreated; progressive renal dysfunction is common.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, and systemic embolization.

Tuberculosis of the Kidney

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Infections and Infectious Conditions

Sub-category: Tuberculosis

Symptoms:
persistent flank pain; hematuria (blood in urine); dysuria (painful urination); fever; night sweats; weight loss

Root Cause:
Reactivation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection within the kidney, often secondary to pulmonary tuberculosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urine culture for acid-fast bacilli, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for M. tuberculosis, imaging (CT or ultrasound showing calcifications, strictures, or cavitations).

Treatment:
Antitubercular therapy (ATT) using a combination of first-line drugs, typically for 6-9 months.

Medications:
Rifampin , isoniazid , pyrazinamide , ethambutol . These are classified as antitubercular drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare in developed countries but more common in regions with high rates of tuberculosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of pulmonary tuberculosis, immunosuppression, HIV infection, diabetes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt and appropriate treatment. Delayed treatment may lead to chronic kidney damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, renal failure, strictures in the urinary tract, and infertility in severe cases.

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.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (Secondary Amyloidosis)

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Systemic Diseases with Renal Involvement

Sub-category: Inflammatory and Autoimmune Disorders

Symptoms:
proteinuria; edema; fatigue; weight loss; joint pain and swelling

Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis leads to deposition of amyloid A protein in the kidneys, causing structural damage and dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lab tests (elevated serum amyloid A protein, proteinuria, renal function tests), kidney biopsy (amyloid deposits confirmed with Congo red staining).

Treatment:
Controlling the underlying rheumatoid arthritis with anti-inflammatory and disease-modifying drugs, alongside supportive treatment for kidney dysfunction.

Medications:
Biological agents (e.g., TNF inhibitors like adalimumab or etanercept ), methotrexate (a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug), and supportive medications like diuretics for fluid retention.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Secondary amyloidosis occurs in 5–10% of patients with long-standing, poorly controlled rheumatoid arthritis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe, chronic rheumatoid arthritis, poor disease control, male gender, older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, the progression of amyloidosis can be slowed, but established renal damage may be irreversible.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome, heart failure due to systemic amyloidosis, infections.

Hypopharyngeal Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Head and Neck Cancers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Gynecologic Cancers

Symptoms:
persistent pelvic or abdominal pain; bloating; early satiety; abnormal bleeding; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Abnormal proliferation of epithelial cells on the surface of the ovary or fallopian tube, often associated with genetic mutations such as BRCA1/BRCA2.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Transvaginal ultrasound, CA-125 blood test, imaging (CT/MRI), and surgical biopsy.

Treatment:
Surgery to remove tumors and affected tissues, followed by chemotherapy and/or targeted therapy.

Medications:
Carboplatin and paclitaxel are standard first-line treatments; PARP inhibitors (e.g., olaparib ) are used in cases of BRCA mutations.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common type of ovarian cancer, accounting for 85–90% of cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
BRCA mutations, older age, family history, endometriosis, and hormone replacement therapy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly dependent on stage at diagnosis; 5-year survival rate is 90% for localized disease but drops significantly for advanced stages.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spread to abdominal organs, bowel obstruction, and recurrence.

Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Solid Tumors

Sub-category: Endocrine Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; back pain; weight loss; hypertension; fatigue; excessive hair growth (in women)

Root Cause:
Rare and aggressive cancer of the adrenal cortex; often associated with mutations in the TP53 gene or familial syndromes like Li-Fraumeni syndrome.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (CT, MRI), blood tests for hormone levels (cortisol, aldosterone, etc.), biopsy, and genetic testing for mutations.

Treatment:
Surgical resection, adjuvant chemotherapy (etoposide, doxorubicin), and mitotane (a drug used to treat adrenal cancer).

Medications:
Mitotane (adrenal cytotoxic drug), etoposide (chemotherapy), doxorubicin (chemotherapy).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very rare, accounting for less than 0.5% of all cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is poor with a 5-year survival rate of 15–40% for localized disease; survival rates drop significantly for advanced cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to liver, lungs, and lymph nodes; recurrence after treatment; and hormonal imbalances leading to Cushing's syndrome, Conn's syndrome, or virilization.

Liposarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Symptoms:
painful or painless mass; swelling or lump in soft tissue; decreased mobility due to tumor growth; weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Liposarcoma is a malignant tumor arising from fat cells, typically within the soft tissues of the body. It involves the abnormal growth of adipocytes (fat cells).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, followed by a biopsy to confirm malignancy.

Treatment:
Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the tumor. Radiation therapy may be used post-operatively to decrease recurrence risk, and chemotherapy may be considered for more advanced cases.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin (an anthracycline) and ifosfamide (an alkylating agent) are used in cases of advanced disease. These drugs fall under the category of anti-cancer agents, specifically cytotoxic chemotherapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Liposarcoma accounts for about 20% of all soft tissue sarcomas. It is rare, with an estimated annual incidence of 1 in 1 million people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (more common in adults aged 40-60), previous radiation therapy, genetic factors (such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the tumor's grade and stage at diagnosis. Low-grade tumors have a better prognosis, while high-grade or metastatic liposarcomas have a worse prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence after surgery, metastasis to lungs or other organs, complications from chemotherapy such as fatigue and immunosuppression.

Leiomyosarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Symptoms:
painful lump; abdominal discomfort (if intra-abdominal); nausea; weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Leiomyosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor that arises from smooth muscle cells, which are found in organs such as the stomach, intestines, and blood vessels.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans, and confirmed with biopsy for histological examination.

Treatment:
Surgical removal of the tumor is the primary treatment. In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy is used if the tumor cannot be completely resected or if it is metastatic.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as doxorubicin and ifosfamide are commonly used. These drugs belong to the class of anthracyclines and alkylating agents, respectively, and are employed to treat various sarcomas.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Leiomyosarcoma accounts for approximately 10% of all soft tissue sarcomas. It is relatively rare, with an incidence rate of 0.3 per 100,000 people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous radiation therapy, age (commonly affects adults), genetic disorders such as hereditary leiomyomatosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on tumor size, grade, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. Recurrence is common, and the survival rate is lower for high-grade tumors.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of metastasis to the lungs, complications from surgery, recurrence of the tumor.

Angiosarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Symptoms:
painful mass; skin discoloration; swelling; bleeding or bruising; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that arises from the lining of blood vessels or lymphatic vessels, leading to abnormal growth of endothelial cells.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through imaging techniques like MRI, CT scans, and a biopsy to confirm malignancy.

Treatment:
Surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment. For advanced or metastatic cases, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as paclitaxel (a taxane) and doxorubicin (an anthracycline) are used to treat angiosarcoma. These agents are cytotoxic and target rapidly dividing cells.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Angiosarcoma is rare, representing about 2% of all soft tissue sarcomas, with an annual incidence of approximately 0.3 per million people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous radiation therapy, chronic lymphedema (Stewart-Treves syndrome), certain genetic syndromes (e.g., neurofibromatosis type 1).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Angiosarcoma has a poor prognosis due to its aggressive nature. The survival rate depends on the tumor's location, size, and whether it has spread.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
High risk of metastasis, particularly to the lungs and liver, recurrence, and complications from aggressive treatment regimens.

Ewing Sarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
bone pain; swelling; fever; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
A type of bone cancer that most often affects the long bones, pelvis, and chest wall.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
X-rays, CT scans, MRI, biopsy, bone scans.

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents such as vincristine , doxorubicin , cyclophosphamide , ifosfamide , etoposide .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Ewing sarcoma is rare, accounting for about 1-2% of childhood cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations, family history.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Survival rates range from 70% for localized disease to lower rates for metastatic disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tumor recurrence, long-term effects from chemotherapy and radiation, organ damage.

Wilms Tumor

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal mass; abdominal pain; fever; blood in urine; high blood pressure; poor appetite; weight loss

Root Cause:
A type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children, usually involving one kidney, but can occasionally involve both.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, biopsy, blood and urine tests.

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like vincristine , actinomycin D, and doxorubicin ; pain relievers such as ibuprofen or morphine for post-surgical pain management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 7-10% of childhood cancers, with around 500 cases diagnosed annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions like WAGR syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, or Li-Fraumeni syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
90% survival rate in localized cases; survival rates decrease in cases with metastasis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, kidney damage, long-term effects from chemotherapy or radiation, high blood pressure.

Pediatric Lymphomas

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
swollen lymph nodes; fever; night sweats; weight loss; fatigue; itching

Root Cause:
Cancer of the lymphatic system; can be either Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lymph node biopsy, imaging (CT, PET, MRI), blood tests.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like doxorubicin , vincristine , cyclophosphamide , etoposide ; targeted therapies like rituximab .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Lymphomas make up 5-7% of all pediatric cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes, compromised immune system, Epstein-Barr virus infection (for HL).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High cure rates for Hodgkin lymphoma (over 90% for localized disease), while non-Hodgkin lymphoma prognosis depends on subtype and staging.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary cancers, organ damage from treatment, fertility issues, infections.

Kikuchi Disease

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Immune System and Disorders

Symptoms:
fever; lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes); night sweats; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Self-limiting inflammatory disorder, likely triggered by viral or autoimmune mechanisms, characterized by histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lymph node biopsy showing characteristic histopathological findings; exclusion of malignancies and infections.

Treatment:
Supportive care; anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., NSAIDs, corticosteroids for severe cases).

Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen for pain and inflammation), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone for severe or refractory cases).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; most common in young adults, particularly females, in Asian populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Viral infections, autoimmune predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; resolves spontaneously in most cases within 1–6 months.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare but may include recurrence or association with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Burkitt Lymphoma and Burkitt-like Lymphoma

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Lymphoproliferative Disorders

Symptoms:
rapidly enlarging tumor masses; fever; night sweats; weight loss; abdominal pain or swelling; jaw or facial bone tumors in endemic cases; intestinal obstruction

Root Cause:
Abnormal and rapid proliferation of B-lymphocytes due to genetic mutations, often involving the MYC gene. Frequently associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in endemic cases.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through biopsy and histopathological examination, immunohistochemistry, cytogenetic analysis (identification of MYC gene translocation), and imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI for tumor localization).

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves aggressive chemotherapy regimens, such as the CODOX-M/IVAC protocol, supportive care, and in some cases, intrathecal chemotherapy for CNS prophylaxis.

Medications:
Cyclophosphamide (alkylating agent). Doxorubicin (anthracycline antibiotic). Vincristine (vinca alkaloid). Methotrexate (antimetabolite). Cytarabine (antimetabolite). Rituximab (monoclonal antibody targeting CD20 on B cells)

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; accounts for approximately 1–2% of all adult lymphomas and 30–50% of childhood non-Hodgkin lymphomas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), HIV infection, malaria (in endemic regions), and genetic predisposition (e.g., MYC gene translocation).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is highly dependent on early diagnosis and treatment. Cure rates exceed 80% in localized cases but decrease significantly in advanced stages or relapsed cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include tumor lysis syndrome, CNS involvement, intestinal perforation, and relapse after treatment.

Familial Renal Amyloidosis

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Plasma Cell Disorders

Symptoms:
proteinuria; edema (swelling); fatigue; hypertension; renal failure; weight loss; neuropathy

Root Cause:
Deposition of amyloid fibrils in the kidneys, caused by inherited mutations in genes encoding amyloidogenic proteins (e.g., transthyretin or fibrinogen).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Biopsy of kidney tissue with Congo red staining, genetic testing for amyloidogenic mutations, serum and urine protein electrophoresis.

Treatment:
Organ transplantation (e.g., kidney), suppression of amyloid precursor proteins through liver transplantation (if related to transthyretin), and supportive renal care.

Medications:
Tafamidis (transthyretin stabilizer) or diflunisal (NSAID that stabilizes transthyretin). These medications help reduce amyloid formation. Other treatments may include diuretics for edema and antihypertensives for blood pressure management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; exact prevalence varies depending on the specific mutation and geographic region.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of amyloidosis, specific gene mutations (e.g., transthyretin variants like V30M), and advanced age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies depending on the mutation and treatment; kidney function may be preserved with early diagnosis and intervention, but progression to renal failure is possible.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal failure, systemic amyloidosis affecting other organs (e.g., heart, nerves).

