Also known as: Multiple personality disorder
A 28-year-old woman presents with bizarre behavior including bed-wetting, speaking in tongues, and inability to function. Her mother believes she is possessed by a demon and has been attempting exorcism. Dr. Charles determines she is experiencing dissociative repression stemming from childhood sexual abuse, with a fragmented six-year-old personality manifesting through Lewis Carroll quotes from 'Jabberwocky'.
Also known as: CHF
One of conjoined twins (Twin A/Lily) develops severe heart failure with aortic stenosis causing significantly diminished ejection fraction (19%). The medical team debates whether to attempt emergency separation surgery to save one twin or perform a risky valvuloplasty to save both. Dr. Rhodes successfully performs the catheter-based valve repair.
Also known as: Aortic stenosis
The underlying structural heart defect in conjoined twin Lily that leads to her acute decompensation. The narrowed aortic valve compromises blood flow and ejection fraction. Dr. Rhodes performs a balloon valvuloplasty to dilate the valve and restore cardiac function.
Also known as: Lung infection
Dr. Manning initially suspects pneumonia in the conjoined twin based on scattered bronchi, retractions, and fever, though the diagnosis evolves to focus on cardiac issues.
Also known as: Sarcoid
A middle-aged man initially misdiagnosed with diverticulitis presents with abdominal pain and shortness of breath. He develops chylothorax (lymphatic fluid in the chest) and coughing up blood. Dr. Halstead diagnoses sarcoidosis through biopsy and MRI. The extensive diagnostic workup creates financial devastation for the uninsured family.
Also known as: Ruptured thoracic duct
Malcolm develops accumulation of lymphatic fluid in his chest cavity requiring emergency chest tube placement. This complication helps Dr. Halstead identify the underlying sarcoidosis diagnosis.
Also known as: COPD
A recurring patient who regularly comes to the ED for treatment with Atrovent and Solu-Medrol for his emphysema. Maggie catches him trying to smoke despite his condition.
Dr. Charles' father reports having ectopic heartbeats and having his Lasix doubled. He is seeking placement on a transplant list, which requires him to demonstrate emotional stability and self-sufficiency.