Dr. Gregory House (Hugh Laurie), devoid of bedside manner and dealing with his own constant physical pain, uses a cane that punctuates his acerbic, brutally honest demeanor. His behavior often borders on antisocial, but House is a brilliant diagnostician whose unconventional thinking and flawless instincts afford him a great deal of respect. An infectious disease specialist, he thrives on the challenge of solving medical puzzles in order to save lives. House shepherds an elite team of experts who help him unravel diagnostic mysteries. He has a confidant and good friend in oncology specialist Dr. James Wilson (Robert Sean Leonard), and maintains a somewhat volatile and undefined relationship with Dr. Lisa Cuddy (Lisa Edelstein), the Dean of Medicine and hospital administrator. Though the two are in constant conflict over House's duties and unconventional behavior, even she would admit that his brilliance is worth the trouble.