Differential Diagnosis for Joint Pain after Typhoid
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Reactive Arthritis: This condition is a common complication of typhoid fever, occurring when the immune system reacts to the Salmonella Typhi infection, leading to joint inflammation and pain. The onset of joint pain typically follows the resolution of the fever.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Septic Arthritis: Direct infection of the joint by Salmonella Typhi, although less common, can cause joint pain and swelling. This condition requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term joint damage.
- Osteomyelitis: Bone infection can occur as a complication of typhoid fever, leading to pain in the affected limb or joint.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Salmonella Typhi Endocarditis: Although rare, endocarditis (infection of the heart valves) can occur in patients with typhoid fever, especially those with pre-existing heart conditions. Joint pain could be a presenting symptom due to embolic phenomena.
- Neurological Complications: Typhoid fever can lead to neurological complications such as meningitis or encephalitis, which might present with non-specific symptoms including joint pain, along with more prominent neurological signs.
- Rare diagnoses
- Hematogenous Osteonecrosis: Rarely, typhoid fever can lead to osteonecrosis (death of bone tissue) due to the infection affecting the blood supply to the bones, resulting in joint pain.
- Pyomyositis: A rare condition characterized by muscle infection, which can occur as a complication of typhoid fever, leading to pain and swelling in the affected muscle or joint area.