Differential Diagnosis for Strep Throat with Right Sided Neck Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Strep Throat (Acute Pharyngitis): This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of strep throat for 2 weeks, which can sometimes be accompanied by neck pain due to lymphadenopathy or inflammation of the throat.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Mononucleosis (Infectious Mononucleosis): Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, it can present with sore throat, fever, and lymphadenopathy, which could explain the neck pain.
- Lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck, which could be due to a bacterial or viral infection, and could be related to the strep throat or a separate infection.
- Peritonsillar Abscess: A complication of tonsillitis where an abscess forms beside the tonsils, which could cause severe throat pain and neck pain on one side.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lemierre's Syndrome: A rare but serious condition that starts with a sore throat and progresses to include neck pain and swelling due to a thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein, often caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum.
- Retropharyngeal Abscess: A serious infection in the tissues in the back of the throat, which can cause severe neck pain and stiffness, and can lead to airway obstruction if not promptly treated.
- Epidural Abscess: A collection of pus in the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord, which can cause neck pain, fever, and neurological symptoms, and requires urgent medical attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tuberculous Lymphadenitis: Although rare in many parts of the world, this condition can cause chronic neck pain and lymphadenopathy, and should be considered in patients with risk factors for tuberculosis.
- Neck Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors of the neck can cause persistent neck pain and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if other symptoms such as weight loss or a palpable mass are present.
- Actinomycosis: A rare bacterial infection that can cause chronic inflammation and abscesses in the neck and throat area, often related to dental problems or oral surgery.