Differential Diagnosis for Overdose with Abdominal Pain, Nausea, and Jaundice
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Acetaminophen Overdose: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice, which are consistent with liver damage. Acetaminophen overdose is a common cause of acute liver failure, and the symptoms presented are classic for this condition.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Salicylate Overdose: Aspirin overdose can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and in severe cases, liver dysfunction leading to jaundice. Although less common than acetaminophen for liver injury, it's a plausible cause.
- Opioid Overdose: While opioids are more commonly associated with respiratory depression, certain opioids can cause abdominal pain and nausea. However, jaundice would be less common unless there's an underlying liver condition or the opioid used has hepatotoxic properties.
- Benzodiazepine Overdose: Benzodiazepines are less likely to cause jaundice directly but can contribute to abdominal pain and nausea, especially if mixed with other substances.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Alpha-Amanitin Mushroom Poisoning: Although rare, ingestion of certain mushrooms (like Amanita species) can lead to severe liver and kidney failure, presenting with abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice. Missing this diagnosis can be fatal.
- Viral Hepatitis: Acute viral hepatitis (e.g., hepatitis A, B, or C) can present similarly and must be considered, especially if the overdose is not immediately confirmed or if the patient has risk factors for viral hepatitis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Iron Overdose: Iron overdose can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and in severe cases, liver dysfunction. However, it's less common and typically presents with additional symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
- Valproic Acid Overdose: Valproic acid toxicity can lead to liver dysfunction and present with abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice, but it's less common compared to other overdose scenarios.
- Other Hepatotoxic Substances: Various other substances (e.g., certain herbal supplements, industrial chemicals) can cause liver injury. While rare, considering the broad range of potential hepatotoxic agents is crucial in the differential diagnosis of overdose with liver involvement.