Tuesday, January 17, 2012

More than epicanthal folds and simian creases

The way we learn to think about Down Syndrome for the boards is as follows:

"mental retardation, flat facies, prominent epicanthal folds, simian crease, gap between 1st two toes, duodenal atresia, congenital heart disease, associated with increased risk of ALL and Alzheimer's Disease. ~First AID for the USMLE Step 1

Nella shows a different side of Down Syndrome...

Monday, January 16, 2012

Dear Patient X, Thank You

As I'm studying for the boards, I've realized how great an impact a face for a disease makes. For every disorder where we had a patient presentation, I remember the specifics of the disorder so much more easily. It makes me appreciate it so much more that Emory incorporates these patient interviews into our curriculum because it makes me a better student and eventually, a better doctor.

Every time I see tetrology of fallot, I think of the friendly woman with the bright green outfit that told us her story about being a "blue baby"

Every time i see pulmonary hypertension, I think of the cute young woman telling us the intricacies of her medication routine.

Every time I see Fanconi's syndrome, I think of the mother coming in with her son telling us about his disorder.

Every time I see ARPKD, I think of Julia and how she found out that both of her kids have this disorder when pregnant with her second child.

Every time I see ALL, I think of those sweet parents coming in to tell us the story of their precious baby girl and the fight she fought for her only 2 years here on Earth.

So, to all those patients who came in and were willing to share their stories with us, thank you.