What is a Differential List and Why is it Important?

Photo by Dr. Haus

Differential List

A differential list is a ranked list of all the diseases/conditions that could be causing the clinical signs/symptoms in a patient.  Differentials are the components of the list.

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For the purposes of this blog, you can create whatever type of differentials list makes the most sense for you.  Below is looking at examples of differentials based on Dr. Haus's Unsolicited Life Advice Levels.

 

Examples of LEVEL 1 Differentials:

Stomach

Brain

Skin

Foot

Mouth

Heart

Lungs

And many more!

Examples of LEVEL 2 Differentials: 

 Infection

Respiratory System

Urogenital System

Diabetes

Cancer

Toxin

Neurological

And many more!

 

Examples of LEVEL 3 Differentials:

Chronic Kidney Disease

Acute Liver Failure

Myxomatous degeneration of the cardiac valves

Hemangiosarcoma

Brucellosis

Intervertebral Disc Disease 

Chocolate Intoxication

And many more!

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Why is a differential list important?

The differential list helps you narrow down the potential causes of disease and helps you create a logical plan to move forward.  In most cases, the final diagnosis of the patient takes time, testing, and the process of elimination.  

The differential list allows the medical professional to prioritize diagnostic tests and treatment plans to get to a final diagnosis as quickly as possible.