Consideration of Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases during Differential Diagnosis.
South Med J
; 114(5): 277-282, 2021 05.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-33942111
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
Recognition and reporting of vector-borne and zoonotic disease (VBZD) cases is largely dependent upon the consideration of such diseases by healthcare practitioners during the initial diagnosis and ordering of specific confirmative diagnostic tests. This study was conducted to assess the general knowledge and understanding of VBZD transmission and clinical presentation.METHODS:
Healthcare practitioners were surveyed to determine the extent of training and educational experiences they received relative to VBZDs, and their likelihood to consider such diseases during differential diagnoses. In addition, an assessment of their knowledge of arthropod species that may transmit VBZD pathogens was conducted.RESULTS:
Having postprofessional school training relevant to VBZDs significantly influenced diagnostic accuracy for such disease cases based on the presented clinical signs and symptoms.CONCLUSIONS:
The prevalence of VBZDs in the United States likely is significantly underestimated. The authors suggest the enhancement of VBZD-focused education as an important initiative that would significantly improve timely diagnosis, treatment, and, ultimately, prevention of these diseases.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Zoonoses
/
Vector Borne Diseases
Type of study:
Diagnostic_studies
/
Qualitative_research
/
Risk_factors_studies
Limits:
Animals
/
Humans
Country/Region as subject:
America do norte
Language:
En
Journal:
South Med J
Year:
2021
Document type:
Article
Publication country:
EEUU
/
ESTADOS UNIDOS
/
ESTADOS UNIDOS DA AMERICA
/
EUA
/
UNITED STATES
/
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
/
US
/
USA