Objective
The purpose of this discussion is twofold:
Practice scientific writing that is clear, concise, accurate, and original.
Research and analyze a common medical condition.
Be sure to employ “college-level” writing (correct grammar and spelling).
urinetest.jpg
Case Study: Kyle Boulard, a 35 year-old male, is believed to be one of the primary causes of the accident on Route 91. Passengers on the bus reported that Mr Boulard was clearly intoxicated when he boarded the bus. According to these reports, Mr. Boulard behaved erratically, appeared disoriented, and left his seat and staggered down the aisle. Just prior to the accident, he had stumbled into the driver’s compartment. Paramedics found Mr. Boulard in a disoriented state when they arrived on the scene, but noted only minor injuries. A “fruity acetone combined with alcohol” smell was noted on his breath. What follows is a summary of the notable test results.
General Blood Urine
BP: 95/58 pH: 7.1 Odor: “fruity acetone”
HR: 110 bpm Glucose: 345 mg/dl pH: 4.3
Ketone bodies: 22 mg/dl Glucose: Strongly positive
Blood alcohol: 110 mg/dl
Questions to Answer
1. Look up the normal values for the each of the test results (see below) and identify whether each test result is normal or abnormal. If there is a medical term for the elevated/lowered test value, indicate its name. (Example: Excess blood calcium is referred to as hypercalcemia.)
Reference Values for Blood and Urine Studies.pdf download
Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Reference Values.pdf download
Blood Alcohol Levels.pdf download
2. Which substance is producing the “fruity acetone” smell in Mr. Bouchard’s urine?
3. Why is his body producing ketones in the presence of such large amounts of glucose?
4. Explain how the pH of Mr. Bouchard’s blood and urine is related to the ketone bodies measured in each of these fluids.
5. Provide a possible “alternative” explanation for Mr. Bouchard’s erratic behavior and high blood alcohol concentration. Think outside the box.
6. What metabolic disease do you suspect Mr. Bouchard suffers from?
RESOURCES
Reference Values for Blood and Urine Studies.pdf download
Metabolism and Nutrition (Open Stax (Links to an external site.))
The Liver as an Organ (Links to an external site.)
