An understanding of cells and cell behavior is a critically important component of disease diagnosis and treatment. But some diseases can be complex in nature, with a variety of factors and circumstances impacting their emergence and severity.
Effective disease analysis often requires an understanding that goes beyond isolated cell behavior. Genes, the environments in which cell processes operate, the impact of patient characteristics, and racial and ethnic variables all can have an important impact.
An understanding of the signals and symptoms of alterations in cellular processes is a critical step in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. For APRNs, this understanding can also help educate patients and guide them through their treatment plans.
In this Assignment, you examine a case study and analyze the symptoms presented. You identify cells, gene, and/or process elements that may be factors in the diagnosis, and you explain the implications to patient health.
Scenario:
A 24-year-old male presents to the clinic with a chief complaint of developing large areas of dandruff to his scalp and pitting of his fingernails. He also started noticing that he is having morning joint pain that partially relieves after he gets ready for work. He has used multiple types of dandruff shampoo without relief of symptoms. He is unable to remember any significant family history concerns. Labs include a rheumatoid factor which was negative. His ESR was mildly elevated.
Develop a 1- to 2-page case study analysis in which you:
• Explain why you think the patient presented the symptoms described.
• Identify the genes that may be associated with the development of the disease.
• Explain the process of immunosuppression and the effect it has on body systems.