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 8, 2025 • View 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 Left Rib, Left Flank, and Left Lower Abdominal Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Nephrolithiasis (Kidney Stones): Pain from kidney stones can radiate from the flank to the lower abdomen and can also cause pain in the left rib area if the stone is located in the upper pole of the kidney. The pain is often severe and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and urinary symptoms.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Musculoskeletal Strain: Strain or injury to the muscles of the back, flank, or abdominal wall can cause pain in these areas. The pain is usually exacerbated by movement or palpation.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues (e.g., Constipation, Diverticulitis): Conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract can cause left lower abdominal pain. Diverticulitis, in particular, can cause severe pain and may be accompanied by changes in bowel habits, fever, and nausea.
  • Left Lower Lobe Pneumonia: Infection in the left lower lobe of the lung can cause pain that is referred to the left lower chest, flank, and abdomen due to the shared nerve roots.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Although less common, an AAA can cause severe abdominal and back pain and is a medical emergency. The pain can be constant and may radiate to the back.
  • Ectopic Pregnancy: In women of childbearing age, ectopic pregnancy is a critical diagnosis to consider, as it can present with severe lower abdominal pain and can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
  • Splenic Infarction or Rupture: Conditions affecting the spleen, such as infarction or rupture, can cause severe left upper quadrant and flank pain. These conditions are emergencies and require immediate medical attention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back. While pancreatitis is more commonly associated with central abdominal pain, it can occasionally present with pain localized to one side.
  • Left Diaphragmatic Pleurisy: Inflammation of the diaphragmatic pleura can cause pain in the chest and abdomen, especially with deep breathing or movement.
  • Ovarian Torsion: In women, torsion of the ovary can cause severe, sudden onset of lower abdominal pain, often on one side. This is a surgical emergency.

Related Questions

Is a vitamin D (Vit D) supplement of 1000 International Units (IU) per day appropriate for a 13-year-old?
What is the initial treatment for syphilis?
What are the initial steps in managing a patient with low lung volumes and accentuated bronchovascular lung markings on a chest X-ray (CXR)?

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.

Ask Question