Differential Diagnosis for a Virus Attacking the Liver and Spleen

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Hepatitis B: This virus is well-known for causing inflammation in the liver, which can lead to liver damage. It can also affect the spleen, particularly in cases of severe infection, leading to splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen).
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Hepatitis C: Similar to Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C primarily affects the liver, causing liver inflammation, but it can also lead to spleen enlargement due to portal hypertension, a complication of liver disease.
  • Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): EBV, the cause of infectious mononucleosis (mono), can lead to both liver and spleen involvement. The spleen can become enlarged and, in rare cases, may rupture.
  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV): CMV can cause a range of symptoms, including liver and spleen enlargement, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Ebola: Although rare, Ebola virus can cause severe liver and spleen dysfunction as part of its systemic infection, leading to hemorrhagic fever. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
  • Lassa Fever: This viral hemorrhagic fever can affect the liver and spleen, among other organs, and has a high mortality rate if not treated promptly.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Marburg Virus: Similar to Ebola, Marburg virus causes a severe hemorrhagic fever that can affect multiple organs, including the liver and spleen. It is rare but highly lethal.
  • Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: In its most severe form, dengue fever can cause liver enlargement and spleen rupture, among other complications. While not exclusively targeting the liver and spleen, it's a consideration in endemic areas.