Gamma Heavy Chain Disease

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Plasma Cell Disorders

Symptoms:
lymphadenopathy; splenomegaly; fatigue; weight loss; fever; night sweats

Root Cause:
Abnormal production of truncated gamma heavy chains by plasma cells, often associated with lymphoproliferative disorders.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP), immunofixation electrophoresis, biopsy of lymphoid tissue, and imaging studies (e.g., CT or PET scan).

Treatment:
Chemotherapy (e.g., CHOP regimen) or targeted therapy depending on the underlying lymphoproliferative disorder; supportive care.

Medications:
Chemotherapeutic agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , prednisone ) and monoclonal antibodies (e.g., rituximab for associated B-cell lymphomas).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; predominantly reported in middle-aged and older individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, underlying lymphoproliferative disorders, and possibly genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; dependent on the associated condition. Prognosis improves with effective treatment of the underlying disorder.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Transformation to aggressive lymphoma, systemic amyloidosis, or organ dysfunction.

AIDS-Related Lymphomas

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Immune System Disorders

Symptoms:
swollen lymph nodes; night sweats; fever; weight loss; fatigue; abdominal pain; chest pain or shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Immunosuppression from HIV/AIDS leading to the proliferation of malignant lymphocytes, often associated with Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lymph node biopsy, imaging (CT, PET), blood tests, HIV viral load, and EBV testing.

Treatment:
Combination chemotherapy (e.g., CHOP regimen), antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV, and targeted therapies (e.g., rituximab).

Medications:
Rituximab (anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody), doxorubicin (anthracycline), vincristine , and prednisone (corticosteroid).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increased risk in people with untreated HIV/AIDS; accounts for 3–5% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced HIV, low CD4 counts, and co-infection with EBV.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable depending on HIV control and lymphoma type; overall 5-year survival ~30–50%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Opportunistic infections, relapse, and progression to other AIDS-defining illnesses.

Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Lymphoid Neoplasms

Sub-category: T-Cell Lymphomas

Symptoms:
swollen lymph nodes; fever; night sweats; fatigue; skin lesions; weight loss; abdominal or chest pain

Root Cause:
Proliferation of T-cells expressing anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), driven by genetic mutations or translocations.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lymph node biopsy, immunohistochemistry (CD30-positive cells), ALK gene rearrangement testing, and imaging (CT, PET).

Treatment:
Chemotherapy (CHOP or brentuximab-containing regimens), targeted therapy (e.g., ALK inhibitors), and sometimes stem cell transplantation.

Medications:
Brentuximab vedotin (anti-CD30 antibody-drug conjugate), crizotinib (ALK inhibitor), and CHOP components (cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , vincristine , prednisone ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for about 2% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas; more common in children and young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations, compromised immune system, and family history.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for ALK-positive ALCL (5-year survival ~70–80%), poorer for ALK-negative subtypes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Relapse, secondary malignancies, and long-term chemotherapy effects.

Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; weight loss; night sweats; splenomegaly; easy bruising or bleeding; bone pain; feeling of fullness in the abdomen

Root Cause:
Unregulated proliferation of myeloid cells due to a genetic translocation forming the Philadelphia chromosome (BCR-ABL fusion gene).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC, bone marrow biopsy, genetic testing for BCR-ABL, and quantitative PCR.

Treatment:
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) as first-line therapy; advanced cases may require stem cell transplantation.

Medications:
Imatinib (TKI)

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for about 15% of adult leukemias; most common in individuals aged 50-60.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, radiation exposure, and rare genetic predispositions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early diagnosis and TKI therapy; most patients achieve long-term remission.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Blast crisis (progression to acute leukemia), infections, and TKI-related side effects.

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.

Follicular Lymphoma

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
painless swollen lymph nodes; fatigue; night sweats; fever; weight loss

Root Cause:
Slow-growing cancer of B lymphocytes characterized by genetic alterations (e.g., t(14;18) translocation) leading to deregulated cell survival.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, lymph node biopsy, imaging studies (CT, PET), and blood tests for LDH and beta-2 microglobulin levels.

Treatment:
Watchful waiting for asymptomatic cases, chemotherapy, immunotherapy (e.g., rituximab), and targeted therapies.

Medications:
Rituximab (monoclonal antibody), bendamustine (alkylating agent), and lenalidomide (immunomodulatory agent) are commonly used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 20-30% of non-Hodgkin lymphomas; more common in middle-aged and older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, family history, immune system dysfunction, and certain infections (e.g., HCV).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often indolent but incurable; median survival is over 10 years with appropriate management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Transformation to a more aggressive lymphoma (e.g., DLBCL), infections, and therapy-related side effects.

Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphomas (MALTomas)

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; indigestion; weight loss; fatigue; anemia-related symptoms; lymphadenopathy in extranodal sites

Root Cause:
Low-grade B-cell lymphoma arising from mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, often linked to chronic infections like Helicobacter pylori in the stomach.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Biopsy of affected tissue, endoscopy for gastric cases, and molecular testing for genetic translocations (e.g., t(11;18)).

Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy for H. pylori-related cases, localized radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy.

Medications:
Antibiotics (amoxicillin , clarithromycin ) for H. pylori; rituximab (anti-CD20 antibody) for systemic disease. These include anti-infective agents and monoclonal antibodies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, comprising 5–8% of non-Hodgkin lymphomas; most common in older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic infection with H. pylori or other pathogens, autoimmune conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome), and genetic abnormalities.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early treatment; five-year survival exceeds 90% for localized disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progression to high-grade lymphoma and organ dysfunction.

Myeloproliferative Disease

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; splenomegaly-related symptoms; easy bruising or bleeding; thrombosis (e.g., stroke or deep vein thrombosis); fever; weight loss

Root Cause:
Overproduction of blood cells (red cells, white cells, or platelets) due to mutations in stem cells, often involving the JAK2, CALR, or MPL genes.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (CBC, peripheral smear), bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing for mutations.

Treatment:
Phlebotomy, cytoreductive therapy, and targeted therapy; in advanced cases, stem cell transplantation.

