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Differential Diagnosis for Cobblestoning of Tonsils

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Infectious Mononucleosis: This condition, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is a common cause of cobblestoning of the tonsils, especially in adolescents and young adults. The appearance is due to lymphoid hyperplasia and infiltration of the tonsillar tissue.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Streptococcal Pharyngitis: Although more commonly associated with exudative pharyngitis, streptococcal infections can also cause lymphoid hyperplasia leading to a cobblestone appearance.
  • Recurrent Tonsillitis: Chronic or recurrent tonsillitis can lead to lymphoid hyperplasia and the cobblestone appearance due to repeated infections and inflammation.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: Postnasal drip from allergic rhinitis can lead to chronic irritation and inflammation of the tonsils, potentially resulting in a cobblestone appearance.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Lymphoma: Although rare, lymphoma (such as Hodgkin lymphoma or non-Hodgkin lymphoma) can present with lymphoid hyperplasia and cobblestoning of the tonsils. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences.
  • AIDS: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome can lead to various opportunistic infections and lymphoid hyperplasia, including cobblestoning of the tonsils. Early diagnosis is crucial for management.
  • Tuberculosis: In some cases, especially in endemic areas, tuberculosis can affect the tonsils, leading to a cobblestone appearance. It's a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its public health implications and the need for specific treatment.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Sarcoidosis: This autoimmune disease can rarely affect the tonsils, leading to granulomatous inflammation and potentially a cobblestone appearance.
  • Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect various parts of the body, including the tonsils, leading to inflammation and potentially cobblestoning.
  • Kawasaki Disease: Although primarily affecting children and causing vasculitis, Kawasaki disease can lead to lymphoid hyperplasia and potentially a cobblestone appearance of the tonsils in rare cases.

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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