Differential Diagnosis for Episodic Hypothermia
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hypothyroidism: This condition is a common cause of episodic hypothermia, particularly in older adults. Hypothyroidism can lead to decreased metabolism, which in turn can cause a drop in body temperature.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Sepsis: Sepsis can cause hypothermia, especially in elderly or immunocompromised patients. The body's response to infection can lead to a drop in body temperature.
- Adrenal insufficiency: This condition, also known as Addison's disease, can cause hypothermia due to the lack of cortisol and aldosterone production.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can cause hypothermia, particularly in patients with diabetes.
- Environmental exposure: Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause hypothermia, especially in individuals who are homeless, intoxicated, or have limited mobility.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Wernicke's encephalopathy: This condition, caused by thiamine deficiency, can present with hypothermia, confusion, and ataxia. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent brain damage.
- Myxedema coma: A life-threatening complication of hypothyroidism, myxedema coma can cause hypothermia, coma, and death if not promptly treated.
- Septic shock: A severe and life-threatening condition, septic shock can cause hypothermia, hypotension, and organ failure.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Shapiro syndrome: A rare condition characterized by episodic hypothermia, hyperhidrosis, and agenesis of the corpus callosum.
- Dysautonomia: A condition that affects the autonomic nervous system, dysautonomia can cause episodic hypothermia, among other symptoms.
- Certain medications: Such as beta-blockers, barbiturates, and sedatives, which can cause hypothermia as a side effect.