The Importance of Clinical Reasoning in Pancreatic Insufficiency: A Case Report.

Evidence-based medicine has demonstrated an extensive list of etiologies for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). EPI is defined as inadequate pancreatic enzyme efficacy in digestion due to insufficient enzyme production, activation, or early enzyme degradation. Among the etiologies, acute pancreatitis secondary to chronic and excessive consumption of alcohol has been found to be one of the most common causes. In 2022, a 43-year-old male patient with a past medical history of polysubstance abuse, acute on chronic pancreatitis, alcohol dependence, pulmonary embolism, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and diabetes mellitus type 2 presented to the Emergency Department with three days of epigastric abdominal pain, nausea and non-bloody, non-bilious vomiting. Proper imaging confirmed the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. The key to treatment and surveillance relies on proper identification of risk factors, pertinent imaging for diagnostic evaluation and appropriate treatment with electrolyte repletion. The patient developed persistent electrolyte deficiencies despite appropriate repletion, indicating high suspicion of pancreatic insufficiency. The treatment most importantly relies on a combination of repletion of electrolytes as well as pancreatic enzymes with a clear patient understanding of their chronic condition, the importance of reducing modifiable risk factors and compliance with medical therapy.

Understanding Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome (Gorlin Syndrome): A Case Report.

To date, there is no definite effective target therapy or cure for nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS, Gorlin syndrome). Basal cell carcinoma is frequently the far most increased risk of this syndrome, including predisposition to other malignancies. In 2015, an 11-year-old female with a past medical history of sickle cell trait, oral, and unilateral knee abscesses presented with multiple visits for various nodules covering the hands and chest, as well as posterior knee cysts. Genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis. The key to treatment and surveillance relies on appropriate recognition, management of atypical presentations, and offering appropriate genetic counseling to families.