Also known as: AIDS
Robyn presents with hair loss, nail splitting, and fatigue with significant weight loss. Initially suspected to be anorexia due to her history, but is diagnosed with HIV infection after Elliot reviews her case without prejudice from past medical history. The diagnosis is the emotional centerpiece of the episode.
Also known as: Fluid around the lungs
Pneumonia patient presenting with significant fluid accumulation in left lung requiring thoracentesis. During the drainage procedure performed by intern Derek, a complication occurs resulting in pneumothorax.
Also known as: Collapsed lung
Collapsed lung occurs as a complication during thoracentesis procedure when intern Derek inadvertently punctures the lung while attempting to drain pleural fluid. Used to illustrate the challenges and risks of medical training.
Also known as: Imposter syndrome
Patient who poisoned himself presents with Capgras syndrome, a delusional belief that everyone in his life has been replaced by identical impostors. This complicates taking his medical history as he refuses to believe his doctors are real.
Also known as: Tylenol poisoning
Initially reported diagnosis for Mr. Swick's poisoning, later revealed to be false information due to his Capgras delusion. He actually ingested fertilizer, demonstrating how psychiatric conditions can complicate obtaining accurate medical histories.
Also known as: Paralyzed bowel
Patient recovering from gallbladder surgery cannot be discharged until bowel function returns, specifically requiring passage of flatus to confirm gastrointestinal motility has resumed. Used for comedic subplot about patient's psychological barriers to passing gas.