Also known as: Heavy metal poisoning
Two young women from an eco-cult called 'Angels of the Earth' deliberately poisoned themselves with thallium as an act of environmental martyrdom. Gaia dies from the poisoning after refusing treatment. Meadow initially refuses the antidote (Prussian blue) but is eventually treated against her will through legal maneuvering.
Also known as: ASD, hole in the heart
Connor's father returns with recurrent symptoms after a previous ASD repair by Dr. Bekker. Investigation reveals the intracardiac patch itself was faulty, not the surgical technique, requiring repeat repair by Dr. Latham.
Also known as: Kidney failure
Brandon presents needing dialysis and awaiting kidney transplant from his cousin Vee. Dr. Halstead suspects illegal organ trafficking due to suspicious circumstances, though the transplant ultimately appears legitimate. His worsening labs prompt an accelerated transplant schedule.
Also known as: Blocked intestine
Bernie presents with abdominal distension and fever. CT reveals complete small bowel obstruction caused by adhesions from previous pancreatic pseudocyst surgery. Requires emergency surgical intervention and recovery delays his job search and apartment plans with Emily.
Also known as: Head laceration
Vee sustains a minor head laceration and arm bruising from falling in the shower. Dr. Halstead orders imaging to rule out delayed subdural hematoma before the planned kidney donation surgery, though primarily as a delaying tactic to investigate suspected organ trafficking.
Also known as: Suicide attempt
Both patients are members of the 'Angels of the Earth' cult that believes in suicide as environmental activism. Gaia completes suicide by asphyxiation. Meadow repeatedly refuses life-saving treatment as part of her suicidal ideation, requiring psychiatric hold and legal intervention to force treatment.
Also known as: ED
Bernie privately discloses to Ethan that he's experiencing erectile dysfunction and requests medication, though Ethan recommends he see a urologist instead.