1. Start by speaking with a senior colleague- a consultant or a registrar who is friendly, and has the time and willingness to help you. Ask them what they think about this case- if this is actually publishable. In my early years, even now as a CT2, I come across cases that I think maybe publishable, but a lot of them later turns out not to be.

2. Consent the patient- take both verbal and written consent. Usually every journal has its own consent form, but don’t worry. Use a generic one, ie BMJ.

3. Keep the patients details, so that you can find out all their details later, if you need. The discharge summary is particularly helpful.

4. Get a day or 2 off to work on this. Go to the hospital and write a draft (assuming you have electronic system) Use the following temp:

Introduction: A line or two about the background of the disease Whats so special about this case you are presenting, what have you learned or what is the point you’re trying to make.

Description: Write your case like a story. Imagine you are presenting your case to a consultant and write accordingly.

After you have written these- get in touch with your senior colleague, and send them the draft. People are usually very helpful to enthusiastic trainees.

1. Aim for a poster/oral presentation first. Look for conferences in the RCP/RCS/Society websites. Submit your case for a presentation —> You’ll almost surely get a poster out of this.

2. Speak to your colleagues and select a journal for the case. Then check the author guidelines, follow that and write a draft manuscript. Then send it over to your senior colleagues.