Also known as: GBM, terminal brain cancer
The patient's daughter was diagnosed with terminal stage IV glioblastoma four years ago and given two months to live, but unexpectedly went into apparent remission. House investigates this case as part of understanding the father's religious beliefs, discovering the cancer may still be present on PET scan before ultimately confirming she is cancer-free.
Also known as: Aggressive MS
The main patient case involves a religious man who crucifies himself annually and presents with hemoptysis, fever, and puncture wounds. Initially suspected to have various infections or malnutrition, he is ultimately diagnosed with Marburg MS, an aggressive and rapidly fatal variant of multiple sclerosis with demyelinating brain lesions. He initially refuses embryonic stem cell treatment on religious grounds but eventually accepts after House manipulates him.
Also known as: Horse infection
This was suspected as a diagnosis when the team learned the patient works building stables and barns, potentially exposing him to this rare horse-borne infection. The team confirms he does have this infection, which is exacerbated by his malnutrition compromising his immune system.
Also known as: Undernourishment
The patient's tooth fell out not due to heavy metal poisoning as initially suspected, but due to severe malnutrition from living on a tight budget. The malnutrition masked his MS symptoms by suppressing his immune system, and feeding him revealed the underlying neurological disease.