What is the differential diagnosis for a 40-year-old male with a history of Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever) presenting with daily, non-painful, throbbing, and visually observable pulsations in his head, forearm, and left thigh, accompanied by anxiety, hypercholesterolemia, and mildly elevated liver enzymes?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: May 27, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Adam Wright

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Benign Essential Tremor: This condition is characterized by involuntary, rhythmic trembling or shaking of various body parts, which can be exacerbated by anxiety and stress. The patient's description of pulsating sensations as non-painful and throbbing, along with his recent job promotion-related anxiety, supports this diagnosis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Anxiety-Related Tremors: The patient's anxiety related to his job promotion could be contributing to his symptoms, as anxiety can cause or exacerbate tremors.
  • Dehydration: Inadequate water intake can lead to dehydration, which may cause symptoms such as tremors or pulsating sensations.
  • Hyperlipidemia: The patient's slightly elevated cholesterol levels could be contributing to his symptoms, as high cholesterol can increase the risk of developing certain conditions that cause tremors.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Multiple Sclerosis: Although less likely, multiple sclerosis (MS) can cause tremors and should not be missed, as it is a potentially debilitating condition that requires prompt treatment.
  • Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, can cause tremors and should be ruled out, as untreated thyroid disorders can have serious consequences.
  • Vascular Malformations: Vascular malformations, such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), can cause pulsating sensations and should be considered, as they can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Neurosyphilis: This rare condition can cause tremors and should be considered, especially if the patient has a history of syphilis or other risk factors.
  • Wilson's Disease: This rare genetic disorder can cause tremors and liver dysfunction, which could be related to the patient's mildly elevated liver enzymes.
  • Valley Fever-Related Complications: Although the patient has a history of Valley Fever, it is unlikely that his current symptoms are directly related to this condition. However, rare complications such as fungal meningitis or brain abscess should be considered, as they can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.