Differential Diagnosis for Night Sweats

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Tuberculosis (TB): Night sweats are a classic symptom of TB, especially in the context of other symptoms like cough, weight loss, and fever. The combination of these symptoms makes TB a leading consideration.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Lymphoma: Night sweats, along with fever and weight loss, are part of the B symptoms that can occur in lymphoma, making it a plausible diagnosis.
  • Menopause: Night sweats are a common symptom in menopausal women due to hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen levels.
  • Infections (e.g., endocarditis, osteomyelitis): Certain infections can cause night sweats, among other symptoms like fever and localized pain.
  • Hypoglycemia: Nocturnal hypoglycemia can cause sweating, including night sweats, especially in diabetic patients.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Pheochromocytoma: Although rare, this condition can cause night sweats due to episodic catecholamine release. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal due to the risk of hypertensive crises.
  • Hyperthyroidism: Can cause night sweats among other symptoms like weight loss, palpitations, and heat intolerance. Untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to serious complications.
  • HIV infection: Night sweats can be an early symptom of HIV infection. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment and progression to AIDS.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Carcinoid syndrome: This rare condition, often associated with neuroendocrine tumors, can cause flushing and sweating, including night sweats, due to the secretion of serotonin and other substances.
  • Neurological disorders (e.g., autonomic dysfunction): Certain rare neurological conditions can affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to abnormal sweating patterns, including night sweats.