How to write a case series? Journal paper writing, article publishing basics - Edusurg Clinics
How to Write a Case Series: Summary
Short Summary:
This video focuses on writing a case series, a type of research paper that presents multiple patient cases. The video explains the differences between a case report and a case series, highlighting that a case series involves at least two cases. It explores different types of case series, including informal, cohort, and population-based. The video then provides a detailed structure for an informal case series, outlining the key sections (introduction, case details, discussion, conclusion) and offering tips for writing a strong paper. Examples of published case series are shown to illustrate different ways of presenting patient data.
Detailed Summary:
1. Introduction:
- The video begins by introducing the concept of a case series, defining it as a research paper that presents multiple patient cases.
- It emphasizes that a case series must include at least two cases, unlike a case report which focuses on a single case.
- The video highlights that case series can be both retrospective and prospective, unlike case reports which are always retrospective.
2. Types of Case Series:
- The video discusses various types of case series, including:
- Informal Case Series: Similar in structure to a case report, but with multiple cases.
- Cohort Case Series: Focuses on a specific group of patients with a shared characteristic (e.g., risk factor, disease).
- Population-Based Case Series: Studies a specific population group within a defined area.
3. Structure of an Informal Case Series:
- The video outlines the structure of an informal case series, which closely resembles a case report:
- Introduction: Briefly summarizes the research topic and its significance.
- Case Details: Presents patient information, including demographics, clinical findings, management, and follow-up. This section can be structured in two ways:
- Individual Case Descriptions: Each case is presented in a separate paragraph.
- Table Format: Patient details are summarized in a table.
- Discussion: Compares and contrasts the findings with previous research.
- Conclusion: Summarizes the key findings and their implications.
4. Tips for Writing a Case Series:
- The video provides several tips for writing a strong case series:
- Select a journal first: This helps ensure your paper meets the journal's specific guidelines.
- Use a table format for case details: This is particularly helpful for case series with more than three patients, as it allows for concise presentation of data.
- Compare your cases with previous research: This strengthens the discussion section and adds value to your paper.
- Include visuals: Images, flowcharts, and tables can enhance the clarity and visual appeal of your paper.
- Keep patient concerns handy: This ensures you can address any relevant information about the patients.
5. Template and Resources:
- The video mentions a template for writing a case series available in the speaker's book, "Scientific Research Publishing."
- The book also covers other aspects of research publishing and provides templates for various types of research papers.
Notable Quotes:
- "A very simple definition of a case series is that it will contain more than or equal to two cases."
- "You don't always get a golden egg, right? You don't always get a rare phenomenon."
- "The 10 articles if you can find out last two years that will easily create your references."
- "Keep patient concerns handy because you can't find these patients once they are discharged."
Overall:
This video provides a comprehensive guide to writing a case series, covering its definition, types, structure, and tips for writing a strong paper. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between a case report and a case series, and highlights the potential of case series to contribute to medical knowledge. The video also offers valuable resources, including a template and a book on scientific research publishing, to assist researchers in their writing process.