Differential Diagnosis for Recurrent Sore Throat
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral pharyngitis: This is the most common cause of recurrent sore throat, often due to frequent exposure to common cold viruses.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat): A bacterial infection that can cause recurrent sore throats if not fully treated or if there is ongoing exposure.
- Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, which can be recurrent and caused by either viral or bacterial infections.
- Allergic rhinitis: Postnasal drip from allergies can irritate the throat, leading to recurrent soreness.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid reflux can cause irritation of the throat, leading to soreness.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Epiglottitis: A severe and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Peritonsillar abscess: A complication of tonsillitis that can lead to severe throat pain and difficulty swallowing.
- Malignancy (e.g., throat cancer): Although rare, it is crucial to rule out cancer, especially in adults with a history of smoking or alcohol use.
- Infectious mononucleosis (mono): Caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, it can lead to severe sore throat and other systemic symptoms.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lemierre's syndrome: A rare condition characterized by a bacterial infection of the throat, leading to thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein.
- Kawasaki disease: A rare condition in children that can cause sore throat among other symptoms like fever and rash.
- Behçet's disease: A rare form of vasculitis that can cause recurrent sore throat among other symptoms.
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect the respiratory tract and cause sore throat.