Associate Level Material
Appendix F

Review the following two case studies. Each patient is being referred to a specialist for further evaluation of a nervous system disorder. Outline characteristics of the disease each patient is suffering from by answering the questions associated with each case study. Answer in your own words.

Case Study 1

Interoffice Referral Form

Ray D. Ology, M.D.
A Doctor’s Office, North Campus
1515 N. Medical Plaza #151
Anytown, Anywhere 12345

Dear Ray,

Myelin visited my office yesterday complaining of numbness in his right leg and face. He has also been experiencing muscle weakness and mild depression. I noticed a delay in his visual response in both eyes. I have referred Myelin to your facility because of possible multiple sclerosis, and I am requesting an MRI of the brain and spine. Please fax the results to me as soon as possible.

Regards,
Ruben Delgadillo, M.D.

Answer the following questions.

1. What could have caused Myelin’s disease?

Most likely multiple sclerosis. The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown. It is believed to be an autoimmune disease, in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. In MS, this process destroys myelin the fatty substance that coats and protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.

2. What structure(s) and function(s) of the nervous system are affected by multiple sclerosis?

Myelin is the substance that insulates nerves is destroyed, it can affect any area of the nervous system, in this case, peripheral nerves and the optic nerves (also known as optic neuritis). It can result in damage to the protective covering (myelin sheath) that surrounds nerve fibers in your brain and spinal cord. When the myelin sheath is damaged, nerve impulses slow or even stop, causing neurological problems.

3. What can be done to treat this disease?

There is no cure for multiple sclerosis. Treatment typically focuses on speeding recovery from attacks, slowing the progression of the disease and managing symptoms. Some people have such mild symptoms that no treatment is necessary. No cures exist for myelin diseases and their progression, and symptoms are different for everyone. Getting treatment early is important. Treatment focuses on: Minimizing the effects of the attacks, modifying the course of the disease and managing the symptoms.

Case Study 2

Interoffice Referral Form

Melissa Neidermayer, M.D.
A Doctor’s Office, North Campus
1515 N. Medical Plaza #203
Anytown, Anywhere 12345

Dear Melissa,

I’m sending Jimmy over for a stat spinal tap to evaluate suspected meningitis. He has had a fever for a couple of days, which increased to 102 degrees today. Since