Differential Diagnosis for a 14-Year-Old Female with Sore Throat, Swelling, and Weakness
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Pharyngitis: This is the most common cause of sore throat in adolescents, often accompanied by swelling of the lymph nodes and general weakness due to the viral infection.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Streptococcal Pharyngitis: Caused by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, this condition presents with sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. It's a common bacterial infection in this age group that requires antibiotic treatment.
- Mononucleosis (Infectious Mononucleosis): Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, it can lead to sore throat, significant lymph node swelling, and profound weakness or fatigue.
- Allergic Reactions: Could cause swelling and potentially weakness if severe, though the sore throat might be less prominent unless it involves the throat directly.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Epiglottitis: Although rare, it's a medical emergency that can cause severe sore throat and swelling, potentially leading to airway obstruction. It requires immediate attention.
- Retropharyngeal Abscess: A serious condition that can cause sore throat, swelling, and weakness due to the infection's proximity to vital structures, potentially leading to airway compromise.
- Lymphoma: Though less common, it could present with persistent swelling of lymph nodes, sore throat, and systemic symptoms like weakness.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Diphtheria: A bacterial infection that can cause a severe sore throat and swelling, characterized by a membrane covering the tonsils and throat. It's rare in areas with good vaccination coverage.
- Lemierre's Syndrome: A rare condition following a sore throat, characterized by the development of a bacterial infection in the jugular vein, leading to sepsis and potentially life-threatening complications.
- Kawasaki Disease: An acute febrile illness that can present with sore throat, lymph node swelling, and other systemic symptoms, though it's more commonly associated with younger children.