Differential Diagnosis for 39yo F (M identity) with Respiratory Symptoms
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Acute bronchitis: The patient's symptoms of sore throat, headache, body aches, fatigue, night sweats, and shortness of breath (SOB) are consistent with acute bronchitis, a common condition often caused by viral infections. The presence of intermittent green phlegm also supports this diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Viral pharyngitis: The patient's symptoms of sore throat, headache, and fatigue could also be indicative of viral pharyngitis, which is often caused by viral infections such as the common cold or influenza.
- Allergic rhinitis: Given the patient's significant mold allergy and occupation as a repair maintenance worker, allergic rhinitis is a possible diagnosis, especially if the patient has been exposed to mold at work despite wearing a respirator.
- Asthma exacerbation: The patient's symptoms of SOB and cough could be indicative of an asthma exacerbation, especially if the patient has a pre-existing diagnosis of asthma.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed):
- Pneumonia: Although the patient's symptoms are more consistent with an upper respiratory infection, pneumonia is a potentially life-threatening condition that must be considered, especially if the patient's symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.
- Pulmonary embolism: While less likely, pulmonary embolism is a potentially life-threatening condition that can present with SOB and chest pain, and must be considered in the differential diagnosis.
- Influenza: Given the patient's symptoms of fever, headache, and body aches, influenza is a possible diagnosis, and prompt treatment with antiviral medications could be life-saving in severe cases.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: Given the patient's significant mold allergy and occupation, hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a rare but possible diagnosis, which can occur after exposure to mold or other allergens.
- Sarcoidosis: This rare condition can present with respiratory symptoms such as SOB and cough, and must be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if the patient's symptoms do not improve with treatment.