Question #17: Can You Diagnose This Critical Condition?

Patient Case Studies

Case 1:

A 55-year-old man presents with the following symptoms:

  • High fever and chills
  • Rapid heartbeat and breathing
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Low blood pressure and dizziness when standing

Additional notes: The patient has a history of a recent surgery to remove an infected gallbladder. Blood cultures are positive for bacterial growth.

Blood Test Result Normal Range
White Blood Cell (WBC) Count 18,000 cells/mcL 4,000-11,000 cells/mcL
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) 50 mg/L 0-10 mg/L
Lactate 4.5 mmol/L 0.5-2.2 mmol/L
Procalcitonin 10 ng/mL < 0.1 ng/mL

Case 2:

A 45-year-old woman presents with the following symptoms:

Information verified by the iythealth.com team.
  • Severe weakness and fatigue
  • Shortness of breath, particularly when lying down
  • Swelling in the legs and feet
  • Pale, clammy skin

Additional notes: She reports that she recently had a urinary tract infection that was treated with antibiotics, but her symptoms have worsened. Blood pressure is critically low.

Blood Test Result Normal Range
White Blood Cell (WBC) Count 20,500 cells/mcL 4,000-11,000 cells/mcL
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) 75 mg/L 0-10 mg/L
Lactate 5.2 mmol/L 0.5-2.2 mmol/L
Procalcitonin 15 ng/mL < 0.1 ng/mL

Question: Based on the provided symptoms, patient histories, and blood test results, what is the most likely diagnosis?






Like this post? Please share to your friends:
Health and Welfare