Medical images provide a powerful visual narrative of how diseases and trauma can alter the body's structure and function. Through X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, we can see how conditions like cancer, fractures, infections, or chronic diseases physically transform tissues, bones, and organs, revealing the profound impact on the human body. These photos will shock you.

Syphilis of The Skull

Syphilis is a chronic venereal disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. When left untreated, it can progress through multiple stages, eventually leading to severe systemic complications. One of the late manifestations of untreated syphilis is its impact on the skeletal system, particularly the skull.

@Surgeox/reddit.com

In tertiary syphilis, bone involvement may cause the formation of gummatous lesions—soft, tumor-like growths that destroy bone tissue. In the skull, this can lead to thickening, irregular erosion, and the classic "caries sicca" pattern—punched-out lesions with sclerotic borders.

A Bronchial Cast

Coughing up a bronchial cast—a rare occurrence where a person expectorates a plug of mucus or fibrin shaped like the bronchial tree. These casts form when thick mucus, fibrin, or other secretions harden and mold to the internal shape of the bronchi or bronchioles.

@[deleted]/reddit.com

They are typically linked to severe lung infections, inflammatory conditions, or underlying diseases such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, plastic bronchitis, or post-surgical complications (e.g., Fontan procedure in children).

A Peanut Lodged in a Child's Trachea

The trachea, or windpipe, is the main airway to the lungs, and any obstruction can lead to partial or complete airway blockage. Peanuts are particularly dangerous because they are small, irregular, and oily, making them prone to causing inflammation and swelling in the airway.

@Surgeox/reddit.com

The child may often exhibit sudden coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, stridor (a high-pitched sound), or cyanosis (bluish skin). A complete blockage of the airway by a peanut can prevent the child from speaking or crying, leading to a swift loss of consciousness.

An Extracted Tooth with an Intact Nerve Root

Normally, during tooth extraction—especially with molars or multirooted teeth—the nerve tissues inside the pulp chamber and root canals are either damaged or torn, making it unusual for them to come out visibly intact.

@MishMeeter/reddit.com

When the nerve root or pulp tissue remains visibly preserved and connected to the extracted tooth, it often appears as a thread-like, pink or white structure emerging from the canal. This can happen if the tooth is removed cleanly, without fracture, and with minimal trauma to the surrounding bone and periodontal ligament.

Dangerous Abscess

Infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite can lead to a dangerous condition: a brain abscess. This parasite is a tiny organism (a protozoan) that can infect the central nervous system, especially in people with weak immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or who have had organ transplants.

@HealerMD/reddit.com

When the parasite enters the brain, it can create abscesses—swollen areas filled with pus. These are called necrotizing abscesses because they destroy nearby brain tissue. The abscesses usually appear in areas like the basal ganglia or cerebral cortex and are often more than one, though sometimes only one may form.

A Sunken Nose

When the bridge of the nose appears lower or indented, it's known as a depressed or collapsed nose. This can occur following injury, surgery, or due to certain medical conditions. When the nasal structure is damaged, it can cause the nose to lose its usual shape, leading to a flattened or sunken appearance.

@mriTecha/reddit.com

Sometimes, a sunken nose is a congenital trait, meaning individuals are born with this characteristic. Common causes include trauma to the face, such as fractures, or conditions like septal perforation, where the cartilage inside the nose is damaged.

An Open Globe Injury

This trauma involves a full penetration of the eyeball's outer layer, frequently caused by injuries such as a laceration or rupture. This type of injury can result in a break or tear in the cornea or sclera, the protective outer layers of the eye.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

Because the integrity of the eye is compromised, the injury can lead to severe damage to the internal structures of the eye, such as the retina, lens, and vitreous body. Symptoms of an open globe injury include pain, loss of vision, bleeding, and the presence of foreign objects in or around the eye.

Abnormal Itching

A case presented with intense itching localized to the arms and legs. The first physician suggested a possible fungal infection, noting the pattern and appearance of the rash. The second physician suspected a bacterial cause, possibly due to signs of inflammation or minor skin damage from scratching.

@zotonn/reddit.com

Despite examinations, no clear diagnosis was made, and there was no consensus between the two opinions. The lack of a confirmed cause left the condition untreated with a specific plan, leading to continued discomfort. The situation highlights the difficulty in diagnosing certain skin conditions.

