Differential Diagnosis for Upper Airway Disease with No Acute Intrathoracic Findings on CTA
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): This is a common condition that affects the upper airways and can cause symptoms without showing acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA. The lack of acute findings suggests a chronic condition.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Asthma: Similar to COPD, asthma is an upper airway disease that may not show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA unless there is an active exacerbation. It's a common condition that can present with chronic symptoms.
- Allergic rhinitis: This condition affects the upper airways and can cause chronic symptoms without showing acute findings on a CTA. It's a common condition, especially in areas with high allergen levels.
- Chronic bronchitis: This is another chronic condition that affects the upper airways and may not show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA. It's often associated with smoking or exposure to pollutants.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Epiglottitis: Although less common, epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. It can present with upper airway symptoms and may not always show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA.
- Foreign body aspiration: This is another potentially life-threatening condition that can present with upper airway symptoms. It may not show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA, especially if the object is lodged high in the airway.
- Angioedema: This condition can cause upper airway obstruction and may not show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA. It can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Relapsing polychondritis: This is a rare autoimmune condition that can affect the upper airways and cause chronic symptoms. It may not show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA.
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA): This is a rare autoimmune condition that can affect the upper airways and cause chronic symptoms. It may not show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA.
- Upper airway tumors: Although rare, tumors of the upper airway can cause chronic symptoms and may not show acute intrathoracic findings on a CTA.