Key points
- Generating the differential diagnosis is a key step when first investigating an outbreak of unknown respiratory illness.
- A thoughtful differential diagnosis ensures investigators consider all likely etiologies early in an outbreak investigation.
- Resources are available to help generate a differential diagnosis.
Differential diagnosis
One of the most important initial steps when investigating an outbreak of unknown respiratory illness is generating the "differential diagnosis."
The differential diagnosis is a list of the most likely infectious causes or etiologies of an outbreak. Differential diagnosis also refers to the process of comparing how likely one pathogen or etiology caused the disease versus another.
Generating a differential diagnosis enables investigators to use time and resources most efficiently and effectively to determine an outbreak's etiology.
The process helps focus:
- Questionnaire development
- Specimen collection
- Laboratory testing
- Empiric treatment regimens
- Targeted urgent public health interventions
Also, a thoughtful differential diagnosis ensures investigators consider all likely etiologies early in an outbreak investigation. This process makes it less likely that investigators miss or overlook an etiology.
Pathogen spreadsheet
This spreadsheet on the principal pathogens or groups of infectious agents known to cause respiratory illness summarizes information on
- Demographic data
- Clinical information
- Risk factors for disease
Persons with disabilities having problems accessing the above file may call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) for assistance.