Table 2

A suggested checklist for writing case reports (based on advice in existing literature)

Title:

• Should facilitate retrieval with electronic searching.

Introduction

• Describe whether the case is unique. If not, does the case have an unusual diagnosis, prognosis, therapy or harm?

• Describe how the case contributes to scientific knowledge.

• Describe the instructive or teaching points that add value to this case.

Methods and Results

• Describe the history, examination and investigations adequately. Is the cause of the patient's illness clear-cut? What are other plausible explanations?

• Describe the treatments adequately. Have all available therapeutic options been considered? Are outcomes related to treatments?

Discussion

• Report a literature review of other similar cases. Describe how is this case different.

• Explain the rationale for reporting the case. What is unusual about the case? Does it challenge prevailing wisdom?

• In the future, could things be done differently in a similar case?

Sorinola et al. BMC Medical Education 2004 4:4   doi:10.1186/1472-6920-4-4