When should a veterinarian develop a differential diagnosis list?

The development of a differential diagnosis list is a critical step in the diagnostic process for veterinarians. This list should be created after considering all relevant information regarding the patient. By gathering and analyzing data—including the patient’s history, clinical signs, laboratory results, and findings from the physical examination—a veterinarian can generate a more accurate and comprehensive list of potential diagnoses.

Creating the differential diagnosis after evaluating all information allows veterinarians to prioritize conditions based on the likelihood of occurrence, as well as to recognize patterns that may emerge from the signs presented by the patient. This systematic approach enhances the likelihood of identifying the correct diagnosis and ensures that treatment plans are tailored effectively to the specific needs of the patient.

In contrast, developing a differential diagnosis before gathering patient history or relying solely on isolated elements of the examination could lead to an incomplete understanding of the patient’s condition and result in missed or incorrect diagnoses. Thus, the most effective practice is to consider all available information collectively before finalizing the differential diagnosis list.