Eye Disease that Destroys Vision

A progressive eye disorder known as keratoconus causes the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front of the eye, to thin and bulge into a cone shape; bilateral keratoconus specifically means both eyes have this condition. This abnormal shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to distorted and blurred vision.

@ergentelman/reddit.com

In bilateral cases, both eyes show signs of the disease, although the severity may differ between eyes. Common symptoms include increasing nearsightedness, astigmatism, glare, light sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. The condition often begins in the teenage years and can worsen over time.

«Blue» Hand after Trauma

This describes a haematoma that developed some time after an injury, typically within one to three weeks. Usually resulting from trauma that causes internal bleeding, a haematoma is an accumulation of blood outside the blood vessels. In this instance, the bleeding occurred within the muscle tissue.

@hellgirlll/reddit.com

As the blood collects and settles, it can cause visible discoloration and swelling. The affected hand turned a blue or purplish color due to the pooled blood beneath the skin. This color change is a common sign of deeper bruising or bleeding.

Messed Up the Ankle

This X-ray shows a serious ankle injury. The bones appear misaligned, suggesting a significant fracture around the ankle joint. One of the bones in the lower leg (likely the fibula) seems to be broken, and there may also be joint displacement involving the talus and tibia.

@InquisitorDomina/reddit.com

This kind of injury often results from high-impact trauma, such as a fall, a sports accident, or twisting the ankle forcefully. The surrounding joint structure looks unstable, and this kind of damage would cause intense pain, swelling, and an inability to bear weight.

Spontaneous Hyphema

Spontaneous hyphema is a condition where blood accumulates in the front chamber of the eye without any direct injury or trauma. Common causes include blood clotting disorders, sickle cell disease, eye tumors, or abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye, known as neovascularization.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

The use of blood-thinning medications can also increase the risk. Spontaneous hyphema can cause individuals to experience symptoms such as blurred vision, eye pain, sensitivity to light, or observe a reddish layer within the eye. In some cases, the bleeding is minor but it can also increase eye pressure.

Blood with Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome causes the kidneys to leak protein into the urine, leading to swelling, tiredness, and an increased risk of infections and blood clots. Blood samples help doctors check for low levels of albumin, which is a protein the body needs.

@braced/reddit.com

They also look for high levels of cholesterol and other fats, which are often elevated in this condition. Kidney function tests show how well the kidneys are working, while a complete blood count checks for signs of infection or anemia.

A Man Fell onto The Pedal of His Bicycle

This image shows a devastating craniofacial injury. A man in his 50s reportedly fell onto the pedal of his bicycle while under the influence, leading to a severe penetrating facial trauma. The scan reveals extensive damage to the mid-face and jaw, with a foreign object—likely the bicycle pedal—embedded through the oral cavity and facial bones.

@HealerMD/reddit.com

There appears to be significant disruption of the upper jaw and possible fractures involving the orbital and nasal bones. The object’s path suggests it passed dangerously close to the cranial base and possibly the carotid artery or airway, putting the patient at risk of massive bleeding, nerve damage, or airway obstruction.

After A Bee Sting

The affected area appears red, swollen, and inflamed, with multiple fluid-filled blisters forming along the surface. This kind of reaction is more intense than a typical bee sting and may suggest a delayed hypersensitivity or allergic response.

@itsnobigthing/reddit.com

The skin is likely shiny and taut because of swelling and the buildup of fluid under the skin. Itching, burning, or pain is often associated with this type of reaction. In rare cases, such blistering may indicate bullous insect bite reactions.

Pulmonary Embolism

The dark, clotted masses seen on the card are likely thrombi (blood clots) that were blocking the blood flow to the lungs. The procedure used for removal appears to be a catheter-directed thrombectomy, in which the clot is suctioned out via a catheter inserted through a large vein in the groin.

@Travis9283/reddit.com

Pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition caused by a clot, often originating from deep veins in the legs, that travels to the lungs. Symptoms can include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate, and even collapse.

Osteosarcoma

It is the most common primary bone cancer in children and adolescents, accounting for approximately 75% of cases occurring before the age of 20. This high incidence in youth is associated with periods of rapid bone growth, particularly during puberty when the growth plates are highly active.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

Osteosarcoma primarily impacts the body's long bones, commonly occurring around the knee and in the upper arm. Clinical symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and sometimes a palpable mass. In some cases, the affected bone may fracture with minimal trauma.

