Primary Diagnosis

  1. Describe the pathophysiology of the primary diagnosis in your own words. What are the patient’s risk factors for this diagnosis?
    Pathophysiology of Primary Diagnosis

Causes Risk Factors (genetic/ethnic/physical)

  1. What are the patient’s signs and symptoms for this diagnosis? How does the diagnosis impact other body systems and what are the possible complications?
    Signs and Symptoms – Common presentation How does the diagnosis impact each body system? Complications?
  2. What are other potential diagnosis that present in a similar way to this diagnosis (differentials)?
  3. What diagnostic tests or labs would you order to rule out the differentials for this patient or confirm the primary diagnosis?
  4. What treatment options would you consider? Include possible referrals and medications.

Full Answer Section

      Example:
  • Primary Diagnosis: Type 2 Diabetes
  • Pathophysiology: The body becomes resistant to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This can lead to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and various complications.
  • Risk Factors: Family history of diabetes, ethnicity (certain populations have higher risk), obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, age (risk increases with age).
  1. Signs and Symptoms, Body System Impact, Complications:
  • Signs and Symptoms (Common presentation): Describe the most frequent signs and symptoms experienced by patients with this diagnosis.
  • Body System Impact: Explain how the primary diagnosis affects the function of other body systems.
  • Complications: List potential long-term consequences of the primary diagnosis if not managed properly.
Example:
  • Signs and Symptoms: Increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision.
  • Body System Impact: Cardiovascular system (increased risk of heart attack and stroke), nervous system (neuropathy), kidneys (diabetic nephropathy), eyes (diabetic retinopathy).
  • Complications: Blindness, kidney failure, amputations due to poor circulation and neuropathy.
  1. Differential Diagnoses:
  • List other diagnoses that share similar signs and symptoms to the primary diagnosis.
Example:
  • Type 1 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, Prediabetes, Medications causing hyperglycemia (certain steroids).
  1. Diagnostic Tests and Labs:
  • List common diagnostic tests used to confirm the primary diagnosis or rule out differentials.
Example:
  • Fasting blood sugar test, Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), Oral glucose tolerance test.
  1. Treatment Options:
  • Briefly describe treatment approaches for the primary diagnosis. Include potential medications and referrals to specialists.
Example: Remember: This is a general template. Always consult with qualified medical professionals for diagnosis and treatment plans.  

Sample Answer

     

1. Pathophysiology and Risk Factors:

  • Pathophysiology (In your own words): Explain how the normal function of the body system involved in the diagnosis is disrupted.
  • Risk Factors (Genetic/Ethnic/Physical): List factors that increase the chance of developing this condition. Consider genetics, ethnicity, age, lifestyle habits, and any relevant medical history.