Differential Diagnosis for Burning Pain in the Abdominal Wall
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Herpes Zoster (Shingles): This is a common cause of burning pain in the abdominal wall, especially if the pain is localized to a specific dermatome and is accompanied by a rash.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone can cause burning pain in the abdominal wall, especially if the pain is reproducible with palpation or movement.
- Abdominal Wall Muscle Strain: Overuse or injury to the abdominal wall muscles can cause burning pain, especially if the pain is exacerbated by movement or coughing.
- Nerve Entrapment: Entrapment of nerves in the abdominal wall, such as the iliohypogastric or ilioinguinal nerves, can cause burning pain.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ovarian Torsion: Although less common, ovarian torsion can cause severe burning pain in the abdominal wall and is a surgical emergency.
- Appendicitis: Appendicitis can cause burning pain in the abdominal wall, especially if the appendix is retrocecal or if the pain is referred to the abdominal wall.
- Myocardial Infarction: Myocardial infarction can cause referred pain to the abdominal wall, especially if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or arm pain.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Sickle Cell Crisis: Sickle cell disease can cause burning pain in the abdominal wall due to vaso-occlusive crises.
- Porphyria: Acute intermittent porphyria can cause burning pain in the abdominal wall, as well as other symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
- Neurological Disorders: Certain neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or peripheral neuropathy, can cause burning pain in the abdominal wall.