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Differential Diagnosis for Lymphadenopathy with No Cancer

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Infectious Mononucleosis: This condition, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is a common cause of lymphadenopathy in otherwise healthy individuals. The presence of fever, sore throat, and fatigue can support this diagnosis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Tuberculosis (TB): Although less common in some regions, TB is a significant cause of lymphadenopathy worldwide. A history of exposure, travel to endemic areas, or symptoms like cough and weight loss can suggest TB.
  • Reactive Lymphadenitis: This is a non-specific response to infection or inflammation elsewhere in the body. It can be caused by a variety of viral or bacterial infections and typically resolves on its own.
  • Sarcoidosis: An autoimmune disease that can cause lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by other symptoms like skin lesions, eye problems, or respiratory issues.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • HIV Infection: Early stages of HIV can present with lymphadenopathy, and it's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to prevent progression to AIDS.
  • Lymphoma (although cancer was ruled out, it's essential to ensure thorough evaluation): Certain types of lymphoma might not be immediately apparent on initial biopsy, emphasizing the need for comprehensive diagnostic workup.
  • Cat-Scratch Disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, transmitted through cat scratches. It can lead to significant lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that involves an overgrowth of cells in the body's lymph nodes. It can present with lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms like fever and weight loss.
  • Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that causes lymphadenopathy, typically in the neck, and is more common in young women.
  • Kimura Disease: A chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by eosinophilia and typically affects Asian males.

Each of these diagnoses has distinct features and requires careful consideration of the patient's history, physical examination, and laboratory findings for accurate diagnosis and management.

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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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