Differential Diagnosis for Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral pharyngitis: This is the most common cause of upper respiratory tract infections and is often due to viruses such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus. Symptoms include sore throat, runny nose, cough, and fever.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Allergic rhinitis: This condition can present with similar symptoms to a viral upper respiratory tract infection, including runny nose, sneezing, and cough, but is usually accompanied by itchy eyes and throat.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause symptoms such as facial pain, headache, and nasal congestion, which can be similar to those of a viral upper respiratory tract infection.
- Influenza: Although typically more severe, influenza can present with similar symptoms to a viral upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, and sore throat.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Bacterial pharyngitis (e.g., streptococcal pharyngitis): Although less common than viral pharyngitis, bacterial causes of sore throat can lead to serious complications if not treated, such as rheumatic fever.
- Epiglottitis: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath.
- Pertussis (whooping cough): A highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause severe coughing fits, especially in infants and young children.
Rare Diagnoses
- Lemierre's syndrome: A rare condition characterized by a bacterial infection of the throat, followed by the formation of a blood clot in the jugular vein.
- Infectious mononucleosis: Caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, this condition can present with sore throat, fever, and fatigue, but is often accompanied by lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly.
- Tuberculosis: Although rare in many parts of the world, tuberculosis can cause chronic cough, fever, and weight loss, and can be mistaken for a viral upper respiratory tract infection.