Microbiology 2: Valve and Order

Microbiology 2: Valve and Order

In this episode, we work through a classic infective endocarditis case involving IV drug use, fever, a new murmur, and Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Using four board-style questions, we connect microbiology, anatomy, pathology, and cardiovascular physiology to understand the hallmark features and complications of right-sided endocarditis. Topics covered include: • Why IV drug use classically affects the tricuspid valve • Septic pulmonary emboli in right-sided infective endocarditis • Coagulase and Staphylococcus aureus virulence • Tricuspid regurgitation and right atrial dilation • High-yield infective endocarditis concepts for board exams Designed for quick, high-yield review during commutes, workouts, or study breaks. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Show Notes at www.variabilityscience.com/nplexonthegopodcast.

Gastroenterology 4: Portal Problems

In this episode, we work through a cirrhosis case involving portal hypertension, ascites, and chronic liver disease. Using four integrated board-style questions, we review the anatomy, physiology, immunology, and pathology behind some of the most commonly tested liver concepts. Topics covered include: • Portal-systemic anastomoses and esophageal varices • RAAS activation and ascites formation • Hepatitis B serology interpretation • Kupffer cells, stellate cells, and liver fibrosis • High-yield cirrhosis and liver pathology concepts A focused review session designed to strengthen clinical reasoning and board exam performance. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Show Notes at www.variabilityscience.com/nplexonthegopodcast.

Gastroenterology 3: Gut Reaction

In today’s episode, we break down a classic peptic ulcer disease case involving epigastric pain, melena, and a positive urease test. Through four board-style questions, we connect anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry to understand the mechanisms behind ulcer formation and complications. Topics covered include: • Posterior duodenal ulcers and gastroduodenal artery bleeding • Parietal cells and gastric acid secretion • The urease reaction and H. pylori testing • CagA virulence factors and ulcer risk • High-yield ulcer anatomy and GI physiology Designed for NPLEX and board-style review on the go. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Show Notes at www.variabilityscience.com/nplexonthegopodcast.

Gastroenterology 2: This Colon’s on Fire

In this episode, we work through a classic inflammatory bowel disease case featuring recurrent bloody diarrhea, urgency, and continuous colonic inflammation. Using four board-style questions, we review the key distinctions between ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease across pathology, anatomy, physiology, and complications. Topics covered include: • Crypt abscesses and mucosal inflammation in ulcerative colitis • Why the rectum is always involved in UC • Vitamin K deficiency and chronic inflammatory disease • Toxic megacolon vs fistulas and strictures • High-yield UC vs Crohn’s comparisons for board exams Perfect for quick review during commutes, workouts, or study breaks. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Show Notes at www.variabilityscience.com/nplexonthegopodcast.

Integumentary 1: The Itch is Real

In this episode, a young woman buys a new bracelet, and within two days she’s dealing with an intensely itchy, blistering rash that keeps her up at night. What’s going on beneath the skin? We’ll peel back the layers — literally — to explore the immune mechanisms, hypersensitivity reactions, and how to tackle board-style questions that test your knowledge of anatomy, immunology, microbiology, and pathology. Show Notes at www.variabilityscience.com/nplexonthegopodcast.