Differential Diagnosis for Diffuse Lymphadenopathy
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Infectious Mononucleosis: This condition, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is a common cause of diffuse lymphadenopathy, especially in young adults. It often presents with fever, sore throat, and fatigue, in addition to lymph node enlargement.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis: A bacterial infection that can cause lymphadenopathy, particularly in the cervical and supraclavicular regions. It's more common in immunocompromised individuals or those from endemic areas.
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can present with diffuse lymphadenopathy. Lymphoma is more common in older adults and can be associated with systemic symptoms like weight loss and night sweats.
- HIV Infection: Early stages of HIV infection can cause diffuse lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, rash, and sore throat.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune disease that can cause lymphadenopathy, along with other symptoms like joint pain, skin rash, and kidney problems.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignant Lymphoma with Central Nervous System Involvement: Although less common, some lymphomas can involve the central nervous system, leading to serious complications if not promptly treated.
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): A type of blood cancer that can cause lymphadenopathy, especially in children. It requires immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.
- Kaposi's Sarcoma: A type of cancer that can cause lymphadenopathy, particularly in immunocompromised patients, such as those with advanced HIV infection.
Rare Diagnoses
- Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and weight loss. It can be unicentric (localized) or multicentric (diffuse).
- Sarcoidosis: An autoimmune disease that can cause lymphadenopathy, typically in the chest, along with lung involvement and other systemic symptoms.
- Kimura Disease: A rare, chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by eosinophilia and typically affecting the head and neck region.