The purpose of this assignment is to identify concepts of pathophysiology as it relates to a patient case
study.
Answer the following questions using ONE of the case studies below.
Case 1
A 65 year old hypertensive man suddenly develops severe and profound weakness in his left arm and left
leg and severe slurring of speech. This is not accompanied by any language, memory, sensory or visual
disturbances. He is admitted to the hospital under suspicion of a cerebrovascular event. On neurological
examination 24 hours later, the patient’s only findings are weakness involving the left side of his face and
a left hemiplegia.
Case 2
A 32 year-old female from Fargo, North Dakota has a history of a right optic neuropathy seven years ago
with complete recovery of function without any treatment. Four years ago she experienced a left foot drop
which improved after treatment by a chiropractor. One month ago she developed urinary incontinence
and right-sided hemiparesis without speech or language impairment. Her family physician suspects
multiple sclerosis and refers her to a neurologist.
1.Localize where in the body this lesion or abnormality is likely occurring. (1 pt)
2.Identify 2 possible disease classifications you feel could be applicable to this case. Discuss why
you chose those classifications (based on congenital/hereditary, inflammatory, degenerative, metabolic,
or neoplastic). (4 pts)
3.Explain 2 pathological processes that are likely occurring in this case based on: (6 pts)
a)Body structures/organs involved
b)Tissues involved
c)Any inflammatory or immune responses that may be occurring
4.Describe any diagnostic tests or studies that may be used for definitive diagnosis. (2 pts)
5.Are there any predisposing factors that may have contributed to this occurrence? What are they
and why may these have contributed? (4 pts)
6.What might be the short-term and long-term functional implications for this individual? (3 pts)
7.Describe your professional role if you were involved in any aspect of care for this patient. (2 pts)
Sample Solution
