Differential Diagnosis for a Patient with Known G6PD, Sore Throat, Fever, and Body Ache
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral pharyngitis: This is the most common cause of sore throat and is often accompanied by fever and body aches. The patient's symptoms are consistent with a viral upper respiratory infection, which is typically self-limiting.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial pharyngitis (e.g., streptococcal pharyngitis): Although less common than viral pharyngitis, bacterial causes of sore throat should be considered, especially if the patient has a high fever, significant tonsillar exudate, or other specific findings.
- Influenza: Given the symptoms of fever, body ache, and sore throat, influenza should be considered, particularly during flu season or in the context of a known outbreak.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Hemolytic crisis triggered by infection: In patients with known G6PD deficiency, infections can trigger hemolytic crises. Although the primary symptoms presented are suggestive of an upper respiratory infection, the underlying G6PD deficiency necessitates consideration of this potentially life-threatening complication.
- Epiglottitis: Although rare, epiglottitis is a serious condition that can present with sore throat and fever. It requires prompt recognition and treatment to prevent airway obstruction.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lemierre's syndrome: A rare condition characterized by bacterial pharyngitis followed by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. It's an uncommon but serious complication of pharyngitis.
- Mononucleosis: Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, it can present with sore throat, fever, and body aches, but typically includes other findings such as lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly.
- Diphtheria: A rare bacterial infection in areas with high vaccination coverage, but it can cause severe respiratory illness and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially in unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals.