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Differential Diagnosis for Conjunctivitis, Rash, and Joint Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Reactive Arthritis: This condition is characterized by the combination of conjunctivitis, rash, and joint pain, often following a gastrointestinal or urinary tract infection. It fits well with the symptoms described.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: While it primarily causes joint pain and swelling, some patients can develop conjunctivitis and skin rashes. The presence of joint pain is a key feature.
  • Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus can cause a wide range of symptoms including joint pain, rashes, and conjunctivitis. It's an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems in the body.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: This condition combines the swollen, scaly skin of psoriasis with joint pain and arthritis. Conjunctivitis can also occur, making it a plausible diagnosis.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Gonococcal Infection: Gonorrhea can cause conjunctivitis, rash, and joint pain (especially in the form of septic arthritis), making it a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its potential for serious complications if untreated.
  • Lyme Disease: Caused by a tick bite, Lyme disease can lead to conjunctivitis, rash (erythema migrans), and joint pain. It's essential to consider this diagnosis, especially in individuals who spend time outdoors in endemic areas.
  • Kawasaki Disease: Although more common in children, Kawasaki disease can cause conjunctivitis, rash, and joint pain, along with other symptoms. It's a condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent cardiac complications.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Relapsing Polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation in various cartilaginous structures, leading to symptoms like conjunctivitis, rash, and joint pain, among others.
  • Sarcoidosis: This condition can affect multiple parts of the body and might cause conjunctivitis, skin rashes, and joint pain. It's characterized by the formation of granulomas in affected organs.
  • Whipple's Disease: A rare, systemic bacterial infection that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including joint pain, skin rash, and eye inflammation, although it's much less common and typically presents with gastrointestinal symptoms.

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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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