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Differential Diagnosis for a Teenage Boy with Fever, Fatigue, and Lymph Node Swelling

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono): This condition, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is common in teenagers and presents with fever, fatigue, and lymphadenopathy (lymph node swelling), making it a highly plausible diagnosis given the symptoms.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Streptococcal Pharyngitis: Although more commonly associated with sore throat, streptococcal infections can cause fever, fatigue, and lymph node swelling, especially in the cervical region.
  • Influenza: During flu season, influenza can present with systemic symptoms including fever, fatigue, and sometimes lymphadenopathy, particularly if there is a secondary bacterial infection.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): While less common in some regions, TB can cause chronic fever, fatigue, and lymph node swelling, especially in individuals who have been exposed or have compromised immune systems.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Hodgkin Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can present with lymph node swelling, fever, and fatigue. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis to ensure timely treatment.
  • Leukemia: Certain types of leukemia can cause similar symptoms, including lymphadenopathy, fever, and fatigue due to bone marrow infiltration.
  • Lymphoma (Non-Hodgkin): Another form of cancer that affects the immune system and can present with these symptoms, necessitating a thorough diagnostic workup.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that involves an overgrowth of cells in the body's lymph nodes, which can cause fever, fatigue, and lymphadenopathy.
  • Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that affects the lymph nodes, causing fever, fatigue, and lymphadenopathy, more commonly seen in young women but can occur in men.
  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection: While CMV can cause a mononucleosis-like syndrome, it's less common than EBV and typically affects immunocompromised individuals or those who have received organ transplants.

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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