Simon Downes, MD, PhD

Small Cell vs Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Key Differences

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) differ in cell type, growth patterns, smoking associations, lung locations, metastasis rates, prognoses, and treatment approaches. SCLC grows rapidly, is linked to heavy smoking, and has a poor prognosis, whereas NSCLC grows slowly, can affect both smokers and non-smokers, and has a better outcome.More

Why do psychologists use the word ‘Client’ instead of ‘Patient’?

In the mental health field, “client” is preferred over “patient” to emphasize collaboration, avoid medicalization, reflect different professional roles, respect autonomy, and adhere to legal and ethical standards. This terminology fosters an equal relationship between therapists and individuals, highlighting therapy as a process of personal growth rather than solely medical treatment.More

Client says had mental brekdown due to relationship concerns

A client expresses struggling with anxiety and depression, fearing the end of his relationship due to negative thoughts about his girlfriend. The response emphasizes self-reflection on personal happiness in the relationship, recommending professional help to understand feelings, and suggests a physical examination to rule out potential health issues.More

Let’s do some EPPP questions!

This content presents 20 sample questions and answers from the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), covering various topics like ethics, diagnosis, biological bases of behavior, and intervention strategies. Each question features an explanation to deepen understanding of psychological principles and practices necessary for the EPPP.More

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Long COVID: Persistent Challenges Amid Ongoing Research

New York, NY – As the world approaches the fifth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant number of individuals continue to grapple with long COVID, a condition characterized by symptoms persisting for months or even years after the initial infection. Despite advancements in vaccines and treatments, long COVID remains a complex and enduring public…More

Pilocarpine in Emergency Glaucoma Treatment: Key Insights

Pilocarpine is a muscarinic agonist that helps in acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG) by relieving intraocular pressure. Here’s how it works: Mechanism of Action in AACG Why is Pilocarpine Used in Acute Attacks? Limitations & Contraindications Final Note: While pilocarpine is useful in breaking an acute attack, the definitive treatment for AACG is laser peripheral iridotomy…More

A 28-year-old male presents with sudden-onset chest pain and shortness of breath

Question: A 28-year-old male presents with sudden-onset chest pain and shortness of breath. He has no significant medical history. A chest X-ray is performed, which is shown below. What is the most likely diagnosis? Options: A) Pulmonary embolismB) PneumothoraxC) Acute myocardial infarctionD) PneumoniaE) Pleural effusion Image: Chest X-ray showing a large pneumothorax on the right…More

Comparing USMLE and AMC multiple-choice question formats

This document presents a clinical scenario of a 55-year-old male with community-acquired pneumonia and pleural effusion. The recommended management involves initiating empiric antibiotic therapy. It contrasts AMC and USMLE question styles, highlighting the latter’s focus on detailed diagnostic interpretation and complex clinical decision-making in patient care.More

Author Archives: Simon Downes, MD, PhD