Also known as: Small cell lung cancer
A 600-pound man presents in a coma and develops blindness after a brain biopsy. The team eventually discovers he has small cell lung carcinoma causing a paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome, which explains his coma, blindness, fever, and disorientation. The cancer has metastasized and is inoperable.
The paraneoplastic syndrome caused by George's lung cancer manifests as multiple neurological symptoms including prolonged coma, sudden blindness following brain biopsy, disorientation, and loss of balance. Anti-hu antibodies confirm the diagnosis.
Also known as: Severe obesity
George weighs over 600 pounds, which creates diagnostic challenges (cannot fit in standard MRI/CT machines) and becomes a source of tension as the team initially assumes his condition must be obesity-related, while George insists it is not.
Also known as: Chronic leg pain
House's chronic leg pain and his use of Vicodin become central to the episode when he is arrested for DUI, possession of narcotics, and resisting arrest. His legitimate need for pain medication is questioned, and Wilson must verify the prescriptions are valid.
Also known as: Involuntary eye movement
George has had nystagmus since birth, which is initially investigated as potentially related to his coma but is ultimately determined to be unrelated to his current condition.