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swelling/bruising of lower leg severe pain worse w/ stretching calf muscles no weakness of ext sens intact X-rays: no fx dx?

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Final answer:

The symptoms described are consistent with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which requires immediate medical attention due to the risk of serious complications. Mark's case suggests a possible infection, and Cindy's symptoms could indicate an infection or Lyme disease.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition described suggests symptoms consistent with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), not a fracture (fx), since there is severe pain with calf stretching, swelling, bruising, but no indication of bone damage on the X-ray. A DVT is a blood clot in a deep vein, often in the legs, which can cause local inflammation, pain, and swelling. While the absence of extremity weakness and intact sensation are good signs, the risk of a clot dislodging and causing a pulmonary embolism is a serious concern, requiring immediate medical attention. Treatment often involves anticoagulant medications to prevent further clotting and to reduce the risk of complications.

Mark's case, with his type II diabetes and delayed wound treatment, raises concern for a possible infection leading to cellulitis or worse, especially given his fever and localized symptoms. Cindy's increasing pain and swelling at the site of a prior abrasion that began to resemble an insect bite might also indicate an infection, possibly Staphylococcus or Streptococcus, or another underlying issue such as Lyme disease, especially if she was in an area where deer ticks are common vectors.

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