Differential Diagnosis for Sudden Fatigue and Random Itching
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hypothyroidism: This condition is characterized by fatigue, among other symptoms, and can sometimes present with skin symptoms like itching due to dry skin. It's a common condition that could explain both symptoms.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Anemia: Fatigue is a hallmark symptom of anemia, and itching can occur in some forms, such as iron deficiency anemia, due to the potential for associated pruritus.
- Diabetes Mellitus: While more commonly associated with symptoms like polyuria and polydipsia, diabetes can also cause fatigue and itching, particularly if blood sugar levels are not well-controlled.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Itching (pruritus) is a well-known symptom in patients with CKD, and fatigue is also common due to anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and the disease process itself.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: Although less common, Hodgkin lymphoma can present with systemic symptoms including fatigue and itching (pruritus), which can be severe and precede other symptoms.
- Multiple Myeloma: This plasma cell disorder can cause fatigue due to anemia and renal failure, and itching can occur due to elevated calcium levels or amyloidosis.
- Liver Disease (e.g., Primary Biliary Cholangitis): Certain liver diseases are known to cause severe itching without jaundice early in the disease course, along with fatigue.
Rare Diagnoses
- Polycythemia Vera: A myeloproliferative disorder that can cause itching (especially after warm baths) and fatigue, though it's less common than other diagnoses listed here.
- Neurological Disorders (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis): Some neurological conditions can present with fatigue and, less commonly, itching sensations, though these would typically be accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
- Paraneoplastic Syndromes: Rarely, itching and fatigue can be symptoms of a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with an underlying malignancy, affecting various organ systems.