Also known as: Brain bleed
Joey has an old subdural hematoma from being hit with a tire iron in 1996. Initially suspected as the cause of his coma, but ruled out as it's chronic and wouldn't cause acute symptoms.
Also known as: Liver inflammation
Joey tests positive for hepatitis C, likely contracted in prison. His brother attempts to hide this diagnosis due to stigma. Initially treated with interferon, which causes complications when combined with herbal lozenges.
Also known as: Liver poisoning from medication
Joey develops acute liver failure from the toxic combination of Chai Hu (Chinese herbal quit-smoking lozenges) and interferon treatment for hepatitis C. The interaction poisons his liver, requiring emergency treatment with a pig liver xenoperfusion to buy time.
Also known as: OTC deficiency
Joey's recurrent comas are ultimately diagnosed as caused by ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, a genetic metabolic disorder triggered by high protein intake (steak). This is the final correct diagnosis that explains his repeated episodes of unexplained coma.
Young child in clinic with breathing difficulties and wheezing, causing concern about possible progression to meningitis. The child had inserted objects into his nose.
Also known as: Something stuck up the nose
Young child repeatedly inserting objects (toys, fire truck) into his nose after seeing a magic trick. House removes the objects using a magnet.