Differential Diagnosis for Nina's Symptoms

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Viral upper respiratory tract infection (URTI): This is the most likely diagnosis given Nina's symptoms of sore throat, stuffy/runny nose, and dry cough, which are classic presentations of a viral URTI. The absence of fever, headache, or body aches also supports this diagnosis, as viral URTIs often have mild symptoms.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Allergic rhinitis: Nina's symptoms of a stuffy/runny nose and dry cough could also be indicative of allergic rhinitis, especially if she has a history of allergies.
  • Sinusitis: Although less likely without fever or facial pain, sinusitis could still be a consideration, especially if Nina's symptoms persist or worsen over time.
  • Pharyngitis: A sore throat could be indicative of pharyngitis, which could be viral or bacterial in nature, although the absence of fever makes a bacterial cause less likely.
• Do Not Miss diagnoses
  • Epiglottitis: Although rare, epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Although Nina's symptoms do not strongly suggest epiglottitis, it is essential to consider this diagnosis in any patient with a sore throat.
  • Pertussis (whooping cough): Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can present with a dry cough and sore throat. Although less likely without a characteristic whoop, it is crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially if Nina has not been vaccinated.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Infectious mononucleosis: Although rare in young children, infectious mononucleosis (mono) can present with a sore throat and mild respiratory symptoms.
  • Lemierre's syndrome: This rare condition is characterized by a sore throat followed by neck pain and fever, although Nina's symptoms do not strongly suggest this diagnosis.