Step 2 CS differential Diagnosis Dilemma

[Xbocker]

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Ok So Im taking the CS next month and Im having problems forming differential diagnosis. When I practice the cases from first aid sometimes I would list 3 differential diagnosis from a case that is completely different from those listed in First AID. However I can still back up each differential from history and physical. For example. In one of the cases A patient had weight loss, back pain, and focal tenderness and history of smoking. One of the differential noted in FIrst aid was Prostate cancer metastasized to spine (whicch makes sense) However I chose multiple myeloma as one (which technically can have similiar symptoms)

So I guess my question is do the physicians grading the note grade bassed on whether there is supporting evidence or do you have to have correct differetials?

 

[zywiec]

Ok So Im taking the CS next month and Im having problems forming differential diagnosis. When I practice the cases from first aid sometimes I would list 3 differential diagnosis from a case that is completely different from those listed in First AID. However I can still back up each differential from history and physical. For example. In one of the cases A patient had weight loss, back pain, and focal tenderness and history of smoking. One of the differential noted in FIrst aid was Prostate cancer metastasized to spine (whicch makes sense) However I chose multiple myeloma as one (which technically can have similiar symptoms)

So I guess my question is do the physicians grading the note grade bassed on whether there is supporting evidence or do you have to have correct differetials?

I just wrote it in Philly last week. From what we gathered out of the 24 students packed into there; you can have an entire note that is completely off, however that could because you were thinking one ddx in particular, and went a different route - which is a human thing to do.

So to answer your question:

the physicians grading the notes, base your grade on what you found during the interview/PE, and wrote down in your note (pertinent negatives included), and then ended with labs that back up a cohesive thought process. If you were thinking zebras, but you described her/them with confidence and in a standard concise note, you will receive credit for your work and it won't be counted as a fail.

Have more faith!

 

[Xbocker]

I just wrote it in Philly last week. From what we gathered out of the 24 students packed into there; you can have an entire note that is completely off, however that could because you were thinking one ddx in particular, and went a different route - which is a human thing to do.

So to answer your question:

the physicians grading the notes, base your grade on what you found during the interview/PE, and wrote down in your note (pertinent negatives included), and then ended with labs that back up a cohesive thought process. If you were thinking zebras, but you described her/them with confidence and in a standard concise note, you will receive credit for your work and it won't be counted as a fail.

Have more faith!

Thank you. Thats exactly what I wanted to hear. I feel like when I go through First AID or Uworld Cases. My 3 differentials are completely different from theres but I can support all my differentials with evidence from history. Its weird