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.
