Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- E. Polymicrobial infection of the uterine decidua: This option is the most likely diagnosis, given the context of the question which implies a postpartum or post-abortion complication. The uterine decidua is a common site for infection in such scenarios, and polymicrobial infection is a known cause of endometritis.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- B. Bladder infection from catheter-introduced bacteriuria: This is a plausible diagnosis, especially in a patient who has undergone a surgical procedure requiring catheterization. Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are a common complication in hospitalized patients.
- A. Bacterial contamination of the incision: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a potential complication of any surgical procedure. This diagnosis could be considered if the patient has recently undergone surgery and presents with signs of infection at the incision site.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- C. Injury, thrombus, and infection of the pelvic veins: This option, suggesting septic pelvic thrombophlebitis, is a less common but potentially life-threatening condition. It is crucial to consider this diagnosis in patients with persistent fever or signs of infection despite appropriate antibiotic therapy for other suspected sources.
- Rare diagnoses:
- D. Obstruction, inflammation, and infection of the breast ducts: This condition, known as mastitis, is less likely to be the primary concern in the context implied by the question, which seems to focus on postpartum or post-surgical complications rather than breast-related issues. However, it could be considered in the appropriate clinical context, such as a lactating woman.