Differential Diagnosis for a 22-year-old female with sore throat, fatigue, rhinorrhea, and congestion
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Viral pharyngitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms of sore throat, fatigue, rhinorrhea, and congestion, which are common presentations of a viral upper respiratory infection. The negative rapid strep test and the presence of rhinorrhea and congestion also support this diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Acute sinusitis: The patient's symptoms of congestion and rhinorrhea could be indicative of acute sinusitis, especially if the symptoms have been persistent.
- Influenza: Although not specifically mentioned, the patient's symptoms of sore throat, fatigue, and congestion could be consistent with influenza, especially during flu season.
- Mononucleosis: Given the patient's age and symptoms of sore throat and fatigue, mononucleosis (caused by Epstein-Barr virus) is a possible diagnosis, although it would typically be accompanied by other symptoms such as lymphadenopathy and fever.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Bacterial epiglottitis: Although rare, bacterial epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition and treatment. Symptoms can include severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath.
- Lemierre's syndrome: This is a rare but serious condition characterized by a bacterial infection of the throat, followed by sepsis and thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. It typically presents with severe sore throat, fever, and neck pain.
- Peritonsillar abscess: This is a serious complication of tonsillitis that can cause severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever. It requires prompt drainage to prevent complications.
- Rare diagnoses
- Diphtheria: Although rare in developed countries, diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can cause severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a membrane to form over the tonsils.
- Tuberculous pharyngitis: This is a rare form of tuberculosis that can cause chronic sore throat, fever, and weight loss. It is more common in immunocompromised individuals or those from endemic areas.