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Differential Diagnosis for Canker Sore with Fever

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS): This condition is characterized by the periodic appearance of benign, painful ulcers (canker sores) in the oral cavity, often accompanied by fever, especially if the ulcers become secondarily infected. It's a common condition that matches the symptoms described.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection: HSV can cause oral ulcers that resemble canker sores, and primary infections are often accompanied by fever. The presence of multiple small vesicles that rupture to form ulcers is a hallmark.
  • Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD): Caused by viruses like Coxsackievirus A, HFMD can present with oral ulcers and fever, along with a rash on the hands and feet.
  • Infectious Mononucleosis: This condition, caused by Epstein-Barr virus, can lead to fever and oral ulcers, among other symptoms like sore throat and lymphadenopathy.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Acute Leukemia: Although rare, acute leukemia can present with oral ulcers and fever due to bone marrow suppression leading to immunocompromised states. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
  • Agranulocytosis: A potentially life-threatening reduction in white blood cells can lead to oral ulcers and fever due to the body's inability to fight off infections.
  • HIV Infection: Primary HIV infection can manifest with oral ulcers and fever, among other symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial for management and prognosis.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Behçet's Disease: A rare condition characterized by recurrent oral ulcers, genital ulcers, and uveitis. Fever can be present during active phases.
  • Pemphigus Vulgaris: An autoimmune disease causing blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, which can lead to oral ulcers and fever if there's significant mucosal involvement.
  • Erythema Multiforme: A skin condition that can also affect the mucous membranes, leading to oral ulcers and fever, often in response to an infection or medication.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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