Also known as: Lung cancer affecting the pleural lining
A professional opera singer diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma requiring extensive tumor removal. The central conflict involves choosing between removing the entire lung (ending his singing career) versus a risky experimental procedure using intrapleural hyperthermic chemotherapy to preserve the lung.
Also known as: Pancreatic tumor
Patient undergoing Whipple procedure that Chief Webber was supposed to perform but missed, leading to Bailey and Meredith completing the surgery. This case serves as evidence of Webber's declining professional performance.
Also known as: Chicken pox
Arizona contracts chicken pox after claiming she had the vaccine to avoid appearing unattractive to Callie. The condition creates comedic subplot and quarantine situation, and serves as metaphor for relationship vulnerability.
Also known as: Alcoholism
Chief Webber's drinking problem is a central plot point, with Derek confronting him and ultimately forcing his resignation. His impairment leads to missing surgeries and poor judgment, representing a major character arc throughout the episode.