Medications:
Hydroxyurea (cytoreductive agent), ruxolitinib (JAK2 inhibitor), and interferon-alpha (cytokine therapy). These include cytotoxic drugs, targeted inhibitors, and cytokines.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) being subtypes. Prevalence varies between 1–10 per 100,000 people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, genetic mutations (e.g., JAK2 V617F), and family history.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic conditions; survival ranges from 5–20 years depending on subtype and complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progression to acute leukemia, thrombosis, bleeding, and bone marrow failure.

Primary Myelofibrosis

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
fatigue; anemia; bone pain; abdominal discomfort from splenomegaly; night sweats; weight loss

Root Cause:
Abnormal stem cell proliferation leads to fibrosis of bone marrow, reducing its ability to produce blood cells.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
CBC, bone marrow biopsy, JAK2, CALR, or MPL mutation testing.

Treatment:
JAK2 inhibitors (e.g., ruxolitinib), blood transfusions, stem cell transplant in advanced cases.

Medications:
Ruxolitinib (JAK2 inhibitor), thalidomide (antiangiogenic agent), lenalidomide (immunomodulator).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1.5 cases per 100,000 annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age over 50, mutations in JAK2, CALR, or MPL genes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Median survival 5-7 years; better outcomes with stem cell transplantation.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, infections, progression to acute myeloid leukemia.

Thyroid Lymphoma

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stimulant Use Disorders

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Addiction

Symptoms:
increased energy; euphoria; hyperactivity; irritability; paranoia; weight loss; insomnia; anxiety; tachycardia; psychosis

Root Cause:
Excessive activation of the central nervous system due to stimulant use, leading to dopamine dysregulation and dependency.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment, patient self-report, toxicology screening for amphetamines, cocaine, or similar substances.

Treatment:
Behavioral therapies, contingency management, motivational interviewing, and rehabilitation programs.

Medications:
Limited FDA-approved options; off-label use of medications like modafinil or bupropion for withdrawal management. Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting agent; bupropion is a dopamine/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Stimulant misuse is increasing globally, with varying rates by country and age group. Commonly misused among young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Peer pressure, academic or occupational stress, genetic predisposition, and accessibility of stimulants.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With comprehensive treatment, individuals can achieve recovery, though relapse rates are high without sustained support.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular issues, stroke, chronic psychosis, cognitive deficits, and social/occupational dysfunction.

Avoidant-Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Adult

Sub-category: Eating Disorders

Symptoms:
limited interest in food; avoidance of foods based on texture or appearance; nutritional deficiencies; weight loss; dependence on nutritional supplements

Root Cause:
Fear of aversive consequences of eating (e.g., choking, vomiting) or lack of interest in food.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation and ruling out other medical causes of restrictive eating.

Treatment:
Behavioral therapy, nutritional counseling, and gradual exposure to diverse foods.

Medications:
No FDA-approved medications; some cases may benefit from appetite stimulants like cyproheptadine or medications targeting anxiety.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to affect 3.2% of the population, more common in children but can persist into adulthood.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sensory processing issues, anxiety disorders, history of feeding difficulties.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early intervention, outcomes improve significantly; untreated, nutritional deficiencies and health complications may develop.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Growth delays, nutritional deficiencies, social isolation.

Actinomycosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
painful swelling or abscess; draining sinuses; foul-smelling discharge; fever; weight loss

Root Cause:
Chronic bacterial infection caused by Actinomyces species, which are facultatively anaerobic, gram-positive bacteria.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging studies (CT or MRI), and microbiological culture of pus or tissue samples.

Treatment:
Prolonged antibiotic therapy, often with high-dose penicillin, combined with surgical drainage or debridement if necessary.

Medications:
Penicillin (beta-lactam antibiotic), doxycycline (tetracycline antibiotic), or clindamycin (lincosamide antibiotic) for patients allergic to penicillin.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically occurs in individuals with poor oral hygiene or following dental procedures.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Dental infections, trauma, surgery, immunosuppression, and intrauterine device (IUD) use.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely and prolonged treatment; untreated cases can result in severe complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Fistula formation, osteomyelitis, chronic abscess, or systemic spread leading to organ involvement.

Brucellosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cardiobacterium Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; malaise; fatigue; weight loss; night sweats; heart murmur

Root Cause:
Caused by Cardiobacterium hominis, a member of the HACEK group, leading to endocarditis or bloodstream infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, echocardiography, and molecular testing (e.g., PCR).

Treatment:
Prolonged antibiotic therapy tailored to susceptibility testing.

Medications:
Ceftriaxone (third-generation cephalosporin), ampicillin (beta-lactam antibiotic), or gentamicin (aminoglycoside antibiotic).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically occurs in patients with predisposing heart conditions or prosthetic valves.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Pre-existing heart valve disease, dental procedures, or poor dental hygiene.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment, but complications may arise if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Valve damage, heart failure, and systemic embolism.

Group D Streptococcus (GDS) Infections

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; abdominal pain; blood in stool; endocarditis symptoms (e.g., heart murmur); weight loss

Root Cause:
Caused by Streptococcus bovis or Streptococcus gallolyticus bacteria, often linked to colorectal cancer or endocarditis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, echocardiography (for endocarditis), and colonoscopy to screen for associated colorectal malignancy.

Treatment:
Prolonged antibiotic therapy; surgical intervention may be required for complications like valve damage.

Medications:
Penicillin G or ceftriaxone (a cephalosporin) for active infections. Vancomycin may be used for beta-lactam allergies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare compared to other streptococcal infections; associated with 15–65% of colorectal cancer cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age over 50, colorectal malignancies, valvular heart disease, or immunocompromised conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate antibiotic treatment. However, prognosis may depend on the underlying colorectal malignancy or cardiac condition.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Endocarditis, septicemia, and undiagnosed colorectal cancer.

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.

Nocardiosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
persistent cough; fever; fatigue; weight loss; skin lesions; difficulty breathing; chest pain

Root Cause:
Infection caused by Nocardia bacteria, often entering the body through inhalation or skin wounds.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Identified via sputum or tissue culture, biopsy, and imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans.

Treatment:
Treatment includes long-term antibiotic therapy, sometimes combined with surgical drainage of abscesses.

