Differential Diagnosis for 8-year-old Patient with Ongoing Cough, Congestion, and Green Phlegm
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Acute bronchitis or upper respiratory infection: The patient's symptoms of ongoing cough, congestion, and coughing up green phlegm, along with the use of a neti pot and green mucus coming out of her nose, suggest a viral or bacterial upper respiratory infection. The child's age, symptoms, and activity level support this diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Allergic rhinitis: The patient's symptoms of congestion and green mucus could be indicative of allergic rhinitis, especially if the patient has a history of allergies or asthma.
- Sinusitis: The patient's symptoms of coughing up green phlegm and the mother's report of green mucus coming out of her nose after using a neti pot suggest possible sinusitis.
- Asthma: The patient's cough and congestion could be indicative of asthma, especially if the patient has a history of wheezing or shortness of breath.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Pneumonia: Although the patient appears awake, alert, and active, pneumonia is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Pertussis (whooping cough): This highly contagious bacterial infection can cause severe coughing fits and is a significant concern in unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children.
- Foreign body aspiration: Although the patient is currently asymptomatic, foreign body aspiration can cause sudden respiratory distress and is a medical emergency.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Cystic fibrosis: This genetic disorder can cause chronic respiratory infections and is characterized by thick, sticky mucus.
- Immunodeficiency: A weakened immune system can increase the risk of recurrent or severe respiratory infections.
- Bronchiectasis: This condition, characterized by damaged airways, can cause chronic cough and mucus production.