H ow to M a ke a " Worki n g " D iffe rential Diagn osis
Essential in the development of a useful working differential diagnosis is taking
clinical characteristics from the case in point and using them to narrow down the
broad differential . Herein lies the a rt of d iagnosis: how do you know when a
history of alcohol abuse is helpful in making the diagnosis of alcohol withdrawal
204 . Neurology
seizure, or simply a " red herring" distracting you from the correct diagnosis of
meningitis? If things don't fit, go bock to the brood differential Make sure nothing
has been overlooked .