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Differential Diagnosis for Migrating Arthritis and Fever

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Lyme Disease: This is often considered the most likely diagnosis due to its prevalence and the classic presentation of migrating arthritis (especially in the knees) and fever, following a tick bite in endemic areas.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Rheumatic Fever: A complication of untreated streptococcal infection, characterized by migrating polyarthritis, fever, and other symptoms like carditis and chorea.
  • Gonococcal Arthritis: Caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, it presents with migrating arthritis, fever, and often skin lesions, particularly in sexually active young adults.
  • Viral Arthritis: Various viruses (e.g., parvovirus B19, hepatitis B and C, and HIV) can cause arthritis that may mimic a migrating pattern, accompanied by fever and other systemic symptoms.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Septic Arthritis: Although it typically presents with a single joint involvement, in some cases, it can appear as migrating arthritis if multiple joints are sequentially infected. It's crucial to identify and treat promptly to prevent joint destruction.
  • Endocarditis: Infective endocarditis can cause fever and arthralgias/arthritis due to immune complex deposition or septic emboli. It's a life-threatening condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment.
  • Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can present with systemic symptoms including fever and arthralgias/arthritis. Although rare, missing this diagnosis can have significant consequences.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Whipple's Disease: A rare, systemic bacterial infection (Tropheryma whipplei) that can cause migrating arthritis, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms among others.
  • Relapsing Polychondritis: An autoimmune disorder that can lead to episodes of arthritis, fever, and cartilage inflammation, affecting various parts of the body.
  • Sarcoidosis: Although more commonly associated with pulmonary symptoms, sarcoidosis can occasionally present with arthritis and fever, among its wide range of possible manifestations.

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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