What are the causes of transaminitis (elevated liver enzymes) with right-sided abdominal pain?

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Differential Diagnosis for Transaminitis with Right-Sided Abdominal Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Gallbladder disease (e.g., cholecystitis, cholelithiasis): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the association between right-sided abdominal pain and liver enzyme elevation, which can occur when a gallstone obstructs the common bile duct, causing liver injury.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Hepatitis: Various forms of hepatitis (viral, alcoholic, or autoimmune) can cause transaminitis and may be accompanied by right upper quadrant abdominal pain.
  • Peptic ulcer disease: Although more commonly associated with epigastric pain, peptic ulcers can occasionally cause right-sided abdominal pain and may lead to liver enzyme elevation if there is significant bleeding or inflammation.
  • Budd-Chiari syndrome: This condition, characterized by hepatic vein thrombosis, can cause abdominal pain and liver dysfunction, including transaminitis.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Hepatic artery aneurysm or rupture: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. It can cause severe abdominal pain and liver enzyme elevation.
  • Liver abscess: Although less common, a liver abscess can cause right-sided abdominal pain, fever, and transaminitis, and its diagnosis is crucial due to the need for prompt antibiotic treatment and possible drainage.
  • Cholangitis: An infection of the bile duct, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. It typically presents with the Charcot's triad of fever, jaundice, and abdominal pain.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Weil's disease (Leptospirosis): A zoonotic infection that can cause liver dysfunction, including transaminitis, and may be associated with abdominal pain.
  • Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid proteins in various organs, including the liver, which can lead to transaminitis and abdominal pain.
  • Polycystic liver disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause cystic changes in the liver, potentially leading to abdominal pain and liver enzyme elevation.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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