Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: October 29, 2025 • View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Recurrent Sore Throat, Low Grade Fever, Body Aches, Fatigue, and Swollen Neck Glands

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono): Caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), this condition is characterized by recurrent sore throat, fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, which matches the patient's symptoms. The recurrence over several months could be due to a prolonged recovery period or repeated exposures.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Recurrent Pharyngitis: This could be due to bacterial (e.g., Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus) or viral infections. The frequency of episodes suggests an infectious etiology that is not being fully eradicated or is repeatedly acquired.
  • Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, which can be caused by both viral and bacterial pathogens, leading to sore throat, fever, and swollen neck glands.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: Though primarily associated with nasal symptoms, allergic rhinitis can also cause sore throat and fatigue, especially if postnasal drip is significant.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Hodgkin Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can present with recurrent infections, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and significantly swollen lymph nodes. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its severe implications and the need for early intervention.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): Although less common, TB can cause chronic symptoms including fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. It's a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its public health implications and the need for specific treatment.
  • HIV Infection: Individuals with HIV can experience recurrent infections due to their compromised immune system, including sore throats and swollen lymph nodes. Early diagnosis is vital for managing the disease and preventing complications.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Cyclic Neutropenia: A rare blood disorder characterized by periodic episodes of neutropenia, which can lead to recurrent infections, including sore throat and fever.
  • Periodic Fever Syndromes: A group of disorders that cause recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation, often accompanied by other symptoms like sore throat and fatigue. Examples include Familial Mediterranean Fever and Hyper-IgD syndrome.
  • Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that involves an overgrowth of cells in the body's lymph nodes, which can cause fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, among other symptoms.

Related Questions

What imaging modality is recommended for a large, firm, and growing mass on the upper back, previously reported as a fatty tumor by a general surgeon (General Surgeon), with indistinct edges and significant size?
What is the recommended dosage of antibiotics, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) or nitrofurantoin, for outpatient female urinary tract infection (UTI) prophylaxis?
What does an Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) of 20.89 indicate?
What is the recommended dose and frequency of Stiolto (tiotropium and olodaterol) for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
Does the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommend Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing for all oncological patients?
Does Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) lower blood pressure?

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.

Ask Question