ABSTRACT
A complete and accurate diagnosis explains physical manifestations, predicts the natural course and likely outcome, anticipates potential complications, and leads to suggested treatment options. An accurate diagnosis is essential to a successful medical encounter. A missed or delayed diagnosis may result in diminished opportunity to intervene to change the natural course of the disease. A misdiagnosis may lead to ineffective or even dangerous actions that may complicate the illness. Biological systems have limited expressions of disease. The characterization of most diagnoses begins with recognition of syndromes – signs and symptoms that form recognizable patterns. Biological organisms are made of multiple systems that exist in equilibrium. Entire industries exist to develop new treatments, and as more effective treatments arise, standards for screening and diagnosis may need to be adjusted. Changing recommendations for controlling blood pressure and blood glucose are just two examples of new definitions for the diagnosis of hypertension and diabetes driven by changing standards for treatment.
