In this episode, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest dive headfirst into the labyrinthine world of medical mysteries, sharing stories of patients that leave them scratching their heads in amazement.

The Docs sink their teeth into a case of porphyria, a rare genetic disorder that can make you feel like you're auditioning for a vampire movie. They recount the tale of a man who, under the light of the full moon, would experience excruciating abdominal pain and a skin sensitivity that made him hiss at the mere thought of sunlight. The Docs emphasise the importance of recognising such rare conditions, lest you mistake your patient for a creature of the night.

Why do some patients think they can outsmart their doctors? The conversation takes a hilarious turn when they discuss a patient who attempted to score drugs by pretending to have every ailment in the medical textbook. Doctor Guest recounts the saga of a man who complained of back pain, headaches, and a vague condition that magically responded only to the strongest painkillers. Coincidence?  The doctors laugh about how the patient’s Oscar-worthy performance fell apart when he couldn’t remember which leg he was supposed to be limping on. They highlight the importance of a thorough medical history and a keen eye for inconsistencies, proving that sometimes, being a doctor is a bit like being Sherlock Holmes.

What’s the wildest psychiatric case you’ve ever encountered? Doctor Guest then regales listeners with some of his most memorable psychiatric cases. He talks about a patient with myxoedema

madness, a condition that was successfully diagnosed thanks to Guest’s watching history. But the pièce de résistance was the woman who was convinced she was a poached egg. Doctor Guest describes how she wouldn't sit on a chair unless it was a piece of toast on it! The doctors discuss the complexities of such diagnoses and the importance of empathy and creativity in treatment.

Why is treating chronic conditions like schizophrenia so challenging? The episode takes a more serious tone as The Docs delve into the challenges of treating chronic conditions like schizophrenia. They discuss the case of a man who ended up believing that ‘Prince Philip was in a helicopter wielding a mind-extracting ray gun’ - just a royal misunderstanding. The doctors explain how such conditions require a comprehensive approach, combining medication, therapy, and sometimes a bit of humour to build trust with patients.

This episode is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending humour with the sobering realities of medical practice. It underscores the need for a holistic approach, continuous education, and a dash of creativity in the ever-evolving field of medicine. Let’s all do our part to break the stigma and help 'prescribe' a better future!