Differential Diagnosis for Scleral Icterius and Diarrhea
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Hepatitis: This is the most likely diagnosis because scleral icterus (yellowing of the whites of the eyes) is a common presentation of jaundice, which is a hallmark of hepatitis. Diarrhea can also occur due to the systemic effects of the virus.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cholelithiasis with Obstruction: Gallstones can cause obstruction of the bile duct, leading to jaundice and potentially diarrhea if the obstruction affects the release of bile into the intestine.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and if severe, can lead to jaundice due to the proximity of the pancreas to the bile duct.
- Primary Biliary Cholangitis: An autoimmune disease that causes progressive destruction of the bile ducts, leading to cholestasis, jaundice, and potentially diarrhea.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Hemolytic Anemia: Conditions like autoimmune hemolytic anemia can cause jaundice due to the breakdown of red blood cells. Diarrhea might not be a direct symptom but could occur due to associated systemic illness.
- Sepsis: Sepsis, especially from a bacterial source, can cause jaundice and diarrhea among a myriad of other symptoms. It's critical to identify and treat promptly.
- Malignancy: Certain cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, can cause obstructive jaundice and diarrhea. Early detection is crucial for treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Dubin-Johnson Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder causing chronic jaundice due to an inability to secrete conjugated bilirubin into the bile. Diarrhea is not a primary symptom but could occur due to associated liver dysfunction.
- Rotor Syndrome: Similar to Dubin-Johnson Syndrome, it's a rare condition that affects the liver's ability to handle bilirubin, leading to jaundice. Diarrhea is not typically a primary symptom.
- Caroli's Disease: A rare congenital disorder of the bile ducts that can cause recurrent cholangitis, leading to jaundice and potentially diarrhea due to the infection and inflammation of the bile ducts.