Differential Diagnosis for Acute Onset of Confusion in a Middle-Aged Man
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Stroke (Ischemic or Hemorrhagic): The acute onset of confusion, slurred speech, and weakness are classic signs of a stroke. The presence of a device with a connecting white wire on the left upper hand, possibly an ECG monitor or a pacemaker, and the mention of an ECG in the field being normal, suggests that cardiac causes are being considered, but the neurological symptoms point more towards a stroke.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Seizure: The confusion and slurred speech could be post-ictal symptoms following a seizure. The diaphoretic skin could indicate a recent seizure activity.
- Hypoglycemia: Although the vitals are stable, hypoglycemia can cause confusion, slurred speech, and weakness. The diaphoretic skin also supports this diagnosis.
- Infection (Meningitis or Encephalitis): Infections affecting the central nervous system can present with acute confusion, altered mental status, and sometimes focal neurological signs.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cardiac Arrest or Arrhythmia: Despite the ECG in the field being normal, cardiac issues can rapidly evolve. The device on the hand might indicate a concern for cardiac rhythm, and missing a cardiac cause could be fatal.
- Status Epilepticus: Continuous or recurrent seizure activity without full recovery between seizures is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A sudden, severe headache (though not mentioned, could be part of the confusion and altered mental status) and altered mental status could indicate a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is life-threatening.
Rare Diagnoses
- Wernicke's Encephalopathy: This is a rare condition caused by thiamine deficiency, often seen in alcoholics, presenting with confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia.
- Hashimoto's Encephalopathy: A rare condition associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, presenting with altered mental status, seizures, and stroke-like symptoms.
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: A rare, degenerative, fatal brain disorder that can present with rapid decline in cognitive and motor functions, including confusion and speech difficulties.