Differential Diagnosis

Question 1

What are the 6 steps of differential diagnosis? (Steps 1-3: rule out MSG; step 4: determine PD, step 5: if don’t reach threshold for diagnosis consider AD, OSD, UD; step 6: consider impact of disorder CSD or I).

Answer 1

1. Rule out malingering and fictitious disorder
2. Rule out substance etiology
3. Rule out general medical condition
4. Determine primary disorder(s)
5. Differentiate adjustment disorders from other specified or unspecified disorders
6. Determine if the symptoms of the disorder cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning