Differential Diagnosis for Fever with Rash and Hepatomegaly
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Hepatitis: This is a common condition that can cause fever, rash, and hepatomegaly due to inflammation of the liver. The rash can be a result of the body's immune response to the virus.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Infectious Mononucleosis: Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, it can lead to fever, rash (especially if the patient is given ampicillin), and hepatomegaly due to liver involvement.
- Toxoplasmosis: Although more commonly associated with lymphadenopathy, toxoplasmosis can cause hepatomegaly and, in rare cases, a rash, especially in immunocompromised patients.
- Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can cause fever, rash, and hepatomegaly, particularly in individuals who have been exposed to contaminated water.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningococcemia: A severe bacterial infection that can cause fever, rash (petechial or purpuric), and hepatomegaly. It is life-threatening and requires immediate treatment.
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: A tick-borne illness that can cause fever, rash, and hepatomegaly. It is critical to diagnose and treat promptly to prevent severe complications.
- Sepsis: Although not a specific disease, sepsis can result from various infections and cause fever, rash, and hepatomegaly. It is a medical emergency.
Rare Diagnoses
- Weil's Disease: A rare but severe form of leptospirosis that can cause fever, rash, and hepatomegaly, among other symptoms.
- Ehrlichiosis/Anaplasmosis: Tick-borne bacterial infections that can cause fever, rash, and hepatomegaly in some cases.
- Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH): A rare disorder of the immune system that can cause fever, rash, and hepatomegaly, often associated with a severe infection or autoimmune condition.