Differential Diagnosis for Night Sweats
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tuberculosis (TB): Night sweats are a classic symptom of TB, especially in its pulmonary form. The body's immune response to the infection can cause an increase in body temperature, leading to sweating at night.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Hormonal Changes (Menopause, Pregnancy): Hormonal fluctuations during menopause or pregnancy can lead to hot flashes and night sweats due to the body's thermoregulatory changes.
- Hypothyroidism: Although less common, hypothyroidism can cause night sweats, possibly due to the metabolic changes and the body's attempt to regulate its temperature.
- Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors such as anxiety and stress can lead to increased cortisol levels, which may cause night sweats.
- Medications: Certain medications, including antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and hormone replacement therapy, can cause night sweats as a side effect.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Night sweats can be a symptom of lymphoma, particularly Hodgkin's lymphoma. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its potential severity and the need for early intervention.
- Infections (Endocarditis, Osteomyelitis, Abscesses): Various infections can cause night sweats, and it's essential to identify and treat them promptly to prevent serious complications.
- Hyperthyroidism: Although less common than hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism can also lead to night sweats due to the increased metabolic rate.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause excessive production of catecholamines, leading to night sweats among other symptoms.
- Neurological Disorders (Autonomic Dysfunction): Certain neurological conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system can disrupt the body's thermoregulation, resulting in night sweats.
- Carcinoid Syndrome: A rare condition caused by a neuroendocrine tumor that can produce excessive serotonin, leading to night sweats, among other symptoms.