Differential Diagnosis for 28-year-old Male with Conjunctivitis, Chest Congestion, and Clogged Ear
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Influenza or other viral upper respiratory infection: This diagnosis is likely due to the combination of conjunctivitis, chest congestion, and ear symptoms, which are common manifestations of a viral upper respiratory infection.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Sinusitis: The symptoms of chest congestion and clogged ear could be related to sinusitis, which often presents with purulent nasal discharge, facial pain, and ear fullness.
- Allergic rhinitis: Allergies could cause conjunctivitis and nasal congestion, leading to chest congestion and ear symptoms due to Eustachian tube dysfunction.
- Common cold: A common cold could also present with these symptoms, although the presence of yellow drainage with conjunctivitis might suggest a more specific etiology.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningitis: Although less likely, meningitis can present with conjunctivitis, ear symptoms, and respiratory symptoms, especially in the context of a severe headache or stiff neck.
- Orbital cellulitis: This condition, which is an infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, can cause conjunctivitis, eye pain, and vision changes, and requires prompt antibiotic treatment.
- Lemierre's syndrome: This rare but serious condition involves a bacterial infection of the throat, leading to sepsis and potentially life-threatening complications, including respiratory and ear symptoms.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis: Although rare, tuberculosis can cause conjunctivitis, chest congestion, and ear symptoms, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with exposure history.
- Sarcoidosis: This autoimmune disease can cause conjunctivitis, respiratory symptoms, and ear symptoms due to granulomatous inflammation in various organs.
- Relapsing polychondritis: This rare autoimmune disorder can cause conjunctivitis, ear symptoms, and respiratory symptoms due to inflammation of cartilaginous structures.