The Oxford Handbook of Clinical Diagnosis is the first and only book that describes the diagnostic process clearly and logically so that it can be effectively learnt. It shows how to justify intuitive diagnoses clearly and logically in an evidence-based way. It provides the differential diagnosis of every symptom, physical sign and initial test result. This handbook uses 'pattern recognition tables' which enable the reader to scan the page to see which diagnostic explanation would apply best to a patient or case history.
The book is aimed at medical students and others who wish to improve their diagnostic skills and interactions with patients. It describes how to justify diagnoses and management decisions verbally or in writing and clarifies what evidence is needed from research, and its statistical features. It provides senior doctors with a clear framework and examples help to teach trainees and students to approach diagnostic problems in a logical way and to effectively justify their opinions. It provides all doctors with practical help when dealing with problems outside their immediate field of expertise, especially general practitioners and those who are faced with unforeseen situations and emergencies.