Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Viral upper respiratory tract infection (URTI): This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of mild sore throat, light body aches, and yellow mucus, which are common in viral URTIs. The absence of fever and the improvement with rest also support this diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Acute bronchitis: The presence of yellow mucus and slight blood could suggest acute bronchitis, which is often caused by a viral infection.
- Sinusitis: The yellow mucus and slight sore throat could also indicate sinusitis, which can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
- Allergic rhinitis: The symptoms of sore throat and yellow mucus could be related to allergic rhinitis, especially if the patient has a history of allergies.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Bacterial pharyngitis (e.g., streptococcal pharyngitis): Although less likely, bacterial pharyngitis can present with similar symptoms and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
- Influenza: Although the patient did not have a fever, influenza can present with mild symptoms, especially in adults, and can be severe in newborns.
- Pertussis (whooping cough): This infection can be severe in newborns and can present with mild symptoms in adults, making it a "do not miss" diagnosis.
- Rare diagnoses
- Tuberculosis (TB): Although rare, TB can present with chronic cough, sore throat, and hemoptysis (coughing up blood), making it a consideration in the differential diagnosis.
- Fungal infections (e.g., histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis): These infections can present with respiratory symptoms, including sore throat and cough, and can be severe in immunocompromised individuals.
It's essential to note that the patient's symptoms have improved, and they do not have a fever, which suggests that they may not be highly contagious. However, to protect the newborn with jaundice, it's recommended to continue quarantine precautions until the patient is evaluated by a healthcare professional and cleared to be around the baby. Additionally, the healthcare professional can provide guidance on the best course of action to prevent transmission of any potential infection to the newborn.