Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: October 19, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for 60-year-old Male with CKD on Dialysis and Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO)

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Infection of the AV Fistula: This is a common complication in patients with vascular access for dialysis. The presence of a foreign body (the fistula) increases the risk of infection, which can lead to FUO.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection (CRBSI): Although the patient has a native vein AV fistula, if there have been any temporary catheters used, CRBSI could be a source of FUO.
  • Dialysis-Related Infections: Infections related to the dialysis process itself, such as peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis (less likely here since the access is a native vein AV fistula, suggesting hemodialysis) or exit site infections.
  • Chronic Bacterial Infections: Such as endocarditis, especially in the context of a prosthetic valve or previous endocarditis, though less common without specific risk factors.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Endocarditis: Although it might not be the first consideration without specific cardiac risk factors, endocarditis can be deadly if missed. The presence of a vascular access increases the risk of bacteremia, which can lead to endocarditis.
  • Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis: These conditions can present subtly, especially in patients with chronic diseases, and are critical to identify early due to their potential for significant morbidity and mortality.
  • Intra-abdominal Infections: Such as diverticulitis, cholecystitis, or abscesses, which can be masked by the chronic illness and dialysis but are life-threatening if not addressed.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Tuberculosis: Although less common, TB can cause FUO, especially in immunocompromised patients or those with chronic diseases like CKD.
  • Fungal Infections: Such as histoplasmosis or cryptococcosis, which are rare but can occur in immunocompromised patients, including those on long-term dialysis.
  • Non-infectious Inflammatory Conditions: Like giant cell arteritis or polymyalgia rheumatica, which can present with FUO and are important to consider in the differential diagnosis of older adults.

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.