Case Report Template for Medical Journals

Use this outline to structure a clinical case report. It follows the sections of the CARE reporting guideline. Always check the target journal's own author guidelines for word limits and formatting.

Title

Include the words "case report" and the main diagnosis, intervention or finding.

Keywords

Four to six terms that describe the case, including "case report".

Abstract

Usually unstructured or with short sections: introduction, case presentation, and conclusion or teaching point.

Introduction

One or two paragraphs on why the case matters, with brief reference to the relevant literature.

Patient information

De-identified demographics, main concerns and symptoms, and relevant medical, family and psychosocial history.

Clinical findings

Relevant physical examination findings.

Timeline

Key dates and events in order, often clearest as a table or figure.

Diagnostic assessment

Investigations, diagnostic reasoning, differential diagnoses considered and any diagnostic challenges.

Therapeutic intervention

Treatments given, with doses, route and duration, and any changes along the way.

Follow-up and outcomes

Clinician- and patient-assessed outcomes, test results at follow-up, adherence, and adverse or unexpected events.

Discussion

Strengths and limitations of how the case was managed, comparison with the literature, the rationale for your conclusions, and the main teaching point.

Patient perspective

Where possible, the patient's own view of the illness and care.

A statement that written informed consent was obtained for publication.

Declarations

Author contributions, funding, conflicts of interest and acknowledgements, as the journal requires.

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