Differential Diagnosis for Chronic Hard, Green Mucous in Nasal Cavity with Nasal Sores

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Chronic sinusitis: This condition is characterized by persistent inflammation of the sinuses, often leading to the production of thick, green mucous. The presence of nasal sores could be indicative of chronic irritation and infection.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Allergic rhinitis: Prolonged allergic reactions can cause chronic nasal congestion and production of thick mucous, which may appear green due to the presence of infection. Nasal sores could result from constant rubbing or blowing of the nose.
  • Vasomotor rhinitis: This non-allergic condition can cause chronic nasal congestion and discharge, potentially leading to the formation of hard, green mucous and nasal sores due to irritation.
  • Anatomical abnormalities (e.g., deviated septum): Abnormalities in the nasal passages can lead to poor drainage, causing mucous to become thick and discolored, and potentially leading to the development of nasal sores.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Nasal tuberculosis: Although rare, tuberculosis can manifest in the nasal cavity, causing chronic discharge, sores, and potentially hard, green mucous. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences due to the need for specific antimicrobial treatment.
  • Sarcoidosis: This autoimmune disease can affect the nasal passages, leading to chronic inflammation, mucous production, and sores. It's crucial not to miss this diagnosis due to its systemic implications and the need for appropriate management.
  • Nasal cancer: Although less likely, nasal cancer could present with chronic nasal symptoms, including hard, green mucous and sores. Early detection is critical for effective treatment and prognosis.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Primary ciliary dyskinesia: A genetic disorder affecting the motility of cilia in the respiratory tract, leading to chronic sinusitis and potentially the described symptoms.
  • Cystic fibrosis: An inherited disorder that affects mucous production, potentially causing chronic hard, green mucous in the nasal cavity, though it's more commonly associated with respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (formerly Wegener's granulomatosis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect the nasal passages, causing chronic inflammation, sores, and potentially the production of thick, discolored mucous.