What is the diagnosis for a patient presenting with penile discharge, hyponatremia (Sodium 126), hyperkalemia (Potassium 5.7), hypochloremia (Chloride 90), metabolic acidosis (CO2 18, Anion Gap 24), elevated C-Reactive Protein (CRP 27.2), bacteriuria (urinalysis shows bacteria), proteinuria (Protein 30 mg/dL), and scrotal pain, with abdominal X-ray showing moderate stool volume in the colon and urinalysis indicating moderate bilirubinuria?

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Differential Diagnosis

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) with possible sepsis: The presence of penile discharge, bacteria in urinalysis, and elevated CRP (27.2) strongly suggests a UTI. The abnormal electrolyte levels (sodium 126, potassium 5.7, chloride 90, CO2 18, anion gap 24) could indicate a severe infection leading to sepsis, which would explain the scrotal pain and systemic inflammation.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Epididymitis: Given the scrotal pain and penile discharge, epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) is a plausible diagnosis, possibly caused by a bacterial infection.
    • Prostatitis: The symptoms of penile discharge and scrotal pain, along with the urinalysis findings, could also suggest prostatitis, especially if the discharge is from the prostate.
    • Urethritis: This condition, characterized by inflammation of the urethra, could explain the penile discharge and is often caused by bacterial infections.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Sepsis: Although mentioned as part of the single most likely diagnosis, it's crucial to highlight sepsis separately due to its high mortality rate if not promptly treated. The elevated CRP, abnormal electrolytes, and presence of a UTI suggest sepsis as a critical condition not to miss.
    • Testicular torsion: Although less likely given the presence of infection signs, testicular torsion is a medical emergency that can cause scrotal pain and must be ruled out to prevent testicular loss.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Reiter's syndrome: A rare condition that involves urethritis, conjunctivitis, and arthritis, following a bacterial infection. It could be considered if the patient has additional symptoms like arthritis or eye inflammation.
    • Tuberculosis of the genitourinary tract: Although rare, it could present with chronic symptoms including discharge and systemic symptoms like weight loss and fever, especially in endemic areas or in immunocompromised patients.

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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