Differential Diagnosis for Hot Flashes, Night Sweats, Mood Swings, Vaginal Dryness, and Irregular Periods

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Perimenopause/Menopause: This condition is the most likely diagnosis given the combination of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods, which are all characteristic of the perimenopausal or menopausal transition.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Thyroid Dysfunction: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause mood swings, hot flashes, and irregular periods, making thyroid dysfunction a plausible alternative diagnosis.
• Premature Ovarian Failure (POF): Also known as premature ovarian insufficiency, POF can lead to symptoms similar to those of menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods, but it occurs in women under the age of 40.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): While PCOS is more commonly associated with irregular periods and hormonal imbalances, some women with PCOS may experience hot flashes and mood swings, although these are less common symptoms.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Pituitary Tumors: Although rare, pituitary tumors can disrupt hormonal balances, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods, mood swings, and potentially hot flashes if they affect thyroid or adrenal function.
• Adrenal Insufficiency: This condition, where the adrenal glands do not produce adequate hormones, can lead to a variety of symptoms including mood changes, irregular periods, and potentially hot flashes in some cases.
• Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: This condition involves the cessation of menstrual periods due to a problem with the hypothalamus and can be associated with stress, significant weight loss, or intense exercise, potentially leading to some of the symptoms described.

Rare Diagnoses

• Autoimmune Disorders (e.g., Hashimoto's Thyroiditis): While more commonly associated with thyroid dysfunction, in rare cases, autoimmune disorders can lead to a wide range of symptoms including some of those described.
• Neurological Disorders: Certain neurological conditions can affect hormone regulation and lead to symptoms like mood swings and irregular periods, although they would be less likely to cause the full spectrum of symptoms described.