Identify all anatomical structures related to and/or that are being affected based on the patient case information. (i.e. tissues, organs, vessels, brain components, membranes)

Question

1. Explain how the anatomical structures and their physiological function/dysfunction are interrelated normally and what is going wrong with the structures in this current patient case information.
2. Identify and explain possible a diagnosis and what can be done to fix or reverse the current situation described in the patient case information. Please be specific and detailed.

Patient Case #1

The patient is a 17 year old male with a 2-3 year

history of not feeling well, tiredness, and rapid

growth. While most of his friends are interested in

sex, he just doesn’t seem to care. He has little body

hair, and has never shaved.

He is now exhibiting blurred vision, TMJ (temporal

mandibular joint) pain and frequent headaches. He

also has trouble with swelling in his right knee.

Preliminary observations:

Height: 6’ 4”

Weight 160 lbs

Blood pressure: 100/70 mmHg

Patient #1: Test Results

Thyroid hormone levels: low

Testosterone levels: low

Cortisol levels: low

Growth hormone levels: high

Glucose: normal

Knee tap: 500 cc fluid, indicating inflammation

Answer 1

Based on the patient case information, the following anatomical structures may be affected:

Thyroid gland

Testes

Adrenal glands

Pituitary gland

Joints, specifically the temporal mandibular joint and the right knee

Eyes

Normally, the thyroid gland regulates metabolism and energy levels through the production of thyroid hormones. The testes produce testosterone, which is responsible for male secondary sexual characteristics and libido. The adrenal glands produce cortisol, which helps the body respond to stress. The pituitary gland controls the release of growth hormone, which is responsible for growth and development. The joints allow for movement and are protected by synovial fluid. The eyes allow for vision.

In this case, the patient's low thyroid hormone levels and low testosterone levels may be causing fatigue and a lack of interest in sex. The low cortisol levels may also contribute to feelings of unwellness. The high growth hormone levels may be causing rapid growth and the joint pain and swelling in the right knee may be caused by excess fluid in the joint (indicated by the knee tap). Additionally, the patient's blurred vision may be a symptom of high growth hormone levels.

A possible diagnosis for this patient is acromegaly, a condition caused by excessive production of growth hormone from a tumor on the pituitary gland. This condition can be caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland that secretes excessive amounts of growth hormone (GH), leading to growth of hands, feet, face, and internal organs.

Treatment options for acromegaly may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, or medication to reduce GH production. Medications that inhibit the release of growth hormone or that block the effects of growth hormone can also be used. In addition, physical therapy may be recommended to help manage joint pain and swelling. It's important to note that the treatment will depend on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. If left untreated, acromegaly can lead to serious health complications such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and arthritis. Therefore, early detection and treatment of this condition is essential.