Also known as: Polio
Drag racer presents with seizures, visual/auditory processing deficiency, and progressive paralysis. Diagnosed as polio (though later revealed to be fabricated), treated with high-dose vitamin C. The polio diagnosis drives the main medical mystery of the episode.
Also known as: Heavy metal poisoning
House reveals at the end that Brennan poisoned the patient with thallium to fake polio symptoms, allowing him to demonstrate vitamin C as a cure and generate research funding for polio treatment.
Also known as: Brazil nut poisoning
CIA operative initially suspected of assassination attempt via radiation poisoning. House determines he consumed excessive Brazil nuts during his assignment in Brazil, causing selenium toxicity that mimicked radiation sickness symptoms.
Also known as: MFS
Initially considered diagnosis for the drag racer due to weak deep tendon reflexes and vertical nystagmus, though quickly ruled out when symptoms progressed.
Also known as: MS
Foreman's favored diagnosis for Casey based on neurological symptoms and MRI findings. He pushes for interferon treatment, creating conflict with the team who suspect lupus.
Also known as: Lupus
Several team members favor lupus diagnosis based on elevated sed rate and weakly positive ANA. They treat with steroids against Foreman's orders, creating team conflict.
Also known as: Blood cancer
House's initial diagnosis for the CIA operative before determining the actual cause was selenium poisoning. Treated briefly with plasmapheresis and chemotherapy.