Differential Diagnosis for Pediatric Fever with Calf Tenderness
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Myositis: This is a common condition in children, often presenting with fever, muscle pain, and tenderness, particularly in the calf muscles. The symptoms usually resolve on their own with supportive care.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial Myositis: Although less common than viral myositis, bacterial infections can cause muscle inflammation and abscesses, leading to fever and localized tenderness.
- Insect Bite or Sting: Certain insect bites or stings can cause localized reactions that may mimic calf tenderness and could be accompanied by fever if there's an allergic reaction or infection.
- Trauma: Muscle strain or direct trauma to the calf can cause pain and tenderness, and if there's an associated infection, fever might be present.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can present with localized pain, tenderness, and fever. It's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to prevent long-term damage.
- Septic Arthritis: An infection within a joint, which can cause pain, swelling, and fever. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent joint destruction.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although rare in children, DVT can cause calf tenderness and swelling, and it's a medical emergency due to the risk of pulmonary embolism.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can spread and cause serious complications if not treated promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Leukemia: Certain types of leukemia can cause bone and muscle pain, including calf tenderness, due to infiltration of malignant cells.
- Muscular Dystrophy: A group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness, but some forms can present acutely with muscle pain and tenderness.
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A genetic disorder affecting connective tissue, which can lead to joint hypermobility and occasionally to muscle pain and tenderness due to musculoskeletal complications.
- Fasciitis: An inflammation of the fascia, the soft tissue component of the connective tissue that underlies the skin, which can cause pain, swelling, and fever.