Differential Diagnosis for Low Temperature Newborn
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Hypothermia due to environmental exposure: This is the most likely diagnosis as newborns are prone to heat loss due to their high surface area to volume ratio and lack of sufficient body fat for insulation. Environmental factors such as a cold delivery room or inadequate warming measures can contribute to hypothermia.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Infection (e.g., sepsis): Newborns are susceptible to infections, which can cause hypothermia as part of the systemic inflammatory response.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can lead to hypothermia in newborns, as glucose is essential for energy production and maintaining body temperature.
- Cold stress due to premature birth: Premature infants have an even higher surface area to volume ratio and less body fat, making them more susceptible to cold stress and hypothermia.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Congenital hypothyroidism: Although rare, untreated congenital hypothyroidism can lead to severe complications, including hypothermia, and is crucial to diagnose early.
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: This condition can cause hypothermia, among other symptoms, and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.
- Rare diagnoses
- Genetic disorders affecting thermoregulation (e.g., familial dysautonomia): These conditions are rare but can significantly impact a newborn's ability to regulate body temperature.
- Mitochondrial disorders: Certain mitochondrial disorders can affect energy production, leading to hypothermia among other symptoms.