Differential Diagnosis for 3 Months Throat Pain and Mild Dysphagia in a 63F
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a common condition that can cause throat pain and dysphagia due to the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. The chronic nature of the symptoms and the age of the patient make GERD a plausible diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tonsillitis or Pharyngitis: Although these conditions are more common in younger populations, they can occur in adults and cause prolonged throat pain and difficulty swallowing.
- Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): Similar to GERD, LPR involves the reflux of stomach acid, but it primarily affects the larynx and pharynx, leading to symptoms like throat pain and dysphagia.
- Esophageal Dysmotility: Disorders affecting the motility of the esophagus can lead to dysphagia and throat discomfort.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Oropharyngeal or Hypopharyngeal Cancer: Although less likely, cancers in the throat area can present with dysphagia and throat pain. Given the potential severity and the age of the patient, it's crucial not to miss these diagnoses.
- Esophageal Cancer: Similar to oropharyngeal cancer, esophageal cancer is a serious condition that can cause dysphagia and throat pain, necessitating its consideration.
- Acute Epiglottitis: This is a medical emergency that can cause severe throat pain and dysphagia. Although it's less common in the described scenario, its potential severity warrants inclusion in the differential diagnosis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus that can cause dysphagia and throat pain, more commonly associated with atopic conditions.
- Scleroderma: A systemic disease that can affect the esophagus, leading to dysmotility and symptoms like dysphagia.
- Zenker's Diverticulum: A condition where a pouch forms in the pharynx, which can cause dysphagia and throat discomfort, although it's less common and typically presents in older adults.