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|Articles|February 24, 2010

Case 1

Based on Felicia’s history and physical examination findings, you decide to collect a minimum database consisting of a CBC, serum chemistry panel, and urinalysis.

Laboratory results

These are the notable findings from your CBC, serum chemistry panel, T4 determination, and urinalysis.

CBC

Stress leukogram, mildly elevated PCV

Serum chemistry panel 

Patient values

Reference range

Sodium (mEq/L)

128

146-156

Potassium (mEq/L)

6.2

3.7-6.1

Glucose (mg/dl)

431

60-120

Cholesterol (mg/dl)

310

71-156

Urinalysis

Specific gravity

1.020

pH

7.0

Glucose

3+

Ketones

Negative

Protein

Negative

WBC

0-1/hpf

RBC

1-3/hpf

T4 level is 1.2 µg/dl (reference range: 1-4 µg/dl)

QUESTION 2

What is the most likely diagnosis?

a) Chronic renal failure

b) Diabetes mellitus

c) Hypoadrenocorticism

d) Neoplasia

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