Medications:
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (antibiotic combination used to treat bacterial infections) is the primary medication. Other antibiotics like linezolid or imipenem may be used in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs primarily in immunocompromised individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Weakened immune system, organ transplantation, corticosteroid use, HIV/AIDS, or chronic lung diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; good with early diagnosis and treatment but poor in disseminated cases or delayed diagnosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Dissemination to the brain (brain abscess), lungs, or other organs, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions.

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.

Pott Disease (Tuberculous [TB] Spondylitis)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bone and Joint Infections

Symptoms:
chronic back pain; fever; weight loss; night sweats; progressive spinal deformity (kyphosis); neurological deficits in severe cases

Root Cause:
Tuberculosis infection of the spine caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, leading to destruction of vertebrae and potential spinal instability.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (X-rays, MRI, or CT scan), biopsy of spinal tissue, and microbiological testing (acid-fast bacilli staining and culture).

Treatment:
Combination anti-tuberculosis therapy (ATT) for 6-12 months and surgical intervention in cases of neurological compromise or spinal instability.

Medications:
First-line anti-TB drugs including isoniazid , rifampin , pyrazinamide , and ethambutol . These are classified as antimycobacterial agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in regions with high TB prevalence; incidence varies but accounts for about 1-2% of TB cases worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression (e.g., HIV), malnutrition, crowded living conditions, and poor healthcare access.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; late diagnosis can lead to irreversible spinal deformities and neurological damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spinal cord compression, paraplegia, kyphosis, chronic pain, and systemic TB spread.

CNS Whipple Disease

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: CNS Infections

Sub-category: Rare Bacterial Infections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paracoccidioidomycosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Symptoms:
fever; weight loss; chronic cough; skin lesions; oral ulcers; lymphadenopathy; difficulty breathing

Root Cause:
Caused by inhalation of spores from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis or Paracoccidioides lutzii, leading to systemic fungal infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of sputum or tissue biopsies, fungal culture, serologic tests (e.g., immunodiffusion), and imaging studies (e.g., chest X-ray or CT).

Treatment:
Long-term antifungal therapy, typically lasting several months.

Medications:
Azole antifungals like itraconazole (first-line treatment) or amphotericin B for severe cases. Itraconazole is a triazole antifungal; amphotericin B is a polyene antifungal.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic to South and Central America, particularly in rural areas; incidence varies but is most common in agricultural workers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male gender, rural occupation, environmental exposure to soil, weakened immune system.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early diagnosis and treatment, but untreated cases can be fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary fibrosis, chronic lung disease, adrenal insufficiency, and systemic dissemination.

Amebic Liver/Hepatic Abscesses

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Gastrointestinal Tract and Intra-abdominal Infections

Symptoms:
fever; right upper quadrant abdominal pain; hepatomegaly; jaundice; weight loss; night sweats

Root Cause:
Liver abscess formation due to Entamoeba histolytica infection, typically contracted via contaminated food or water.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serologic tests for antibodies, imaging (ultrasound or CT showing hypoechoic lesions in the liver), and stool tests for E. histolytica.

Treatment:
Antimicrobial therapy and, in some cases, drainage of abscesses. Avoid invasive procedures unless necessary.

Medications:
Metronidazole or tinidazole (antiprotozoal agents) to treat the infection, followed by luminal agents like paromomycin to eradicate intestinal colonization.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in endemic regions like South and Central America, Africa, and Asia, with an estimated global prevalence of up to 50 million cases annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Travel to endemic regions, poor sanitation, immunosuppression, and male gender.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely treatment; untreated cases can lead to rupture and high mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rupture into pleural or peritoneal spaces, secondary bacterial infections, and sepsis.

Bacterial Overgrowth Syndrome

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Gastrointestinal Tract and Intra-abdominal Infections

Symptoms:
abdominal bloating; diarrhea; malabsorption; weight loss; fatigue; nausea

Root Cause:
Excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine causing nutrient malabsorption and gastrointestinal symptoms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Breath tests (hydrogen or methane), small bowel aspirate and culture, and clinical response to treatment.

Treatment:
Addressing underlying causes, dietary modifications, and antibiotics to reduce bacterial load.

Medications:
Rifaximin (broad-spectrum non-absorbable antibiotic), metronidazole (antimicrobial), and probiotics to restore gut flora balance.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence is uncertain; common in conditions causing motility disorders or structural abnormalities of the GI tract.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease), previous surgeries (e.g., gastric bypass), and use of proton pump inhibitors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; symptoms often resolve but recurrence is possible.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies (B12, fat-soluble vitamins), and increased intestinal permeability.

Cyclospora Infection (Cyclosporiasis)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Gastrointestinal Tract and Intra-abdominal Infections

Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; loss of appetite; weight loss; cramping; bloating; gas; fatigue; nausea; low-grade fever

Root Cause:
Protozoan parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis infects the small intestine, often transmitted via contaminated food or water.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for Cyclospora oocysts, using microscopy with special stains or molecular techniques like PCR.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic therapy, rehydration, and electrolyte replacement.

Medications:
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX, classified as a combination antibiotic) is the primary treatment. No alternative medications are well-established for sulfa-allergic patients.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sporadic outbreaks in the U.S. often linked to imported fresh produce; endemic in tropical and subtropical regions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Consumption of contaminated food or water, international travel, and weakened immune systems.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; without treatment, symptoms may persist for weeks.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe dehydration and malabsorption in prolonged or untreated cases.

Strongyloidiasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Gastrointestinal Tract and Intra-abdominal Infections

Sub-category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; diarrhea; weight loss; itchy skin rash; cough or wheezing in disseminated cases

Root Cause:
Chronic intestinal infection caused by the parasitic nematode Strongyloides stercoralis, with potential for autoinfection and systemic dissemination.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination, serological tests (antibody detection), or PCR. Larvae may also be identified in duodenal aspirates or sputum in disseminated cases.

Treatment:
Anti-parasitic therapy with ivermectin or albendazole.

