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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.

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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