Reflections on Medicine and Life by Dr. S.P. Kalantri
Clinical stories and reflections on evidence-based medicine, research, and patient care.
Added to the inaugural batch at the last possible second on an airport runway, Dr. Yadunath Telkikar’s journey from a reluctant BAMS student to a dedicated paediatrician was a masterclass in fortunate accidents—defined by the discipline of a well-tucked mosquito net and the radical trust of a canteen owner’s keys.
Yesterday, I wrote about the miracle pill that found a home in every drawer and pocket. Today, I reflect on the post-miracle buzz—the warnings about its darker side, from weakened bones to fading B12 stores, and the delicate balance of clinical care.
An hour from now, I will be sitting in the Medicine OPD, thinking about a drug that the whole world seems to prescribe. This modest little tablet, born to tame the fire of acid, has quietly conquered the globe without firing a single shot.
Dilip arrived in my outpatient room and settled on the stool with the solemnity of a man about to announce something of national importance. “I have a stone in the gall bladder,” he declared. He did not sound like one in distress, but rather like someone unveiling a secret possession. I leaned forward. “Yes, but … Read more
I must admit that I, too, was—and still am—a medical teacher who guided—or is misguided the more appropriate word?—over three dozen postgraduates in writing their MD theses. I do not wish to stand on a pedestal or adopt a “holier than thou” posture. I have erred, misjudged, behaved badly, mishandled situations, and at times, been … Read more