Also known as: GBM, terminal brain cancer
Dr. Glassman's grade IV butterfly glioblastoma has recurred five years after initial surgical resection. He has 3-6 months to live and refuses treatment, choosing quality of life over potential additional time. This is the central emotional arc of the episode.
Also known as: Antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection
Claire develops a post-operative acinetobacter infection that is resistant to all antibiotics. She develops septic shock, requires induced coma, and ultimately needs arm amputation. Shaun fights the FDA to use experimental bacteriophage therapy to save her life.
Also known as: Life-threatening infection
Claire's infection progresses to septic shock with fever of 103, low blood pressure, and declining cardiac output, requiring her to be placed in a medically induced coma.
Also known as: Blood clot
Septic emboli cause arterial thrombosis in Claire's left forearm, resulting in poor blood flow and ischemia. Thrombectomy fails to clear the clot, ultimately requiring amputation of her arm.
Also known as: MRSA
Initially suspected as the cause of Claire's post-operative infection before cultures identified it as acinetobacter instead.
Also known as: Brain attack
Glassman has experienced several minor strokes within the past year, mentioned as part of his overall declining health condition related to his brain tumor.