Differential Diagnosis for a Child Unable to Move Legs with a History of Sinusitis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome: This is an autoimmune disorder that can occur after a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection, including sinusitis. It leads to muscle weakness and paralysis, which could explain the child's inability to move their legs.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Transverse Myelitis: This is an inflammation of the spinal cord that can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and sensory loss. It can be triggered by infections, including sinusitis.
- Spinal Epidural Abscess: This is a collection of pus in the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord, which can cause neurological deficits, including paralysis. Sinusitis can be a source of infection that spreads to the spine.
- Osteomyelitis or Discitis: These are infections of the bone or disc in the spine, which can cause pain, weakness, and paralysis. Sinusitis can be a source of infection that spreads to the spine.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Spinal Cord Compression: This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including tumors, abscesses, or fractures, and requires urgent attention to prevent permanent damage.
- Meningitis: This is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can cause neurological deficits, including paralysis.
- Cauda Equina Syndrome: This is a condition where the nerves in the lower spine are compressed, causing pain, weakness, and paralysis in the legs.
Rare Diagnoses
- Acute Flaccid Myelitis: This is a rare condition that affects the spinal cord and can cause muscle weakness and paralysis.
- Neurodegenerative Disorders: Such as spinal muscular atrophy or muscular dystrophy, which can cause progressive muscle weakness and paralysis.
- Vascular Malformations: Such as arteriovenous malformations, which can cause spinal cord damage and paralysis.