Nail Shedding After HFMD

Nail shedding, medically known as onychomadesis, can occur a few weeks after recovery from Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). This condition is most commonly seen in children and involves the painless separation of the nail from the nail bed, often beginning at the base.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

The exact mechanism is not fully understood but it is believed to result from the temporary interruption of nail matrix activity due to the viral infection. Onychomycosis typically appears 4–8 weeks after the acute illness and may affect both fingernails and toenails.

Terrible Nails

The image shows a person's hand with several fingernails appearing damaged or unhealthy. The cuticles look inflamed and ragged on multiple fingers. The fingernails themselves show signs of peeling, splitting, and uneven surfaces. Some nails appear to have horizontal ridges or indentations.

@snaggle_panther/reddit.com

One finger also has a faded tattoo on the knuckle. The overall appearance suggests potential issues with nail health, possibly due to biting, trauma, or an underlying condition. It would be advisable for the individual to seek medical advice to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for the nail and cuticle damage.

Heavy Calculus Removal

Calculus forms when plaque, composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, mineralizes over time due to poor oral hygiene. Once hardened, it cannot be removed through regular brushing or flossing.

@snaggle_panther/reddit.com

Heavy calculus, especially below the gum line, can contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Dental professionals use specialized tools such as ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments to break up and remove these tough deposits.

Extremely Wrinkled Fingers

The sap, especially from unripe mangos, contains urushiol-like compounds—also found in poison ivy—that can irritate the skin. Combined with the humidity and juice from the fruit, this constant contact softens the skin and causes it to wrinkle and prune significantly.

@HealerMD/reddit.com

In some cases, the sap can lead to contact dermatitis, resulting in redness, itching, blistering, or even skin peeling. The wrinkling effect is exacerbated when the skin stays wet and exposed for hours, much like the pruning seen after long baths or swimming.

Macro Close-Up of Lungs

A high-resolution macro photograph or surgical image showing a developing fetus (around 12–20 weeks gestation) with the chest cavity opened under controlled medical or educational conditions. The fetal lungs—appearing as two small, pink, sponge-like structures—could be juxtaposed with a common object like a coin.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

The lungs at this stage are often no larger than the top section of an adult’s thumb and have a delicate, almost translucent appearance. Including a labeled anatomical overlay could further emphasize scale and structure without compromising the visual impact.

Melanoma on the Eye

Developing in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) of the eye, ocular melanoma, also called melanoma of the eye, is a cancer that is both rare and serious. It most often affects the uvea, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid but it can also appear on the conjunctiva.

@Breablomberg21/reddit.com

This condition may not show symptoms in early stages, making routine eye exams important for detection. When symptoms do occur, they may include blurred vision, floaters, changes in pupil shape, or a visible dark spot on the eye.

One Pupil Is Always Bigger Than the Other Now

Having one pupil consistently larger than the other is a condition known as anisocoria. In many cases, this is harmless and may be a natural variation (physiological anisocoria), especially if the size difference is less than 1 mm and both pupils react normally to light.

@sunnysideup2323/reddit.com

However, if this difference is new, sudden, or accompanied by symptoms such as headache, blurred vision, eye pain, double vision, drooping eyelid, or difficulty moving the eye, it could indicate a serious underlying issue.

Horrible Thing Found in the Brain

A 64-year-old woman in southeastern New South Wales, Australia, was part of a groundbreaking medical case when a live 8-centimeter-long parasitic roundworm was removed from her brain. The worm, identified as Ophidascaris robertsi, is typically found in carpet pythons and had never before been documented in humans.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

The patient initially experienced abdominal pain, diarrhea, a persistent dry cough, fever, and night sweats in early 2021. By 2022, she developed neurological symptoms, including forgetfulness and depression, prompting further investigation. Abnormalities in her right frontal lobe were revealed by an MRI scan, resulting in surgery at Canberra Hospital.

A Rare Glimpse at Fascia

The white layer visible in the image, situated beneath the skin and above what would be muscle tissue, is indeed consistent with the description of fascia. As a type of connective tissue, fascia creates a continuous network present throughout the body. It surrounds and separates muscles, organs, nerves, and blood vessels.

