Differential Diagnosis for an 18-month-old with Fever, Elevated WBC, and Neutrophilia
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral or Bacterial Infection: The presentation of fever, elevated white blood cell count (WBC) of 15, and neutrophilia (neutrophils absolute 11.2, neutro auto 74.8) in an 18-month-old child is most suggestive of an acute infection. The high percentage of neutrophils (74.8%) and the absolute neutrophil count indicate a likely bacterial infection, although viral infections can also present with neutrophilia, especially in young children.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Given the age and symptoms, a UTI is a plausible diagnosis, especially if the child is not yet toilet-trained and thus more susceptible to such infections. The elevated WBC and neutrophilia support this possibility.
- Pneumonia: Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, can present with fever, elevated WBC, and neutrophilia. Clinical signs like cough, difficulty breathing, or chest retractions would support this diagnosis.
- Gastroenteritis: Although often associated with lymphocytosis, bacterial gastroenteritis can cause neutrophilia. Symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain would be indicative of this condition.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningitis: Although less common, bacterial meningitis is a critical diagnosis that must not be missed due to its high morbidity and mortality. Symptoms can be non-specific in young children but may include fever, irritability, and signs of increased intracranial pressure.
- Sepsis: The combination of fever, elevated WBC, and neutrophilia could indicate sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention. Clinical signs of sepsis include systemic signs of infection plus organ dysfunction.
- Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis: These conditions, although less common, can present with fever and elevated inflammatory markers. Local signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, or decreased mobility of a limb, would suggest these diagnoses.
Rare Diagnoses
- Leukemia: Although rare, leukemia can present with elevated WBC counts. However, the differential count would typically show blast cells or an abnormal distribution of cell types, not just neutrophilia.
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): Systemic JIA can present with fever and elevated inflammatory markers, including WBC. However, other systemic symptoms and joint involvement would typically be present.
- Kawasaki Disease: This condition can cause fever, elevated WBC, and other systemic signs. Specific criteria, including rash, conjunctivitis, and changes to the lips and oral cavity, are required for diagnosis.