Differential Diagnosis for Poor Appetite
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Depression: Poor appetite is a common symptom of depression, and it's essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has a history of mental health issues or is exhibiting other depressive symptoms.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD can cause discomfort while eating, leading to a decrease in appetite.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Similar to GERD, peptic ulcers can cause pain and discomfort during meals, resulting in poor appetite.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Decreased appetite is a common symptom of chronic kidney disease, particularly in advanced stages.
- Chronic Liver Disease: Liver disease can lead to a decrease in appetite due to the buildup of toxins and the body's inability to process nutrients.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cancer: Various types of cancer, such as pancreatic, stomach, or lung cancer, can cause a decrease in appetite. It's crucial to investigate further if other symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, or abdominal pain are present.
- Infections (e.g., Tuberculosis, HIV): Certain infections can lead to a decrease in appetite, and it's essential to consider these diagnoses, especially if the patient has a compromised immune system or is exhibiting other symptoms like fever or night sweats.
- Addison's Disease: This rare endocrine disorder can cause a decrease in appetite, among other symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): ALS can cause difficulty swallowing and eating, leading to a decrease in appetite.
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: This rare neurodegenerative disorder can cause a range of symptoms, including a decrease in appetite.
- Whipple's Disease: A rare bacterial infection that can cause malabsorption and a decrease in appetite.