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Diagnosis of Monkeypox

A diagnosis of monkeypox is usually based on the patient's complete medical history, physical exam, and test results. Before a diagnosis of monkeypox is made, the doctor may consider other possible illnesses that may have similar symptoms. Examples of these diseases include chickenpox, contact dermatitis, and scabies.

Diagnosis of Monkeypox: An Introduction

In order to make a diagnosis of monkeypox, the doctor will ask a number of questions about:
 
  • Current symptoms
  • History of medical conditions
  • Family history of medical conditions or illnesses
  • Current medications
  • Travel history.
     
The doctor will also perform a physical exam to look for signs and symptoms of monkeypox. This will include a skin exam to look for the monkeypox rash.
 
If there is a moderate or high suspicion of monkeypox, the doctor may order certain lab tests and refer the person to a dermatologist or infectious disease doctor.
 

Diagnosis of Monkeypox Versus Other Conditions

Before a diagnosis of monkeypox is made, the doctor will consider other illnesses that have symptoms similar to the symptoms of monkeypox. Some of these illnesses can include:
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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