Differential Diagnosis for the Patient's Condition

The patient presents with a sore throat and raspy voice, which suggests an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Given her symptoms and history, the following differential diagnoses can be considered:

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Laryngitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms of a sore throat and raspy voice, especially considering her occupation as a college faculty member who lectures regularly. The strain on her vocal cords from lecturing and cheering at a sporting event could have contributed to the development of laryngitis.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Pharyngitis: Although the patient's symptoms could also suggest pharyngitis, the presence of a raspy voice leans more towards laryngitis. However, pharyngitis remains a possible diagnosis given the overlap in symptoms.
  • Common Cold: The patient initially experienced postnasal drip, which is a common symptom of the common cold. However, the progression to a sore throat and raspy voice without fever or myalgia makes this less likely but still a consideration.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • COVID-19: Although the patient denies fever and myalgia, and rapid diagnostic tests are negative, COVID-19 can present with a variety of symptoms, including sore throat. Given the potential severity and the importance of early detection, COVID-19 should not be missed, even if it seems less likely based on the initial presentation.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Other rare causes of URTIs or laryngitis, such as fungal infections or autoimmune conditions, could be considered but are less likely given the patient's presentation and medical history. These would typically require additional specific symptoms or findings not mentioned in the case.