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Last updated: October 17, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Green Nasal Discharge

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Viral Upper Respiratory Infection (URTI): This is the most common cause of green nasal discharge, often resulting from a viral infection that leads to inflammation and increased mucus production in the nasal passages.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Bacterial Sinusitis: A bacterial infection of the sinuses can cause green or yellow nasal discharge due to the presence of pus. This condition often follows a viral upper respiratory infection.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: Although typically associated with clear nasal discharge, allergic rhinitis can sometimes produce greenish discharge, especially if there is a secondary bacterial infection.
  • Vasomotor Rhinitis: This non-allergic condition can cause chronic nasal discharge, which may appear green if there is an associated infection.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Foreign Body in the Nose: Especially in children, a foreign body in the nasal cavity can cause persistent, foul-smelling green discharge from one nostril. This condition requires prompt medical attention to avoid complications.
  • Tumor or Cancer: Although rare, nasal or sinus tumors can cause abnormal nasal discharge, including green discharge, due to obstruction or infection.
  • Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA): A systemic vasculitis that can affect the respiratory tract, GPA may present with green nasal discharge among other symptoms like nasal crusting and destruction.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (Kartagener Syndrome): A genetic disorder affecting the cilia in the respiratory tract, leading to chronic infections and potentially green nasal discharge due to impaired mucus clearance.
  • Cystic Fibrosis: While more commonly associated with respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms, cystic fibrosis can lead to chronic sinusitis and green nasal discharge due to thick, sticky mucus.
  • Fungal Sinusitis: In immunocompromised individuals, fungal infections of the sinuses can cause green or black nasal discharge, depending on the type of fungus involved.

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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