Algorithmic diagnostics

An alternative to a diagnostic algorithm is use of a graphic nomogram. Nomograms are plots of the pH, PaC02, and... 

Table 63-1 describes common tests used to determine the etiology of anemia. A diagnostic and treatment algorithm for anemia is outlined in Fig. 63-3. 

FIGURE 78-1. Diagnostic algorithm for the evaluation of hyponatremia. (CHF, congestive heart failure EABV, effective arterial blood volume SIADH, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone UNa, urine sodium concentration Uosm, urine osmolality.)... 

Despite these initial promising results, further studies are needed to determine the exact indications for using [ F]-fluorocholine in the diagnostic algorithm of patients with prostate cancer and to assess the influence of different factors including hormonal therapy, PSA level and PSA doubling time on the uptake of the tracer in the cancer lesions. 

Diagnostic boundaries in juvenile-onset BD need to be defined, since children with hypomania or manic-like symptoms may be increasingly treated with mood stabilizers. In parallel, this would require more complex algorithms because very few controlled trials have been reported (Walkup, 1995). In contrast to the studies of adults reported in the literature, the pharmacological treatment of childhood bipolarity with anticonvulsants remains an understudied area. Carbamazepine appears to be less efficacious than valproate in adult rapid cycling, yet no studies have identified predictors of treatment response to CBZ or any other mood stabilizer (besides lithium) in a pediatric population. 

Empirical validation of diagnostic criteria and algorithms for assessing and managing sleep problems in dementia. 

---