Differential Diagnosis for Kawasaki Disease
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Kawasaki Disease: This is the most likely diagnosis given the context of the question, as it is a well-known condition that presents with fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and other characteristic symptoms.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Scarlet Fever: Presents with fever, rash, and other symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease, making it a plausible alternative diagnosis.
- Measles: Although less common due to vaccination, measles can present with fever, rash, and other systemic symptoms that might be confused with Kawasaki disease.
- Infectious Mononucleosis: Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, it can present with fever, lymphadenopathy, and rash, overlapping with some symptoms of Kawasaki disease.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome: A life-threatening condition that requires immediate recognition and treatment. It can present with severe symptoms that might overlap with Kawasaki disease.
- Meningococcemia: A severe bacterial infection that can cause fever, rash, and rapid deterioration. It is crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate if not promptly treated.
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (Systemic): Can present with fever, rash, and systemic symptoms, and while not typically as acute as Kawasaki disease, it's a condition that should not be missed due to its potential for significant morbidity.
Rare Diagnoses
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune disease that can present with a wide range of symptoms, including fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy, making it a rare but possible differential diagnosis for Kawasaki disease.
- Polyarteritis Nodosa: A vasculitis that can affect multiple organ systems and present with systemic symptoms, although it is much rarer than Kawasaki disease.
- Acute Rheumatic Fever: Although primarily known for its cardiac manifestations, it can present with fever, rash, and other symptoms that might be considered in the differential diagnosis for Kawasaki disease, especially in areas where rheumatic fever is more common.