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Principles of Diagnosis

Chief Complaint and History of the Present Illness

  • CC: What is your skin problem?
  • HPI
    • Onset and evolution: When and where did it start? Has it gotten better or worse?
    • Symptoms: Does it bother you? Does it itch? Does it hurt? How has it changed? Are there any systemic symptoms?
  • Treatment to date: How have you treated it? Have you applied anything to it?
  • Don't forget to ask about past medical history, social history such as skin care, sexual history, occupation and hobbies, and family history as many skin diseases are hereditary.

More info: Systemic symptoms

More Info: Questions to ask