Adult Diagnostics
A 52-year-old patient presents with fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and cold intolerance. This is the first laboratory test to evaluate thyroid function.
What is TSH?
A child presents with fever, sore throat, tonsillar exudate, and tender anterior cervical lymph nodes. This test helps diagnose Group A Streptococcus.
What is a rapid antigen detection test (rapid strep test)?
A healthy adult with uncomplicated acute low back pain and no red flags usually does not need this imaging study.
What is an MRI of the lumbar spine?
A patient has TSH 15 mIU/L and low free T4.
What is primary hypothyroidism?
This imaging study is preferred initially when evaluating suspected appendicitis in many pediatric patients.
What is an abdominal ultrasound?
A patient presents with chest pain concerning for acute coronary syndrome. This test should be obtained immediately to evaluate for cardiac ischemia.
What is an ECG (electrocardiogram)?
A 4-year-old has speech delay. Before assuming a language disorder, this evaluation should be performed.
What is a hearing evaluation?
A healthy child with viral upper respiratory symptoms usually does not need this laboratory blood test.
What is a CBC?
A urinalysis shows positive nitrites, positive leukocyte esterase, and urinary frequency.
What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
This imaging study is the first choice for suspected acute intracranial hemorrhage in a patient with a sudden severe headache.
What is a non-contrast CT head?
A patient reports increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss. This test is commonly used to diagnose diabetes mellitus.
What is a HbA1c?
A 6-year-old with recurrent cough and wheezing is suspected of having asthma. This pulmonary test may confirm airflow obstruction if the child can perform it.
What is spirometry?
Before ordering any diagnostic test, primary care providers should ask this important question.
What is “Will the result change my management?”
A CBC shows low hemoglobin and low ferritin in a patient with fatigue.
What is iron deficiency anemia?
A patient with chronic knee pain, crepitus, and activity-related symptoms likely needs this imaging study if imaging is indicated.
What is a plain radiograph (X-ray) of the knee?
A 65-year-old smoker presents with an 8-week cough and weight loss. This is the recommended initial imaging study.
What is a chest X-ray?
An infant presents with typical bronchiolitis symptoms: cough, congestion, wheezing, and normal oxygen saturation. This diagnostic test is usually unnecessary.
What is a chest X-ray?
A patient with classic uncomplicated cystitis does not routinely need this advanced imaging study.
What is a CT scan of the abdomen/pelvis?
A patient with dyspnea, orthopnea, leg edema, and elevated BNP likely has this condition.
What is heart failure?
This imaging study provides detailed soft tissue evaluation but should not be routinely used as an initial test for many primary care complaints.
What is an MRI?