Differential Diagnosis for 73 y/o with Increased Urinary Frequency and Thirst
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diabetes Mellitus: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of increased urinary frequency and thirst, which are classic presentations of uncontrolled diabetes due to the high glucose levels in the blood leading to osmotic diuresis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs can cause symptoms of urinary frequency and urgency, and while they might not directly cause thirst, the discomfort and pain associated with UTIs could indirectly lead to increased fluid intake.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): In men, BPH can cause urinary frequency, urgency, and nocturia due to the obstruction of the urethra by the enlarged prostate.
- Overactive Bladder: This condition can lead to urinary frequency and urgency without an underlying infection.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): Although a complication of diabetes, DKA is a medical emergency that can present with polyuria and polydipsia among other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
- Hypercalcemia: Can cause increased thirst and urinary frequency due to its effects on the kidneys and the nervous system.
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause a variety of symptoms including polyuria and polydipsia due to its effects on blood pressure and glucose metabolism.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Central Diabetes Insipidus: A rare condition where the body is unable to produce antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to an inability to regulate fluids in the body, resulting in polyuria and polydipsia.
- Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus: Similar to central diabetes insipidus but caused by the kidneys' inability to respond to ADH, leading to an inability to concentrate urine and resulting in polyuria and polydipsia.
- Primary Hyperaldosteronism: A condition where the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to hypertension and hypokalemia, and can cause polyuria and polydipsia due to the effects on potassium levels and renal function.