Diagnostic approach to XXXX .

@entity1 @entity32 @entity625 @entity353 @entity571 @entity1184 @entity66 @entity1295 @entity603 @entity1800 @entity158 @entity221
Identifying the cause of @entity158 can be difficult because of the extensive differential diagnosis. A thorough history and a complete physical examination are essential. Six clinical factors are helpful in narrowing the possible causes: disease chronology, @entity32 , distribution, extra-articular manifestations, disease course, and @entity1 demographics. @entity1 with an @entity625 are more likely to have palpable @entity603 and morning stiffness; if the condition is severe, they may have @entity221 , @entity353 , and @entity1295 . @entity1800 , crystal-induced @entity625 , and serum sickness reactions are common causes of acute, self-limited @entity625 . Because chronic arthritides may present abruptly, they need to be considered in @entity1 who present with acute @entity158 . Joint palpation can help to distinguish inflammatory @entity603 from the bony @entity1184 and crepitus that typically occur with @entity571 . Extra-articular manifestations of @entity66 may be helpful in arriving at a more specific diagnosis. Many classic rheumatologic laboratory tests are nonspecific. A complete blood count, urinalysis, and a metabolic panel may provide more useful diagnostic clues. Plain-film radiographs may demonstrate classic findings of specific @entity66 ; however, radiographs can be normal or only show nonspecific changes early in the disease process.
