Differential Diagnosis for Brief Instantaneous Symptoms Similar to Sepsis, HTN, Diarrhea
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Anaphylaxis: This condition can cause sudden onset of symptoms such as hypertension, diarrhea, and systemic inflammation that mimic sepsis. The rapid release of histamine and other mediators can lead to these instantaneous symptoms.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Food Poisoning: Certain types of food poisoning, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Bacillus cereus, can lead to sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, and other symptoms that may resemble sepsis or hypertension.
- Vasovagal Syncope: Although primarily known for causing fainting spells, vasovagal syncope can sometimes present with brief, instantaneous symptoms including diarrhea, nausea, and changes in blood pressure, which might be mistaken for sepsis or hypertension.
- Adrenal Insufficiency: An acute adrenal crisis can present with sudden onset of symptoms including hypotension (though hypertension can occur in some cases due to the body's response), diarrhea, and systemic symptoms that could be confused with sepsis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause sudden, episodic releases of catecholamines, leading to hypertension, diarrhea, and other systemic symptoms that could mimic sepsis. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A life-threatening neurological disorder caused by an adverse reaction to neuroleptic or antipsychotic medication. It can present with sudden onset of symptoms including hypertension, diarrhea, and altered mental status, which could be mistaken for sepsis.
- Serotonin Syndrome: Caused by an excess of serotonin, often due to medication interactions, this condition can lead to sudden onset of symptoms including hypertension, diarrhea, and systemic inflammation, resembling sepsis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Carcinoid Syndrome: A rare condition caused by a neuroendocrine tumor that can lead to sudden releases of serotonin and other substances, causing symptoms like diarrhea, flushing, and changes in blood pressure, which might be confused with sepsis or hypertension.
- Mastocytosis: A condition characterized by an accumulation of mast cells in the body, which can lead to sudden releases of histamine and other mediators, causing symptoms similar to anaphylaxis, including diarrhea and changes in blood pressure.