Differential Diagnosis for Irritability in an 11-Month-Old
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Teething pain: At 11 months, children often experience teething pain, which can cause irritability due to the discomfort and pressure of emerging teeth.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ear infection (Otitis media): Ear infections are common in infants and can cause irritability, especially if the child is unable to express their discomfort.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): GERD can cause discomfort and pain, leading to irritability in infants.
- Overstimulation or fatigue: Infants can become overwhelmed by their environment or overtired, leading to irritability.
- Viral upper respiratory tract infection: Common colds or other viral infections can cause irritability in infants due to congestion, cough, and general discomfort.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningitis: Although less common, meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can present with irritability, fever, and other non-specific symptoms in infants.
- Intussusception: A condition where a part of the intestine slides into another, which can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and irritability.
- Testicular torsion: A medical emergency that can cause severe pain and irritability in male infants.
- Fracture or other injuries: Infants who are mobile may be at risk of injuries, which can cause irritability due to pain.
Rare Diagnoses
- Infantile spasms: A rare seizure disorder that can present with irritability and other behavioral changes.
- Metabolic disorders: Certain metabolic disorders, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, can cause irritability and other symptoms in infants.
- Neurological disorders: Conditions like cerebral palsy or other neurodevelopmental disorders can cause irritability and other behavioral changes in infants.
- Inborn errors of metabolism: Rare genetic disorders that affect the body's metabolism, which can cause a range of symptoms including irritability.