Differential Diagnosis for 23 Year Old Female with Swelling and Bleeding Gums
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gingivitis: This is the most common cause of swelling and bleeding gums, especially in a young adult. Poor oral hygiene, hormonal changes, or lack of regular dental care can lead to this condition.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Periodontitis: An advanced stage of gum disease that can cause more severe swelling, bleeding, and potential tooth loss if not treated.
- Pregnancy-Related Gingivitis: Although the patient's pregnancy status is not mentioned, hormonal changes during pregnancy can exacerbate gum disease, making this a possible consideration.
- Vitamin Deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin C or K deficiency): Deficiencies in certain vitamins can affect gum health, leading to swelling and bleeding.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Leukemia: Certain types of leukemia can cause gum swelling and bleeding due to bone marrow infiltration and subsequent thrombocytopenia or coagulopathy.
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) with Gum Infiltration: AML can directly infiltrate the gums, causing swelling and bleeding.
- Scurvy (Vitamin C Deficiency): While rare in developed countries, scurvy can cause severe gum disease, among other symptoms, and is important not to miss due to its potential for serious complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect various parts of the body, including the gums, causing swelling and bleeding.
- Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis: A rare disorder in which the body accumulates too many immature Langerhans cells, potentially affecting the gums among other areas.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dry mouth, potentially leading to gum disease and other oral health issues, though it's less directly associated with swelling and bleeding gums compared to other symptoms like dry eyes and mouth.