Diagnostic Approach

Question 1

How can the vet make a diagnosis?

Answer 1

1. Pattern recognition (non-analytic reasoning)
2. Minimum database
3. Analytical reasoning

Question 2

Pattern recognition

Answer 2

Type 1 clinical reasoning
Commonly used when a clinical pattern is unique for a disorder or few possibilities

Question 3

Pattern recognition disadvantages

Answer 3

Limited # of diagnostic options
Not good for uncommon disorders
Dependent of experience, knowledge and memory
Risk of tunnel vision
Confirmation bias

Question 4

Analytical reasoning (LCPS)

Answer 4

Type II clinical reasoning
When pattern recognition not effective and safety check

Question 5

Logical clinical problem solving (LCPS)

Answer 5

Define the problem, system, location, lesion

Question 6

Define the system

Answer 6

Primary v. secondary
or
Local v. systemic

Question 7

Primary

Answer 7

Pathology is in that system (inflammation, neoplasia, infection)

Question 8

Secondary (metabolic)

Answer 8

Pathology outside system but affects the way the system works (effect of hypoxia, electrolyte changes, toxins)