Differential Diagnosis for 82-year-old Female with Shortness of Breath
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) exacerbation: The patient's symptoms of shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and production of mucus are consistent with a COPD exacerbation. The fact that she has albuterol and experienced relief after ejecting mucus further supports this diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Asthma exacerbation: Although the patient barely uses her albuterol, an asthma exacerbation could still be a possibility, especially if she has a history of asthma.
- Pneumonia: The patient's symptoms of shortness of breath and mucus production could be indicative of pneumonia, especially in an elderly patient.
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): CHF can cause shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, especially in elderly patients.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Although the patient does not have chest pain, a PE can still occur without chest pain, especially in elderly patients. It is crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate.
- Cardiac Tamponade: Cardiac tamponade can cause shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, and it is essential to consider this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate if left untreated.
- Pneumothorax: A pneumothorax can cause shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, and it is crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has a history of lung disease.
- Rare diagnoses
- Cystic Fibrosis: Although rare in elderly patients, cystic fibrosis can cause chronic respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath and mucus production.
- Bronchiectasis: Bronchiectasis is a rare condition that can cause chronic respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath and mucus production.