Differential Diagnosis for 75 year-old male with low back pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Prostate abscess or prostatitis: Given the recent history of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) six weeks prior, the patient is at risk for developing a prostate abscess or prostatitis, which can cause low back pain, low-grade fever, and tenderness.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI can occur after a TURP procedure and cause symptoms such as low back pain, fever, and tenderness.
- Discitis or osteomyelitis: Infection of the intervertebral disc or vertebral body can cause low back pain, fever, and tenderness, especially in the context of a recent surgical procedure.
- Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis can cause low back pain, fever, and tenderness, particularly if it is related to a UTI or prostatitis.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Spinal epidural abscess: Although less common, a spinal epidural abscess is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Sepsis: Any infection, including those related to the urinary tract or prostate, can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention.
- Cauda equina syndrome: A rare but serious condition that can occur due to compression or infection of the spinal nerves, requiring urgent medical attention.
- Rare diagnoses
- Psoas abscess: An abscess in the psoas muscle can cause low back pain, fever, and tenderness, although it is a less common condition.
- Tuberculosis of the spine: Also known as Pott's disease, this is a rare condition that can cause low back pain, fever, and tenderness, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Metastatic cancer: Although less likely, metastatic cancer to the spine can cause low back pain, and a diagnosis of cancer would significantly impact treatment and management.