Differential Diagnosis
The patient presents with symptoms of stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, which could be related to their recent employment at a food establishment and self-reported history of "snacking" on workplace food. Here's a categorized differential diagnosis:
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Food poisoning: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms and history of potentially consuming contaminated or spoiled food from their workplace. The recent onset of symptoms and the patient's report of "snacking" on food from Sonic support this diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Viral gastroenteritis: This is a common cause of gastrointestinal symptoms and could be related to the patient's exposure to food or other infectious agents at their workplace.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Although less likely given the acute onset, IBS could be considered if the patient's symptoms persist and no other cause is found.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This is less likely given the acute onset, but could be considered if the patient's symptoms persist and other diagnostic criteria are met.
- Do Not Miss
- Appendicitis: Although the patient's symptoms do not strongly suggest appendicitis, it is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Intussusception: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly in children and young adults.
- Food allergy or intolerance: A severe food allergy or intolerance could cause the patient's symptoms and may require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent further reactions.
- Rare diagnoses
- Giardiasis: This is a parasitic infection that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, but is less common in developed countries.
- Celiac disease: This is an autoimmune disorder that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, but is less likely given the acute onset and lack of other diagnostic criteria.
- Eosinophilic gastroenteritis: This is a rare condition characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause a range of symptoms including abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.