Submitting Case Reports

Manuscripts report on interesting and unusual clinical cases that provide insight into clinical practice and generate hypotheses for clinical research. The manuscript should include a review of past published relevant cases, a detailed description of the case or vignette, a discussion of why the case or vignette is unique and adds to past published literature, and implications for subsequent developments in clinical practice, teaching, or research. See details for submitting a case report.

The links below may provide guidance on writing case reports.

Details for the preparation of a case report.

Case reports are original observations related to patient care. Cases should increase awareness of a condition, suggest the proper diagnostic strategy, or demonstrate a more cost-effective approach to management. A case can represent an unusual presentation of a relatively common condition, include an unusual complication of a disease and its management, or be a rare condition not frequently seen. Authors should consider the message or lesson that the case can deliver to the journal’s readership.

 Title Page: The title page (page 1) should contain (1) a concise and informative title; (2) an identified short running head (short title); (3) the first name (spelled out), middle initial, and last name of each author with highest academic degree (s) and institutional affiliation; (4) email addresses of each author;(5) the name of the department(s) and institution(s) to which the work is attributed; (6) any disclaimer; (7) contact information for the corresponding author; (8) the source(s) of support in the form of grants, equipment, and/or drugs. If the work described in the manuscript has been formally presented at a scientific meeting, provide the name of the organization, date, and location of the meeting; and (9) a statement confirming that each author has reviewed and approved the content of the manuscript.

Abstract: Not required.

Introduction: Case reports begin with a short evidence-based introduction. This typically describes the context of the case and explains its relevance and importance.

Case Report: Describe in sequence the history, physical examination, investigative studies, and the patient's progress and outcome. Be complete without obscuring the essence of the case with irrelevant details. Avoid the use of medical jargon and excessive reliance on abbreviations. Always spell out the abbreviations the first time they are mentioned.

Discussion: Review the pertinent literature, why clinical decisions were made, and extract the lesson(s) from the case. Make a small number of teaching points in clear and succinct language.