Tularemia is initially diagnosed through a physician's examination. The examination assesses symptoms, complaints, and the affected area. Following the examination, further tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Tests that may be used to diagnose tularemia include:

Blood tests
Biopsy
Nasal or throat swab
Pleural fluid test
A chest X-ray may also be ordered to rule out pneumonia, as it can occur with pneumonic tularemia.