Glandular fever and pulmonary artery thrombosis in a paraplegic patient
Author Information
Author(s): Vaidyanathan Subramanian, Soni Bakul M, Hughes Peter L, O'Brien David, Oo Tun, Aung Wunna
Primary Institution: Regional Spinal Injuries Centre, District General Hospital, Southport, UK
Conclusion
The case highlights the importance of considering alternative diagnoses in spinal cord injury patients presenting with fever and lymphocytosis.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient was initially treated for a urine infection but had a positive Glandular Fever Slide Test.
- CT scans revealed pulmonary artery thrombosis and enlarged lymph nodes.
- Subsequent tests confirmed a recent Epstein Barr virus infection.
Takeaway
A patient with a spinal cord injury was initially thought to have a urine infection, but it turned out he had glandular fever and blood clots in his lungs instead.
Methodology
The case was diagnosed through clinical evaluation, blood tests, and imaging studies including CT and MRI.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in interpreting imaging results and clinical symptoms due to the patient's complex medical history.
Limitations
The initial misdiagnosis led to unnecessary treatments and anxiety for the patient and family.
Participant Demographics
A 36-year-old male with a history of spinal cord injury and splenectomy.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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