A Mnemonic for the Differential Diagnosis

The mnemonic "DIRECTION" can be used in helping to create a differential diagnosis. This mnemonic divides diseases into broad categories, which can then be used to create differential diagnoses within each of these categories.

D-rugs
I-nfection
R-heumatologic
E-ndocrine
C-ardiovascular
T-rauma
I-nflammatory
O-ther
N-eoplasms

All rights reserved worldwide. Copyright 2005, Theodore X. O'Connell, M.D.