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Differential Diagnosis for SOB in a 26 Week Pregnant Person

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Although not the most common, it's a leading concern due to the hypercoagulable state of pregnancy, which increases the risk of thromboembolic events. Symptoms of SOB, especially if acute in onset, warrant consideration of PE.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Asthma: Pre-existing asthma can worsen during pregnancy due to various physiological changes, including increased blood volume and airway hyperresponsiveness.
  • Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension: Can lead to pulmonary edema, causing shortness of breath.
  • Anemia: Common in pregnancy due to increased blood volume and demand for iron, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity and potential shortness of breath.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Symptoms can worsen during pregnancy, potentially causing respiratory discomfort or SOB.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Pulmonary Embolism (already mentioned but critical to reiterate): Due to its high mortality rate if not promptly treated.
  • Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A rare but catastrophic event that can occur during pregnancy, characterized by sudden onset of SOB, hypotension, and potentially cardiac arrest.
  • Placenta Previa or Abruption: Although primarily associated with bleeding, these conditions can lead to maternal hypovolemia and subsequent respiratory distress.
  • Cardiac Conditions (e.g., Peripartum Cardiomyopathy): New onset of cardiac dysfunction can present with SOB and is critical to diagnose and manage to prevent maternal and fetal morbidity.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (IPAH): Although rare, it can present during pregnancy with symptoms of SOB and has significant implications for maternal and fetal health.
  • Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM): A rare lung disease that can cause SOB, more commonly diagnosed in women of childbearing age.
  • Cystic Fibrosis: If not previously diagnosed, could present with respiratory symptoms during pregnancy due to increased respiratory demand and potential exacerbations.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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