Differential Diagnosis for Calcified Subcarinal and Right Infrahilar Region
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Histoplasmosis: This is a common cause of calcified lymph nodes in the subcarinal and infrahilar regions, particularly in endemic areas. Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that can cause granulomatous disease, often resulting in calcification of affected lymph nodes.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis: Another common cause of calcified lymph nodes, tuberculosis can lead to granulomatous disease and subsequent calcification, especially in the subcarinal and infrahilar regions.
- Sarcoidosis: While sarcoidosis can cause calcification, it more commonly results in non-calcified lymphadenopathy. However, it remains a consideration due to its propensity to affect the mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes.
- Silicosis: This occupational lung disease can lead to calcification of lymph nodes, particularly in individuals with a history of silica exposure.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Although less likely to present with calcification, lymphoma can occasionally show calcified lymph nodes, especially after treatment. Missing this diagnosis could have significant consequences.
- Metastatic Disease: Certain malignancies, such as osteosarcoma or mucinous adenocarcinomas, can metastasize to lymph nodes and cause calcification. While rare, this possibility should not be overlooked due to its potential impact on patient management and prognosis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PCP): In rare cases, especially in immunocompromised patients, PCP can lead to calcified lymph nodes, although this is not a common presentation.
- Coccidioidomycosis: This fungal infection, endemic in certain regions of the Americas, can cause calcified lymph nodes, but it is less common than histoplasmosis in most areas.
- Berylliosis (Chronic Beryllium Disease): An occupational disease caused by beryllium exposure, it can lead to granulomatous disease and, rarely, calcification of lymph nodes.