Differential Diagnosis for Lisa's Condition
Based on Lisa's symptoms and recent travel history, the following differential diagnoses are considered:
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Influenza: Lisa's symptoms of fever, runny nose, and mildly swollen neck glands are consistent with a viral upper respiratory infection, such as influenza. The recent travel to Japan, where influenza can be prevalent, supports this diagnosis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Zika virus: Given the mosquito bite in a Zika virus warning area, Zika virus infection is a possible diagnosis. However, the symptoms of diarrhea, fever, and runny nose are not as typical for Zika virus, which often presents with rash, conjunctivitis, and joint pain.
- Enterovirus infection: The symptoms of diarrhea, fever, and mildly swollen neck glands could be consistent with an enterovirus infection, such as coxsackievirus or echovirus.
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection: RSV can cause upper respiratory symptoms, including runny nose and fever, especially in adults who have been exposed to the virus while traveling.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Dengue fever: Although less likely, dengue fever is a potentially life-threatening illness that can be transmitted by mosquitoes in the same regions where Zika virus is found. Lisa's symptoms of fever, diarrhea, and swollen neck glands could be consistent with dengue fever.
- Japanese encephalitis: This is a rare but potentially deadly illness that can be transmitted by mosquitoes in Japan. Although Lisa's symptoms are not typical for Japanese encephalitis, it is essential to consider this diagnosis due to the potential severity of the illness.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Chikungunya: This is a viral illness that can be transmitted by mosquitoes in some parts of Asia, including Japan. Although Lisa's symptoms are not typical for chikungunya, which often presents with severe joint pain and swelling, it is a possible diagnosis to consider.
- Leptospirosis: This is a bacterial illness that can be transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil. Although less likely, leptospirosis can cause symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, and swollen lymph nodes, making it a rare but possible diagnosis to consider.