Differential Diagnosis

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Pertussis (Whooping Cough): The patient's symptoms of a nonproductive, "honking" cough, runny nose, and concern about whooping cough after researching her symptoms online, make this a likely diagnosis. The fact that her cough worsened over time and she has an immunocompromised household member also increases the concern for pertussis.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Allergic Rhinitis: The patient initially thought her symptoms were due to allergies, and her runny nose and cough could be consistent with this diagnosis. However, the "honking" nature of her cough and lack of other allergic symptoms make this less likely.
  • Upper Respiratory Infection (URI): A URI could cause the patient's symptoms of cough and runny nose, but the nonproductive and "honking" nature of her cough makes this less likely.
  • Sinusitis: The patient's symptoms of cough and runny nose could be consistent with sinusitis, but the lack of other symptoms such as facial pain or headache makes this less likely.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Pneumonia: Although the patient does not have a fever or other symptoms typically associated with pneumonia, it is still important to consider this diagnosis, especially given her immunocompromised household member.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): TB is a less likely diagnosis, but it is important to consider given the patient's immunocompromised household member and the potential for exposure.
  • Influenza: Although the patient does not have a fever or other symptoms typically associated with influenza, it is still important to consider this diagnosis, especially during flu season.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Cystic Fibrosis: This is a rare genetic disorder that can cause chronic respiratory symptoms, including cough. However, it is unlikely given the patient's age and lack of other symptoms.
  • Bronchiectasis: This is a rare condition characterized by damage to the airways, which can cause chronic cough. However, it is unlikely given the patient's lack of other symptoms and medical history.