What is the most likely diagnosis for a patient with cola-colored urine and facial edema after a recent pharyngitis?

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The situation described—a patient presenting with cola-colored urine and facial edema following a recent episode of pharyngitis—strongly suggests glomerulonephritis. In this context, the cola-colored urine indicates the presence of blood, often due to glomerular injury, which allows red blood cells to leak into the urine, causing the discoloration. The facial edema signifies fluid retention, which is a common symptom associated with kidney dysfunction and impaired ability to excrete waste and regulate bodily fluids.

The association with recent pharyngitis points toward a post-infectious condition, such as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN), which typically develops after a throat infection with certain strains of Streptococcus bacteria. PSGN is characterized by the acute onset of hematuria, proteinuria, hypertension, and edema, aligning perfectly with the symptoms presented.

Other conditions in the choices presented would not fit this clinical picture as well. Acute tubular necrosis typically presents with more stable urine output but is less likely to present with scanty, discolored urine following pharyngitis. Nephrolithiasis usually causes hematuria but is associated with flank pain and is unlikely to present with facial edema as a primary concern.

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