Differential Diagnosis for Mouth Ulcers with Aseptic Meningitis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Behçet's Disease: This condition is characterized by recurrent mouth ulcers, genital ulcers, and uveitis, and it can also cause aseptic meningitis. The combination of mouth ulcers and aseptic meningitis makes Behçet's Disease a strong candidate for the diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection: HSV can cause both mouth ulcers (herpes labialis) and aseptic meningitis, especially in cases of primary infection. The presence of these two symptoms could suggest an HSV infection.
- Enteroviral Infection: Certain enteroviruses can cause aseptic meningitis and may also be associated with mouth ulcers, although this is less common.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE is an autoimmune disease that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including mouth ulcers and aseptic meningitis, particularly in patients with active disease.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Multiple Sclerosis: Although less likely, multiple sclerosis can present with aseptic meningitis and, in rare cases, oral ulcers. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment and significant morbidity.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: This autoimmune disorder primarily affects the exocrine glands, causing dry mouth and eyes, but it can also lead to aseptic meningitis and oral ulcers in some cases.
- Vasculitis (e.g., Giant Cell Arteritis, Wegener's Granulomatosis): Various forms of vasculitis can cause aseptic meningitis and oral ulcers, and missing these diagnoses could result in severe complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kawasaki Disease: Primarily seen in children, Kawasaki disease can cause mouth ulcers and, in rare instances, aseptic meningitis. It's essential to consider this in pediatric patients with these symptoms.
- Erythema Multiforme: This skin condition can cause mouth ulcers and, in severe cases (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), may be associated with aseptic meningitis, although this is rare.
- Sarcoidosis: Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease that can affect multiple organs and cause aseptic meningitis and oral ulcers, although this combination is uncommon.