Differential Diagnosis for Yellow-White Plaques on the Esophagus
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Candida esophagitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the characteristic appearance of yellow-white plaques on the esophagus, which is a common presentation of Candida infection, especially in immunocompromised patients.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic esophagitis: Although less common, eosinophilic esophagitis can present with esophageal plaques or rings, and it's an important consideration, especially in patients with a history of atopy or food allergies.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Chronic GERD can lead to esophageal mucosal changes, including plaques or ulcerations, although these are not typically yellow-white.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Esophageal cancer: Although rare, esophageal cancer can present with plaques or masses on the esophagus, and it's crucial to rule out this diagnosis, especially in older patients or those with a history of smoking or alcohol use.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) esophagitis: HSV esophagitis can present with vesicular or ulcerative lesions, which may appear as plaques, and it's essential to consider this diagnosis, especially in immunocompromised patients.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Histoplasmosis: This fungal infection can cause esophageal plaques or ulcerations, especially in immunocompromised patients, but it's a rare consideration.
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) esophagitis: CMV esophagitis can present with esophageal ulcers or plaques, but it's a rare diagnosis, typically seen in severely immunocompromised patients.