What is the most likely diagnosis for a 7-year-old boy presenting with a 5-day history of rhinorrhea (runny nose) and mild cough, with yellow nasal discharge, recent low-grade fever, and bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes in the neck)?

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Differential Diagnosis

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • E) Viral rhinosinusitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms of runny nose, mild cough, and yellow nasal discharge, which are consistent with a viral upper respiratory infection. The recent history of a cold in the patient's father also supports this diagnosis.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • C) Bacterial sinusitis: Although less likely than viral rhinosinusitis, bacterial sinusitis is a possible diagnosis given the yellow nasal discharge. However, the absence of high fever, facial pain, and purulent discharge makes this diagnosis less likely.
    • A) Allergic rhinitis: This diagnosis is possible, but the acute onset of symptoms and the presence of a low-grade fever make it less likely.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • D) Cervical lymphadenitis: Although the patient has cervical lymphadenopathy, the absence of other symptoms such as fever, erythema, and tenderness makes this diagnosis less likely. However, it is essential to consider this diagnosis due to its potential severity.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • B) Allergic sinusitis: This diagnosis is less likely given the acute onset of symptoms and the lack of a history of allergies.
    • Other rare diagnoses, such as sinus tumors or cysts, are not supported by the patient's symptoms and examination findings.

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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