Medications:
Ivermectin (first-line) or albendazole (alternative). Both are anti-helminthic drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in tropical and subtropical regions; less frequent in temperate areas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor sanitation, immunosuppression, corticosteroid use, and travel to endemic regions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely treatment; life-threatening in disseminated strongyloidiasis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hyperinfection syndrome, sepsis, and respiratory distress in severe cases.

Perinephric Abscess

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Genitourinary Tract Infections

Sub-category: Renal Infections

Symptoms:
flank pain; fever; chills; nausea and vomiting; weight loss

Root Cause:
Collection of pus around the kidney, often due to untreated pyelonephritis or hematogenous bacterial spread.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (CT scan or ultrasound), blood cultures, urinalysis.

Treatment:
Drainage of the abscess via percutaneous or surgical methods, antibiotic therapy targeting causative organisms.

Medications:
Piperacillin-tazobactam (a beta-lactam antibiotic) or vancomycin combined with ceftriaxone to address resistant bacteria.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for less than 1% of urinary tract infections, often seen in immunocompromised individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes, renal calculi, recent urinary tract surgery, immunosuppression.

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

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, chronic renal impairment, rupture into adjacent structures.

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Adolescents and Young Adults With HIV Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: HIV

Symptoms:
fatigue; fever; lymphadenopathy; weight loss; delayed growth or puberty; opportunistic infections

Root Cause:
Immune suppression due to HIV infection leading to vulnerability to infections and delayed development.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HIV serology (ELISA and Western blot), CD4 count, HIV RNA viral load, and resistance testing.

Treatment:
Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) tailored to age, weight, and resistance profiles. Regular counseling and adherence support are crucial.

Medications:
Dolutegravir-based regimens (integrase inhibitors), emtricitabine /tenofovir (reverse transcriptase inhibitors), abacavir /lamivudine (nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increasingly common with 1.8 million adolescents globally living with HIV.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Perinatal HIV transmission, early sexual activity, and poor adherence to ART.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early and consistent treatment; delayed treatment can lead to complications and lower life expectancy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Drug resistance, delayed growth and development, social stigma, and mental health challenges.

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Treatment-Naive Patients With HIV Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: HIV

Symptoms:
fever; night sweats; weight loss; lymphadenopathy; diarrhea; opportunistic infections

Root Cause:
Progressive immune system destruction due to untreated HIV.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HIV serology, baseline CD4 count, HIV RNA viral load, and drug resistance testing.

Treatment:
Immediate initiation of a combination ART regimen tailored to resistance profiles and patient tolerance.

Medications:
Bictegravir /tenofovir alafenamide /emtricitabine (integrase inhibitor + NRTIs), darunavir (protease inhibitor) combined with ritonavir or cobicistat .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Globally, around 39 million people live with HIV; ART-naive prevalence varies by region.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Late diagnosis, lack of access to healthcare, and socioeconomic challenges.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early ART; poor without treatment due to progression to AIDS and opportunistic infections.

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

Early Symptomatic HIV Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Early HIV Complications

Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; night sweats; weight loss; diarrhea; lymphadenopathy

Root Cause:
Rapid viral replication and immune activation during the initial stages of HIV infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HIV antibody and antigen testing, CD4 count, and viral load.

Treatment:
Initiation of combination ART as soon as possible.

Medications:
ART includes nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g., tenofovir ), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g., efavirenz ), and protease inhibitors (e.g., darunavir ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects most individuals newly diagnosed with HIV.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High viral load, untreated HIV infection, lack of preventative care.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early ART; without treatment, rapid progression to AIDS is possible.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent immune dysfunction, opportunistic infections, or progression to AIDS.

HIV Infection and AIDS

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: HIV and Nutrition

Symptoms:
fever; fatigue; weight loss; recurrent infections; diarrhea; opportunistic infections

Root Cause:
Progressive failure of the immune system caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), leading to opportunistic infections and AIDS in advanced stages.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
HIV antibody/antigen tests, CD4+ T-cell count, viral load testing, and clinical evaluation.

Treatment:
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) using a combination of drugs, supportive care, and treatment of opportunistic infections.

Medications:
ART includes classes like NRTIs (e.g., tenofovir , lamivudine ), NNRTIs (e.g., efavirenz ), protease inhibitors (e.g., darunavir ), and integrase inhibitors (e.g., dolutegravir ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 38 million people worldwide as of 2023.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sexual activity, intravenous drug use, blood transfusions, and vertical transmission from mother to child.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Improved significantly with ART; life expectancy approaches normal with early and consistent treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Opportunistic infections, malignancies, neurocognitive disorders, and chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease.

Miliary Tuberculosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Mycobacterial Infections

Symptoms:
fever; night sweats; weight loss; general malaise; cough; difficulty breathing; enlarged liver or spleen; anemia

Root Cause:
Disseminated infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, leading to small nodular lesions in multiple organs due to hematogenous spread.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Chest X-ray or CT scan showing millet-seed-like lesions, sputum culture, blood culture, liver biopsy, and tuberculin skin test (TST) or interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA).

Treatment:
Long-term combination therapy with first-line anti-tuberculosis medications, typically for 6-9 months. Supportive care and management of complications.

Medications:
First-line medications include isoniazid , rifampin , pyrazinamide , and ethambutol . Steroids may be added in cases of severe inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than pulmonary TB; often seen in immunocompromised individuals, particularly in areas with high TB burden.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
HIV infection, immunosuppressive therapy, chronic diseases, malnutrition, and living in or traveling to endemic regions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; early treatment improves outcomes, but untreated cases can be fatal due to organ failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, organ damage (e.g., liver, spleen), septic shock, and meningitis.

Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC) Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Mycobacterial Infections

Symptoms:
chronic cough; weight loss; fatigue; low-grade fever; shortness of breath; night sweats; chest pain

Root Cause:
Caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium intracellulare), leading to chronic pulmonary infection or disseminated disease, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sputum culture, bronchoscopy, high-resolution CT scan, and histological examination of lung tissue.

Treatment:
Prolonged multidrug antibiotic therapy, often for 12 months or longer after culture conversion.

