Differential Diagnosis for Neck Stiffness and Mild Fever
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral meningitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the presentation of neck stiffness and mild fever, as viral meningitis is more common than bacterial meningitis and often presents with milder symptoms.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial meningitis: Although less common than viral meningitis, bacterial meningitis is a possible diagnosis and should be considered, especially if the patient's condition worsens or if they have risk factors for bacterial meningitis.
- Early stages of bacterial meningitis: It's possible that the patient is in the early stages of bacterial meningitis, which may not yet have progressed to more severe symptoms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage: This is a life-threatening condition that can present with sudden onset of neck stiffness and mild fever, and it requires immediate medical attention.
- Meningococcal meningitis: This is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of bacterial meningitis that can present with mild symptoms initially, but can rapidly progress to severe illness.
- Encephalitis: This is an inflammation of the brain that can present with symptoms similar to meningitis, including neck stiffness and fever, and requires prompt medical attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Fungal meningitis: This is a rare form of meningitis that can present with similar symptoms to viral or bacterial meningitis, but is more common in immunocompromised patients.
- Tuberculous meningitis: This is a rare form of meningitis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can present with symptoms similar to viral or bacterial meningitis, but is more common in patients with a history of tuberculosis or immunocompromised patients.
- Lyme meningitis: This is a rare form of meningitis caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, which can present with symptoms similar to viral or bacterial meningitis, but is more common in patients with a history of tick exposure.