Diagnostic Process and Referral to a Subspecialist (Multidisciplinary Approach)
The Diagnostic Process and Referrals to Subspecialties via Laboratory and Imaging
There is no "speculative" medical approach at the Internal Medicine Clinic. Every symptom is clarified through the evidence-based laboratory and radiological examination protocols offered by modern medicine. At Egemed Hospitals, the diagnostic process and the management of conditions requiring advanced expertise are guided by scientific algorithms.
Biochemical and Radiological Diagnostic Steps
Following the physical examination, our physician orders a complete blood count, a biochemistry panel (liver/kidney enzymes), a hormone profile, a complete urinalysis, stool analysis, and culture tests based on the patient’s symptoms. To assess the structural condition of internal organs, the diagnosis is confirmed using advanced imaging modalities such as a chest X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, endoscopy/colonoscopy, or computed tomography (CT).
In What Situations Is a Referral Made to a Subspecialist?
Internal Medicine is the core of medicine. However, in the advanced stages of certain diseases, much more specialized treatment methods are required. If our internist determines that a patient’s diagnosis requires a subspecialty, they immediately initiate a consultation (exchange of information) with the appropriate subspecialty:
- Nephrology: In cases of kidney failure approaching the point of requiring dialysis,
- Endocrinology: In resistant thyroid nodules and complex hormone-producing tumors,
- Gastroenterology: Gastric bleeding, polyps requiring endoscopic intervention, or chronic intestinal diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis),
- Oncology/Hematology: When leukemia is suspected based on a blood test or cancer cells are detected during a radiological scan,
- Cardiology: When ECG findings indicate a risk of serious arrhythmias or heart attack (myocardial infarction), the patient is safely referred to the appropriate specialty to ensure multidisciplinary care.