Differential Diagnosis for Nosebleed

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Dry air or minor trauma: This is the most common cause of nosebleeds, especially in children and dry environments. The nasal mucosa is delicate and can easily be damaged by dry air or minor injuries, leading to bleeding.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause nasal congestion and irritation, increasing the risk of nosebleeds.
  • Upper respiratory infections: Viral or bacterial infections can lead to inflammation and bleeding in the nasal passages.
  • Hypertension: High blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the nose to become fragile and prone to bleeding.
  • Nasal polyps or other anatomical abnormalities: Abnormal growths or structures within the nasal passages can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Tumor (e.g., nasopharyngeal carcinoma): Although rare, tumors in the nasal cavity or sinuses can cause nosebleeds and have serious consequences if left untreated.
  • Vascular malformations (e.g., arteriovenous malformation): Abnormal connections between blood vessels can lead to severe and recurrent nosebleeds.
  • Coagulopathy (e.g., hemophilia, bleeding disorders): Conditions that affect blood clotting can cause severe and prolonged nosebleeds.
  • Foreign body: Young children may insert objects into their noses, which can cause bleeding and potentially lead to serious complications if not removed.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome): A genetic disorder characterized by abnormal blood vessels, which can cause recurrent nosebleeds.
  • Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's granulomatosis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and bleeding in the nasal passages.
  • Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation and granulomas in various parts of the body, including the nasal passages, leading to bleeding.