The field of medicine is constantly evolving, but often there have been discoveries that have suddenly changed patient outcomes for the better. Four of these discoveries are detailed in this short book. The discoveries of x-rays, penicillin, pathology cancer rapid test, and rapid anthrax test helped improve patient treatment and helped doctors diagnose previously hard to detect health issues.
X-rays were discovered in 1895 when a scientist bombarded materials with new radioactive material. W.C. Röntgen realized he could see through human skin to the bones and tumors beneath the skin. This discovery helped find problems that were not previously detectable. Penicillin was discovered when mold was left in a dish, and the scientist examining the dish realized the bacteria had been killed by the mold. This led to several medicines that could treat bacterial infections.
In 2001, following the 9-11 attacks, the country was on edge. When letters laced with anthrax were mailed to government offices, individuals were contaminated and some died. It was possible to determine whether the attack was anthrax, but it took long enough for the test that the patient could literally die before results were delivered. A process was derived to speed up testing, allowing infecting people to be tested and treated before death. Finally, cancer can also be difficult to detect. The creation of rapid tests allows for better and more rapid treatment to be delivered to patients.
Fans of medicine will appreciate learning about these medical breakthroughs, and how they improved medical outcomes.
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