Differential Diagnosis
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Contact dermatitis: The patient's report of a new lotion and a rash on the right side of her face, which she thinks may be caused by laying on her pillow or the new lotion, suggests a contact dermatitis. The rash's location and the patient's recent change in lotion make this a plausible explanation.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Viral pharyngitis: The patient's symptoms of sore throat and fever are consistent with a viral pharyngitis, which could be caused by a variety of viruses.
- Thrush (oral candidiasis): The little white patches on the patient's tongue could be indicative of thrush, especially given her history of thyroid cancer and potential immunocompromised state.
- Allergic reaction: The patient's rash and symptoms could also be indicative of an allergic reaction to the new lotion or another substance.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Infectious mononucleosis: Although less likely, infectious mononucleosis can cause sore throat, fever, and rash, and can be severe if left untreated.
- Lemierre's syndrome: This rare but potentially life-threatening condition is characterized by a sore throat, fever, and rash, and can progress to sepsis if not treated promptly.
- Thyroid storm: Given the patient's history of thyroid cancer, a thyroid storm is a potentially life-threatening condition that could be triggered by an infection or other stressor.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Kawasaki disease: This rare condition is characterized by fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and can be severe if left untreated.
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome: This rare but potentially life-threatening condition is characterized by a severe rash, blisters, and mucosal involvement, and can be triggered by an infection or allergic reaction.