Mini Med Blog #1 - Screening vs. Diagnostic tests

I am going to start the series with a review of a very basic but important distinction. Namely the difference between screening tests and diagnostic tests.

A screening test is one that is ordered in the absence of any symptoms. For example, ordering a cholesterol level in the absence of any chest pain or prior heart disease.
A diagnostic test is one that is ordered to diagnose a patient’s presenting symptoms. For example, a patient presents with fever and a cough for which an x-ray is ordered to diagnose pneumonia.

There are very FEW evidence-based indications for screening tests but diagnostic tests are ALWAYS required to determine the cause of a patient’s symptoms. Often the diagnostic test is simply a history and physical undertaken by the physician. On occasions, it will require blood work, imaging tests, or even invasive procedures.
Many patients request ‘routine’ bloodwork and are disappointed when they find out that there is no screening bloodwork indicated based on their age or risk factors. However, often they are actually requesting ‘routine’ bloodwork because they are suffering from an underlying symptom or concern such as persistent fatigue. This would require a diagnostic work up; not a routine screening test. Each medical presentation has its own focused diagnostic approach. It is important to present your concerns and symptoms so that best care can be provided to you.

In summary, always come see me for any symptoms that cause you concern or alarm and come prepared to provide the list of your symptoms, their severity, and their onset. As to what screening (routine) tests you might be due for, stay tuned for the upcoming blogs!

Keep it Healthy!
Dr. Matin