Resources
- Chapter 24: Structure and Function of the Reproductive Systems (stop at Tests of reproductive function); Summary Review
- Chapter 25: Alterations of the Female Reproductive System (stop at Organ prolapse); pp. 787–788 (start at Impaired fertility) (stop at Disorders of the female breast); Summary Review
- Chapter 26: Alterations of the Male Reproductive System (stop at Hormone levels); Summary Review
- Chapter 27: Sexually Transmitted Infections, including Summary Review
- Chapter 28: Structure and Function of the Hematological System (stop at Clinical evaluation of the hematological system); Summary Review
- Chapter 29: Alterations of Erythrocytes, Platelets, and Hemostatic Function, including Summary Review
- Chapter 30: Alterations of Leukocyte and Lymphoid Function, including Summary Review
- Low, N. & Broutet N. J. (2017). Sexually transmitted infections – Research priorities for new challengesLinks to an external site.. PLoS Medicine, (12), e1002481
- Kessler, C. M. (2019). Immune thrombocytopenic purpuraLinks to an external site.. Retrieved from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/202158-overview
- Nagalia, S. (2019). Pernicious anemiaLinks to an external site.. Retrieved from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/204930-overview#a3
- Stauder, R., Valent, P., & Theurl, I. (2019). Anemia at older age: Etiologies, clinical implications and managementLinks to an external site.. Blood Journal, 131(5). Retrieved from http://www.bloodjournal.org/content/131/5/505?sso-checked=true
In your Case Study Analysis related to the scenario provided, explain the following:
- The factors that affect fertility (STDs).
- Why inflammatory markers rise in STD/PID.
- Why prostatitis and infection happens. Also explain the causes of systemic reaction.
- Why a patient would need a splenectomy after a diagnosis of ITP.
- Anemia and the different kinds of anemia (i.e., micro and macrocytic).
In your Case Study Analysis, you can explain the following:
- Factors that Affect Fertility (STDs): Fertility can be significantly affected by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) due to their impact on the reproductive organs and processes. STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) when left untreated. PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, which includes the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It can result in scar tissue and damage to these organs, potentially leading to infertility. In men, untreated STDs like chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to epididymitis, which is inflammation of the epididymis, a structure responsible for carrying sperm. This can affect sperm quality and motility, making it harder to achieve pregnancy.
- Inflammatory Markers in STDs/PID: Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) rise in response to infections, including STDs and PID. When the body detects an infection, the immune system initiates an inflammatory response to fight off the pathogen. As a result, white blood cells and other immune factors release various chemicals and proteins, including CRP and ESR. These markers increase in concentration in the bloodstream, indicating the presence of inflammation and infection. In cases of STDs and PID, the rise in inflammatory markers is a reflection of the body’s attempt to combat the infection and repair any damage in the affected reproductive organs.
- Prostatitis and Infection Causes: Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate gland, which can be caused by both bacterial and non-bacterial factors. Bacterial prostatitis often results from the spread of infectious agents to the prostate, which can occur due to urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, or other bacteria entering the prostate tissue. Non-bacterial prostatitis may have various causes, such as autoimmune factors, pelvic muscle tension, or nerve-related issues. The systemic reaction (fever, pain, etc.) accompanying prostatitis and infection is the body’s response to the inflammatory process. The immune system is activated to combat the infection and promote healing, leading to these symptoms.
- Splenectomy After Diagnosis of ITP: Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys platelets, leading to a decreased platelet count. The spleen plays a significant role in this condition, as it’s where platelets are removed from circulation. In some cases, when medical treatments fail to increase platelet counts and control bleeding, a splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) may be recommended. Removing the spleen can reduce platelet destruction and help increase platelet levels, improving the patient’s health and reducing the risk of bleeding complications.
- Anemia and Different Types: Anemia is a condition characterized by a decreased number of red blood cells or a decreased ability of these cells to carry oxygen. There are various types of anemia, two of which are microcytic and macrocytic anemia:
- Microcytic Anemia: Microcytic anemia is characterized by smaller than normal red blood cells (microcytosis). The most common cause of microcytic anemia is iron deficiency, often resulting from inadequate dietary intake, blood loss (e.g., from gastrointestinal bleeding), or impaired absorption of iron. Thalassemia and certain genetic conditions can also lead to microcytic anemia.
- Macrocytic Anemia: Macrocytic anemia is characterized by larger than normal red blood cells (macrocytosis). Vitamin B12 deficiency and folic acid deficiency are common causes of macrocytic anemia. These deficiencies affect DNA synthesis in red blood cells, leading to their enlarged size. Certain medications and underlying medical conditions can also contribute to macrocytic anemia.
These types of anemia can have different causes, and they are diagnosed and treated based on the underlying factors and patient-specific needs.