Differential Diagnosis for STI Causing Chronic Fatigue

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Chlamydia trachomatis: This bacterium is a common cause of sexually transmitted infections and can lead to chronic fatigue if left untreated. It often presents with mild or no symptoms, making it a likely candidate for chronic fatigue due to its potential to cause persistent infection.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): HIV infection can cause chronic fatigue among other symptoms. Early detection and treatment are crucial, making it an important consideration in the differential diagnosis.
  • Syphilis: Caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, syphilis can progress to a latent stage where it may cause non-specific symptoms like chronic fatigue if not treated.
  • Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV): This is another condition caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, specifically the L1-L3 serovars. It can lead to chronic symptoms, including fatigue, especially if the infection spreads to the rectum or genital areas.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Hepatitis B and C: These viral infections can be transmitted sexually and may cause chronic fatigue as part of their symptomatology. Missing these diagnoses could lead to severe liver damage and other complications.
  • Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV-1/2): Although less common, these viruses can be transmitted sexually and are associated with conditions that may present with chronic fatigue, such as adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV): While CMV can cause a mononucleosis-like syndrome with fatigue, it is less commonly considered a primary cause of chronic fatigue in the context of STIs compared to other viral infections.
  • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Though primarily known for causing genital ulcers, in rare cases, HSV can lead to more systemic symptoms, including fatigue, especially during initial outbreaks or in immunocompromised individuals.