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Capturing zebras: what to do with a reportable case
1Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, Md., USA. smwright@welchlink.welch.jhu.edu
Summary
This case report highlights the importance of definitive diagnostic testing for uncommon diseases found during autopsy. Proper confirmation ensures accurate medical reporting and aids future physician learning.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Medical Case Reporting
Background:
- Autopsy findings can reveal rare disease manifestations.
- Case reports are valuable for medical education but require rigorous evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To share lessons learned from a case report rejection.
- To propose a preferred approach for handling reportable cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of an autopsy case.
- Extensive literature review on reportable cases and diagnostic confirmation.
Main Results:
- A case report was initially rejected due to lack of specific confirmatory testing.
- Identification of a gap in current practices for managing and reporting rare autopsy findings.
Conclusions:
- Emphasize the necessity of specific diagnostic tests for unequivocal confirmation in case reports.
- Advocate for a structured approach to preparing and submitting case reports on rare diseases.