A 28-year-old male presents to the clinic with complaints of fever, fatigue, and joint pain for the past week. He reports recent onset of a sore throat, but denies cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. He has no significant medical history, does not smoke, and consumes alcohol socially. He recently returned from a camping trip in the northeastern United States, where he had multiple insect bites. On examination, his temperature is 101.3°F (38.5°C), and there is an erythematous maculopapular rash on his trunk and arms. Joint swelling is noted in his knees and wrists, with tenderness and reduced range of motion.
Questions
- Differential Diagnoses
Based on the patient’s presentation, what are the potential differential diagnoses? Prioritize these diagnoses based on the patient’s clinical presentation and risk factors. - Diagnostic Workup
What diagnostic tests would you order to differentiate between these diagnoses? Explain the rationale for each test. - Treatment Plan
Develop a comprehensive treatment plan for the most likely diagnosis considering the patient’s age comorbidities and potential side effects. - Patient Education
What important information should you provide to the patient and their family regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of further episodes?
For peer response answer this:
- What if you noticed any neurological symptoms, such as headaches, neck stiffness, or facial drooping
What red flags would indicate the need for immediate referral to the emergency department?
Submission Instructions:
- Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
- You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts.
- All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.
- Please post your initial response by 11:59 PM ET Thursday, and comment on the posts of two classmates by 11:59 PM ET Sunday.
- Late work policies, expectations regarding proper citations, acceptable means of responding to peer feedback, and other expectations are at the discretion of the instructor.
- You can expect feedback from the instructor within 48 to 72 hours from the Sunday due date.
