Here is the answer to this weeks #USMLE Trivia Tuesday question: Choice d is correct. In order to meet the criteria for a major depressive episode, which is required for a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder, a patient must exhibit symptoms during at least a two-week period that represents a change from previous functioning. Thus, in order to determine if the diagnosis is appropriate, the physician must ask about the duration of the symptoms. Choices “a,” “b,” and “e” are incorrect. The vignette indicates that the patient has exhibited five symptoms within Criterion A of Major Depressive Disorder, which is a sufficient number to meet that criterion. These choices all pertain to additional symptoms within Criterion A. Although it may be useful for the physician to ask about these additional symptoms, the information is not needed for the specific purpose of making a diagnosis. Choice “c” is incorrect. Although knowing the family history would be helpful in estimating the patient’s risk, this information would not allow the physician to determine the appropriate diagnosis for the patient at present.
Posted on: Thu, 16 Oct 2014 15:01:39 +0000
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