Diagnosis Tests and procedures used to diagnose Stevens-Johnson syndrome include a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and focused laboratory investigations. Health care providers often identify the condition based on recent or current medications and visible symptoms on the skin and mucous membranes. A skin biopsy is typically performed to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other possible …
Sjogren’s Syndrome
Diagnosis Sjogren’s syndrome can be challenging to diagnose because its signs and symptoms vary and may resemble other conditions. Some medications can also produce similar symptoms. Several tests can help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions: Blood tests Levels of different types of blood cells Presence of antibodies commonly seen in Sjogren’s syndrome Evidence of inflammatory conditions Indicators …
Short Bowel Syndrome
Diagnosis To diagnose short bowel syndrome, a healthcare professional may recommend blood or stool tests to measure nutrient levels. Imaging procedures may also be used to evaluate the intestines and detect blockages or changes. These tests can include: X-ray with contrast material (barium X-ray) CT scan MRI CT or MRI enterography Treatment Treatment for short bowel syndrome depends on which …
Shigella Infection
Diagnosis Shigella infection is diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam and laboratory testing. Because many conditions can cause diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, a stool sample is collected either by you or your healthcare professional. The sample is then examined in a lab for the presence of shigella bacteria or toxins produced by the bacteria. Treatment Treatment for shigella …
Shaken Baby Syndrome
Diagnosis A child who has been forcefully shaken requires evaluation by multiple medical specialists, including experts in child abuse. The healthcare team examines the child and reviews their medical history to identify injuries and rule out other conditions. Common tests may include: Skeletal survey: Multiple X-rays of bones, including arms, hands, legs, feet, spine, ribs, and skull, to identify fractures …
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Diagnosis Diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) begins with a detailed sexual history and evaluation of current symptoms. Your healthcare professional may perform a physical or pelvic exam to look for signs of infection, such as rashes, warts, or unusual discharge. Lab tests are used to confirm the presence of infections and can also detect STDs in people who …
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
Diagnosis When SARS first emerged, there were no specific tests to detect it. Today, various tests can identify the virus, including tests using blood, stool, and samples from the nose and throat. However, there has been no known spread of the virus that causes SARS anywhere in the world since 2004. Treatment There is no proven antiviral treatment for SARS, …
Serotonin Syndrome
Diagnosis No single test can definitively diagnose serotonin syndrome. Doctors typically make a diagnosis by ruling out other possible conditions. The diagnostic process usually begins with: Asking about your symptoms, medical history, and medications you are taking Conducting a physical examination Additional tests may be used to confirm that symptoms are caused by serotonin syndrome rather than another condition. These …
Sepsis
Diagnosis Doctors often order several tests to identify the underlying cause of infection in sepsis. Blood testsBlood samples may be analyzed to check for: Evidence of infection Blood-clotting problems Abnormal liver or kidney function Low oxygen levels Electrolyte imbalances Other lab testsAdditional tests might include samples of: Urine Wound fluid Mucus or saliva from the respiratory tract Imaging testsIf the …
Separation Anxiety Disorder
Diagnosis Diagnosis of separation anxiety disorder involves determining whether a child’s fears are part of typical development or represent a disorder. After ruling out medical conditions, a pediatrician may refer the child to a mental health professional who specializes in anxiety disorders. A mental health professional typically conducts a psychological evaluation by talking with the child and parents, both together …









