Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Viral pharyngitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of erythematous nasal passageway, erythema to posterior pharynx, hoarseness, congestion, and coughing for 10 days. These symptoms are consistent with a viral upper respiratory tract infection.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Acute sinusitis: The symptoms of congestion, coughing, and erythematous nasal passageway could also be indicative of acute sinusitis, especially if the symptoms have been persistent for 10 days.
- Allergic rhinitis: The symptoms of congestion, coughing, and erythema could also be due to allergic rhinitis, especially if the patient has a history of allergies.
- Laryngitis: The symptom of hoarseness could be indicative of laryngitis, which could be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Epiglottitis: Although rare, epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of hoarseness, coughing, and erythema to posterior pharynx could be indicative of epiglottitis.
- Retropharyngeal abscess: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms of neck pain, difficulty swallowing, and erythema to posterior pharynx could be indicative of a retropharyngeal abscess.
- Influenza: Although the symptoms are non-specific, influenza can be a serious illness, especially in certain populations such as the elderly or those with underlying medical conditions.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lemierre's syndrome: This is a rare condition characterized by a bacterial infection of the throat, which can lead to complications such as sepsis and thrombophlebitis. The symptoms of sore throat, fever, and neck pain could be indicative of Lemierre's syndrome.
- Diphtheria: This is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as sore throat, hoarseness, and coughing. Although rare, it is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Tuberculosis: This is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as coughing, hoarseness, and weight loss. Although rare, it is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.