Differential Diagnosis for Middle-Aged Patient with Jaundice 2 Years After Lap Chole
- Single most likely diagnosis
- A- Retained stone: This is the most probable cause of jaundice in a patient who had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (lap chole) 2 years ago. Retained stones in the common bile duct (CBD) can cause obstructive jaundice, and it's a known complication of cholecystectomy.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- B- CBD stricture: A stricture in the common bile duct can also cause obstructive jaundice. This could be a result of the previous surgery, and it's a plausible cause given the patient's history.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- C- Cholangiocarcinoma: Although less likely, cholangiocarcinoma is a serious and potentially deadly condition that should not be missed. It can cause obstructive jaundice, and a delay in diagnosis can significantly impact prognosis.
- D- Pancreatic head cancer: Similarly, pancreatic head cancer is a serious condition that can cause obstructive jaundice. It's essential to consider this diagnosis to avoid missing a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Rare diagnoses
- Other rare causes of jaundice in this patient could include primary sclerosing cholangitis, Caroli's disease, or other congenital anomalies of the bile ducts. However, these are less likely given the patient's history and presentation.