What is essential for developing a differential diagnosis list?

Developing a differential diagnosis list requires a comprehensive approach that considers all relevant information available about the patient's condition. This includes not only historical data from the owner, such as the dog's medical history and clinical signs, but also results from physical examination, lab tests, and any imaging studies. By integrating all available data, a veterinarian can generate a more accurate and complete list of potential diagnoses.

This expansive view ensures that less common, but potentially serious, conditions are not overlooked, which might happen if one were to focus only on historical data or the most frequently seen diseases. Furthermore, while the preferences of the owner and treatment costs can play a role in decision-making, they do not encompass the breadth of data necessary to formulate a reliable differential diagnosis. Therefore, synthesizing all information is crucial for effective clinical reasoning and patient care.