Erythema nodosum associated with nivolumab therapy in a patient with metastatic melanoma

Joshua Bezecny1, Rajan Kulkarni, MD, PhD2, Matthew Hiram Taylor, MD 2, Elizabeth Berry, MD2 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: Introduction and Objective: Erythema nodosum associated with nivolumab therapy is a rare immune-related adverse event. In four previously reported cases, patients had presented with multiple, painful subcutaneous nodules along the lower extremities following nivolumab […]

The Benefits of Dietary Modification in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Case Report

Holly Ryan1, Chuck Chan1, Chaya Prasad MD, MBA1 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: Introduction: Autoimmune diseases have been increasing in incidence in the Western world over the last few decades at a faster rate than expected through genetic variation alone. This is suggestive of a correlation between the worsening American diet and inflammatory

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Consideration of Spontaneous Closure of Atrial Septal Defect by Thrombus in a Patient with Pulmonary Hypertension

Aaron Monga1, Jaspreet Thind1, Abdullah Naji1, Monica Chappidi1, Suraj P. Rasania12 PNWMSRJ. Published online November 2nd, 2021. Abstract: Introduction & Objective: Pulmonary hypertension is defined as elevated mean pulmonary arterial pressure >= 25 mmHg at rest. It is subdivided into 5 different groups, one of which is group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), an important

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An Atypical Pain Presentation of Cholecystitis

Introduction: Complicated gallstone diseases like cholecystitis can arise as gallstones block portions of cystic duct systems. Typically, these patients present with severe, constant, several hour postprandial, right upper quadrant pain, accompanied by elevated liver enzymes, leukocytosis, gallbladder thickening and edema on imaging, and a positive Murphy’s sign.1-5 Objective: This patient’s presentation fell outside these parameters, yet still warranted consideration of cholecystitis as a possible cause for her abdominal and back pain. Case Presentation: 25-year-old Caucasian female, 2-months postpartum, presented to urgent care with a 1-week history of achy, bilateral, 7-8/10, mid-back pain following a banding, belt-like pattern, most severe posteriorly, only present at night, and waking her from sleep. Physical exam was unremarkable except for mild tenderness in the right upper quadrant, but Murphy’s sign was negative. Primary diagnosis was gastroesophageal reflux disease, with a differential diagnosis of biliary colic. Patient was referred to the emergency department for ultrasound and laboratory testing. Stones were noted on an otherwise typical gallbladder ultrasound. Complete blood count and comprehensive metabolic panel showed mildly elevated liver enzymes. Urinalysis had elevated erythrocytes/μL and leukocyte esterase. Patient was prescribed omeprazole, sent home, and instructed to monitor symptoms. She returned to the emergency department 2-hours later with 10/10 abdominal and back pain in a bilateral, banding pattern, equally painful anteriorly and posteriorly. She was given hydromorphone and sent for abdominal and pelvic computerized tomography with oral contrast, identifying an edematous gallbladder. Patient was admitted and scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy the next day. Postoperatively, patient’s symptoms were completely resolved and she has remained symptom-free. Conclusion: While cholecystitis pain normally presents with right upper quadrant pain possibly radiating towards the right shoulder, an atypical bilateral location and banding pattern is possible. Early detection and subsequent cholecystectomy can limit time patients suffer from complicated gallstone diseases. However, not all patients with back pain should receive a cholecystitis work up as this presentation is rare and could result in unnecessary testing.

Case Report of Spinal Gout in a 68-Year-old Female

Brandon Bealer1, Logan Leavitt1, Richard Bell1, Andrew Ambler DO PNWMSRJ. Published online Oct 3rd, 2020. Abstract: Background: Gout is a common arthritic joint disease that predominantly presents in the first metatarsophalangeal joint. It is caused by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in the joint causing pain, inflammation, and swelling. The clinical manifestations of acute

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Anti-MDA5 Dermatomyositis with Rapidly Progressive Refractory Skin Lesions

Introduction & Objective: Anti-MDA5 positive dermatomyositis does not contain the same typical skin findings and progressive muscle weakness as classical dermatomyositis and can be difficult to diagnose and treat. The objective of this paper is to highlight the rapidly progressive onset of necrotic skin lesions in a patient with cutaneous disease refractory to initial treatments. Case Presentation: 49 yo Vietnamese male presented with clinically non-specific skin rash and isolated urine protoporphyrins leading to initial diagnosis of porphyria cutanea tarda. After lack of response to prednisone with worsening and transforming skin rash and proximal muscle weakness, a further workup was initiated and ultimately revealed anti-MDA5 positive dermatomyositis with refractory skin disease and without rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease. The patient has remained stable on a combination of IVIG, rituximab, wound care, and Bactrim prophylaxis. Conclusion: The quick diagnosis and aggressive treatment of anti-MDA5 positive dermatomyositis is necessary to treat painful and rapidly progressive skin ulcerations. A multidisciplinary approach involving rheumatology, dermatology, pulmonology, pathology, radiology, and infectious disease is paramount to the successful treatment and improved quality of life for these patients.