The Interpreting Moth

by Tanya Magana   The poem is written from the point of view of a medical student watching a patient undergo a skin biopsy. After the procedure, the student senses that the Spanish speaking patient is a bit confused about his disease and the procedure. She helps bridge the communication gap by translating. The patient walks away having a better understanding of his diagnosis, as well as no longer feeling embarrassed to ask questions. Slipping in quietly, I am the unwanted mothNestled in safely between the corner of two wallsTheir brown eyes dart at me to shoo me awayStay in your corner, stay out of everyone’s way The man’s hair … Continue reading

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The Doctor Gets a Skin Biopsy

by Tabor  Flickenger That’s me burning, that smell A touch of cautery here and here to halt the blood I have wielded the needle and knife Now it’s my turn to receive I wash my hair kneeling In mute supplication Remove the dressing later, as instructed. A little dried blood. Three neat blue sutures. Not so bad. Not so bad. I almost forget with my eyes closed Till my fingers brush the prickly alien patch Worry repressed is not banished But descended, pushed down into the bowels Frayed nerve ending pulse, twist, shudder I work like all is normal. I tell no one. I care for others’ pain and push … Continue reading

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The Church Spire Sign in Dermatopathology

Raagini Suresh, B.S. Keywords: church spire sign, dermatology, dermatopathology, pathology, biopsy Abstract: Dermatopathologists often use key phrases to describe histopathological findings. This piece takes a look at the origin of the phrase “church spire sign,” and explains the symbolic meaning behind the addition of spires to church buildings. Dermatology is an extremely visual field. While the physical exam is often a key component of establishing a diagnosis, histopathology can be used to provide a microscopic look at clinical findings. Most dermatologists are well versed in performing biopsies to better characterize their patients’ skin lesions, often sending biopsy specimens to dermatopathologists for interpretation. The language dermatopathologists use in their reports includes … Continue reading

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