Navigating the Path to Publication: A Guide for the Novice Researcher.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Case reports are some of the most fundamental forms of medical research. Their importance is often under-estimated, and they can be very useful ways to communicate new knowledge. Writing and publishing a case report is an excellent way for new researchers to practice presenting patient information and gain experience in the publication process. They also serve as a conduit for seasoned clinicians to convey their knowledge and experience with unique diagnoses, those which may not be found in text or cohort studies, for others to build on in their treatment strategy. This article serves to provide general information on the logistics of publishing case reports in a medical journal and may be applicable to other types of scientific literature. Significance of Case Reports. Case reports are regarded as some of the oldest ways to communicate medical information, with the earliest forms of case reports dating back to the 17th century.1 While case reports include limited scientifically significant evidence in the hierarchy of medical research, their importance is undeniable. Case reports are excellent ways to investigate new or unique presentations of a disease or treatment processes and have historically been responsible for many significant medical discoveries, such as the identification of Thalomide as a cause of congenital abnormalities in the 1960s.2 Case reports also can be an excellent way for the novice medical researcher to develope familiarity with the process of publishing. Most researchers are eager for research and publication opportunities early in their career and case reports can facilitate this process.3 Additionally, for seasoned clinicians, there are a variety of situations that benefit from publication in the form of a case report as seen in Table 1.