Differential Diagnosis

The patient presents with ear pain and swollen, painful left neck and jaw, which have persisted for 2 weeks following an illness. Here's a categorized differential diagnosis:

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Otitis Media: Given the history of recent illness and persistent ear pain, otitis media (middle ear infection) is a strong consideration. The infection could have led to Eustachian tube dysfunction, causing referred pain to the neck and jaw.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Dental Abscess or Infection: The pain in the jaw and neck could be referred from a dental issue, such as an abscess or infected tooth. This is a common cause of localized pain and swelling.
  • Lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck could be causing the pain and swelling, potentially as a result of a recent infection.
  • Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: TMJ disorders can cause jaw pain and swelling, which might be exacerbated by or related to the recent illness.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Ludwig's Angina: A severe infection of the tissues in the neck, which can cause significant swelling and pain. Although less likely, it's a medical emergency that requires prompt attention.
  • Parotid Gland Infection or Abscess: Infections of the parotid gland can cause severe pain and swelling in the jaw and neck area, potentially leading to serious complications if not treated.
  • Cancer (e.g., Oral, Oropharyngeal, or Metastatic): Although rare and less likely in this context, cancers in the head and neck region can present with pain, swelling, and a history of recent, unexplained illness.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Tuberculous Lymphadenitis: A rare condition in many parts of the world, but it can cause chronic swelling and pain in the lymph nodes of the neck.
  • Actinomycosis: A chronic bacterial infection that can cause abscesses and swelling in the face and neck, though it's relatively rare and often associated with specific risk factors (e.g., poor dental hygiene, immunocompromised state).
  • Sialadenitis (Salivary Gland Inflammation): Inflammation of the salivary glands can cause pain and swelling, but it's less common compared to other diagnoses listed here.

Each of these diagnoses should be considered in the context of the patient's full medical history, physical examination, and potentially, further diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of their symptoms.