Differential Diagnosis for UTI vs Cystitis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Uncomplicated cystitis: This is the most likely diagnosis, as the symptoms presented are consistent with a common urinary tract infection, and cystitis is a type of UTI that specifically affects the bladder.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Pyelonephritis: This is an infection of the upper urinary tract, specifically the kidneys, and can present with similar symptoms to cystitis, such as dysuria and frequent urination.
- Urethritis: This is an infection of the urethra, which can also cause symptoms like dysuria and frequent urination, and can be caused by similar pathogens to cystitis.
- Interstitial cystitis: This is a chronic condition that causes bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, and can be mistaken for a UTI due to overlapping symptoms.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Sepsis: Although unlikely, if a UTI is left untreated, it can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues.
- Kidney stones: If a kidney stone is obstructing the urinary tract, it can cause severe pain and lead to infection, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Tuberculosis of the urinary tract: This is a rare but serious condition that can cause symptoms similar to a UTI, and if left untreated, can lead to severe kidney damage.
- Rare diagnoses
- Emphysematous cystitis: This is a rare but serious condition where gas forms in the bladder wall, often due to a bacterial infection, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Malignant bladder tumors: Although rare, bladder cancer can cause symptoms similar to a UTI, such as hematuria and dysuria, and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially in older adults or those with risk factors.