The TWiP Titans solve the case of the Man from Queens with a Blister Burster, and explain the role of inflammatory monocytes during Leishmania infection of the skin.

Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dickson Despommier, and Daniel Griffin

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Links for this episode:

• Inflammatory monocytes and skin Leishmania (PLoS Path)
• Dracunculiasis (TWiP 37)
• Photo: Daniel using a LifeStraw
• Letters read on TWiP 136

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Case Study for TWiP 136

Patient seen by Daniel in India, 18 yo Islamic college student, left home, living in dorms in south, Hindu couple prepare meals, called dorm parents. He is being seen because developed lump in left side of neck, 1-2 cm mass. Previously completely healthy, no med/surg, no allergies. Prays multiple times a day, observes dietary restrictions. Afebrile, normal, but has 2 cm firm nontender lump inside interior portion of sternocleido mastoid muscle. Not tender. End of November, rainy season. No screens on dorm windows. No animal contact. Ultrasound done, and was helpful. Noticed in his neck over several weeks.

Send your case diagnosis, questions and comments to [email protected]

Music by Ronald Jenkees