Differential Diagnosis for Mild Fever, Frontal Headache, and Neck Stiffness
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral upper respiratory tract infection: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of mild fever, frontal headache, and neck stiffness without other meningeal signs. These symptoms are common in viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Sinusitis: The symptoms of frontal headache and mild fever could be indicative of sinusitis, especially if there is facial pain or nasal congestion.
- Tension headache: Although neck stiffness is not a typical symptom, some patients with tension headaches may experience it, along with mild fever if the headache is severe enough to cause systemic symptoms.
- Early meningitis: While the absence of other meningeal signs makes this less likely, early stages of meningitis can present with mild symptoms before progressing to more severe signs.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningitis: Despite the absence of other meningeal signs, meningitis is a critical diagnosis that must be considered due to its potential for severe consequences if not promptly treated.
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Although typically presenting with a severe headache, a subarachnoid hemorrhage can occasionally have a more subtle onset, making it essential to consider in the differential diagnosis.
- Encephalitis: This is an inflammation of the brain tissue, usually caused by viral infections. It can present with fever, headache, and sometimes neck stiffness, making it a critical diagnosis not to miss.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lyme disease: In areas where Lyme disease is endemic, it can cause symptoms similar to those described, including headache and neck stiffness, especially if it progresses to neuroborreliosis.
- Tuberculous meningitis: This is a rare form of meningitis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can present with chronic symptoms including headache, fever, and neck stiffness, often in immunocompromised patients.
- Brain abscess: A brain abscess can cause focal neurological signs, fever, and headache. While rare, it is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.