Differential Diagnosis for Tara's Symptoms

Given Tara's symptoms of a bad chesty cough, sore throat, and overall skin sensitivity, the following differential diagnoses can be considered:

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Acute Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (e.g., common cold or flu): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the combination of symptoms such as a chesty cough and sore throat, which are typical of viral upper respiratory infections. The skin sensitivity could be related to a viral rash or general malaise associated with the infection.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Acute Bronchitis: This condition, often caused by a viral infection, could explain the chesty cough. The sore throat could be a precursor or a concurrent symptom.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: If Tara is experiencing allergies, this could lead to a sore throat and cough due to postnasal drip. Skin sensitivity might be related to allergic reactions.
  • Pharyngitis (caused by viruses or bacteria): This could explain the sore throat, and if the causative agent is viral, it might also account for the cough and general feeling of being unwell.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Pneumonia: Although less likely given the description, pneumonia is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. It can present with cough, sore throat (due to swallowing infected sputum), and systemic symptoms like skin sensitivity due to fever or the body's immune response.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): While rare in many populations, TB can cause a chronic cough, sore throat, and systemic symptoms including skin manifestations. It's crucial to consider TB, especially if Tara has been exposed or has risk factors.
  • Sarcoidosis: This autoimmune disease can cause a variety of symptoms including cough, sore throat, and skin rashes. It's less common but important to diagnose due to its potential for serious complications.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Histoplasmosis or other fungal infections: These can cause respiratory symptoms and, in rare cases, skin manifestations. They are more common in specific geographic areas or in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis): These conditions can cause a wide range of symptoms including skin sensitivity, sore throat, and cough, though they would typically be accompanied by other systemic symptoms.
  • Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can cause systemic symptoms including cough, sore throat, and skin lesions, though this would be a rare initial presentation.

Each of these diagnoses should be considered in the context of Tara's full medical history, physical examination, and potentially further diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of her symptoms.