Medical Study point

Tabes dorsalis is a condition whereby there is degeneration of the dorsal columns and dorsal roots of the spinal cord.   This occurs as a result of tertiary syphilis. Patient will experience all symptoms associated with dorsal column malfunction (lack of proprioception, ataxia during locomotion).   Patient will develop malformed joints (Charcot’s joints) due to lack of pain receptors, shooting pains, absence of deep tendon reflexes, and Argyll Robertson pupil that results from reaction to accommodation but not to light. 

Definition :- Known as “gigantism” in children, this is a condition where there is excess GH secreted from the pituitary gland. • Patient will have enlargement of hands, feet, facial features, deepening of voice, etc.  • These patients die earlier than the normal lifespan. • Normally, giving glucose would suppress GH levels, thus if giving glucose does NOT suppress the level of GH, a diagnosis of acromegaly can be made.