Rick, a 22-year-old patient, has had a bad cough that has lasted almost a month. He says his chest hurts, and he has been coughing up blood. Since his last visit three months ago, he has lost 12 pounds. His temperature is 101.9$\degree$F. For which of the following diseases might you expect the physician to test?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rick's symptoms suggest a possible diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB). The persistent cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood are common symptoms of pulmonary TB. The weight loss and fever are also common with TB. The physician may order a TB skin test, chest x-ray, and sputum culture to confirm the diagnosis. The other options (Diphtheria, Measles, Epiglottitis, Hepatitis) are less likely given Rick's symptoms.

Rick, a 22-Year-Old Patient, Has Had a Bad Cough That °\degree°

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