Medical Diagnostic Techniques and Treatment Methods
Phase Diagnosis
Clinical interview questioning the patient, and the data are collated for diagnosis. Important symptoms are noted. Physical examination includes collecting vital signs such as temperature, pressure, and pulse. Investigations are used to confirm the diagnosis.
Medical History
A medical history is elaborated to record the patient’s timeline. It includes the relationship between the physician and clinical data, the course of the illness, treatment, recovery, and test results.
Blood Analysis
Blood analysis consists of drawing blood to analyze blood cells (red and white blood cells and platelets) and substances. These are compared with normal values to aid in diagnosis.
Diagnostic Imaging
Diagnostic imaging is used to observe the internal body without performing an incision.
Radiography
Radiography uses X-rays that can pass through opaque objects. It creates an impression on photographic film. Dense cell masses, such as bones, appear light in color, while tissues appear dark.
Scan
A scan is based on multiple radiographs of an area of the body using an X-ray. The patient rotates, allowing for a view of slices of the body, providing great clarity. A disadvantage is the high amount of radiation.
MRI
MRI provides sharp images without radiation.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves. These are focused on the patient, and the echoes create an image of the interior.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine involves introducing radioactive substances to study their distribution within the organism.
Thermography
Thermography can recognize differences in human body temperature. It is used to find tumors.
Cardiac Catheterization
A catheter is inserted through an artery and guided to the heart. Contrast images are taken to provide information about the state of the heart and heartbeat.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An electrocardiogram records the electrical activity of the heart muscle.
EEG and Electromyogram
An EEG records the electrical activity of neurons. An electromyogram records muscle activity and nerve fibers.
Endoscopic Techniques
Endoscopic techniques involve inserting an endoscope through a natural orifice or a surgical incision. The endoscope has a light source and an optical system that displays real-time images.
Biopsy
A biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue for examination in the laboratory.
Conventional Surgery
Conventional surgery is characterized by an aggressive approach that requires access to internal organs. Incisions must heal, which can increase recovery problems.
Transplant Surgery
Transplant surgery consists of transplanting a healthy organ from a donor to a recipient. The donor must be compatible with the patient to prevent organ rejection by the immune system.
Types of Transplantation
- Autotransplantation: The transplanted tissue comes from the same individual.
- Syngeneic: The donor is a sibling.
- Allogeneic: The donor and recipient are the same species but different individuals.
Angioplasty
Angioplasty is used to widen arteries. A catheter with a small balloon tip is inserted into the blood vessel. When inflated, it dilates the vessel, and then it is removed.
Drugs
Drugs are products used to cure, alleviate, prevent, or diagnose disease. Active ingredients are the key components of drugs. Consumption should be in appropriate doses.
Insulin
Insulin is a hormone that allows cells to use and store glucose. It is used to help glucose enter cells. It can be obtained by adding a gene to produce insulin.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is based on the belief that substances that cause symptoms of an illness can have curative effects.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an Eastern technique that involves inserting fine needles at specific body points to establish energy flows.
Osteopathy
Osteopathy is based on the overall performance of the organism. It uses manual techniques to establish diagnosis and treatment.
Reflexology
Reflexology is based on body stimulation through manipulation and massage of specific points.
Mind-Body Therapy
Mind-body therapy focuses on the interaction between the body, brain, mind, and behavior and their influence on physical health.