Differential Diagnosis

Differential Diagnosis

 

Read through the case presentation. Complete the chart identifying three probable diagnoses for the patient presented in the case study. Limit your brainstorming to disorders we have covered in Chapters 5 through 9. You can answer in bullet points, complete sentences, and/or questions but you need to make it clear how each point you make relates to the diagnostic criteria and features of the disorder. Make sure to review the Powerpoint lecture describing the process before completing this assignment.

 

Instructions:

 

  1. Specify three possible diagnoses.

For each diagnosis:

  1. Identify THREE symptoms included in the case presentation that fit the diagnostic criteria for that diagnosis and WHY they fit (i.e., the symptom criteria you’re referring to).
  2. Identify AT LEAST ONE detail that does NOT fit with the disorder.
  3. Specify THREE pieces of information you need to know to confirm the diagnosis based on diagnostic criteria or risk factors or epidemiological information that would make the disorder more or less likely.

 

Case Presentation:

 

Ms. R is an 18-year-oldfemale who appears guarded uponintake. You notice that she has several bruises on her arms. Her affect is constricted, she does not express much emotion,and her mood is “depressed.”  She reports that she has come to the clinic because hermedical doctor referred her and indicates that she has been experiencing stomachpains. When asked about food intake she avoids eye contact and mumbles that she hasnot had much of an appetite due to “stress.” When you ask for more information, sheadmits to having nightmaresand repetitive thoughts that keep coming back to her despite her attempts not to havethem. Her sleep is irregular, and Ms. R finds it difficult to get up in the morning and go about her day. Ms. R also that states “I just haven’t been feeling like myself lately” and added, “everything feels really far away and not real.”

 

 

Differential Diagnosis  Chart:

 

 

Possible Diagnoses: 1. 2. 3.
What fits? 1.

 

2.

 

3.

 

 1.

 

2.

 

3.

 1.

 

2.

 

3.
What doesn’t fit? 1.

 

2.

 1.

 

2.

 1.

 

2.
What else do you need to know? 1.

 

2.

 

3.

 1.

 

2.

 

3.

 1.

 

2.

 

3.