Differential Diagnosis

The patient's symptoms of sinus congestion, ear fullness, sore throat, cough, fatigue, and body aches, which have been ongoing for 2 weeks, suggest a respiratory infection. The fact that the patient's son had the flu 2 weeks ago and the patient and his wife have been sick since then, implies a possible contagious etiology. Here are the differential diagnoses categorized:

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Viral upper respiratory infection (URI): This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms and the context of his son having the flu recently. The symptoms of sinus congestion, sore throat, and cough are consistent with a viral URI.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Acute sinusitis: The patient's symptoms of sinus congestion and fullness in the ear could be indicative of acute sinusitis, which is often caused by a bacterial infection following a viral URI.
  • Acute bronchitis: The patient's worsening cough and production of mucus could be indicative of acute bronchitis, which is often caused by a viral infection.
  • Influenza: Although the patient's son had the flu 2 weeks ago, it is still possible that the patient and his wife contracted the flu, given their symptoms and the timing.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Pneumonia: Although less likely, pneumonia is a potentially life-threatening condition that can present with similar symptoms, such as cough, fatigue, and body aches. It is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient's symptoms worsen or if he has underlying health conditions.
  • Epiglottitis: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath. Although unlikely, it is crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient's symptoms worsen or if he has a high fever.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Mycoplasma pneumonia: This is a rare cause of pneumonia that can present with similar symptoms, such as cough, fatigue, and body aches. It is more common in younger adults and can be treated with antibiotics.
  • Pertussis (whooping cough): This is a rare but highly contagious condition that can cause a severe cough, often with a characteristic whoop sound. Although unlikely, it is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has not been vaccinated against pertussis.