Abstract
Diagnostic dilemmas refer to situations in which physicians face a challenging clinical scenario. The goal of our paper is to outline strategies which we have found to be most helpful in the approach to a diagnostic dilemma. We review each strategy and provide illustrative clinical examples. Among the most helpful strategies are performing a thorough history and physical examination (H&P) (including pertinent epidemiological factors and careful medication review), avoidance of non-specific testing and empiric treatment, judicious use of consultants, maintaining an open-mind and humility and ongoing, open communication with your patient.
Author contributions: All the authors have accepted responsibility for the entire content of this submitted manuscript and approved submission.
Research funding: None declared.
Employment or leadership: None declared.
Honorarium: None declared.
Competing interests: The funding organization(s) played no role in the study design; in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data; in the writing of the report; or in the decision to submit the report for publication.
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