What details did the patient provide regarding their chief complaint and symptomology to derive your differential diagnosis?

A patient described their main complaint, fatigue. They also mentioned additional symptoms such as joint and muscle pain. On the basis of this information, a differential diagnoses was made that included possible conditions ranging from viral diseases such as influenza to autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. Additional investigation into symptoms like fever and weight loss can help to narrow the possibilities.

To confirm or differentiate these possible causes, certain diagnostic tests like bloodwork and imaging studies are required. Ultimately, by carefully listening to the patient’s reports of their experiences combined with an understanding of diseases and conditions affecting similar populations it is possible to develop a list of likely explanations that can later be narrowed down through further testing if necessary.