TvDx
Private Practice

Private PracticeABC

Season 4, Episode 8

5 medical diagnoses portrayed

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Also known as: Cancer of the lymphatic system

Hemorrhagic shockCardiac tamponadePericardial effusion

Elisa is a 14-year-old with recurrent lymphoma that has seeded her pericardium, causing life-threatening fluid accumulation around her heart. The episode centers on the conflict between her father's desire to treat her with a shaman versus chemotherapy, and Elisa's revelation that financial strain from previous treatments has devastated her family.

Also known as: Breast cancer spread to kidney

Testosterone-secreting ovarian metastasisPathologic aggression

Rachel has metastatic breast cancer with an ovarian tumor that secretes testosterone, causing uncontrollable rage and violent outbursts toward her husband Nick. Surgery reveals the tumor is more extensive than anticipated, and she is given a terminal prognosis, choosing to move to hospice.

Also known as: Rape

Post-traumatic stress disorderNightmaresAvoidance behavior

Charlotte is recovering from a violent sexual assault that occurred in a previous episode. She returns to work attempting to regain control of her life while experiencing PTSD symptoms including nightmares and emotional withdrawal. The episode culminates in Addison revealing Charlotte confided in her and processing the rape kit evidence.

Private Practice — S04E08Patient: Charlotte King
Recurring storyline

Also known as: Diabetes with kidney problems

Diabetic nephropathy

Rachel has longstanding diabetes with kidney complications that are being medically managed. This chronic illness is mentioned as part of her complex medical history alongside her breast cancer and behavioral changes.

Sexual assaultsupporting

Also known as: Rape

Post-traumatic stress disorder

Violet reveals she was raped in college, sharing her experience with Charlotte to connect with her and demonstrate understanding. This disclosure helps her counsel Charlotte and explains some of Violet's psychological reactions.

Private Practice — S04E08Patient: Violet Turner
Recurring storyline