VisualDx

What is it?

Using VisualDx, large image libraries for each disease can be searched by name, or a differential diagnosis can be built based on appearance, signs, and symptoms. A huge library of images is accessible in every feature of this application.

How does it work?

The home screen of VisualDx has one button to search for diseases by name, labeled “Diagnosis Lookup,” and one button to create a differential diagnosis labeled “Differential Builder.” The Diagnosis Lookup button leads to a search screen that takes you directly to individual diagnoses. General clinical information is provided alongside multiple images for each disease.

The Differential Builder button takes you to a series of screens where you create a clinical scenario based on the age of the patient; the type of skin problem (ie, rash or growth); and other more specific contexts such as medications, immunocompromise, fever, and travel. After the scenario is created, a differential is built by entering visible patient findings. A collage of disease images is created as each finding is added, with the most likely diagnoses at the top and less perfect matches at the bottom of the page. Selecting an image leads to a page with basic clinical information and many more clinical photographs of the diagnosis.

How can it help me?

I use VisualDx to improve communication with patients, expand my differential diagnosis, and evaluate drug eruptions. Because there are so many high-quality images in this application, you can always find an image similar to your patient’s presentation, which is incredibly useful for communicating with patients who question your diagnosis or need visual confirmation. The differential diagnosis builder is my go-to tool for those moments when I hit a mental roadblock in evaluating a patient. Going through the process of building a differential and scrolling through the suggested diagnoses often is exactly what I need to complete my differential diagnosis and begin working up the patient. Finally, I use the drug eruptions scenario feature whenever I evaluate oncology patients or other medically complex patients who have rashes that might be caused by medications. Excellent differential diagnoses paired with images are created for each submitted medication.

How can I get it?

Although the VisualDx license is expensive compared to other mobile applications, it is useful in so many situations that you should highly consider purchasing a subscription. VisualDx can be downloaded from the Apple App Store for your iPhone, iPod Touch, and/or iPad, or the Google Play Store. Annual licenses for individual use range from $99.99 to $299.99 per year depending on the package purchased.

For more information, got to the VisualDx Web site.