Oxford Handbook of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation (Oxford Medical Handbooks)

With major advances in technology there are thousands of clinical and laboratory tests available, forming a key part of the diagnostic process in the highly complex field of modern medicine. This handbook provides a patient-orientated approach to investigation, with a comprehensive review of specialty-related tests. Written in the Oxford Handbook style, this book features references and up-to-date website links for extra clinical detail. This new edition has been revised to include the most recent developments in investigatory tests, with clear step-by-step instructions and updated illustrations to provide greater clarifying background to the text. Written by an experienced team of active clinicians, this is invaluable for junior doctors as a quick reference, as well as senior medical students preparing for examinations. Investigation of patients with suspected disease has become highly complex, with an ever-expanding plethora of investigative techniques available to clinicians. This handbook details the techniques used in modern clinical medicine, across all the major specialties. Each chapter outlines the range of investigations available, along with preparation of the patient, complications, and interpretation of results. The handbook also includes a symptom-focused approach initially, which helps clinicians determine which system may be involved before, then reviews the specialty-specific sections of the book This handbook provides an authoritative guide to investigation and diagnosis. It describes key symptoms and signs, alongside appropriate tests, and highlights pitfalls in interpreting results. It also describes a clear, rational method of investigation in order to aid quick and efficient diagnosis, and prevent over-investigation of patients Provides an authoritative guide to investigation and diagnosis. Describes key symptoms and signs, alongisde appropriate tests, and highlights pitfalls in interpreting results. Describes a clear, rational method of investigation in order to aid quick and efficient diagnosis, and prevent over-investigation of patients.