Differential Diagnosis for Kissing Tonsils
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Mononucleosis (infectious mononucleosis): This condition, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, is characterized by fever, sore throat, and lymphadenopathy, and can lead to the appearance of "kissing tonsils" due to significant tonsillar enlargement.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Tonsillitis: Bacterial or viral tonsillitis can cause significant swelling of the tonsils, potentially leading to a "kissing" appearance.
- Quinsy (peritonsillar abscess): Although more commonly associated with unilateral swelling, a large peritonsillar abscess could potentially cause the tonsils to appear as if they are "kissing".
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can involve the tonsils and cause significant enlargement.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Airway obstruction: Any condition causing significant tonsillar enlargement can potentially lead to airway obstruction, which is a medical emergency.
- Abscess or cellulitis complicating tonsillitis: These conditions can lead to severe complications, including airway obstruction, sepsis, and abscess rupture.
- Rare diagnoses
- Angioedema: A rare condition characterized by rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues, which can cause significant airway compromise.
- Cystic hygroma or other congenital anomalies: Although rare, these conditions can cause significant swelling in the neck and potentially affect the tonsils.
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic granulomatous disease that can involve the lymph nodes and potentially cause tonsillar enlargement.