Differential Diagnosis for Diarrhea since going to Mexico

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Traveler's diarrhea (most commonly caused by Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC)): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the recent travel to Mexico, where contaminated food and water are common causes of diarrhea in travelers.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Viral gastroenteritis: Viruses such as norovirus and rotavirus can cause diarrhea and are commonly spread through contaminated food and water or person-to-person contact.
  • Giardiasis: Giardia lamblia is a parasite that can cause diarrhea and is often acquired through contaminated water.
  • Food poisoning (e.g., Salmonella, Shigella): Bacterial food poisoning can cause diarrhea and is a common issue in travelers who consume undercooked or contaminated food.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Cholera: Although less common, cholera is a life-threatening condition that can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
  • Dysentery (Shigella or Entamoeba histolytica): Dysentery can cause bloody diarrhea and is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis): Although less likely, these conditions can cause chronic diarrhea and require specific treatment.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Cyclosporiasis: This is a rare parasitic infection caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, which can cause prolonged diarrhea.
  • Cryptosporidiosis: This is a rare parasitic infection caused by Cryptosporidium species, which can cause diarrhea, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Brainerd diarrhea: This is a rare condition of unknown cause that can cause chronic diarrhea.