Differential Diagnosis for Anasarca
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Nephrotic Syndrome: This condition is characterized by heavy proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema. The loss of albumin in the urine leads to decreased oncotic pressure, resulting in fluid accumulation in the interstitial space and anasarca.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): CHF can cause anasarca due to the inability of the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the body.
- Liver Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis can lead to anasarca due to portal hypertension, hypoalbuminemia, and the resulting fluid accumulation.
- Malnutrition: Severe malnutrition can cause hypoalbuminemia, leading to decreased oncotic pressure and anasarca.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Superior Vena Cava Syndrome: This condition, often caused by a tumor or thrombosis, can lead to anasarca by obstructing venous return from the upper body.
- Lymphoma or other malignancies: Certain cancers can cause anasarca through various mechanisms, including lymphatic obstruction or hypoalbuminemia.
- Sepsis: Severe sepsis can lead to anasarca due to increased vascular permeability and fluid accumulation.
- Rare diagnoses
- Myxedema: Severe hypothyroidism can cause anasarca due to the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the skin and interstitial space.
- Idiopathic edema: A rare condition characterized by recurrent episodes of edema without an identifiable cause.
- Familial amyloid polyneuropathy: A rare genetic disorder that can cause anasarca due to the accumulation of amyloid proteins in the body.