Second-year medical student delivers award-winning case study

Second-year medical student delivers award-winning case study

While conducting unrelated research in a hospital emergency department, Evan Kuczynski found himself in the right place at the right time. A patient presented with a bupropion (Wellbutrin) over-ingestion, and Kuczynski, a second-year student in the NEOMED College of Medicine, quickly recognized the educational value of the case. He turned the encounter into a compelling clinical case report that would eventually earn statewide recognition.

"This case sort of just fell into my lap," Kuczynski shared. "It was a powerful reminder of how much can happen when you stay open to learning-even when you're focused on something else."

Bupropion is a widely used medication prescribed for depression, smoking cessation and weight loss. Because of its multiple indications and potentially serious side effects in overdose, Kuczynski emphasized that it's a drug emergency physicians should always keep in mind when evaluating patients with possible intentional or unintentional ingestions.

Kuczynski presented his case at the Ohio American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Medical Student Symposium and Resident Assembly in August. The case, titled "Bupropion Toxicity: When the Hero Becomes the Villain," was selected as the Best Medical Student Case Study.

"It was an awesome moment," he said. "I got to present in front of peers, residents and attendings, and the award was presented to me by an emergency physician who mentored me before I even started medical school. Three years ago, I never would've imagined that I'd be standing there with an award in my hand, being recognized by someone who helped guide me early on. It was a total full-circle moment."