27 Nov Patient is a 45 year old male presenting with acute onset of pain that began in his legs and has since spread to his lower back
At its core, pathology is the study of disease. Diseases occur for many reasons. But some, such as cystic fibrosis and Parkinson’s Disease, occur because of alterations that prevent cells from functioning normally.
Understanding of signals and symptoms of alterations in cellular processes is a critical step in diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. For the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), this understanding can also help educate patients and guide them through their treatment plans.
For this Discussion, you examine a case study and explain the disease that is suggested. You examine the symptoms reported and explain the cells that are involved and potential alterations and impacts. You must use current evidence-based resources (Primary and secondary) to support your initial posting and all responses to your colleagues. Post an explanation of the disease highlighted in the scenario you were provided. Include the following in your explanation:
Which genetic mutations are commonly associated with the disease?
Why is the patient presenting with the specific symptoms described?
Discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease in detail.
What do the blood test results tell us about the disease and disease progression?
Readings to look through: Rogers, J. (2023). McCance & Huether’s pathophysiology (9th ed.). Elsevier – Evolve.
Case Study Assignment:
Patient is a 45 year old male presenting with acute onset of pain that began in his legs and
has since spread to his lower back. The pain is rated 9/10 and described as deep,
throbbing, and constant. He has had several similar episodes in the past year, usually
following dehydration or infection. He denies trauma.
Lab Pt value Normal values
Hemaglobin 8.1 13.5-17.5
Hematocrit 24 38-50
RBC 2.9 4.7-6.1
WBC 13000 4000-11000
Reticulocyte count 8% 0.5-2.5%
Total bilirubin 3.5 0.2-1.2
LDH 520 140-280
Peripheral smear Presence of sickled cells,
target cells, Howell-Jolly
bodies
Questions –
• Which genetic mutations are commonly associated with the disease?
• Why is the patient presenting with the specific symptoms described?
• Discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease in detail.
• What do the blood test results tell us about the disease and disease progression?
Questions for response to other students –
Expand on one thing you learned from reading this post
Did you agree or disagree with the post
