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