Differential Diagnosis for a 16-year-old Female with Renal Issues
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Given the age and presentation of renal issues, CKD or AKI could be a primary concern due to various potential causes such as diabetes, hypertension, or infections that could lead to kidney damage.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Nephrotic Syndrome: Characterized by significant proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema, this condition is a common renal issue in adolescents and could be due to minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, or other glomerulopathies.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) or Pyelonephritis: These infections can cause renal issues and are more common in females due to anatomical reasons.
- Glomerulonephritis: This includes a range of diseases that cause inflammation of the glomeruli, such as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, which can follow a streptococcal infection.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Alport Syndrome: A genetic disorder characterized by kidney disease, hearing loss, and eye abnormalities. It's crucial to diagnose early for appropriate management and genetic counseling.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs, including the kidneys, causing lupus nephritis. Early diagnosis is critical due to the potential for severe renal and systemic complications.
- Vasculitis (e.g., ANCA-associated vasculitis): Conditions like Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) or Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA) can cause renal failure and have a high morbidity if not promptly treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cystinosis: A rare genetic disorder causing an accumulation of cystine within cells, leading to kidney damage and failure.
- Primary Hyperoxaluria: A rare genetic disorder leading to excessive oxalate production, causing kidney stones and renal failure.
- Fabry Disease: A genetic disorder due to the deficiency of alpha-Galactosidase A, leading to the accumulation of globotriaosylceramide in various cells, including renal cells, causing renal failure among other symptoms.