@mriTecha/reddit.com

This tough, fibrous tissue provides support, stability, and flexibility. What you're seeing is likely the superficial fascia, which lies just below the skin and contains fat and acts as a protective layer and helps with thermoregulation, or potentially the deep fascia, which is a denser layer that encloses muscles.

Extreme Cases of Lymphedema Development

Lymphedema, or lymphatic obstruction, is a long-term condition where excess lymph fluid accumulates in the tissues, leading to swelling. The lymphatic system is an essential part of the circulatory system, playing a crucial role in immune function and fluid balance within the body.

@HealerMD/reddit.com

When there is a blockage or damage to this system, lymph fluid cannot drain properly, resulting in the swelling associated with lymphedema. The condition most commonly affects one arm or one leg but in some cases, both arms or both legs can be affected.

Injury from a Football Table Pole

In this case, the young patient stepped on a football table pole, and the pole penetrated the sole of their foot, going through the shoe and sock. Such an injury is categorized as a puncture wound and can be quite severe, especially if the object, in this case, a pole, is sharp or long enough to cause deep tissue damage.

@mriTecha/reddit.com

There's also a risk of infection with these types of injuries if bacteria from the object's surface get into the wound. The priority in care is to stop the bleeding; achieve this by applying pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage.

A Sign of Portal Hypertension

The appearance of significantly distended epigastric veins with a radial pattern around the umbilicus is known as Caput medusae. This condition is often described as resembling a "Medusa’s head," as the veins can appear to swirl outward in a pattern similar to the snakes on Medusa's head from Greek mythology.

@mriTecha/reddit.com

It is also known as the palm tree sign due to the way the veins may fan out. Caput medusae is a cardinal sign of portal hypertension, which is an increase in blood pressure within the portal venous system, typically caused by liver disease such as cirrhosis.

Mulberry Molars

Characterized as mulberry molars, this unique dental malformation is indicative of congenital syphilis. They are typically first molars with an abnormal shape, with multiple poorly developed cusps on the occlusal surface resembling the surface of a mulberry fruit.

@mriTecha/reddit.co

This malformation is caused by Treponema pallidum, the syphilis bacterium, transmitted from mother to fetus during gestation. Mulberry molars, along with Hutchinson’s incisors, are part of the classic Hutchinson’s triad, a hallmark of late congenital syphilis.

The Rupture of the Eardrum

A severe, antibiotic-resistant infection led to the rupture of the eardrum, resulting in acute pain, partial hearing loss, and continuous otorrhea (ear discharge). Despite the administration of multiple antibiotic regimens, the infection persisted due to resistance, allowing inflammation and fluid buildup in the middle ear to intensify.

@ShesGotSauce/reddit.com

As pressure increased behind the tympanic membrane, a perforation occurred, often accompanied by a sudden release of pus or bloody discharge and an abrupt reduction in auditory function. Otoscopic examination typically reveals a visible tear in the eardrum, surrounding inflammation, and possible middle ear effusion.

The Mermaid Syndrome

Mermaid syndrome, medically known as sirenomelia, is a rare and typically fatal congenital disorder characterized by the fusion of the lower limbs, giving the appearance of a mermaid’s tail. Common features include a single fused lower limb, malformations of the sacrum and pelvic bones, absence of external genitalia, imperforate anus, and critical renal anomalies such as bilateral renal agenesis.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

The absence or severe dysfunction of the kidneys leads to oligohydramnios (a deficiency of amniotic fluid), which in turn contributes to Potter's facies—a distinct facial appearance including a flattened nose, recessed chin, and low-set ears—as well as underdeveloped lungs (pulmonary hypoplasia).

Post-Covid Reaction

This story reflects the ongoing health struggles faced by a healthcare professional who contracted COVID-19 twice in 2020 while working on the front lines. In the aftermath of those infections, a recurring and distressing condition began to emerge: full-body hives, appearing several times each month.

@GMorningSweetPea/reddit.com

These episodes are now believed to be a post-viral immune response—an increasingly recognized consequence among those affected by COVID-19. The hives are unpredictable and often triggered by stress, appearing as widespread, red, itchy welts that can cover large areas of the body.

Normal Birthmark

A bright red spot in the corner of the eye can be a subconjunctival hemorrhage, a condition where a small blood vessel beneath the surface of the eye bursts, causing localized bleeding. This may appear suddenly and can look concerning but it is typically harmless and doesn’t cause pain or affect vision.

