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Differential Diagnosis for a 96 year old female, 107 lb, with BP 190/100

Single most likely diagnosis

  • Hypertension: Given the patient's age and significantly elevated blood pressure (190/100), hypertension is the most straightforward and likely diagnosis. The patient's blood pressure is significantly above the normal range, indicating either uncontrolled hypertension or a new onset of hypertension that needs immediate attention.

Other Likely diagnoses

  • White Coat Hypertension: Although less likely given the severity of the elevation, it's possible that the patient's blood pressure is elevated due to anxiety or stress caused by being in a medical setting.
  • Medication-induced Hypertension: Certain medications can cause an increase in blood pressure. Given the patient's age, she may be on multiple medications, some of which could be contributing to her hypertension.
  • Sleep Apnea: This condition is common in the elderly and can lead to elevated blood pressure due to intermittent hypoxia and increased sympathetic tone.
  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): CKD can cause hypertension due to fluid overload and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)

  • Pheochromocytoma: Although rare, pheochromocytoma can cause severe hypertension and would be catastrophic if missed. It's essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has paroxysmal symptoms.
  • Aortic Dissection: Severe hypertension can be both a cause and a result of aortic dissection. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate diagnosis and treatment.
  • Hyperthyroidism: Thyrotoxic crisis can present with hypertension among other symptoms. Given the potential severity of this condition, it should not be overlooked.
  • Renal Artery Stenosis: This condition can cause secondary hypertension due to decreased renal perfusion leading to renin release.

Rare diagnoses

  • Cushing's Syndrome: A rare endocrine disorder that can cause hypertension due to excess cortisol production.
  • Primary Aldosteronism: A condition characterized by excess aldosterone production, leading to hypertension and hypokalemia.
  • Thyroid Storm: A life-threatening condition that requires immediate recognition and treatment, which can present with hypertension among other symptoms.
  • Coarctation of the Aorta: A congenital condition that can present late in life with hypertension, although it's extremely rare in a 96-year-old patient without a previous diagnosis.

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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