Outline the investigations required for diagnosis and management.

I. Initial Assessment & History Taking

The diagnostic process begins with a detailed patient history, including presenting complaints, past medical history, family history, social history, and medication history. A comprehensive physical examination follows, focusing on vital signs, general appearance, and system-specific findings. This initial assessment guides the selection of appropriate investigations.

II. Laboratory Investigations

Laboratory tests provide objective data to support or refute clinical suspicions. These can be broadly categorized as follows:

• Hematological Investigations: Complete Blood Count (CBC) to assess red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets; Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) to detect inflammation.
• Biochemical Investigations: Liver Function Tests (LFTs), Renal Function Tests (RFTs), Electrolyte levels, Blood Glucose, Lipid Profile, and Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs) to evaluate organ function and metabolic status.
• Microbiological Investigations: Culture and sensitivity tests for bacterial, viral, or fungal infections; Serological tests to detect antibodies against specific pathogens.
• Immunological Investigations: Autoantibody tests to diagnose autoimmune diseases; Immunoglobulin levels to assess immune function.
• Genetic Testing: Used to identify genetic predispositions to diseases or confirm genetic diagnoses.

III. Imaging Techniques

Imaging techniques provide visual representations of internal structures and help identify abnormalities. Common imaging modalities include:

• X-rays: Useful for detecting bone fractures, lung abnormalities, and foreign bodies.
• Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize soft tissues, organs, and blood vessels.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body, useful for diagnosing a wide range of conditions.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Offers high-resolution images of soft tissues, brain, and spinal cord.
• Nuclear Medicine Scans: Utilize radioactive tracers to assess organ function and detect abnormalities. (e.g., PET scan, Bone scan)

IV. Specialized Investigations

Depending on the clinical scenario, specialized investigations may be required:

• Endoscopy: Visual examination of internal organs using a flexible tube with a camera (e.g., colonoscopy, gastroscopy).
• Biopsy: Removal of a tissue sample for microscopic examination to diagnose cancer or other diseases.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical activity of the heart to detect arrhythmias or ischemia.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG): Records the electrical activity of the brain to diagnose seizures or other neurological disorders.
• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Assess lung capacity and airflow.

V. Management Strategies

Management strategies are tailored to the specific diagnosis and severity of the condition. These may include:

• Pharmacological Therapy: Use of medications to treat symptoms or underlying disease.
• Surgical Intervention: Surgical procedures to correct anatomical abnormalities or remove diseased tissue.
• Radiotherapy: Use of radiation to kill cancer cells.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Dietary changes, exercise, and stress management.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to restore function.
• Supportive Care: Providing comfort and managing symptoms to improve quality of life.

VI. Monitoring and Follow-up

Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to assess the effectiveness of treatment and detect any complications. This may involve repeat laboratory tests, imaging studies, and clinical evaluations.