@JustSavi/reddit.com

It often occurs due to physical strain, such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects, or even without any obvious cause. The condition commonly clears on its own within approximately two weeks. However, if the red spot is accompanied by pain, vision disturbances, or any other unusual symptoms.

A Painful and Visible Condition

Gouty arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe but can involve other joints as well. This condition is known for its intense, sudden pain, swelling, and redness, which can make the affected joint appear inflamed and deformed.

@GiorgioMD/reddit.com

During a gout flare-up, the skin around the joint can turn bright red and feel warm to the touch, often making the affected area look terrible and alarming. The pain can be excruciating, sometimes described as a burning or sharp sensation, and can make it difficult to walk or use the affected joint.

A Huge Kidney Stone Removed

In a rare and alarming medical case, doctors successfully removed an unusually large kidney stone from a child's kidney. Kidney stones, or renal calculi, are hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys, typically due to imbalances in the body's mineral and fluid levels. While kidney stones are more common in adults, they can occasionally occur in children and may grow to significant sizes if left untreated.

@denobulans/reddit.com

The stone in this case had grown to such a size that it caused noticeable discomfort and impaired kidney function. Imaging studies revealed a massive calcified structure occupying a large portion of the kidney. Due to the severity, surgical intervention became necessary. A medical team carefully extracted the stone, which was unusually large for a pediatric patient and posed a serious risk to kidney health.

The Historical Misunderstanding of "Lockjaw"

Clostridium tetani, a bacterium that creates a potent neurotoxin, is the cause of tetanus—a serious bacterial infection often called "lockjaw." This toxin affects the nervous system, leading to severe muscle spasms and rigid contractions, especially in the jaw and neck muscles, which gives rise to the term "lockjaw."

@problematicduck/reddit.com

As the disease progresses, the spasms can spread to other parts of the body, leading to significant discomfort and potentially life-threatening complications such as respiratory failure. Historically, the intense and often violent muscle contractions associated with tetanus led to widespread misconceptions about the disease.

The "Werewolf Syndrome" and Its Rare Occurrence

A man from India has been diagnosed with hypertrichosis, a rare and incurable condition often referred to as “Werewolf Syndrome” due to the excessive hair growth that characterizes it. This condition causes abnormal hair growth all over the body, including areas where hair is not typically found, such as the face, back, and shoulders.

@HealerMD/reddit.com

The result is a distinctive appearance that can resemble the mythical depiction of a werewolf. Hypertrichosis can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life but both forms are extremely uncommon. The condition is so rare that it is believed only around 50 people have had it since the Middle Ages, making it a significant medical anomaly.

Transforming Facial Structure

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure designed to correct structural and functional issues with the jaw and facial bones. It is often used to address problems such as misalignment of the teeth, difficulty in chewing or speaking, and concerns related to the appearance of the face.

@Traumaprof/reddit.com

Before the surgery, patients typically face a range of challenges. Misalignment of the jaw may cause issues such as trouble with biting, chewing, or speaking, often resulting from congenital conditions, trauma, or developmental problems. In many cases, the face may show asymmetry, with one side of the jaw protruding more than the other, or there may be an overbite or underbite.

Before and After Orthognathic Surgery with Coexisting Limb Anomaly

A case involving orthognathic surgery may present alongside rare congenital limb anomalies, offering a complex view of skeletal abnormalities in both craniofacial and appendicular systems. In this context, a plain radiograph of the wrist joint reveals multiple structural anomalies indicative of a severe congenital malformation.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

The imaging shows polydactyly with eight triphalangeal digits, suggesting a significant duplication of skeletal elements on the ulnar side of the limb. There is duplication of the ulna, as well as duplication of the ulnar-side carpal bones, metacarpals, and phalanges. Notably, the radius and the thumb are absent.

Sectoral Heterochromia

A two-coloured eye is a striking and rare condition known as sectoral heterochromia, where one iris contains two distinct colours. This occurs when the pigmentation in the iris is unevenly distributed, creating visible segments of different hues, such as brown and blue or green and amber, in the same eye.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

Sectoral heterochromia can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later in life (acquired). When congenital, it is usually harmless and caused by genetic variation affecting melanin distribution. Ocular function and vision are generally unaffected.

