Diagnosis is the process of identifying a disease, condition, or other health problem based on a person’s symptoms, signs, history, examination, and available tests.
Diagnosis may involve one or several sources of information. A healthcare professional may use the patient’s medical history and physical examination together with laboratory tests, imaging, or other investigations to determine the most likely cause of a health problem.
A diagnosis is not always certain immediately. Some conditions require additional testing, observation, or specialist assessment before a definitive diagnosis can be established.
QUICK FACT
A test result by itself is not necessarily a diagnosis. Test results must be interpreted in the context of the person’s clinical situation.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Screening: Screening looks for possible disease in people who may not have symptoms, whereas diagnosis investigates whether a person who has symptoms, signs, or another reason for concern has a particular condition.
- Differential diagnosis: A differential diagnosis is a list or consideration of possible conditions that could explain a person’s findings; the final diagnosis identifies the condition judged most likely or established based on available evidence.
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