Medications:
Clarithromycin or azithromycin (macrolides), rifampin (rifamycin ), and ethambutol . Injectable amikacin may be used for severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increasing incidence worldwide, particularly in individuals with underlying lung disease or HIV/AIDS.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic lung disease (e.g., COPD, bronchiectasis), immunosuppression, older age, and environmental exposure to contaminated water or soil.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with early diagnosis and adherence to treatment; relapses may occur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive lung damage, respiratory failure, and systemic dissemination in immunocompromised individuals.

Mycobacterium Gordonae Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Mycobacterial Infections

Symptoms:
asymptomatic in most cases; fever; weight loss; pulmonary symptoms (e.g., cough, chest pain); localized lymphadenitis

Root Cause:
Infection caused by Mycobacterium gordonae, a slow-growing non-tuberculous mycobacterium often considered non-pathogenic but capable of causing opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Culture from clinical specimens, molecular methods (e.g., PCR), and exclusion of other pathogens.

Treatment:
Antimicrobial therapy for symptomatic cases, guided by susceptibility testing; typically involves a multidrug regimen.

Medications:
Clarithromycin or azithromycin (macrolides), rifampin (rifamycin ), and ethambutol . Other agents like amikacin or ciprofloxacin may be used in resistant cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rarely pathogenic; commonly found in the environment, especially in water sources.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, chronic lung disease, and exposure to contaminated water.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with appropriate treatment; mild or asymptomatic cases often do not require intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Invasive infections in severely immunocompromised individuals, including bloodstream infections and organ involvement.

Mycobacterium Kansasii Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Mycobacterial Infections

Symptoms:
chronic cough; fever; weight loss; night sweats; fatigue; lung infiltrates

Root Cause:
Caused by Mycobacterium kansasii, primarily affecting the lungs and mimicking tuberculosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sputum culture, molecular testing (PCR), and chest imaging (e.g., X-ray or CT scan).

Treatment:
Combination therapy, including multiple antibiotics over 12-18 months.

Medications:
Rifampin (rifamycin ), ethambutol (antimycobacterial agent), and isoniazid (antitubercular agent) are typically prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; primarily affects individuals with underlying lung diseases or immunocompromised states.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), HIV/AIDS, prior tuberculosis, and immunosuppressive therapies.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pulmonary disease, progression to disseminated infection in immunocompromised patients.

Mycobacterium Xenopi Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Mycobacterial Infections

Symptoms:
chronic cough; fever; night sweats; weight loss; dyspnea

Root Cause:
An opportunistic infection caused by Mycobacterium xenopi, often affecting the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sputum culture, chest imaging, and molecular testing such as PCR.

Treatment:
Long-term antibiotic therapy based on drug susceptibility.

Medications:
Rifampin (rifamycin ), ethambutol (antimycobacterial agent), and clarithromycin (macrolide) are frequently prescribed.

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

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic lung diseases, HIV/AIDS, and immunosuppressive therapy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with treatment; may lead to chronic pulmonary disease if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cavitary lung disease, chronic infection, and dissemination in immunocompromised patients.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Mycobacterial Infections

Symptoms:
persistent cough (lasting > 3 weeks); fever; night sweats; weight loss; hemoptysis; fatigue

Root Cause:
Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, leading to pulmonary or extrapulmonary disease.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sputum microscopy and culture, chest X-ray, tuberculin skin test (TST), or interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA).

Treatment:
Standard 6-month course of combination antibiotic therapy.

Medications:
Rifampin (rifamycin ), isoniazid (antitubercular agent), pyrazinamide , and ethambutol (antimycobacterial agent).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally; highest prevalence in low-income countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, overcrowding, and weakened immunity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely diagnosis and adherence to treatment; untreated TB can be fatal.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Drug-resistant TB, miliary TB, and organ damage.

Tuberculosis Organism-Specific Therapy

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Mycobacterial Infections

Symptoms:
persistent cough; fever; weight loss; night sweats; hemoptysis

Root Cause:
Treatment of TB tailored to specific drug susceptibility profiles of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Drug susceptibility testing, molecular diagnostics (e.g., GeneXpert), and culture.

Treatment:
Customized antibiotic regimens based on drug-resistance patterns.

Medications:
Fluoroquinolones (e.g., levofloxacin ), linezolid (oxazolidinone), and bedaquiline (diarylquinoline) for resistant cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in drug-resistant TB cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor adherence to standard TB therapy, prior TB treatment, and immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; drug-resistant TB is harder to treat and associated with higher mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Treatment failure, extensive drug resistance, and systemic spread of TB.

Alveolar Echinococcosis (AE)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; weight loss; jaundice; liver enlargement; nausea; weakness

Root Cause:
Caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus multilocularis, which forms invasive cysts, primarily in the liver.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI), serological testing for Echinococcus antibodies, and biopsy for definitive diagnosis.

Treatment:
Surgical removal of the lesion when possible, long-term antiparasitic therapy.

Medications:
Albendazole (anthelmintic) is the primary medication; mebendazole is an alternative.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, primarily found in the northern hemisphere, including parts of Europe, Asia, and North America.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact with infected animals (e.g., dogs, foxes), consuming contaminated food or water, and living in endemic regions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early detection and treatment; untreated cases have a poor prognosis due to invasive growth.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver failure, metastasis to other organs, secondary infections.

Amebiasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
diarrhea; abdominal pain; cramping; bloody stools; fever; weight loss

Root Cause:
Infection with Entamoeba histolytica through ingestion of contaminated food or water, causing intestinal and, in some cases, extraintestinal infections such as liver abscesses.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for trophozoites or cysts, antigen detection tests, serological assays, imaging (ultrasound or CT) for liver abscesses.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications, drainage of liver abscesses if necessary.

Medications:
Metronidazole or tinidazole (antiprotozoal drugs) are used for tissue-invasive disease, followed by luminal agents like paromomycin or iodoquinol to eliminate cysts in the intestine.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene, contaminated water supply, close contact with infected individuals.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; severe cases can lead to complications if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver abscesses, perforation of the colon, peritonitis, and dissemination to other organs.

Balantidiasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
diarrhea; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; fever; weight loss

Root Cause:
Infection with Balantidium coli, a ciliate protozoan, typically acquired from contaminated food or water.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for trophozoites or cysts; rarely, colonoscopy and biopsy.