“Sack of Marbles” Growth Removed from Woman’s Head

In a rare and complex surgical procedure, doctors in Bengaluru successfully removed a bulging growth from a woman’s head that was described as resembling a “sack of marbles.” The unusual mass was identified as a cluster of dermoid cysts, a type of benign growth formed from embryonic tissue.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

Dermoid cysts develop when skin and other tissues become trapped during fetal development. These cysts can contain a bizarre mix of components such as hair, teeth, and even nerve tissue. While most commonly found in the ovaries, they can also appear in the head, neck, and other parts of the body.

A Common Spine Surgery

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure performed to treat herniated or degenerative discs in the cervical spine, or neck region. The surgery is designed to relieve spinal cord or nerve root pressure caused by damaged discs, which can lead to pain, weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving the neck and arms.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

To access the spine, an incision is made in the front of the neck, typically along a natural skin crease in the throat area. The surgeon carefully moves aside muscles, the trachea, and other structures to reach the affected disc.

Clinical Finding in a Patient with End-Stage Kidney Disease

During a physical examination of the arm in a patient with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), a prominent abnormality may be observed, typically related to the presence of a vascular access site such as an arteriovenous (AV) fistula or graft. These are surgically created connections between an artery and a vein, used to facilitate hemodialysis.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

The area may appear raised, pulsatile, and visibly engorged, with a palpable thrill (a buzzing sensation) and an audible bruit on auscultation, both of which are signs of proper fistula function. Skin over the site should be assessed for signs of infection, ulceration, or aneurysmal dilation.

Traces of Lightning

Lichtenberg scarring refers to a distinctive pattern of skin injury caused by a lightning strike or a high-voltage electrical discharge. These scars look like ferns or tree branches spreading across the skin, sometimes even like lightning. They're also known as Lichtenberg figures or "lightning flowers."

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

These marks are not true burns but rather vascular injuries caused by the electrical current traveling over or just beneath the skin. The intense heat and energy from the lightning cause blood vessels to rupture, leaving behind these unique and often temporary patterns.

A Vascular Response to Cold and Stress

Raynaud’s syndrome, also known as Raynaud’s phenomenon or Raynaud’s disease, is a condition in which the small blood vessels in the fingers, toes, and sometimes other extremities overreact to cold temperatures or emotional stress. This exaggerated response leads to episodes of reduced blood flow, causing the affected areas to turn white or blue, become cold and numb, and then flush red upon warming or relief of stress.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

The condition is divided into two types: Primary Raynaud’s, which occurs without an associated underlying condition and is usually less severe, and Secondary Raynaud’s, which is linked to autoimmune or connective tissue diseases such as scleroderma or lupus and may involve more serious complications like skin ulcers or tissue damage.

Teen Diagnosed with Supernumerary Vertebrae

A 15-year-old boy was found to have an exceptionally rare spinal condition, specifically three extra vertebrae in his neck (cervical spine), which are medically called supernumerary vertebrae. This abnormality is present from birth and is compounded by congenital scoliosis.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

The additional vertebrae and the spinal curvature are placing significant mechanical and neurological stress on the body. The misaligned spine alters normal biomechanics, leading to chronic neck and back pain, and in this case, compression of spinal nerves.

A Climber’s Sacrifice

This photo captures the severe frostbite injuries sustained by a climber who nearly lost his toes while attempting to save an injured teammate during an expedition on Mount Everest. In the extreme altitudes and subzero temperatures of the Himalayas, the risk of frostbite is high, especially when blood flow is diverted from extremities to protect vital organs.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

The climber endured prolonged exposure to freezing conditions while aiding the injured teammate, resulting in advanced frostbite, characterized by blackened, swollen, and blistered toes. This form of tissue damage occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, leading to cell death.

A Tradition of Beauty and Suffering

Foot binding, also known as Lotus foot, was a deeply ingrained cultural practice in China that involved tightly binding the feet of young girls to alter their natural shape and size. The custom began during the Song dynasty and continued until the early 20th century. The goal of foot binding was to create small, delicate feet, which were considered a status symbol and a mark of beauty within Chinese society.

@creepymedical/instagramt.com

The method involved using cloth to wrap the feet of girls, usually 5 or 6 years old, thereby bending the toes beneath the sole and compelling the arch into an unnatural formation. Over time, this caused significant deformities, including severe pain, restricted mobility, and lifelong disabilities.

#medicine

How Diseases Physically Rewrite the Body, Shown in Medical Images

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