When it comes to medical dramas, bringing in a rare disease now and then. It was Chicago Med’s turn in season 10, episode 17.
Caution: There are some SPOILERS for Chicago Med season 10, episode 17 in this post.
Gerstmann–Sträussler–Scheinker syndrome came up in discussion, and I’m surprised by how easy it was to say it. In fact, the fact that Archer shortened it to GSS was just perfect, because it’s clear that while he knows about it, it’s not something that he hears on a regular basis.
For Lennox, it made complete sense that she would know the disorder. As someone who has someone with Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome in the family, I know the name of it and say it all the time, but most people will know of it by the letters EDS. If it affects us directly, we’re more likely to remember the full name.
Lennox may have Gerstmann–Sträussler–Scheinker syndrome
While stitching up her arm, Archer wants to know why Lennox spent the day with a terminally ill patient. It turns out that her mom died of GSS, and it’s something that she knows she may have. She doesn’t know, though, because she and her brother agreed not to get tested for it. Honestly, I’d want to know so that I could plan, but everyone has their own needs.
Lennox shares that she wants to do good while she can. Sometimes, that means sitting with a dying patient because there is nobody else there to do it. While a lot of people have disliked Lennox since she came in, I actually like her. There is clearly more to her story and I’m intrigued.
What is GSS syndrome?
Gerstmann–Sträussler–Scheinker is an extremely rare and genetic degenerative brain disorder, according to Rare Diseases. Those with the syndrome can become unsteady in walking and become clumsier, as they lose their coordination skills. Eventually, the disease can progress to dementia, language issues, and even behavior problems.
As it’s genetic, there is a specific gene that is affected. There’s an abnormality in the prion protein gene (PRPN), which is why Archer asks Lennox if she has it. She would be able to get tested for the genetic mutation. The prion protein ends up abnormally shaped and becomes toxic to the body, with a buildup mainly happening in the brain.
People are most affected in their 40s or 50s, and there is no cure for it right now. Someone diagnosed with it can have five years, but that’s just a median time frame. As Lennox shared, her mom died within 11 months of being diagnosed.
It gives us an idea of what we could expect for Lennox as the series goes on, especially if there is a need to write out the character. It’s also one of those rare disorders that needs more awareness, as researchers continue to find ways to both manage symptoms and treat the condition.
Chicago Med airs on Wednesdays at 8/7c on NBC. Catch up the following day on Peacock.
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