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This is a case of Internet self-diagnosis by a patient resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. Self-diagnosis in the past has typically been limited to doctors and other health professionals. In the age of the Internet, patients are now empowered more than ever. It is commonplace today for people without medical training to attempt self diagnosis and treatment using unvalidated Internet resources.
Few doctors have not encountered a patient who has "Googled" their symptoms or condition. Hudak et al found physicians believe Internet-based health information was often inaccurate and problematic, though many were unprepared to handle these patients despite literature in this area recommending against self diagnosis.1-3
Case report
Mr K is a 48-year-old healthy gentleman who became unwell with constant right-sided loin pain, at times radiating to the groin, and dark coloured urine. He attempted self diagnosis via internet search, deciding renal calculi were the most likely diagnosis. He started treatment with naproxen without consultation. His symptoms did not improve and after ten days he consulted his Family Physician, suggesting the diagnosis of renal calculi during the consultation. The doctor agreed changing his medication to celecoxib, and adding paracetamol and codeine. A computed tomography (CT) scan was suggested, though deemed too expensive.
Mr K's condition worsened and after 2 weeks...