Treatment:
Antiprotozoal therapy.

Medications:
Tetracycline is the first-line treatment; metronidazole or iodoquinol are alternatives.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, typically found in areas with poor sanitation and exposure to swine.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with pigs, contaminated water, and poor hygiene.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated severe cases may lead to complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Perforation of the colon, peritonitis.

Cryptosporidiosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; fever; weight loss; dehydration

Root Cause:
Infection with Cryptosporidium species, primarily transmitted through ingestion of contaminated water or food.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool analysis using acid-fast staining, direct fluorescent antibody tests, or PCR for Cryptosporidium DNA.

Treatment:
Supportive care to prevent dehydration; specific antiparasitic therapy for immunocompromised individuals.

Medications:
Nitazoxanide (antiprotozoal) is the primary treatment. Antidiarrheal agents may be used for symptom control.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common worldwide, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals in low-resource settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated water sources, poor sanitation, immunosuppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for immunocompetent individuals; chronic or severe disease in immunosuppressed patients.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe dehydration, malnutrition, and chronic diarrhea in immunocompromised individuals.

Cystoisosporiasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; abdominal pain; cramping; nausea; vomiting; weight loss; fever

Root Cause:
Infection with Cystoisospora belli (formerly known as Isospora belli), a parasitic protozoan that invades the epithelial cells of the small intestine.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of stool samples to detect oocysts; acid-fast staining or molecular tests (e.g., PCR) may be used.

Treatment:
Primarily with antiparasitic medication and supportive care (rehydration and nutritional support).

Medications:
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (antibiotic combination, also known as Bactrim ) is the first-line treatment. For sulfa-allergic patients, pyrimethamine with leucovorin (folic acid) may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in developed countries; more common in tropical and subtropical regions and in immunocompromised individuals (e.g., HIV/AIDS).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, travel to or residence in endemic areas, poor sanitation, consumption of contaminated food or water.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; chronic or recurrent infections may occur in immunocompromised patients.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, dehydration, and significant weight loss, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Diphyllobothriasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
abdominal discomfort; nausea; diarrhea or constipation; weakness; weight loss; vitamin b12 deficiency symptoms like anemia or numbness

Root Cause:
Infection with the fish tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium latum), acquired through ingestion of raw or undercooked freshwater fish containing larvae.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Identification of eggs or segments (proglottids) in stool samples; PCR may be used for species confirmation.

Treatment:
Anthelmintic medications and nutritional supplementation for vitamin B12 deficiency if present.

Medications:
Praziquantel (anthelmintic) is the drug of choice. Niclosamide can also be used as an alternative.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in regions where raw or undercooked fish is consumed, such as Scandinavia, Russia, and parts of Japan, Peru, and North America.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Eating raw or undercooked freshwater fish, poor food preparation practices, or living in endemic areas.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; complications are rare.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe vitamin B12 deficiency leading to megaloblastic anemia, neurological symptoms, and intestinal obstruction in rare cases.

Leishmaniasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
fever; weight loss; swollen lymph nodes; skin sores; enlarged spleen and liver; anemia; fatigue

Root Cause:
Infection caused by Leishmania parasites transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of tissue samples, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serological tests, or parasite culture.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications, supportive care for organ involvement, and wound management for skin lesions.

Medications:
Pentavalent antimonials (e.g., sodium stibogluconate, meglumine antimoniate), liposomal amphotericin B (especially for visceral leishmaniasis), miltefosine (an oral antiprotozoal), paromomycin (an aminoglycoside antibiotic).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, affecting over 12 million people globally, with 1–2 million new cases annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor housing, malnutrition, deforestation, exposure to sandfly habitats, immunosuppression (e.g., HIV co-infection).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with timely medical intervention; visceral leishmaniasis can be fatal without treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis, secondary infections, organ damage, and chronic skin ulcers.

Microsporidiosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
chronic diarrhea; abdominal pain; weight loss; nausea; vomiting; fever; ocular inflammation (in cases of eye involvement)

Root Cause:
Caused by microsporidia, intracellular parasites primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopy (modified trichrome stain), PCR, and electron microscopy.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications, rehydration therapy, and managing underlying immunosuppression.

Medications:
Albendazole (a broad-spectrum antiparasitic) for systemic infections; fumagillin or topical agents for ocular infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found worldwide, particularly in HIV/AIDS patients and organ transplant recipients.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy), exposure to contaminated water or food.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable, but complications are more severe in immunocompromised individuals.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic malabsorption, systemic spread, and severe organ-specific infections.

Tapeworm Infestation

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; diarrhea; weight loss; visible segments in stool

Root Cause:
Caused by ingestion of Taenia or other tapeworm species through undercooked meat or contaminated water.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool sample analysis, serological tests for antibodies, and imaging for cysts.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic medication with symptomatic relief for gastrointestinal discomfort.

Medications:
Praziquantel and albendazole , classified as antiparasitics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in regions with poor food safety and hygiene; global cases vary by tapeworm species.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Eating undercooked or raw meat, poor hygiene, and exposure to contaminated water or food.

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

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal blockage, cysticercosis, and neurocysticercosis (when cysts develop in the brain).

Trematode Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
fever; abdominal pain; diarrhea; weight loss; jaundice (in liver fluke infections); cough and chest pain (in lung fluke infections)

Root Cause:
Trematode infections are caused by parasitic flatworms (flukes) that invade the gastrointestinal tract, liver, lungs, or blood, depending on the species.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool or urine examination to detect eggs, serologic tests, imaging (e.g., ultrasound, CT, or MRI) for organ involvement, and biopsy in some cases.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic medication, supportive care for symptoms, and in severe cases, surgical intervention for organ damage.

Medications:
Praziquantel , an antiparasitic medication that disrupts the parasite's membrane , is the primary treatment.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in tropical and subtropical regions; common in areas with poor sanitation and close contact with freshwater sources.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish, crabs, or plants; exposure to contaminated water; poor sanitation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with early diagnosis and treatment, but untreated cases can lead to severe organ damage and complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver fibrosis, portal hypertension, cholangiocarcinoma, pulmonary complications, and secondary bacterial infections.

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