Differentials
- 28 Nov 2023
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Differentials
- Updated on 28 Nov 2023
- 1 Minute to read
- Print
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Sweats have a wide differential diagnosis and can be a feature of endocrine disturbance, infection, inflammatory conditions, malignancy or medications:
| System | Cause |
|---|---|
| Endocrine | Low oestrogen, thyroxicosis, hypoglycaemia |
| Infection | TB, infective endocarditis, HIV, glandular fever |
| Autoimmune | SLE, PMR |
| Alcohol or drugs | Cocaine, cannabis, opiates |
| Medications | Opiates, oral hypoglycaemics, hormone receptor antagonists |
| Tumours | Carcinoid, phaeochromocytoma |
| Haematological disorders | Myeloproliferative disorder, lymphoma, leukaemia, myeloma |
For more information on non-hormonal causes of sweats, see HHFT guidance.
Note:
- Less common causes exist outside of this list.
- Where there is uncertainty about underlying cause, consider referral to a specialist.
References and Further Information:
- Hamoda H, Panay N, Pedder H et al. The British Menopause Society & Women’s Health Concern 2020 recommendations on hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women. BMS Conensus statement. Post Reprod Health 2020.
- Gold E, Colvin A, Avis N et al. Longitudinal analysis of vasomotor symptoms and race/ethnicity across the menopausal transition: Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN). Am J Public Health. 2006.
- NICE CKS Menopause. Diagnosis. Diagnosis of menopause and perimenopause. Last revised Sept 2022.
- Hillard T, Abernethy K, Hamoda H et al. Management of the Menopause. Menopause handbook. Sixth edition. 2017.
- Arnold J and Ryman N. Sweats guidance. Version 2. March 2022.
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