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, wheezing, and production of mucus are consistent with a COPD exacerbation. The fact that she has albuterol but barely uses it suggests that she may have a history of COPD, and the recent worsening of symptoms could be due to an exacerbation.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Asthma exacerbation: Although the patient has albuterol, which is commonly used for asthma, her age and symptoms could also suggest an asthma exacerbation.
- Pneumonia: The patient's symptoms of shortness of breath, mucus production, and wheezing could be consistent with pneumonia, especially in an elderly patient.
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): CHF can cause shortness of breath, wheezing, and production of mucus, 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, PE can present with shortness of breath and wheezing, and is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Cardiac Tamponade: Cardiac tamponade can cause shortness of breath and wheezing, and is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Pneumothorax: A pneumothorax can cause shortness of breath and wheezing, and is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- 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.
- Interstitial Lung Disease: Interstitial lung disease is a rare condition that can cause shortness of breath and wheezing, especially in elderly patients.