Differential Diagnosis for 72-year-old Male with Respiratory Symptoms
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Acute Bronchitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms of cough, sinus congestion, headache, and nasal discharge, which are typical of a viral upper respiratory infection. The patient's age and the presence of a low-grade fever also support this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Community-Acquired Pneumonia: The patient's worsening shortness of breath and cough could indicate a lower respiratory tract infection, making pneumonia a possible diagnosis.
- Influenza: The patient's symptoms of cough, headache, and low-grade fever are consistent with influenza, especially during flu season.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Exacerbation: If the patient has a history of COPD, the current symptoms could represent an exacerbation of the disease.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although less likely, pulmonary embolism can present with sudden onset of shortness of breath and cough, making it a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its high mortality rate.
- Cardiac Ischemia: The patient's shortness of breath could also be a sign of cardiac ischemia, especially in an elderly patient with potential underlying cardiovascular disease.
- Lung Cancer: In an elderly patient with a new onset of respiratory symptoms, lung cancer should be considered, especially if there is a history of smoking.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Tuberculosis: Although rare in many areas, tuberculosis can present with chronic cough, shortness of breath, and systemic symptoms like fever.
- Sarcoidosis: This autoimmune disease can cause respiratory symptoms, including cough and shortness of breath, but it is less common and typically presents with other systemic symptoms.
- Interstitial Lung Disease: A group of diseases that affect the lung tissue, interstitial lung disease can cause progressive shortness of breath and cough, but it is relatively rare and often associated with specific exposures or systemic diseases.