1. Review the lab test results in the table provided (choose either table 87.2 or table 88.2) and create a possible patient scenario/case. Please use APA format. You will need two paragraphs: 1. Paragraph 1 should offer a brief explanation that may have caused each of the lab results from the table. 2. Paragraph 2 should describe a possible patient that would have the test results in the table. 2. Please identify which table you are using in your work.
Table 88.2: Lab test results for a patient presenting with symptoms of infection.
Paragraph 1:
The lab test results in Table 88.2 indicate an infection in the patient. Firstly, the elevated white blood cell count (WBC) of 15.2 x 10^9/L suggests an increased immune response, as WBCs are responsible for fighting off infections. The normal reference range for WBC count is typically between 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/L. The elevated WBC count can be attributed to the release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators by immune cells in response to the infection.
Additionally, the neutrophil count of 12.6 x 10^9/L is higher than the normal reference range of 1.8-7.8 x 10^9/L. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell involved in the innate immune response and are the first responders to infections. An increased neutrophil count, known as neutrophilia, indicates an active infection as the body mobilizes these cells to combat the pathogens.
Moreover, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of 60 mm/h is significantly elevated compared to the normal reference range of 0-20 mm/h. ESR is a non-specific marker of inflammation and can be increased in various conditions, including infections. In response to inflammation, proteins in the blood called acute-phase reactants increase, resulting in the clumping together of red blood cells, leading to a faster sedimentation rate.
Lastly, the presence of bacteria in the urine specimen, indicated by the positive nitrite and leukocyte esterase tests, suggests a urinary tract infection (UTI). Nitrite is produced by some bacteria when they reduce urinary nitrate, and leukocyte esterase is an enzyme released by the white blood cells that indicate the presence of inflammation or infection in the urinary tract.
In summary, the lab results in Table 88.2 suggest an infection in the patient. The elevated WBC count, neutrophilia, elevated ESR, and positive urine tests for nitrite and leukocyte esterase all point towards an active infection. It is important to further investigate the source and type of infection to initiate appropriate treatment and prevent complications.
Paragraph 2:
A possible patient scenario that aligns with the lab test results in Table 88.2 is a middle-aged male presenting with symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). The patient complains of frequent and painful urination, along with lower abdominal pain. He may also report cloudy or foul-smelling urine. This patient may have risk factors for UTIs, such as urinary tract obstruction or a weakened immune system due to a recent illness.
Upon physical examination, the patient shows signs of inflammation in the lower abdominal region and may have tenderness upon palpation. The patient’s vital signs reveal mild fever and increased heart rate, indicating an active infection. Laboratory tests are requested to confirm the UTI diagnosis and determine the severity of the infection.
Table 88.2 is used to analyze the lab test results for this patient. The elevated WBC count and neutrophilia suggest an ongoing infection, while the significantly elevated ESR indicates inflammation. The positive nitrite and leukocyte esterase tests in the urine specimen further support the diagnosis of a UTI.
In conclusion, the patient in this scenario exhibits symptoms and lab test results indicative of a urinary tract infection. The elevated WBC count, neutrophilia, elevated ESR, and positive urine tests for nitrite and leukocyte esterase suggest an active infection. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are necessary to alleviate the patient’s symptoms and prevent complications.