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.

Question

1. 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)
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.

Patient Case (Initial Review): 

Noah is a 12 year old boy who lives in a rural town. Noah has been having the following symptoms:

1. Stomach pain in the form of a burning sensation, it especially hurts when he hasn't eaten in a while
2. Nausea
3. Loss of appetite
4. Frequent burping
5. Bloating
6. Unintentional weight loss - Noah has lost 15 lbs.

Noah is taking a trip in to the city to see a doctor to see what he can find out.

Doctors Findings:

The Dr. performed the following diagnostic tests. The findings are below as well.

1. Blood test - antibodies for a pathogen found
2. Stool test - pathogen antigens found in the stool
3. After performing endoscopy of GI, biopsy was taken in the stomach.

Answer 1

1. Anatomical structures being affected in this patient case include the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, stomach, and possibly the small intestine. The stomach pain, burning sensation, nausea, loss of appetite, frequent burping, bloating, and unintentional weight loss all suggest issues with the GI tract, particularly the stomach. The biopsy taken during endoscopy is likely from the stomach lining.
2. The possible diagnosis based on the symptoms and diagnostic tests is a bacterial infection caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). H. pylori is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining and cause inflammation, ulcers, and other digestive problems. The presence of antibodies for a pathogen and pathogen antigens in the stool indicate the presence of an infection. The biopsy may also reveal signs of inflammation or other changes in the stomach lining consistent with an H. pylori infection.

To fix this, the patient will likely be prescribed antibiotics to treat the H. pylori infection. Proton pump inhibitors or other medications that reduce stomach acid may also be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms and promote healing of any ulcers or inflammation. Dietary changes such as avoiding spicy or acidic foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals may also be recommended to reduce stomach irritation. It may take several weeks or months for symptoms to fully resolve and for the infection to be eradicated. Follow-up testing may be necessary to confirm that the infection has been successfully treated.

Answer 2

1. The main system involved in the patient's symptoms is the gastrointestinal system. The stomach and esophagus are affected. Various nerves, including the vagus nerve are involved in the acid production and subsequent nausea. The cerebral cortex of the brain also contributes to the sensation of nausea and discomfort.
2. The patient in this scenario is experiencing gastritis secondary to H.Pylori. The tests that the doctor conducted confirmed the presence of H.Pylori. The blood and stool test are testing for H. Pylori antigens. The biopsy of the stomach is likely to rule out other serious conditions that could be indicated by the patient's weight loss. The solution to the problem is taking two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor.