Differential Diagnosis for Generalized Lymphadenopathy
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Infectious Mononucleosis: This is often the most common cause of generalized lymphadenopathy, especially in young adults. It is usually caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and presents with fever, sore throat, and fatigue, in addition to lymphadenopathy.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis: A common cause of generalized lymphadenopathy worldwide, especially in endemic areas. It can present with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss.
- HIV Infection: Early stages of HIV infection can cause generalized lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by other symptoms like fever, rash, and sore throat.
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can present with generalized lymphadenopathy, although other symptoms like weight loss and night sweats are common.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune disease that can cause generalized lymphadenopathy, along with other symptoms like joint pain, skin rash, and kidney problems.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma (again, due to its potential for being overlooked): Despite being listed under other likely diagnoses, lymphoma is critical not to miss due to its serious implications and the need for prompt treatment.
- Acute Leukemia: Can present with generalized lymphadenopathy, along with other symptoms like anemia, thrombocytopenia, and blasts on the peripheral smear.
- Cat-Scratch Disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, it typically presents with localized lymphadenopathy but can occasionally be generalized, especially if the diagnosis is delayed.
Rare Diagnoses
- Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that can cause generalized lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, weight loss, and fatigue.
- Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that causes lymphadenopathy, usually in the neck, but can be generalized in some cases.
- Sarcoidosis: Although more commonly associated with pulmonary symptoms, sarcoidosis can cause generalized lymphadenopathy, especially in the context of systemic disease.
- Whipple's Disease: A rare, systemic bacterial infection that can cause generalized lymphadenopathy, along with other symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, and arthralgias.