Differential Diagnosis for Increased Appetite
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hyperthyroidism: This condition is often associated with increased appetite, weight loss, and other symptoms such as palpitations, tremors, and heat intolerance. The increased metabolic rate in hyperthyroidism can lead to a significant increase in appetite.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Diabetes Mellitus: Increased appetite (polyphagia) is a common symptom of uncontrolled diabetes, particularly type 1 diabetes, due to the body's inability to utilize glucose effectively, leading to hunger.
- Depression: Some individuals with depression may experience increased appetite, potentially leading to weight gain. This is often seen in atypical depression.
- Pregnancy: Increased appetite can be a symptom of pregnancy, due to hormonal changes and the increased nutritional demands of the fetus.
- Growth Hormone Excess (Acromegaly): Although rare, this condition can lead to increased appetite among other symptoms like excessive growth of hands, feet, and face.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodes of increased appetite, among other symptoms like hypertension, palpitations, and sweating. Missing this diagnosis can be life-threatening due to the risk of hypertensive crises.
- Insulinoma: A rare tumor of the pancreas that produces excess insulin, leading to hypoglycemia and increased appetite. Failing to diagnose insulinoma can result in severe hypoglycemic episodes.
- Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer, can cause increased appetite due to the body's attempt to compensate for the metabolic demands of the tumor.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kleine-Levin Syndrome: A rare neurological disorder characterized by recurring periods of excessive daytime sleepiness and automatic behavior, and during episodes, patients may exhibit increased appetite.
- Prader-Willi Syndrome: A genetic disorder that causes a constant hunger feeling, leading to overeating and obesity, among other developmental and physical symptoms.
- Bulimia Nervosa: An eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by purging, which can initially present with increased appetite before the full spectrum of the disorder becomes apparent.