What is the diagnosis?
di-ag-NO-zi — four syllables, stress on third. The 's' sounds like a 'z' in Italian.
Ask the doctor after examination and tests. Your right as a patient to know your diagnosis clearly.
'Qual è' means 'what is' (literally 'which is'). 'La diagnosi' is a feminine noun of Greek origin — like all words ending in '-si', it is invariable: singular 'la diagnosi', plural 'le diagnosi'. You can also ask 'Di cosa si tratta?' (What is it?) or 'Cosa ho?' (What do I have?) for a more informal approach.
Di cosa si tratta?
What is it? / What are we dealing with?
More conversational than 'qual è la diagnosi' — still respectful
È qualcosa di grave?
Is it something serious?
Direct and natural concern — doctors expect this question
Può spiegarmi la diagnosi in termini semplici?
Can you explain the diagnosis to me in simple terms?
Ask for a plain-language explanation — entirely reasonable
Italian patients have a legal right to informed consent ('consenso informato') and to know their diagnosis. Doctors are required to explain clearly. However, Italian medical culture historically included 'diagnosi velata' (veiled diagnosis) — not always disclosing terminal diagnoses directly to the patient but to the family. This practice is declining, and modern Italian medicine follows full transparency.