Differential Diagnosis for Pedal Oedema with Eosinophilia
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Lymphatic Filariasis: This condition, caused by parasitic worms such as Wuchereria bancrofti, is a common cause of pedal edema (elephantiasis) in endemic areas and can be associated with eosinophilia due to the body's immune response to the parasites.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES): A group of disorders characterized by the overproduction of eosinophils, which can lead to organ damage, including the skin and potentially causing edema. Eosinophilia is a hallmark of this condition.
- Loeffler's Syndrome: A form of pulmonary eosinophilia that can occasionally present with peripheral edema, though it primarily affects the lungs.
- Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions can cause both eosinophilia and edema, particularly if there's an element of angioedema involved.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Eosinophilic Pneumonia: Although primarily a pulmonary condition, it can present with severe symptoms and requires prompt recognition and treatment. Edema might not be the primary symptom, but it can occur in the context of severe illness.
- Churg-Strauss Syndrome (Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis, EGPA): A form of vasculitis that can present with asthma, eosinophilia, and various systemic symptoms including edema. It's critical to diagnose due to its potential for severe organ damage.
Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic Fasciitis: A rare condition characterized by inflammation of the fascia (the tissue surrounding muscles) with eosinophilia, which can cause swelling and edema of the affected limbs.
- Tropical Pulmonary Eosinophilia (TPE): A condition related to filariasis but primarily affecting the lungs. While it's more commonly associated with pulmonary symptoms, it can occasionally present with systemic symptoms including edema.
- Idiopathic Eosinophilic Edema: A rare condition where edema is associated with eosinophilia without an identifiable cause, requiring a diagnosis of exclusion.