Cognitive bias in the context of epidemic

ABSTRACT

In connection with the scope and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, the clinical judgement of clinicians and medical practitioners could be influenced such that diagnostic errors (delays and inaccuracies) may ensue. We hereby recall through two clinical scenarios the constant need for practitioners to take a step back in reflecting of the diagnostic process to avoid the <<tunnel effect>> which may result in delaying common and frequent infectious diseases. The flu-like symptoms presented by these patients (fever, myalgia and asthenia...) quickly prompted our emergency room colleagues to suspect SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, further investigations including imagery and blood cultures revealed completely different but common infectious disease conditions, which are potentially fatal.Copyright © 2020 Editions Medecine et Hygiene. All rights reserved.