Differential Diagnosis for Tachycardia in a 7-Month-Old
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): This virus is a common cause of respiratory infections in infants, which can lead to tachycardia due to increased respiratory rate and potential dehydration.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Influenza: Influenza virus can cause a range of symptoms including fever, cough, and tachycardia, especially in young children.
- Adenovirus: Adenovirus infections can lead to respiratory symptoms, fever, and tachycardia in infants.
- Parainfluenza Virus: This virus is known to cause respiratory infections, which can result in tachycardia, particularly in young children.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Although less common, HSV can cause severe illness in infants, including seizures, fever, and tachycardia. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
- Enterovirus: Certain enteroviruses, like Coxsackievirus, can cause severe infections in infants, leading to symptoms such as tachycardia, fever, and potentially life-threatening conditions like myocarditis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Congenital CMV infection can lead to a range of symptoms, including tachycardia, but it is less common and typically associated with other systemic signs.
- Human Metapneumovirus: This virus can cause respiratory infections in children, potentially leading to tachycardia, but it is less frequently identified compared to other respiratory viruses.