Diagnosis of Anaphylaxis Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. Diagnosis is often clinical and urgent: Medical history: Rapid onset of symptoms after allergen exposure, such as foods, insect stings, medications, or latex. Symptoms assessment: Involves skin reactions (hives, flushing), airway constriction, low blood pressure, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Emergency recognition: Diagnosis is based on sudden onset, multi-system involvement, and rapid …
Anal Itching
Diagnosis of Anal Itching (Pruritus Ani) Anal itching is a common symptom that can result from skin irritation, infections, or underlying medical conditions. Diagnosis includes: Medical history and physical exam: The doctor examines the anal area for rashes, tears, hemorrhoids, or infections. Tests for infections: Swabs or stool tests may be done if bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections are suspected. …
Anal Fistula
Diagnosis of Anal Fistula Anal fistulas are abnormal connections between the anal canal and the skin around the anus. Diagnosis usually involves: Medical history and physical exam: Your doctor will assess symptoms such as pain, swelling, discharge, or recurrent abscesses. Probing and visualization: Gentle probing of the fistula tract may be done to determine the path. Imaging tests: MRI or …
Anal Fissure
Diagnosis of Anal Fissure Anal fissures are usually diagnosed through a medical history review and physical examination. Most fissures are visible on inspection of the anal region. Acute fissures: Recent tears, often resembling a paper cut. Chronic fissures: Deeper, long-lasting tears (lasting more than eight weeks), sometimes with internal or external tissue growths. Location clues Fissures on the sides of …
Anal Cancer
Diagnosis of Anal Cancer Diagnosing anal cancer involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsies to confirm the presence and extent of the disease. Examining the anal canal and rectum During a digital rectal exam, a healthcare professional inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the anus to feel for growths or abnormalities. Anoscopy A thin, flexible tube called …
Amyloidosis
Diagnosis of Amyloidosis Amyloidosis occurs when abnormal protein deposits (amyloid) build up in organs, affecting their function. Diagnosis involves: Medical history and physical exam: Symptoms vary depending on affected organs (heart, kidneys, liver, nerves). Blood and urine tests: Measure abnormal proteins or light chains in blood or urine. Imaging tests: Echocardiogram, MRI, or other imaging to evaluate organ involvement. Biopsy: …
Ampullary Cancer
Diagnosis of Ampullary Cancer Ampullary cancer affects the ampulla of Vater, where the bile duct and pancreatic duct meet the small intestine. Diagnosis usually involves: Medical history and physical exam: Your doctor will assess symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. Blood tests: Liver function tests and tumor markers like CA 19-9 may be checked. Imaging tests: …
Transient Global Amnesia
Diagnosis A diagnosis of transient global amnesia (TGA) is made after ruling out more serious conditions such as stroke, seizure, or head injury, which can cause similar memory loss. Physical examThe evaluation begins with a neurological exam that assesses: • Reflexes• Muscle tone and strength• Sensory function• Gait, posture, coordination, and balance• Thinking, judgment, and memory Brain and imaging testsYour …
Amnesia
Diagnosis of Amnesia A comprehensive evaluation is essential to diagnose amnesia and rule out other causes of memory loss, such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, depression, or brain tumors. Medical History The evaluation begins with a detailed medical history. Because memory loss can limit the information a patient provides, a family member or caregiver may be asked to assist. Healthcare professionals …
Chagas Disease
Diagnosis To diagnose Chagas disease, your healthcare professional will begin with a physical examination and a review of your symptoms and risk factors, such as travel history or exposure to the triatomine bug. If symptoms suggest Chagas disease, two or more blood tests are typically done to confirm the diagnosis. If you’re diagnosed with Chagas disease, additional tests may be …









