Differential Diagnosis for Night Sweats and Elevated CRP

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Tuberculosis (TB): Night sweats are a classic symptom of TB, and an elevated CRP indicates inflammation, which is consistent with an active infection like TB.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Lymphoma: Night sweats are a common symptom of lymphoma, particularly Hodgkin's lymphoma, and an elevated CRP suggests an underlying inflammatory or malignant process.
• Chronic Infections (e.g., endocarditis, osteomyelitis): These conditions can cause prolonged inflammation, leading to elevated CRP and night sweats due to the body's immune response.
• Autoimmune Disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus): Some autoimmune diseases can cause systemic inflammation, resulting in elevated CRP and night sweats.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• HIV/AIDS: Although less likely, HIV/AIDS can present with night sweats and elevated inflammatory markers like CRP. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences due to the importance of early treatment.
• Malignancies (e.g., lung, breast, or colon cancer): Certain cancers can cause night sweats and inflammation, leading to an elevated CRP. These conditions are critical to identify early for effective management.
• Sepsis: A severe, life-threatening condition that can cause elevated CRP and night sweats. Early recognition and treatment are crucial.

Rare Diagnoses

• Brucellosis: A rare bacterial infection that can cause night sweats, fever, and elevated inflammatory markers.
• Whipple's Disease: A rare, systemic bacterial infection that can lead to night sweats, weight loss, and elevated CRP among other symptoms.
• Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that can cause inflammation and immune system dysfunction, leading to symptoms like night sweats and elevated CRP.