Night Sweats Differential Diagnosis
The differential diagnosis for night sweats can be organized into the following categories:
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tuberculosis (TB): Night sweats are a classic symptom of TB, especially in the context of other symptoms like cough, weight loss, and fever. The justification for this being the single most likely diagnosis is based on the historical association of night sweats with TB, although the prevalence may vary by region and population.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Menopause: Hot flashes and night sweats are common symptoms experienced by women during menopause due to hormonal changes.
- Anxiety and Stress: Psychological stress can lead to hyperarousal, which may manifest as night sweats.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially during sleep, can cause sweating.
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland can lead to increased metabolism, heat intolerance, and night sweats.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, can cause night sweats as a side effect.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Night sweats can be a symptom of lymphoma, particularly when accompanied by fever and weight loss.
- HIV Infection: Night sweats can occur in the early stages of HIV infection.
- Endocarditis: Infective endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves, can cause night sweats among other symptoms like fever and malaise.
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodic sweating, hypertension, and other symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Neurological Disorders: Certain rare neurological conditions, such as autonomic dysfunction, can lead to abnormal sweating patterns, including night sweats.
- Carcinoid Syndrome: A rare condition caused by a neuroendocrine tumor that can produce excessive serotonin, leading to flushing and sweating.
- Mastocytosis: A condition characterized by an accumulation of mast cells in the body, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including sweating.