Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 3, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Collapsed/Underdistended Gastric Body

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Gastric outlet obstruction: This is the most likely diagnosis because a physical blockage or obstruction at the pylorus can prevent the stomach from filling with food and fluids, leading to a collapsed or underdistended appearance on imaging.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Pylorospasm: Spasm of the pyloric muscle can mimic the appearance of an obstruction, leading to a similar underdistended gastric body.
  • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause the stomach to appear underdistended due to decreased motility and secretions.
  • Postoperative state: After gastric surgery, the stomach may appear underdistended due to changes in gastric anatomy and motility.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Gastric cancer: Although less likely, gastric cancer can cause obstruction or infiltration of the gastric wall, leading to underdistension. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences.
  • Gastric volvulus: A twisting of the stomach can cause obstruction and underdistension, requiring prompt surgical intervention to prevent ischemia and necrosis.
  • Mesenteric ischemia: Reduced blood flow to the stomach can cause underdistension and ischemic changes, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Scleroderma: This autoimmune disorder can cause fibrosis and decreased motility of the stomach, leading to underdistension.
  • Amyloidosis: Deposition of amyloid proteins in the stomach wall can cause decreased motility and underdistension.
  • Eosinophilic gastritis: A rare inflammatory condition characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the stomach wall, which can cause underdistension and other gastric symptoms.

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.